XJ650 Engine noise

I'm new to these bikes, so I could use some expert opinions.

This is a 1982 xj650. When I bought it a couple of months ago it had less than 8000 miles on it. Apparently it had sat in a garage for 15 years or so. It was torn down, and reassembled a few years back, it's had 4000 miles put on it since then.

It runs fairly well, but it seems to miss a bit, and it makes a ticking sound. I'm read posts that imply that that's normal for these bikes, but I made a Windows media file of the engine running, and if you'd send me an e-mail address I'll forward it to you. The forum won't allow me to attach it here.

I'd really appreciate it if someone could give this thing a listen, and tell me if it sounds normal.

Thanks

 

Ticking is fairly normal, usually just a valve out of adjustment. No biggie unless it's unusually loud or violent sounding -- then you need some valve work. I PM'ed you my email.

Checking/adjusting the valve clearances should be one of the first things done to a bike that has been sitting for a long time. It's a necessary step when getting your bike to run tip-top. Here is the valve adjustment writeup: http://xjbikes.com/Forums/viewtopic/t=14827.html

When was the oil changed last? That could have something to do with it.

 

Quite often a "ticking" is nothing more than a small exhaust leak at the head; or it could be one of many things.

 

That actually sounds perfectly normal to me. Just a little engine noise.

Fitz, you may want to give it a listen for a second opinion.

 

Excellent, thanks.

I just don't want to get some mechanic out here, and end up with a huge bill for something that was unnecessary.