sticky clutch at high temps?

[d.bradley]

Hey All,

The clutch on my '83 GS450T is butter-smooth in colder temperatures, and pretty smooth on startup. But after getting up to full temp on the bike (10 mins riding) things start to get sticky. The return spring feels strong and I don't think the cable is binding.

Could this be oil viscosity related? Or might it be a simple clutch adjustment? Too tight perhaps?

Any other ideas?

[Guest]

Your clutch cable is stretched out and when it gets hot it stretches even more. I bet a new one will fix your problems.

[d.bradley]

Your clutch cable is stretched out and when it gets hot it stretches even more. I bet a new one will fix your problems.

I guess that's a good place to start. I'll try and replace the cable and housing and see where that gets me.

What would be the next thing to look at if that's not the problem?

[Nessism]

On the 550T I sold a while back, the same thing happened. Never did figure out why. Clutch engagement point did not change when the engine was warm so I don't think the clutch cable is at fault. Only thing I can think of is maybe there is something going on with the friction discs in the clutch. Might be a good idea to take the clutch apart and inspect everything. I did that on mine but everything looked okay. Not sure what to suggest.

Good luck and report back if you figure out what the problem is.

[szdonick]

Did that fix your problem? Mine is doing the exact same thing.

I guess that's a good place to start. I'll try and replace the cable and housing and see where that gets me.

What would be the next thing to look at if that's not the problem?