I've been noticing that sometimes it can be difficult to get the bike into first gear. Sometimes if I try to shift down while I'm rolling, I'll get a slight gear grinding sound, and some vibration in the shift pedal. I slow down some more, and can get it down.
Other times, when I'm at a complete stop, I have trouble shifting from neutral down to 1st - I have to roll the bike slightly forwards or back to get it to go.
Are these behaviors normal, or is there some problem with the transmission, or perhaps I'm not getting total disengagement with the clutch?
the second issue is normal but the first :dunno:
When the oil gets a bit nasty it affects gear changes, try changing the oil and filter :thumb:
how long do you hold the clutch in when you try to shift into 1st, because when i pull in the clutch and hold it (while stoped) and then when i try to shift into 1st it will not go, so i let out the clutch and pull it in again and then i can shift into 1st
Quote from: slimmyreedWhen the oil gets a bit nasty it affects gear changes, try changing the oil and filter :thumb:
I just changed the oil and filter yesterday - was experiencing both issues before and after the change.
Oh, I wasn't very clear - the first issue only happens when downshifting from neutral to 1st, aslo (in neutral rolling towards the line at a red, then it turns green)
When going into first while moving, you might try blipping the throttle just a little.
Check your oil level. I know you said you just changed it and all....
My bike was having the same problem the other day, and although I had the oil and filter changed just before winter the bike was just about 1/2 a quart low. Go figure. I guess that is what I get for taking my GS to Yamahonda shop. ;-)
The other tips about maybe blipping the throttle is not a terribly bad idea either, as I've noticed you practically have be moving at or less than walking speed for the bike to go into 1st gear while moving.
Touchy beasts these GS's can be at times.
My bike is a brand new '04 model with just under 400 miles on it. Mine has been the way you describe since I bought it, so it's normal.
Try adjusting the clutch cable. Sounds like the clutch is not disengaging enough. Different oils also effect shifting. I prefer full synthetics myself.
But I've used Valvoline ATV oil from Kragens to break in some motors and really liked it.
Taking a little slack out of the clutch cable should help though.
As for downshifting while moving. Blipping the throttle as you shift does help.
Also keeps the rear wheel from sliding if you're braking hard if you rev the motor as you downshift.
i have encountered the same thing. I find that if you let the clutch out just a tiny bit while presssing down on the gear shift it will drop down.