Ticking Noise

[HD2Rocket3]

I have an '07 Classic that I bought this summer with 3500 miles, it now has 8500 miles. A few weeks back I noticed a ticking noise, similar to the kind of noise a bike makes when you first cut it off and it's cooling down. However, I notice it while it's running. It isn't very rhythmic, again, almost sounds like the cooling off noises. It may have been doing it all along and I didn't notice and now I listen for it. I haven't done the 10,000 mile service yet and so far the oil hasn't needed topped off since I've had it. I ride it frequently, and spiritedly, but I don't consider myself hard on it. Has anyone else heard that noise and know what it is? Thanks!!

 

[HellFire]

Is it coming from the exhaust? At idle the pipes are cooling down similar to when you shut it off, they glow red hot over idle. If you park in a dark spot and look down at the pipes under the chrome, hold the rpms near 2000, you can see the metal glowing. Then let it idle and you can see the glow go away as it cools.

Maybe you are hearing the metal expand and contract, making the tick noise where the heat shields attach. .... wow, you have quiet exhaust!

 

[HD2Rocket3]

.... wow, you have quiet exhaust!

it's stock, I can't afford anything else