Motorcycle Repair: shifting issues, clutch adjustment, clutch repair

Question
Thanks for reading, Mark.

I am a new biker, and love it.  I have an '82 Goldwing.  I noticed the shifting getting a little 'slippy' in recent months... mainly out of 3rd gear into neutral.  In past weeks, it has become very hard to shift up into 3rd gear at all... no satisfying 'click', but more like I'm running into a ceiling.  After some fighting (while riding), it'll go, but it's successful less and less.  It doesn't shift while turned off, either.

Can you give me some ideas about what we're looking at here?

Answer
Hi Justin,

Problems such as this needs to be experienced to accurately diagnose the cause(s).

You riding habits may contribute to shifting problems, respectfully. For example, the transmission will reluctantly shift between gears (if at all) if engine (and transmission) speeds are not suitable for that gearing ratio.

It's normal for a MC transmission not to cycle through gears with the engine not running.

In any case, avoid forcing the shifter lever. Excessive pressure on the shifter can damage brittle shift forks and gear interlocking tabs/slots (dogs/cogs).

The problem may be fixed by a simple clutch adjustment or other clutch repair.

I recommend that an experienced rider check the problem for you. If he/she suspects a problem, have a local tech verify the problem and give you an estimate.

Most shops charge one hour of their flat-rate service rate for an estimate.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively