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I've had the bike for over a year but have been putting it back together. I didn't mess with the clutch. The primary cover was cracked from a broken starter shaft so I replaced that and had to move the parts from one cover to the next. This is the first Harley I've owned and was just shocked when it took off when I put it in gear. I tried to shift it out of first while holding the brake and it wouldn't happen, so I didn't even try shifting on the road. Maybe I should have tried to go for a ride to see if it would have shifted. I did notice that after it warmed up it didn't move the bike as much but I still was unable to shift out of first while sitting in the driveway.
Well now I am glad I sent you that follow up message. I guess that was what was bugging me. If this is your first Sportster you would be surprised when it goes CLUNK and takes you for an unwanted ride down the driveway.
Yes, you should continue to ride the bike. Since the machine has been sitting for a year it needs to be cranked and ridden. It will 'wear itself in before long ' and be more comfortable for you.
If the CLUNK bothers you, just roll the bike forward and put it into first gear while it rolls. Notice the CLUNK is now not as bad?
Likewise, when the bike is rolling the gear change will be much easier.
DO NOT take the clutch apart at this point. I can almost assure you that your clutch is just a normal Sportster clutch. After you ride it for 20 or 30 minutes see if it stops dragging. It should allow you to find neutral while sitting still. If it does not, then you may have a drag problem.
Just remember....... It will never be like a Honda, and thank God for that!............... pg
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Rolling down the highway on two wheels since 1957...
Owner Red/White 1971 XLCH & 2003 FXDL-Silver over Black
my 76 wont shift out of 1st just sitting still i have to grab shifter with my hand to get it in nutral but rolling down the road she shift smooth you might try it and see this is my first harley also and ive found that they are old noisey rough riders but the power is awsome feeling
