engine problem?

[ben-black]

Ok..I know that what I am about to ask is about as vague as it could be, but any help would be greatly appreciated.

Firstly, my bike is sounding sick. It's a 53 plate VXS 125 with 25000 on the clock. I bought it with 23000 on it in February from a dealer with no service history - I gave it a test ride and it seemed in pretty good shape.

Now the engine sounds so stressed out I sometimes slow right down for fear of it exploding. It sounds like it's clunking badly. It first I thought it may be my imagination or possibly the wind around the visor. I tried listening with the visor up but the wind drowns out most outside noise.
When the bike is stationary on its stand in neutral and revved, there are no untoward noises (which is why I thought it could have just been wind in the helmet (ha ha!!)).
To back up the clunky engine, When the bike is being ridden, it feels like it is pulsing / throbbing, not a smooth ride and there is a lot of vibration through the foot rests.

I topped oil up to make sure it wasn't something as daft as low oil levels but it's still the same.

I am due to take the bike in to John Pease on Thursday for them to have a look, but being a little short of cash at the moment, I am worried that the "damage" may be more than I can afford.

So, what I am basically asking is:

1. if anyone recognises these symptoms
2. If anyone has any idea of what I should reasonably expect to pay for inspections / repairs to any suggested problems.
3. has anybody used John Pease for any mechanical work and how do they compare with other local garages for price and quality of work?

Many, many thanks in advance for any help

[WebTone]

You have checked your chain I hope?

[DoodleBug]

I put 20,000 miles on one of those bikes, if you can get the pub Wednesday I will have a look.

[ben-black]

I checked the chain, it's running a scottoiler so the lubing has been ok but I have noticed a stiff part of the chain where it seems to be slightly out of line.

Could that be it? If so, I guess a new chain is the first port of call...

Doodlebug, I will try and get over on wednesday. Any help would be greatly appreciated and surely worthy of a pint

[notaclue]

is the pulsing/throbbing constant and relative to the engine speed? or is it jusr pure random jerkyness?

[ben-black]

Most of the time it is relative

[DJMCJERICO]

Has it backfired?

[troutslayer]

chain. need to get mine done as well, 'tight spots'. bet you notice it more when you're off throttle, than when your on throttle?

[ben-black]

^^ Yes...I do now you mention it, whilst braking or closing the throttle. I thought I may have some problem with the rear drum brake needing replacing.

Ok. unless there's anyway to remedy it - new chain. Anyone know the easiest way to fit one or am I better off letting a mechanic do it?

[troutslayer]

yours might have a 'split link' fitted, in which case, you can undo the link, attach the end of a new chain to the end of the old chain and pull it round, then discard the old chain and fit new split link to join the new chain. would advise slackening the wheel nut/chain tensioners first as the old chain will have stretched.

if in doubt, get shop to do it.

[DoodleBug]

It will have a split link, however I would also get the sprockets changed, mine used to hook long before the chain let go.

[ben-black]

OK. Chain is ordered for collection Monday. This morning I rode up and down the road sans helmet ( don't!) to try and get a better listen to the engine.

There IS definately a knocking / rattling that only appears to be present when the throttle is open. When I close the throttle, it seems to stop.

Any idea's?

Also. would anyone happen to know where I can get some stuff called "Ferosol" ? (spelling may be wrong). Apparently it's like WD40 but a lot better - especially when loosening screws / bolts.

I just can't get the bolts off to change the front brake pads and now the sockets are rounding out the bolts( I heard this is renowned amongst XVS / Virago owners?)

Any help greatly appreciated