1976Mustang

Okay so i got two questions on two bikes.

First is, 1700 Kawasaki Vulcan Nomad 6-Speed, won't downshift when it's sitting without a fight. While it's moving it'll downshift just fine, but when it's sitting i have to rest my foot on the lever and let the clutch out a bit in each gear. I was thinking the syncros?

Second question, Yamaha V-Star 650. Despite countless attempts to have the dealer correct this, there is a LOT of free play in the clutch. I know the clutch was replaced when he got it, less than a year ago. I have to let the clutch out half way before it starts engaging. So how do i fix that? It's already adjusted as loose as it will go.

tonytwotimes

on the Vulcan. Is it just the downshift when sitting? I assume it's a wet clutch right? Your not using oil with friction inhibitors are you? (car oil)

V-star: who put the clutch in? some dude? Mechanic? Possibly weak springs, I know that this can be an issue on the Honda 750's (Twins)

Disclaimer: My reply is a good example of what you call "shadow stabbing"

glass3222

First, why are you needing to downshift when it is sitting? You should be downshifting as you come to a stop, ending up in first prior to stopping. This is common with most bikes that they will not downshift more than 1 gear when sitting, sometimes not even one gear.

Second, check springs, lube the cable, play with the adjustment until you get it to you liking. Every bike's clutch is a little different.

U-BOATXJ

What this guy said

1976Mustang

The heck? I don't remember posting this... Better change the password on my Computer. Oh well might as well go along with it. I know the Kawi is fine, That's how all bikes are.

The Yamaha though, a Harley/Kawi/Yamaha/Suzuki/Polaris dealership installed it and the same dealer has been asked to inspect it. It works fine, just the friction zone is really small, so there's a lot of travel in the lever before it starts to grab. Fluids should be fine since it's had 2 servicings since we got it. I messed with the cable before, it wouldn't move anymore (Can't remember if i tightened it or loosened it). I'm just wondering if it has the wrong clutch cable, or clutch assembly for that matter.