Bad Noise

[roostafish]

New years day I heard an ugly "screech" from my bike. I couldn't tell if it was engine, transmission, or simply a rock caught in the countershaft. It happened a couple of times, and I was seeking it out. I got to a road and looked at the counter shaft area, caked with muc, rolled it back and forth. Rode it through all six gears several times (easy). and scratched my head. I drained the oil and found nothing of concern. I thought about it for a while, and the noise just didn't seem like it came at an engine speed, more of a moving speed.

Anyway, all of this to say.... I'm paraniod. My last bike, an XC 250 went through 4 left crank bearings, and it's new owner is on his fifth set. I have only put 2000 miles on this EC 300, and it's been a champion. Truly a bulletproof ride so far. However, if I have to dig into this baby and replace a bizzare failure of some sort, I may be looking elsewhere for a ride. I absolutely love the way this bike handles and rides. The motor is perfect, the suspension unbelievable, the turning like no other. I really like it. Like I said though, I can no longer tolerate a bike that is a grenade. Somebody out there give me some reassurance. I've found myself looking out there for TM 300's, and Husqvarna WR 250's. There's really good deals out there. Give me a reason to stay! I'm not panicking yet, but the feelers are out.