Guzzi Mechanical Noise

[Siamese]

So, just why does my MG V7III make so much mechanical noise?  Clickety-clack.

Don't get me wrong, I know they're supposed to do it, and I have my valves adjusted to the proper clearance (not the specs listed under the seat).  And I used to ride my dad's Guzzi back in the 70's, so I'm not a total stranger to these things. 

And, I get the clutch thing.

One of the reviews I watched on youtube described the sound of a V7III as the bassoon section of an orchestra combined with a thousand grandfather clocks.  Rather poetic.   

It's a pushrod engine, but not the only one.  Is it the jugs sticking out the side of the bike?  Is it some sort of Italian mojo? 

[Idontwantapickle]

It's not a noise, it's a sound!
it could be that the valve gear is just up there where it's noticeable. Regardless, it is part of the mystique.
Like any machine the important thing is to distinguish between the normal sounds and the unusual noises. 
I like it.

Hunter

[pete roper]

You did set the valve at the right TDC? The Nuovo smallblocks are pretty quiet.

[Dave Swanson]

I'm with Pete.  It should be fairly quiet.

[Huzo]

I rode my Mk 2 the other day and was reminded how mechanically quiet it is compared to my Norge.
Still a piece of junk by comparison though..
They really aren’t that good compared to the new stuff.

[Dave Swanson]

If you like a symphony of timpani get a Loop Eldorado.  Mine sounds like it is going to explode!

[pete roper]

The very early 8V 1200's were dreadful as well. Blokes on Japanese bikes would pull up next to me at the lights and tell me to take mine to a mechanic as 'It shouldn't sound like that'!

[Cam3512]

It beautiful music.  Use ear plugs...

[Vagrant]

Aas Pete said, check your valve work again. my 17 and the 15 V7's are the quietest Guzzi's ever.

[mechanicsavant]

I don’t know how many “smiles” you have on yours,I’ve noticed my V7II seems quieter as miles accumulate, or I’m just getting used to it. Clutch noise? In neutral @ idle I hear the gearbox “chucking” a bit due to uneven firing , it ceases when in gear , & then it’s normal bit of valve noise . Time to go recharge my “miracle ears”.

[JC85]

If you like a symphony of timpani get a Loop Eldorado.  Mine sounds like it is going to explode!

This! Every so often, usually when riding around town with my half shell helmet, I'll notice some mechanical noise on my loop Eldo hat makes me go "wait...has that noise always been there, or is it new?" Usually followed by a thorough inspection of the bike, when I get home, finding nothing wrong. They are some noisy old beauties.