So I inherited my Dad's old Sportster when he passed away and it's got a problem with what I believe to be the shift forks in between 2nd and 3rd gear to where if you're accelerating too quickly, it won't shift from 2nd to 3rd unless there are essentially no high RPM's (scary if you're trying to merge into traffic or highway as it won't upshift) - the bike got layed down to avoid an accident years ago btw. Let me add to that, it will shift, if I'm driving it gently but if I'm on the throttle, it won't shift until I ease up on the throttle. With that said, I'm a novice at motorcycles and could use some help.

Couple questions:

- What year tranny was in an 1989 Sportster? (I know it's a 4-speed)?
- What does a rebuild cost "roughly" - I have a bent fork "I believe" between 2nd and 3rd gear?
- What does a new tranny cost and are there 5-speed swap options?
- Lastly, is it even worth fixing/repairing?

 

It could be as simple as the clutch dragging just enough for the plates to not let go, when you try to change gear. If you have a service manual, adjust the clutch carefully. That requires opening the primary cover, in addition to adjusting the cable. So do the simple things first!

If you don't have the manual you should be able to get one from a dealer. They may not stock it, but they are available, so they can order one. Alternatively find a local indy who can check the bike over. Let him diagnose things and suggest ways to put it right.

 

I agree that the first thing you need to do is make sure the clutch and cable are adjusted properly. Make sure the clutch lever and the shift lever move freely without any binding.

I`m not sure what you mean here, since whenever you shift you should be letting off the throttle slightly...

Ummmm...1989

You don`t need to rebuild the transmission, just fix the shifter parts,(if any) that may be damaged.

You do not need a new transmission.

There is no option for a 5 speed gearset in your engine/transmission case.

Yes, it is certainly worth fixing, especially since it was your Dad`s bike.

Since the bike was laid down, there is a possibility that the shifter shaft, or some other part in the shift mechanism was damaged.

But make sure all the simple cheap stuff is checked first.