Clutch / Gearbox issues

Hi folks, apologies if this has been covered many times before, but I need some advice! I've had my cb500s since August and have grown really fond of it! Aquired for little money, it has covered 74,000 miles but rides and runs really sweetly. The only issue is the chattering/knocking noise when cold in neutral with the clutch engaged. Pull the clutch in and it goes away. It's much better after a few miles when it's warmed up. The gears shift nicely etc, but with some long trips planned this summer, I think it best to suss out what's going on. I understand these engines can have clutch basket issues but I'm not sure exactly what I'm looking for when I remove te clutch and strip it. Or am I panicking for no reason! Ive balanced the carbs and it does tickover pretty smoothly. Thanks in advance.

I think you'll find they all do that Sir. Do a Google search on "CB500 rattly clutch" and you'll see it's a common issue.

Mine certainly does it. It goes after five minutes, doesn't affect the operation of the clutch or the riding of the bike, so,I don't worry about it.

Ok cheers, I shall continue regardless. I assume it tends to get worse as the mileage climbs? Is it worth fitting new heavier clutch springs?

Mines at 50k miles, I haven't noticed it getting any worse. It seems to be a thing with Hondas, that just happens.

You can fit heavy duty springs (i think EBC make a set) but from what I've read, they can produce their own set of problems. People have also welded washers onto thew basket before to try & solve the rattle. I however just live with it as I'm hardly ever in neutral anyhow.

Another one who 'lives with it'. Mine's done 22k. Pretty sure it sounds just the same as it did when I got it at 15k. Got used to ignoring it! 

Thanks a lot folks, i'll just ride it as it is.

Don't worry.  Mine does it too.  I think everyone's cb500 does it.

There's a video/post/blog somewhere someone welded washers and that stopped the noise. I'll be reviewing the clutch system shortly but won't try to do that. I'm OK with the noise - I know what it is, and it does no harm - just a shame it has to be this way of course...