Clutch/Shifting Problems
 

Hi guys, I’m new here so hopefully I posted this in the right section. I bought a ‘98 SH with 12K miles on it about a month ago. It is in great condition and seems to have been well taken care of. The problem I’m having is when shifting from neutral to first I get a loud “pop” as it goes into gear. The clutch is fully engaged yet it does this and the bike also kind of kicks forward just a bit along with the “pop”. However, you can let out on the clutch and has an inch or 2 before the clutch begins to engage and the bike moves forward so this leads me to think it’s not the clutch. Also a lot of the time when shifting from 1st to 2nd it will get caught in neutral. Is this normal? Has anyone else had similar problems? Any ideas on what the problem may be, if there’s one at all? Thanks in advance for any help!

-Michael

Re: Clutch/Shifting Problems
 

I think the "pop" is more of a clunk, right? If so then mine does it as well. It's not really a problem just the nature of the beast. A heavier boot on the shifter for the 1-2 should eliminate hitting neutral. (Just shift with more force) Others have adjusted the shift linkage on the splines to get more leverage, but I just make sure to hit it a little harder.

Re: Clutch/Shifting Problems
 

Yeah it just seems like its having a little trouble going in gear. It's not really grinding or anything. And if it was a known problem I wanted to catch it before something happened. I'm hoping it's like you say and just the way they are. Thanks for the reply!

Re: Clutch/Shifting Problems
 

I agree with frodaddy on both.... My '98 has the same clunk into first from neutral.... I think they all do to an extent. As for the 1st to 2nd.... when I'm being lazy and soft toe'd I hang up in neutral every now and then as well.... but if I'm paying attention and using the proper amount of force, goes right into second....

J.

Re: Clutch/Shifting Problems
 

The transmissions are just clunky.

Yeah, that's normal. You can adjust the leverage on the shifter and it might help.

Re: Clutch/Shifting Problems
 

Thanks for all the replies! Glad to hear it's normal. I might try adjusting the linkage to see if it will tighten it up a little. Thanks again!

Re: Clutch/Shifting Problems
 

the only time mine doesn't do that is the first time I put it in first after warming it up. but after that its clunk and jump every time. other bikes do it too. its normal.

Re: Clutch/Shifting Problems
 

Try holding in the clutch for a count of 5 Mississippi before engaging first to let the clutch wheel momentum spin to slow. Works for me on all my bikes so far (all V-Twins, interestingly.. hm.) which also all had the same problem.

Re: Clutch/Shifting Problems
 

You ever kick into first on a Fat Boy? Forget "pop", its more of a "BANG!"

Re: Clutch/Shifting Problems
 

Maybe a bit more advice on my local forum ? Hope this helps !!! :)
http://www.abercon.co.uk/vtr1000/php...hlight=neutral