Downshifting issues

[jacob_ns]

Hi all, I've searched but haven't found much that sounds like my issue.

Info: 1994 GS500e w/ ~30,000kms, full oil level.

When downshifting through gears when coming to a stoplight for example, I randomly get a mis-shift where it doesn't engage the gear I'm downshifting into. It feels exactly like the brake pedal feels when it happens, such as it depresses and has a bit of resistance but I cannot feel anything. When I release the shifter and the clutch it's in the gear I was originally in but if I downshift again it will shift properly.

It's a random occurance and happens anywhere from 4th to 1st gear. I am releasing the clutch after each downshift.

Any ideas?

[Paulcet]

Downshifting while stopped can be problematic.  Shift while rolling. 

If that's not it, consider that you may not be fully releasing the shift lever on the upstroke of your foot.  That was my case when wearing work boots, so I adjusted the lever position.

[jacob_ns]

This is while rolling, with purpose of using the downshifting as braking. I've been shifting very purposefully once I noted the issue to see if it was what you suggest (or if I was shifting before the clutch was fully pulled in) but it seems I am shifting correctly. I move my foot away from the shift lever after each shift, due to habit.

[Twisted]

I think you are describing a false neutral. Sometimes happens when you don't shift the lever firmly enough but rarely happens in a Suzuki gearbox. My Ducati seems to get it a lot if you are not firm enough with your changes.

[skirecs]

i sometimes get a neutral between 3-4 if im sloppy

[Twism86]

Sounds like a false neutral to me too. When I first got my bike I got a few until I got used to the pressure needed to shift, every bike is different. Does it suddenly catch? Isn't that fun...... Make sure you give it a firm press down.