another clutch problem

[kdo58]

I just bought a 1979 gs850, when it's cold and I start it up and pull the clutch handle in and put it in gear, it jumps forward. And I have not let out the clutch lever, is this an adjustment problem or something else?

[Guest]

Could be an adjustment problem but more than likely the oil is thick when cold, it sticks to the fibers and steels and causes this.

[salty_monk]

What weight oil do you have in?

Try adjusting out the adjuster at the top end a little. Should be about 1/16" gap where the lever parts from it's frame when it's properly adjusted.

Dan

[kdo58]

I have know idea what weight of oil is in it, it does not look black so i have not changed it yet, It does have some thick grips, I thought it might not let me pull the clutch lever all the way in. There is no slack at the clutch lever.

[tempebru]

If the bike has not seen regular use, the fiber and steel plates in the clutch basket can get "stuck" together. I would make sure that the cable is adjusted properly at the handlebars and at the engine. The adjustment screw on the engine should be turned in untill resistence is felt and then backed off 1/4 of a turn. Change the oil, and get some miles on it (100 or so).That should get the plates to loosen up. If that doesn't help, the clutch basket may be worn causing the plates to hang up. If it only happens when it's cold, and only in 1st gear, my bet would be on stuck plates and not a worn clutch basket.

[ALB80-850]

I had this same problem last year, do a search and the responces should show up. Briefly, I removed the fibers and steels, soaked the fibers in clean oil, scuffed the steels with scotch-brite, changed the oil and adjusted the clutch arm(small adlustment=big difference) I also found the shifting fork behind the clutch basket was off by one tooth. It was frustrating to figure out, but has worked great ever since. Good luck!

Andy