Absolutely not a ticker. I bought this bike a couple of years ago as a fixer-upper. She runs well, starts right up without issues, has "stump-pulling" torque off the line, and with a modicum of care will provide years of service. I've been riding an FJR for the past 11 years, I bought my first in 2010, I've yet to find a bike I like better. She's not a lightweight, but past 5 miles an hour, she rides like a much lighter bike, and the handling is excellent. Test ride one. If your looking for a super comfortable mile-eater that's reliable as hell, the FJR to me is the best choice available. Baz