Hi all! - first post:
Picked up a '66 305 Superhawk a couple weeks ago. When I got it, I rode it home ~15 miles and noticed the clutch to be incredibly touchy.
-The clutch functions, but is basically an on/off switch. There is no rolling it out, or controlled slip, only rev it and drop. It's not safe for the road like this.
Other observations:
- Gear changes from 1st normally skip to 3rd.
- Engaging the clutch requires less than 25% pull on the lever.
Before I go tearing into it, what do these symptoms sound like to you?
- Worn friction plates?
- Possibly worn or broken spring(s)?
- Oil type?
Any help getting this little beast roadworthy is appreciated!
Clutch problem - First postClutch problem - First post
Re: Clutch problem - First postHi Gbisk
Welcome to the forum. Others may be able to help you from experience but I'll make a couple of suggestions and ask some questions. Has the bike been off the road? If so how long? Before you go too far I would: Adjust the clutch at the right side cover, then the handlebar lever. Lubricate the clutch cable and or re-route it temporarily. Change the oil and clean the filter. Ride it around a bit more and report back.... G
Last edited by G-Man on Sat Aug 19, 2017 2:27 am, edited 1 time in total.
'60 C77 '60 C72 '62 C72 Dream '63 CL72
'61 CB72 '64 CB77 '65 CB160 '66 Matchless 350 '67 CL77 '67 S90 '77 CB400F
clutch adjustmentFrom my archives from LM:
Turn cable adjusters in all the way. On right case loosen the bolt with a 10mm wrench. Turn the large gray adjuster left/right a couple of times. Turn it right to stop then back 1/8 inch. Adjust the lever for apx. 3/8-1/2 inch slack. .............lm Might take a few tries to get the large gray adjuster in exactly the right position...it did for me. you'll know when you've got it right, assuming adjustment is the problem. Consider using a proper sized coin, maybe clamped in a small vise-grip, to adjust rather than a flat-head screwdriver to avoid marring it. '62 CB77. "It's a rider."
Re: Clutch problem - First postWelcome to The Forum; please take a moment to edit-in your geo-location within your profile, as most of us, although happy to help, are more likely to respond once it's known where you live and if another member may be near you. I agree with G's questions and response. If the bike has been stood around, unused, for some years it could have: The 'wrong' oil Stuck plates, or A combination of both Your gear-selection problem sounds, to me, like the selector drum is either badly worn or damaged, or possibly a selector fork is busted. My first CB77, when I was 16, did a similar thing and it turned out to be a missing finger from one of the selector forks. Whatever it might be, you're most likely going to have to drop the motor and tear it down, I'm sorry to say... Lee's adjustment advice, courtesy of LOUD MOUSE -- lm, is sound too, and should be your initial step with the clutch problem, though.
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