Neuteral to First problems

[phire]

Also, it would be a good idea to check your oil level, and check it weekly.

It could very well be my imagination of a placebo effect, but I would almost bet money that since I switched over to synthetic oil that I have not had the problem of having to "roll" the bike to get it out of neutral. Like I said, it could be just in my head but it seems to shift more smoothly throughout the gears as well, including out of neutral. 

I just started noticing the same thing actually.. I just changed oil at 1,800 miles (and will change again when I do my 4,000 mile valve adjustment to Mobil1), but I used Honda GN4 10w-40 dino and I've noticed that the bike shift smoother, too and I've yet to have a problem getting it outta neutral or any of those problems that required rolling or releasing the clutch. The guys at the dealership said it's good oil and that they use it in all of their oil changes. So...    But at any rate, I'm starting to believe that a better quality oil improves transmission response... Could be a fluke, too but we'll see.

[NWDave]

Check check and check.  Had the problem again before starting out on a ride today, cycling the clutch worked just fine. 

Motorcycle transmissions are "constant mesh" in this situation that means that both sets of gears have to be turning for them to engage completely. Thats why its hard to get it to shift at a stop or without the engine running.

Now my buddy, also the guy I baught the bike from, said it was normal to get alittle oil seepage when the block was cold.  Trust but verify is my motto, and I just want to verify that this is a true statement.

Uh, no ANY leakage from the engine is NOT normal. This isn't a Triumph or a Harley after all. 

Unless he sold you the bike for cheap, your buddy screwed you. If you are lucky maybe its just the tach cable that is leaking. But if its the block, you are in for an expensive fix.

Not from the block, the 'primary cover' as I believe it's refered to.  In any event it wouldn't hurt to get the bike looked over, should I go with the local bikeshop (small time dealership, more into selling than fixing from what I have seen) or the reccomended backyard/small shop guy who seems to know his shaZam!?