Motorcycle Repair: Yamaha Virago Clutch Cable, clutch cables, worst case scenario

Question
Also, are clutch cables specific to a make/model for a bike, or is it something that you can just roll into any shop and buy one?

Thank you in advance!
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The text above is a follow-up to ...

-----Question-----
I ride a 96 yamaha virago 1100 cc bike.  Just recently the clutch cable started breaking at the housing on the hand lever.  I was wondering (as it does seem fairly simple) if there's a way to save the cable as is, or if i need to get a new one.  And if i need a new one, how complicated is it to replace.  Seeing as its a sub $100 dollar job at one of the local bike shops, im willing to bet that its something that i can do.

I know that next time, i definetly need to keep the cable lubed up.  Thanks!

PS:  The clutch itself doesnt seem to need to be replaced, just the cable.

-----Answer-----
Hi Evan.

Replacing the clutch cable is one of the first things that most riders do on their own.  It is one of the simplest repairs as well as being the easiest to mess up.

You cannot fix the existing cable.  Just replace it.

When you have the new cable, make note of how the old one is routed.  You will need to route the new one the exact same route.  Not routing it correctly can create some potentially embarrassing and sometimes dangerous consequences.

It is best to lube the cable before installation, so keep that in mind as well.

Also, I suggest getting the repair manual if you want to really work on the bike yourself.  It will prove to be worth it's weight in gold.

 The nice thing about the Virago is the fact that she is an easy bike to work on and doing most things yourself will save you a fortune in little repairs.

Good luck and ride safe.
FALCON

Answer
Hi Evan.

All cables are specific to a series of models of each make of  bike, however most shops carry the more commonly used cables for just such occassions as yours.

Worst case scenario, the dealership can always get any part that is still being manufactured.  They usually make parts for about 15 years after the last run of any model.

Good luck and ride safe.
FALCON