1st

[SirHansford]

Howdy again folks.  Once again I call upon your collective infinite wisdom  to steer me in the right direction with something i'm curious about.  So, I have a 2007 F model for starters.  Oil is new (Mobile 1 syn for cycles)  and oil level is checked a few times a week and kept full.  I've noticed that almost from day one since i bought it that it has an ever-so slight lurch forward when i kick it into down into first from a stand still.  And it sometimes seems quite clunky when i'm shifting down into first while still in motion and coming to a stop at say a stop sign or light.   I'm no mechanic but could this be a sign that the clutch isn't fully disengaging and possibly needs adjusted?  It only does this going into first.  All other gears are smooth as silk.  Thank you all for any input and advice  

[ShowBizWolf]

Hi SirHansford,

This sounds a lot like my bike too. Been that way ever since I got it in 2012... I always thought it was normal. I'm looking forward to other people replying to this cuz if it's a problem I wanna tend to it asap.

[Watcher]

It's a result of "sticktion" (sticky friction) from the multi-plate wet-clutch motorcycles use.  Unless I'm really warmed up, dropping from N into 1 has a tactile lurch, in every motorcycle I've ever ridden (and that's a LOT working as an MSF instructor).  My Buell calls for 20W50 and this lurch seems to be pretty strong until the oil thins out.  It goes from wanting to push itself an inch or two at air temperature to merely a "muscle spasm" at proper operating temperature.

You can see it in other bikes if you happen to be riding with friends.  At the very least the chain will "hop" when put into gear.

Once you're in gear, the clutch plates have "broken loose" and you won't feel this lurch anymore.  Unless, of course, you go back into N.



If you feel it's really bad you can always do a 3-point clutch adjustment.

[Sandgroper57]

What Watcher said

Sounds normal to me as well. You can minimise the initial clunk by pushing backwards a small way, it takes up any slack in the chain.
Mike

[sledge]

Its a cheap no frills 40 year old non-synchro design that uses dogs and straight cut teeth.

Its robust and reliable.........but its gonna clunk now and again!

Even with decent oil and a good clutch action.

[SirHansford]

  Puts my mind at rest that this is not an issue.  Appreciate you all taking the time to reply

[ShowBizWolf]

 

[peteGS]

If it's not clutch adjustment, then a little blip of the throttle before changing into first can help 

At least it does on my 35 year old 450...