Motorcycle Repair: 87 VFR 700 Clutch, friction zone, clutch plates

Question
1987 Honda VFR 700F2.  The other day, I started my bike in first gear with the clutch lever pulled all the way in - When the bike started, it lurched forward (without any throttle).  Is this a sign that my clutch may be going bye-bye?  Also, I don't seem to have much of a friction zone, at low speeds when I work the friction zone, it is hard to keep the bike from wanting to stall.  Thanks for your help.

Answer
Hi John,

The clutch may respond the way wou've described if the engine was cool. Clutch plates need to be separated and engine oil flowing before the clutch will work properly.

Proper operation should return after engine starts and runs for a couple minutes. If not, check clutch cable adjustment. If persists after adjustment, inspect & measure metal and fiber clutch plates for wear.

Let me know what you find. I can send clutch info files if needed. Get and use the Service Manual, too. It will pay for itself with the first repair. My email address: mshively1@woh.rr.com

Respectfully,
Mark Shively