Posted by Bob Alcorn on July 19, 1999 at 23:17:09:
Hi everyone,
Maybe some of you out there can clarify a few things for me. First of all, I'm quite happy cruising between 40 and 50 mph for extended periods of time. Everything seems smooth and stable. However, once I go over 50 and approach 55 mph, the vibration coming from the engine is a bit uncomfortable. The bike seems very light at that point and the stability doesn't seem to be there. The vibration is not in the front end, the grips are steady– it's definitely coming from the engine. Over 55 mph the vibration does not get worse, it remains constant. I'm travelling in 5th gear, and it seems like I should have a sixth. Maybe this is because I also ride a Honda Rebel 450, which does have six gears. At speeds above 50 mph, there is no real difference in vibration on the Rebel.
Is what I experience on my Savage a normal occurrence? Should I expect to have an engine vibration at highway speeds? If this is normal, I can't imagine going 65 and 70 mph, as many people on this forum do (not that I would want to).
A final question. I noticed a drop of oil on the nut and bolt which is located in the cutout front portion of the engine (about the middle of the engine). It was only one drop after a long ride, but I'm a bit worried. Any ideas? The bike is under warranty, but I don't have too much faith in the shop where I bought it, and I'd like to tell him what to look for.
As usual, thanks for all your help. I can tell you that this site has been far more helpful than the Rebel site I visit. There forum is more of a swap meet, not an exchange of information.
Bob A.