Grinding noise when cold starting

[Mark Jennings]

I have a 2005 1200GS with 70K miles which I've owned since new. About 2 years ago I noticed a fairly loud grinding noise when starting which lasts only about a second then stops. The bike starts and runs fine otherwise. It only occurs when the engine is cold and the ambient temperature is less than about 50 degrees F. I live in a very hot part of Arizona so the only time I notice the noise is on trips to cold climates and in the winter. I thought the bendix might be hanging up so I removed the started, cleaned it up and applied light lubricant to the shaft, this didn't make any difference. The problem hasn't really worsened but is a very disconcerting. This is not the slapping noise you get with the cam chain, it's different. The problem with taking it to a mechanic is there are none locally and it would have to sit at least overnight in a cold environment (outside) for the him to hear the problem. Any suggestions?

[gdayjr]

It's been two years. Nothing has broken or played up.
My opinion.....Live with it.

[Mark Jennings]

Originally Posted by gdayjr

It's been two years. Nothing has broken or played up.
My opinion.....Live with it.

Yeah, I've been doing that for a couple of years and so far it's worked.

[Kemo Sabe]

My bike did that when the battery was a little below fully charged, and always when it was cold. The battery tender, jr., helped.