Motorcycle Repair: cb 350 clutch, clutch lever, repair manual

Question
falcon,
sorry if you get a lot of repeat honda clutch questions but i didn't seem to
find my answer in any archives of yours.  so i know it's generally not easy
to squeeze the clutch. my problem is, its nearly impossible to squeeze
mine. I'm about to go in there and see what is going on.
What can i possibly do? I hear that maybe my plates are gummed up and
sticking or that they have made grooves or something. i actually broke a
clutch lever while riding. thats how difficult it is to squeeze. Please
HELP!

Answer
Hi Schyler.

If it is that hard to use the clutch, then there are bigger problems than just gumming up or grooves.

 There is a real possibility that the clutch actuator rod (also called a shift shaft) is broken.

 Start by getting your repair manual and tools together and check the clutchplates and springs.  Make sure that all of them are within tolerances and not messed up.  Rebuild the clutch if needed.

Pull the shift shaft out of the bike and see if it is in one piece and straight.  If it is bent (even a little) or broken, then you will need to replace it.  There is no repairing it.

Let me know what you find.
Good luck and ride safe.
FALCON