Hello, I'm new to this bike riding thing (only been riding 3 weeks) and I noticed something first with my Ninja 500R and now with my GS500F. When I'm building up speed, seems like i hear a tapping noise from a chain of some sort around the gas tank area. I was wondering if that was normal from 500's. Thanks

Valve bouncin???   :dunno_white:Ive got those springs goin one or twice (sounds like chain slap but from the engine!! )

valves floating is a very bad thing. i'm only assuming that because you said while accelerating. if you are trying to accelerate quickly, shift at 9,500 or so, power drops off quickly any higher, and you risk grenade'ing the engine.

or, your cam chain tensioner is in need of attention.

have you adjusted your valves yet ?
checked your drive chain's tension ?

Could be cam walk.There's nothing holding the cams from moving side to side except the timing chain.It makes a knocking sound.It could be that the valves need to be adjusted.Check the gap around the fuel tank.It could be the tank rubbing the frame.If it's just a single quick clunk.It could be bad steering bearings.Put the bike on the center stand and push and pull the handle bars.If they move the steering stem bearings could be bad.

Sure it's not gas knock if you're getting it only while accelerating, putting engine under load.

If you are concerned take it back to the dealer and ask them investigate, if its an 08` it will still be under warranty.