Motorcycle Repair: Intruder 1400 downshifting, intruder 1400, shift forks

Question
Just purchased 2001 Intruder 1400. Runs strong and looks great.The only problem I'm having is downshifting to 1st. It shifts up to all gears with no problem and downshifts 5-4-3-2 all right. I just can't consistantly get it to downshift 2nd to 1st without totally stopping and working the clutch/throttle to some degree. It doesn't grind or make any unusual noises when it does goes into 1st but I'm never confident if it's in first or not. That makes it tough when you pull up to red light then it changes to green and you're still looking for 1st.  It could be me and not the machine --I have had mechanic test it and he said it is just the way the transmission works on that model -- Well, it's not very convienent -- Any suggestions?  Thx in advance  

Answer
Hi Al,

This is normal. Most motorcycle transmissions do not shift into first gear until stopped or almost stopped. The exception is roadrace applications where first gear is more like third gear on a street model.

The gearing ratio will not let the gears slide and mate until the transmission shafts slows down.

Give it some time and become familar with the Intruder. Avoid forcing the shift lever. Doing such may damage shift forks.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively