Sounds like kickstand is springing up when engaging clutch..

[Hobo]

Okay, I know it sounds crazy, but the first few times I heard the sound when taking off I seriously thought the centerstand had been left partially down and it sprung up to the frame.  This is my first K-bike (and first BMW), so this may be normal and I'm just not accustomed to it.  I can actually "feel" something as well as hear the sound, and my years of wrenching on other bikes is sending a "red flag" up telling me to check things out before they become worse.

Any input on what the sound could be?  Again, just as the clutch engages.  I also hear a similar sound when downshifting into first (but not other gears).  1996 K1100RS, 77K miles, well maintained, all splines last done around 50K.

[cy7878]

It's a dry clutch so engagement makes a metallic sound.  I do have to say that my old 1150GS that I bought new in 2002 actually made a louder sound than my current 1985 K100.

[Hobo]

Thanks Chuck.  Guess I'm getting used to the new sounds of the K-bike and trying to decide what is "normal" and what is cause for "attention".  Especially since I'm a little OCD with my wrenching, a small effort to check the air pressure in my tires often leads to seeing a few other things, which leads to a full teardown and rebuild.    :yow

[cy7878]

As with my GS, after getting used to the sound, I actually started liking it.  My K doesn't have the same loudness, but since I have had it apart before and it's moving forward, I try not to worry about it. 

[julian5000]

My K75 has the linkage from the clutch to the side stand that pulls the side stand up when you pull the clutch in. Is it possible you're hearing something from that?

[Inge K.]

This linkage mechanism isn't present on the K 11's, a switch is used instead.