How much clutch drag is too much? I have noticed that when I fully engage the clutch lever on startup, my bike gives a subtle tug as if the clutch is dragging a little. Engine RPM is not affected, but I also noticed that when I maneuver the bike around the garage with the clutch engaged and the engine off, its a little tougher than when in neutral.

Just wondering if a little bit of drag is normal on a motorcycle clutch, or if the bike should roll around effortlessly when either the clutch is engaged or the transmission is in neutral.

thanks all

 

I feel very very little.

 

Typically you want to start it in neutral. Otherwis it puts a heavy strain on your starter and you could develop problems. Every bike I have ever ridden has had the same "problem" that you describe. I have been on bikes where the clutch goes out ten miles down the road after the first run of the day where it was dragging and I have seen clutches that I wonder ho in the world did you stop because your clutch is still engaged.

Some say that this is because the bike is cold and it just happens. If it concerns you get it adjusted to your likings.

 

Bagginit,
I am seeing the same thing on my 03 FLHTC so I will be watching this thread for answers also.

 

check these videos out...

http://www.expertvillage.com/video-s...aintenance.htm

 

my H~Ds all do as you describe but I start and move in neutral

 

It might have to do with being a wet/clutch. The oil runs off the clutch plates when shut of causing them to drag a little until fully wet again. I notice the first time I put it in first gear there is more Clunk than after it has ran a while.

I am just guessing here. Someone that knows for sure will let us know.

 

I always start up in neutral.
Being a wet clutch it will try to grab until enough oil gets tossed around in the primary.

 

my scoot does the same thing. When I need to leave it in gear when parked, I have started squeezing the clutch lever two or three times before I hit the starter, it doesn't drag nearly as much.

 

Remember that the clutch is a wet clutch. You will always have a bit of drag depending on the temperature of the oil. The colder the oil the more drag until the oil heats up.
Like IM744 said start your bike in neutral and let it warm up for a few minutes.