Issues getting into first gear from idle

[Forko]

I have a 06 GS500 and i have noticed after the bike has been warmed up and ridden about a half hour it is difficult to get into first from neutral (at a stop light). It is really frustraiting when you try to down shift and it doesnt go. Does anyone else have this problem?

[ducati_nolan]

You probally need to adjust your clutch. Adjust it so that you have about 1/8" of freeplay at the lever before it starts disengaging.

Sometimes dirty oil can efect your clutch operation so if it's been a while, you should change it too.

[skiggitty]

stay in first at lights..in case you need to dart out of someone's way who "didn't see you".  or, try rolling forward like 3-6 inches while pushing it into first.

I always stay in first..just in case.

[ducati_nolan]

stay in first at lights..in case you need to dart out of someone's way who "didn't see you".  or, try rolling forward like 3-6 inches while pushing it into first.

I always stay in first..just in case.

Good point, but you should still be able to shift into first from neutral, if you can't it's a problem.

[galahs]

Happens to me sometimes too. Just rock the bike back and  forward as you try and put the gear into first. Works every time!

[Forko]

Cool, thanks for the tips everyone. I Never thought about holding it in just in case.....That is a good point!

[Unnamed]

I second the "rocking" idea. Frequently I can't shift into/out of neutral but if I move it a few inches back and forth it will work.

[heatherg11]

+1 rocking back and forth..have to do it occassionally, when i don't keep it in first!!!