Hi guys - I'm new to this board and new to the GS500 (go me  ), here's my question:

My gearbox gives a crunch when i select first from neutral at a stop.  I don't get this noise when downshifting from second into first.  Is this normal, a cause for concern or something that I'm doing?

Thanks in advance for any replies (and yes I did search first!  )

Phil

I get this if I try to shift from neutral to first with the choke on.

I think it happens if your revs are high when you shift.

Try adjusting your clutch cable

Quote from: galahs on April 18, 2007, 04:07:26 AM
I get this if I try to shift from neutral to first with the choke on.

I think it happens if your revs are high when you shift.

Yes, the choke was on - will see if this makes the difference on my next ride.

Mine was doing this until I adjusted the clutch.  If the clutch is still partially engaged, even when the lever is pulled all the way in, then gears are going to be spinning freely in neutral.  Shifting into first from neutral at a complete stop is going to bring those moving parts to a screeching halt and gears are going to grind in the process.  High revs (like when you're choked) are going to make the problem worse.  If the clutch is adjusted to fully disengage when it should then the problem should be solved.

Just my two cents, don't take my word as gospel. There are a lot of people on this board with much more extensive knowledge.

Indeed, if the clutch is dragging excessively it will grind a bit going into first from neutral.

Don't forget, upon first starting the bike sometimes the clutch plates will be slightly dry causing them to drag.  My bike clunks into first sometimes after it has been sitting for over a day.  Once you get moving and the clutch gets oil between the plates, it should mostly go away.

-Turd.

Yeah, echoing some of the above comments, First make sure your clutch is adjusted.

If this only happens when the bike is cold, don't worry about it, it isn't unusual. The clutch drags a little in the cold oil, so only worry about it if it still dose it once its warmed up.