- do you have trouble getting the other gears?
- try readjusting the clutch, from
here
XS650 CLUTCH CABLE ADJUSTMENT
Be aware that there are 2 adjustment settings for XS650s, cold and hot. The push rods that transfer the worm gear action to the clutch pressure plate are made from steel. These transverse the motor and seat in aluminium. Aluminium thermally expands faster and further than steel giving XSive end play as the motor warms up.
Cold Adjustment…
1. Remove left casing, release cable
2. Clean and lube cable
3. Clean and lube worm gear
4. Repack the ball bearing with grease
5. Remove and clean the push rod, reinstall
6. Reinstall cable
7. Back the worm gear screw out 1/8th turn…pump the lever in and out just enough to take up the free play (don't pull all the way in). This "stacks" the push rods and balls together, taking up any slack and squeezing excess oil out from between them – gives a more accurate "feel" for the rod free play and adjustment.
8. Adjust the lever play to almost nil
9. After 20 minutes or so riding, readjust lever free-play
Your clutch should now operate smoothly, like new. If still hard, the cable may be worn or frayed and should be replaced.
After any service, test ride your motorcycle in a controlled situation before riding in traffic.
You would not believe how many people think they have a clutch problem just because the lever is hard to pull.
- if you have problems getting the adjustment right the cable may be stretched, also check the wormgear housing for cracks, clean and relube it
- repacking the neutral detent can help, but usually the problem is somewhere else