Just picked up a 2006 v-star 1100 custom. when the engine is warmed up i am hearing a ticking coming from the front cylinder. the bike has been sitting for awhile and only has 5800 km(3625 miles) on it. Just put a fresh tank of gas in it. I am also getting some popping on decel.

The ticking could be excessive valve clearance but since it's popping on deceleration, it's possible what you hear is an exhaust leak. Check the pipe connections at the cylinder. This is a very common issue - especially because the front pipe has to be removed to change the oil filter, so if the problem began after service it's entirely possible they re-used the exhuast gasket.

I hope this helps.