If the tie-rod [A] do not smoothly stroke or noise is found, inspect the fasteners and tie-rod bearings (see Tie-Rod/Rocker Arm Bearing, Sleeve Inspection in the Suspension chapter).

In this photo, the foot guard has been removed for clarity.
Rocker Arm Operation Inspection
SteeringStarter Relay Inspection
Remove the front seat (see Front Seat Removal in the
Frame chapter).
Remove the battery negative (–) cable from the battery
negative (–) terminal (see Battery Removal).
Take the starter relay [A] off the rear fender.
Remove the cover [B].
Remove:
Starter Motor Cable [A] ...
Cylinder Head Cover Removal
Remove:
Air Suction Valves (see Air Suction Valve Removal)
Throttle Body Assy (see Throttle Body Assy Removal in
the Fuel System (DFI) chapter)
Stick Coils (see Stick Coil Removal in the Electrical System
chapter)
Remove the clamps [A].
Turn up the front side of the heat insulation ...
Subthrottle Valve Actuator Inspection
NOTE
Be sure the battery is fully charged.
Remove the air cleaner housing (see Air Cleaner Housing
Removal in the Fuel System (DFI) chapter).
Turn the ignition switch to ON.
Check to see that all the subthrottle valves [A] open and
close smoothly.
Turn the ignition switch to OFF.
I ...