Strange rubbing noise coming off throttle.
 

Hi, recently picked up my R3, and I'm experiencing a strange issue; at the top of second gear (only at probably 8.5k+ rpm), when letting off the throttle there is a loud "rubbing" kind of noise that lasts just a couple seconds (initially thought it was from the wheels on the passenger side, but definitely not considering the specific conditions to make the noise). It is really quite loud and sounds like something spinning rubbing against something... Also some kind of strange "popping" type noises when lifting off at that rpm, almost like very muted pops and bangs, but it doesn't really sound like them based on when they happen etc..
Car runs perfectly fine, great compression, etc. Just not sure where to start on this noise. Can't find anything similar on the forums. any assistance appreciated.

Just to add that all oil/coolant levels etc are good. Changing the transmission/diff oil this week just to have them done, but they've only done about 4 years and 5000 miles so should be fine really.

Hi I know this will sound strange but check the tension on your belts it could be a belt sound your hearing.

some were to start :)
hope this helps.

Oooh interesting thought, thanks! Will have a check tonight

Unfortunately that’s not it, both belts are well tensioned… had a listen again today and it definitely sounds like it’s coming from the transmission (I think). I’ve got a trim piece missing under the handbrake (and think maybe split rubber under the gear lever) so a lot of noise comes through. Sounds like something spinning/rubbing badly down there just for a second in those specific conditions I mentioned above… still clueless on what it could be really

Just to provide closure to this thread for anybody who stumbles upon a similar problem; part of my heat shielding was bent, and it seems under certain conditions (as above), it would make contact with the driveshaft causing the noise!

All resolved now 😊

Appreciate you sharing the solution. So many threads here don’t close the loop.