Sounds Like spark knock

[sprman4lissa]

Hello All... I have a 1982 GS1100 Gk with 62,000 miles.. My problem is when i slow down and kinda gun it it sounds like it's spark knocking or if i go up a hill in say like 2nd or 3rd and speed up to shift it does it as well.... do i need to get some boost in my gas.. thank you

[Guest]

Pinging?
Maybe a lean condition. Try to seal the airbox or up the main jet and shim the needle.

[Dave8338]

Which plugs are you running? Gap to spec?

[sprman4lissa]

I run Denso Iridium spark plugs... The DENSO Iridium Power plug comes pre-set with a protective sleeve over the firing end, to protect the gap from accidental alteration.

[tkent02]

What heat range?

[Texas Don]

With 62K on the clock, you most likely have enough carbon build up in the combustion chamber area to increase the compression ratio. This is a fairly common problem and can lead to some serious consequences. By reducing the combustion area you are increasing the compression and your bike is telling you that it needs more octane, so yes, adding an octane booster will cure the pinging if that's the problem.
But, you will suffer rapid ring wear and additional blow-by. Unless the root cause is corrected, you can ultimately burn a valve or throw a rod. With these engine designs, I would expect a valve to give way first but why chance it? Commercial products for de-carbonizing your engine are available. Go to a good auto parts store and get some. Be sure to read the label and follow the directions carefully. These products offer a reasonable short term solution to the problem but ultimately, it requires head removal to be cleaned and serviced properly.
Don

[Nessism]

Running some Seafoam though the engine won't hurt. And running high octane gas won't either, during the heat of summer when detonation is most likely.

[SqDancerLynn1]

I had a simillar problem with my 850. Pull the carbs & Take a close look at the intake boots replace if needed and replace the O-rings. Leaks will make lean, it will ping & rattle under load