GS850G won't go into gear from idle

[Totallyforked]

Hi, I wonder if someone can help me. I've recently taken into possession a 1980 GS850GT. I have got it running and fixed the brakes and am keen to take it on a test ride.
However, I can't shift from neutral to first or second gear as it grinds horribly. I can start the bike in any gear with the clutch pulled in and when I slowly let out the clutch, the bike moves forward. I can shift through all the gears with the engine running and clutch pulled in. The clutch cable is adjusted as tight as possible.
I don't know much about the history of the bike but it is very rusty and I think it's been sitting for about 15 years.
Does anyone have any ideas, thanks in anticipation.

[Syd]

Howzitgoin' - Have you pulled the clutch cover off and checked all of the plates? It's possible the separator plates are warped or binding.

[Totallyforked]

No not yet. I will check that first

[KiwiAlfa156]

Gidday, it sounds like clutch drag. Which might be plates sticking due either oil sticking them together, or a physical impediment to operation (incorrect clutch pack assembly or damage/wear) or actuation problems (binding cable, incorrect positioning of release arm on the clutch cover). It may just need to get hot and be used to loosen the plates.

You might try starting in top gear with the clutch in change down to 1st and ride it around a bit, see if it gets better. If not you're on the spanners

[Totallyforked]

Good idea. I think I'll try riding it around a bit to see if it loosens up before I pull it apart. Thanks Kiwi