Today while commuting, I started to notice a ticking sound that appears at around 3k rpms. The ticking is absent at idle and only becomes audible above 3k rpms when it follows the engine's rpms. The video I have is pretty accurate in terms of what the ticking sounds like, but in person its quieter but still noticeable.
The bike only has 8800kms on it and for all I know, has not had any maintenance done other than the regular oil change/chain maintenance (I only bought the bike at 7200kms 2 months ago). Checking some videos from a month ago, the ticking was also present but much quieter (to the point I never noticed it). Reading through some other forums, people have said that a ticking noise could mean I need to adjust the valves since Suzuki puts the service interval for that at every 6-7000kms.
I'm quite new to motorcycling and I don't exactly know what I should or shouldn't be hearing, so I'm hoping one of you could maybe share some of your knowledge. Cheers!
Video link: https://youtu.be/aXi89xFBj54
At that mileage there should be no issues with the engine, so don't worry too much. I would change the oil, you should be able to that ok with the bike's own tools if you look at an online video. The Valve clearances are not difficult, but perhaps best paid for and once done will be fine for 10K miles at least. Whilst it is there, the mechanic will be able to listen to the cam chain for you, it's tensioner can at times give trouble.
The GS does have an offbeat sound due to the 180 degree crank which perhaps is throwing you too.
Thanks for the info! I'll see what I can do myself but I'll take the bike in to get it checked out - it's a friend's shop so hopefully I can watch and get some experience so I can do it myself the next time.