Motorcycle Repair: 1985 Yamaha Virago 700, clutch basket, clutch plate

Question
I have a 1985 yamaha virago 700. I had to replace idler gear #2 and the starter to get the bike to fire. I drove the bike about 20 miles and it felt like the tranny was slipping. I would be in 4th - 5th gear and as I reved the engine to go it seemed as though it was in neutral instead. Now the bike will fire up but not go anywhere. Seems to be shifting hard as well. If I put the bike up on its center stand the bike tire spins fine when I give it gas, but when I get on it to ride it will not go an inch. I bought a new clutch basket thinking that was it, but dont want to rip into it if that might not be the problem.

Answer
Christopher, I am certainly not a Virago expert. The transmission is generally not a source of "slipping" sensations. What slips is the clutch plate assembly.

http://viragotechforum.com/viewforum.php?f=9

Sample: http://viragotechforum.com/viewtopic.php?f=9&t=16013&p=141064&hilit=clutch+clutc...

You could have a fried clutch (worn, burned discs, not a broken clutch basket), or something loosened up in the cross-shaft from trans to drive shaft. Make sure that you have sufficient clutch play at the lever, so the clutch is fully engaging.

Drain the oil and look for signs of either broken metal parts or the smell of burnt clutch material.

Bill Silver