73 xlch- hey all, every now and then bike seems to lose compression? after a ride ,if I try to restart,when I go to kick there isn't much under my foot.sometimes I can push through with nothing. seems to only happen when bike has been rode up to temp. could I have a valve sticking?

 

I have no experience with a kicker. When i have had a valve stuck there has been a lot of noise. When they stick they stick open. The clattering noise is the pushrod bouncing up and down between the lifter and the rocker. Unmistakable.

 

I think you need to adjust your clutch.,

 

when was the last time the valves were adjusted? valves are probably tight remember to set when stone cold

 

both above are great places to start - seen the clutch do that - and seen the valves adjusted incorrect do that

good catch -- jz

 

my 72 acted up two times like that while I owned her. both times it was the valve guides hanging up the valves. ( letting the valves lay to one side off the seats). last time that happened, after my daughter got the bike from me, found the seats sunk bad!! had the heads rebuilt and seats cut and installed hardened seats. so far haven't heard of any problems, that was four years ago now.