This morning it was 30f out. When I started my bike it knocked 3 times ( bang, bang bang) before it settled to idle, and I could smell oil. The bike ran fine and started fine after work. It is a 09 SG with 3200mi. It still has Moble 1 20w50 in it. I have rode it in colder weather this spring and rode all my Harleys in cold weather before with no issues. I do not touch the throttle untill it settles down. Just push the starter. I have heard motors make all kinds of noises, and this sounded bad. Any clues other than take it to the dealer, who will say it's fine?

 

Compensator. Get the SE compensator and that problem should go away.

 

Thanks for the quick reply. I will check in to it.

 

+1 on the compensator

 

Could a lifter have bled down?

 

Can you identify where the knock is coming from. Upper engine? Lower left side? Lower right side?

 

tell us more about this compensator

 

Here you go:
https://www.hdforums.com/forum/prima...mpensator.html
Threads a little long but a good resource.