Motorcycle Repair: 1994 Yamaha R7, clutch side, hydraulic clutches

Question
Hi Chris (catchy name)

I have a 1994 Yamaha R7 and the clutch doesnt disengage completly when pulled.  It has a haydraulic clutch and I check the lever and master cylinder.  When ever you apply the clutch and put it in gear the the clutch drags and the bike moves.  

I would appreciate any info on this problem.

Thanks  Chris

Answer
Hi Chris.
 Glad to meet me. :)

 The problem with hydraulic clutches is that they often need to be bled; just like the brakes.  A properly working clutch should engage quite early in the lever motion range.  If it feels mushy, then it probably needs to be bled.

 Now they problem with any hydraulic system is that they develop air bubbles in the lines, thus the need to be bled.

Check the entire system for potential leaks and make sure that all connections are tight and within specs.  then follow the following proceedures:

1) Bleed the clutch as you would the brake.  Make sure that all of the air bubbles that you can normally find are out of the system.

2) Check the clutch fluid level and top off as needed.

3) Cover the front area of the bike, near the handlebars on the clutch side, with rags.

4) With safety glasses on, place a wrench on the banjo fitting (the bolt that holds the clutch line to the master cylinder) and with the clutch depressed, break the seal on the fitting and (BEFORE releasing the clutch) tighten it back up.

5) Check the fluid level and test the clutch.

6) Repeat steps 4 and 5 up to, but not more than, 3 times or until the clutch works normally.

If this does not correct the problem, then there is the possibility that the slave cylinder needs to be rebuilt.  That requires a kit that should run you between 20-40 dollars.

 The average mechanically inclined individual can do the rebuild in about 20-30 minutes with common hand tools.

Let me know how it goes.

Good luck and ride safe.
FALCON