Motorcycle Repair: 1980 Yamaha 650 Special Problems, carbeurators, shift mechanism

Question
Hi Chris,

I am having problems shifting my bike.  If I am shifting through the gears it refuses to go into gear and just revs, then when I try to shift back into first it sometimes will not let me. It is as if something is not letting the bike go into gear. Also when I am coming to a stop the bike does not come to an idle gradually it goes from high revs to idle.  Then when it sits it leaks gas out of the airbox. I think it is the floats but I don't know the specifications for the carbeurators.

Thanks

Answer
Hi Lyell.

You have a number of issues going on here.  Get the repair manual in order to get specs and test proceedures.

1) There is a clear issue with the carbs and fuel system.  Bad seals and/or floats.

2) Clutch and shift mechanism issues that are likely to be deep engine problems.

3) Clutch may need rebuilding.

Start with those and see what you find.
Good luck and ride safe.
FALCON