Motorcycle Repair: Engine runs but dies when you put into gear???, clutch lever, clutch cable

Question
Hello
I recently was given a 98 Honda Shadow Classic Edition 750. the bike had fallen over and sustained minor damage. Dent in gas tank scratches etc, the bike had sat in storage for 6 months. The owner never attempted to ride the bike after it fell, It was immediately placed into storage

My question is the motorcyle starts perfectly and idles great in nuetral, however when I engage the clutch and shift into 1st gear it immediately dies, doesnt jump or anything. I tried shifting from nuetral into 2nd same reaction?

Could maybe the clutch cable not be engaging enough? maybe it was kinked or something, I checked it and its engaging the clutch lever, but maybe not enough

Any advice or suggestions would greatly be appreciated

Charles
Austin, TX

Answer
Hi Charles,

The MC has electrical safety switches that should be checked; clutch sw, side stand sw, and neutral sw. These  switches can be tested by checking continuity. The problem may simply be that a connector canme off a switch during the crash.

The best advice I can offer is to buy the shop manual and follow testing procedures. You'll find easy to understand instructions with illustrations and specifications.

Keep me advised on your progress. I'll be available for assistance as needed. My email address is "mshively1@woh.rr.com"

Respectfully,
Mark Shively
Dayton, Ohio

p.s. Love "Austin City Limits" concerts on cable TV.