Got a 08 1200c that if not run in a while, i go to start it turn the key on flip the switch to run and it makes a buzzing type noise. Then when you hit the start button bike starts right up but with a whirling sound that follows that goes highier pitched but quites after like 3-4 secs. Like I say only does it if I dont ride for awhile, but if ran every day it dont do it. Any suggestions?

 

Fuel pump

 

Should make the sound just about every time the bike is put to run, it is normal. As stated, fuel pump. You can even stick your ear to the gas tank and hear it loudly.

How to start the bike.
1. Turn the key to run.
2. Hit the ignition switch to run. You will hear the fuel pump spin for about three seconds.
3. Wait until the little yellow key light goes off.
4. Hit the start button.
Ride safe!

 

Mine has done that a couple times in the past 3 1/2 years I've owned it, but never had a problem at all with it.

 

All 3 of my Harleys do that if they haven't been started for a few weeks (thanks to the snow storms here in PA). It's just the fuel pump. After a few frequent starts the noise goes away.

 

Ok glad to hear that others know what Im talking about. The bike runs good and everything, just wanted to know if anyone else had the same issue and if it really was a big deal or not. When I first heard it the only thought I had was that the pump was dry or something. Thanks for the posts.

 

Love the sound of a fuel pump spooling up in the morning.

 

Mine does it when it hasnt been run in a while as well as when it sits outside during the summer

 

my 09 1200L with 418 miles on it does it after sitting for a few days. I was a bit surprised the first time i heard it, but its not an unfamiliar sound to me so it was of no concern as it went away after a few short seconds. If its a persisting noise then i would probably check it out.

my recommendation: don't go more than a day without riding it.

 

Is it possible that the fuel pump being a little louder when not run in days is because the fuel line depressurizes, causing it to sound louder than usual under those conditions?.