Clutch Slipage!?

Question

Ok - I resurrected my 1884 Honda Nighthawk 700sc. It hadn’t ran since 96 but now that I have cleaned the gas tank out; replaced oil, plugs, fuel filter, and air filter; it actually starts and runs.

However I’ve started to notice after restarting, when the bike is hot, it has issues engaging the clutch. When I let out the clutch it barely moves forward like the clutch was completely slipping. I can shift gears and feel/hear it shifting but when I let out the cloth it just seem to move forward a little but it seems the clutch never engages.

Also today while driving I think I could feel the clutch slipping in and out. The RPM would increase and decrease randomly as it slipped (this is what I am presuming is happening). Do you think it’s the clutch plates? Also if I replace the plates do the springs get replaced as well? Which usually fails first plate or springs…?

Answer 1

After sitting that long i would remove the cover and replace the friction plates and springs too.The drive plates should be fine,just clean them with brake parts cleaner and make sure they aren't warped.

Answer 2

the plate (friction material) has worn off, or the pressure springs are broken...

my guess is plate...

Answer 3

Check your cable to be sure there is some free play and run some silicone spray through it to be sure it's not sticking.

If after servicing the cable , you still have a problem, change the plates and springs.

BTW if you put a synthetic oil in a bike that shares motor and trans fluids that can cause slipping.