Motorcycle Repair: Slipping under power, worst case scenario, yamaha r6

Question
Chris,

I have a 2000 Yamaha R6 that feels like something is slipping when accelerating at full power. Typically It occures on the straight after exiting a corner. Around 100kmh (60mph) in second or third gear. It occures suddenly and then after wards continues on as before. My first thought was the chain needs to be tightened however on inspection this does not appear to be the case. I have just recently brought the bike out of winter storage and this is the first hard use it has seen this year. Last year I replaced the chain early in the season and the bike was repaired over the previous winter from a small accident however during the last summer I had no problems nor did I have this issue.

Scott

Answer
Hi Scott.
 Any time you experience slipping and the rear wheel is grabbing pavement, then it is the clutch that is the problem.

Worst case scenario is that the bike needs the clutch rebuilt.  New springs, plates, etc. are in order here.  It is a relatively simple thing to do and the torque specs (for installation) and instructions are in your repair manual. The process shouldn't take more than a couple of hours to do once you have the parts.

Ideally, it just needs to be broke in a bit more before you get on it hard.  If it doesn't get any better, then clutch rebuild is the only other option.

Good luck.
FALCON