1st Gear Clutch Grab?

[Jcol]

My 81 has 135,000 KM showing. It runs perfect however I have always noticed that the clutch seems to grab or lock a little early when slowly starting from a stop. Today I was stuck in traffic and it was start stop for about 20 minutes. Each time I would roll forward and just as the clutch handle is almost completely released i can feel the clutch going from slipping to lockup - you get a very minor bump that you feel from the back wheel. I recall noticing this before however with the traffic today it really was obvious. I have not noticed this little bump in any other gear except first. On the other hand the clutch does not slip and aside from not being able to find neutral easily with the engine running the clutch and transmission operate as expected. I have done the clutch cable and the clutch play adjustment as outlined in the manual. Is this just the nature of a 32 year old clutch or should I try some further adjusting? I'm also running the correct weight oil and it is changed regularily. Thanks.

 

[mcgovern61]

It could be your clutch plates are nearly worn down and are grabbing late. My '83 engine makes a sort of "skip" when I let the clutch out too fast without enough throttle in 1st. (I think on mine it is the springs but it runs fine otherwise).

 

[dan filipi]

Mine grabs the same as Jcol especially when it's hot, right at the end there just before full engagement......then engaged.
I've checked my clutch pretty thoroughly and see no problem. I think it's normal.

 

[joedrum]

just go with it till its done good service so far i dont think adjusting will help

 

[Oldewing]

I am with all of the above, what you are sayin' is pretty much how they work. The only thing I might add is maybe a shot of MMO in your oil for a 100 miles or so. That will clean everthing out and might free it up so you can grab Nertral easier.

I think Canadian Tire has Marvel Mystery Oil........

 

[Jcol]

Thanks for the replies. I'll just leave it alone and ride it for now. Good to hear that it is something that others have seen as well.

 

[slabghost]

My 81 has 135,000 KM showing. It runs perfect however I have always noticed that the clutch seems to grab or lock a little early when slowly starting from a stop. Today I was stuck in traffic and it was start stop for about 20 minutes. Each time I would roll forward and just as the clutch handle is almost completely released i can feel the clutch going from slipping to lockup - you get a very minor bump that you feel from the back wheel. I recall noticing this before however with the traffic today it really was obvious. I have not noticed this little bump in any other gear except first. On the other hand the clutch does not slip and aside from not being able to find neutral easily with the engine running the clutch and transmission operate as expected. I have done the clutch cable and the clutch play adjustment as outlined in the manual. Is this just the nature of a 32 year old clutch or should I try some further adjusting? I'm also running the correct weight oil and it is changed regularily. Thanks.

Just a note. The final grab of the clutch will not be noticed in higher gears as it is already moving and the clutch is released faster in the higher gears.

 

[Placerville]

Regarding your clutch issue, you need to test your clutch to see if it's on it's way out. Start by aligning the bike straight in (at a 90 degree angle) to a concrete wall with the front tire touching. Put the bike in 5th gear, give it a little throttle and ease the clutch out as you normally would. This should kill the engine immediately. If it doesn't, and the clutch slips, then your clutch is due for replacement.

Regarding the use of MMO as stated above; this can be helpful if you have a starter that's hanging up (spins but doesn't engage) or if you want to clean the inside of our engine due to clutch fragmentation, fuel in your oil or other issues. To do this correctly, drain 1 qt. of oil and replace that with an equal amount of MMO. Then, go on an easy 100 mile ride. With the engine still warm, drain and refill with good quality motorcycle rated oil. If you've never done an MMO rinse before, you may be surprised at what comes out.

 

[1burthabutt]

Marvel Mystery Oil is good. Was recommended by our racecar motor builder. Spent a lot of $ on the motor and she gets more attention than I could hope for Our bike will get the same tlc.

 

[mcgovern61]

Regarding your clutch issue, you need to test your clutch to see if it's on it's way out. Start by aligning the bike straight in (at a 90 degree angle) to a concrete wall with the front tire touching. Put the bike in 5th gear, give it a little throttle and ease the clutch out as you normally would. This should kill the engine immediately. If it doesn't, and the clutch slips, then your clutch is due for replacement.

Nice tip/test! We need to add this to our tips and tricks section!

 

[AApple]

Careful to not give it too much throttle...don't wanna wind up like this guy.... :shock: