Motorcycle Repair: clutch problem, brake caliper pistons, honda nighthawk 650

Question
I just bought this used Honda Nighthawk 650, 1982.  I've had it for 3 months with no problems.  Don't know much about the bike.  Yesterday had trouble getting out of first gear.  Also when my clutch lever depressed and I put it into gear, bike lurched foward.  Today, clutch not working at all.  Front wheel is really hard to move but it is not locked.  Same problem?  Thanks for responding.  jeffbmd83@aol.com

Answer
Hi Jeff,

Clutch:
The cable and clutch may be out of adjustment, and/or clutch plates may have excessive (normal) wear.

Front Wheel:
With age and exposure to air, brake fluid changes from a fluid, to a gel-like substance. Eventually, the gel changes into a crystal-like powder. Late stage of this process etches aluminum surfaces and make for repeated occurrances after cleaning/repairing.

Usually, when the front wheel has resistance to turn, the brake caliper pistons are not returning completely as designed, resulting with brake pads pressing against brake discs.

Tap each caliper lightly with a rubber or dead blow hammer. This should create space between pads and discs. If wheel turns without resistance, that's the problem. Go fix. IF the problem persists, suspect wheel bearings and inspect accordingly, or strike calipers a bit harder in attempt to make them move.

If I had an email address for you, I would return several repair information files. I recommend the repair manual for making and diagnosing repairs.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively