Temporary "tinking" Sound

Greetings Everyone,
My '98 Marauder with 13,000 miles, has started singing me a new tune.  About 30 seconds after a cold startup, I hear a sharp metallic tinking or dinging sound - presumably from the clutch/transmission.  It makes this sound for around 15 to 20 seconds, then goes away.  I am perplexed.  I am new to biking and have no idea what could be causing this behavior.  If anyone out there is familiar with this malady, please give me a heads up.
Thanks,
BigRedFun