New to bikes, and a question for all about a smell I've noticed on my bike...

I bought an 04 a little while ago, and I'm putting on a new chain and sprockets next week, but I've noticed sometimes when I ride there is a strange smell coming from the front. It kind of smells like burnt rubber or something like it, but there isn't ever any smoke or anything. I tried searching threads for a possible answer but have been unsuccessful. Has anyone had this problem, and if so how did you fix it? More than anything I'm looking for a lead to start the process.

You been hard on the clutch?

I've tried stopping to try and find where the smell is the strongest, but I haven't been able to pinpoint a location. And in regards to the clutch, I don't ride it hard, just simple commuting. Could it possibly be I ride the clutch too much while shifting?

I've tried riding lighter on the clutch with quicker shifting, and it's made a difference. I was wondering if it could be the brake pads, that's what I'll check out this Friday when I swap out sprockets and chain. Any suggestions for new brake pads?

Originally Posted by koko206

I've tried riding lighter on the clutch with quicker shifting, and it's made a difference. I was wondering if it could be the brake pads, that's what I'll check out this Friday when I swap out sprockets and chain. Any suggestions for new brake pads?

Brake pads won't make a bad smell unless they are absolutely getting roasted. You would definitely smell clutch way before.

As far as brakes go I would recommend getting HH pads. Also known as sintered pads. They last longer then stock and they also will provide a harder bite and increase breaking performance. EBC and Galfer are popular brands. I currently have EBC HH pads on my 06 right now.

Originally Posted by ThrillKillxoxo

Have you tried clutchless shifting yet ? , its the bees knees. From 2nd and up because the neutral makes 1st to 2nd weird. Put pressure up on the shifter peg and at about at least 8k let off the throttle a bit and it will slip in make sure to get back on the gas to compensate for the new gear like normal, also known as blurpping the throttle I think. Happy commuting.

id advise against this right now...it seems like the smell is most likely burnt clutch from riding it out to hard. Are you used to the grabbing point yet?