clutch doesn't "bite" when shifting while spirited riding?

[mattress]

If I take off from a stop, and I'm at full throttle and it's time to shift, I'll back off the throttle just enough while pulling the clutch in just enough to kick the shifter into the next gear, then release the clutch, and open the throttle again.

the RPM's stay really high for a while like the clutch is slipping, and it's not "biting". 

Is it time for new clutch friction pads?  New springs?

[galahs]

Could be. How old is you bike, and how many k's on your current clutch?

Out of interest, what brand, viscosity and grade of oil are you running?

[ben2go]

Try this. http://gstwins.com/gsboard/index.php?topic=39377.0

[mattress]

Could be. How old is you bike, and how many k's on your current clutch?

Out of interest, what brand, viscosity and grade of oil are you running?

Hah.  Sorry, I guess I could have added more information to my post.

It's a 1999 gs500e, with 16000+ miles on it.

I'm probably not putting the best oil in it either, I've been using the same stuff I put in my truck (different weight of course), Castrol GTX.

I'll try some motorcycle specific oil next time I change it.  Do you guys have any reccomendations?

[ohgood]

i use castrol 10w40. i'll get a little slippage if it sits for a few days, then take it out for a spin. i've noticed a little slippage in the wet, but that may be my back tire actually.

10w40, 22,000 miles, clutch adjusted regularly. i don't spare it at less than walking speeds.

no noticable slippage other than what's mentioned above.

i've used castrol 10w40 in the bike for the last 20,000 miles or so.

motorcycle specific oil seems like 'race gas' vs 'whatever burns' in -my- gs.

[ben2go]

My local A$$vanced Auto sells motorcycle specific Castro 10-40 for like $0.20 more than car oil.Plus they have the Fram brand filters for just a few $$,and come with a new seal.I had problems with regular car oil and switch to mc oil seemed to help.I am installing a new clutch in a few weeks.

[GeeP]

Check your clutch lever free play.  If you don't have enough free play the cable will remain taught and prevent the clutch from obtaining full clamping pressure.