Hi, I'm new to the forum and this looks like the place to get answers. I have a '03 vinson that has developed a high pitch howling sound. I notice it when I open it up a little in the open. It also will lightly howl at idle. Any thoughts on what it might be?

 

I was going to say belt, but if it's doing it at idle I would maybe think you're developing a vacuum leak somewhere. Have you checked to see if it's your radiator fan? You really ought to take it to a dealer, or someone knowledgeable on bikes. Without actually hearing the sound it's hard to troubleshoot.

 

There's a slight wrrrr as the clutch spools up on initial start up. The only howl I've heard, as all Auto owners can attest to, is upon hard braking, then "nailing" it. If it's howling JRA, I'd check the belt/take 'er in for a "check-up".