I have an 05 RoadKing with about 7500 miles on it. I bought it used from someone who never rode it much. Sometimes, sitting on it, I'll start it up in gear with the clutch pulled in. I noticed that lately it lurches forward at start up but sitting at a stop light it doesn't try to crawl forward.

I have begun some wrenching on my own. I have a service manual and was wondering would a slimple clutch adjustment, cable as well as primary side, fix this issue? Thanks in advance for your input.

Rob

 

Yes it would. Sounds like it is out of adjustment. You have the manual, you should be all set. If you do not know, it might be a good time and change the fluid while you are in there. Get a derby cover gasket just in case that is the orignal 1 in there.

 

Cable should be fine, would check the clutch adjustment first.

 

I had this happen also, I adjusted the clutch. Make sure the bike is stone cold as it is noted in the service manual.

 

+1 on the bike being cold!.Once adjusted, this will go away
Would also suggest replacing all the juice.
oil, tranny,primary
Ask the previous owner what service was done on the bike as well
Ride and enjoy!

 

real simple. loosen cable adjuster all the way. open primary clutch cover. loosen jam nut and turn the threaded allen bolt in until you feel it contact the plates. back off 1/8 turn. tighten jam nut. replace cover. tighten adjuster on cable until you have 1/8 " freeplay in cable . replace cable boot and ride!

 

even if it is adjusted properly, you will still feel this, esp. if the fluid is cold. there is some residual friction in the clutch pack. why it is recommended to start in neutral, not just with the clutch pulled in.

 

What scratch said.
Starting in gear with clucth in adds wear on the starter.

 

Thanks for all of the replys, I appreciate the help.

Rob

 

Agreed. Mine has always done it and I've seen lots others do it. No other problems in normal riding. Just start the bike in neutral unless you really need to start it in gear. Not saying it would be a bad idea to adjust the clutch, but I wouldn't expect it to need it with 7500 miles.