Motorcycle Repair: Clutch free play, 1983 honda nighthawk, clutch adjustment

Question
Hi,

I have a 1983 Honda Nighthawk CB550SC (45000 miles)with a hydraulic clutch. The clutch engages when the lever is at the very, very end of its travel. There is no clutch adjustment on this bike. I tried bleeding it a couple of times but there was no change.Would new friction plates, springs and or clutch plates help the clutch engage in the middle of its travel? Could it be the slave cylinder?

Thanks

Answer
Hi Harry, It is time for a new clutch. I recommend checking the steel plates for straightness before condemning them. New springs would be nice too. The slave is likely just fine. The reason the clutch engages so far out on the lever is because the friction disks have become very thin. Be sure to change your oil after the clutch job then again in 200 miles or so.

sincerely
randy