the front pads will only make a noise if the friction material is worn away completely or if the pad is a sintered type.the electronic gear indicator is sent a signal from a small round plug in the left hand case of theengine(front sprocket cover) it has multiple points that earth via small pointers on the end of the gear selector drum.there is a constant live feed from an ignition live to the digital display and as i said it relys on a earth to complete the circuit in each gear including neutral.if its hard to start on the button but ok ona bump its either low on compression for some reason maybe a tight valve or the battery isnt good enough on it ,i would put a new battery on first mate.p.s i am trained suzuki mechanic with diplomas
adam bike doctor(of milton keynes motorcycle centre)
December 2010