Recumbent - Noisy TerraCycle Idler

This is my second effort-- Help!

I replaced my conventional factory idler/tensioner on my GRR. Every time a go over a bump I hear slapping sound that comes like a wave-- don’t know how to describe it any better.

When they put on the TerrCycle, they removed two links, one week later, due to the noise I asked them to remove one more; result the noise became more rapid.

I've tried to figure out the noise, I took it to a shop the third time and they had a half dozen guys ride the bike, no one could find why and exactly where the noise was coming from. They even called TerraCycle-- they had a question and answer session, to no avail.

I’m ready to either put back the old idler or try the tensioner/“tube” style sold by Easy Racer or just forget the idler completely.

I hate noise. Any ideas???

I'd call Pat at Tercycle and send him some reference pics via email. He'll figure it out.

I put a Terracycle idler on mine, and it's really quiet! No way of measuring it, but I think I may have picked up a bit of speed or peddling efficiency. But no slaps!?!

I too have noticed a tick or click sound from the power/toothed idler for my Terratriek Cruiser. It happens on each power push there is a tick sound. Basically 2 to 4 clicks per revolution. When I am sitting still and I slightly press on each pedal without moving I hear (and can feel) the idler click as if the bearing is shifting position or recentering. I have adjusted the tension on the holding bolt with no change. Is this what you are hearing or experiencing?

Now that my chain line is incredibly quiet now I hear this!

Chain flop - the power side hitting the, uh, seat tube? Return side hitting the kick stand? Have someone ride behind you and watch when it happens.

Here is my novice opinion. I have an unusal noise that is hard to replicate and I note that there appears to be some chain rub on the rear fender of my GRR. I have no idea why it rubs sometines and not others. Check the fender or remove it. If necessary try eliminating things like removing the idler or other parts. Keep on it. I once had rubbing noise I trace to a zip tie that I had mounted on the rack support to check the true of the wheel. I forgot to remove it after truing the wheel. It allmost drove me crazy.