I couple weeks ago I took the gear level off to replace the generator cover. I forgot to mark where it was placed last, and now I can't seem to get the darn thing adjusted correctly. It's either too high or I have to squeeze my foot underneath it. This has been the 4th time I've re-positioned it. I can change to neutral in second gear but not when I shift down to first. It almost seems like the shifter gets "stuck" once it's down on first. When I'm riding it's fine, it's just when I have to stop that's the problem.
As far as I know on the 2007, the shifter is adjusted in rather large chunks - if I am one notch under or over, it's way out of usable range. So I am not sure how you have it in a 'slightly wrong' spot and why you can't get it back to where you like it.
It's just difficult to shift from first gear to neutral. It takes a few tries. Wish there was some other way to adjust it. Maybe the bolt is tightened too much?
I have a 2004 GS500F.
I am assuming you just refilled the oil, ill bet you put too much in. even a tiny amount over full will make it vary hard to put in neutral, the f models are hard to find neutral any way. The next time this happens try revving the engine to 2000-3000 rpm while attempting to find neutral, ill bet it makes it alot easier.
If that helps then Ill bet you have too much oil, if it doesn't help try adjusting the clutch.
Over tightening the bolt on the lever wont have an effect on the actual shifting (unless you break it) you should actually make sure its tight enough, ive had that bolt vibrate loose and make the shifter sloppy which makes it hard to find gears.
Yeah, oil levels are a big factor on shifting smoothness. I can actually tell when it is about time to change my oil by how smooth my shifting is!
Mary