Clutch worn ?

[Zaz]

I just picked up an NC30 yesterday, rode it back from Yeovil to Cardiff with no real issues as such, though my left hand felt like it had gone through a mangle after 2 hours repeated gear changing.

The bike had been sat for 6 months so i expected it to be a bit rougher than it was, though as a temporary measure i have used some fuel cleaner direct into the carbs to clean out the gunk till such time as i have free allows me to strip them down for a clean.

Anyhoo, on a short go out earlier i paid a bit more attention to the clutch, the biting point is right out near the end of the lever travel, i hardly have to pull it to change gear and the range of the bite is very small, certainly a lot less than id expect or had on my NC23.

I try to avoid rev-shifting as much as possible but i may have to in the short term to avoid clutch use.

What should i be looking for to properly evaluate the clutch, has anyone else had this issue, what solves it etc
If i had to replace the clutch assembly, is it fairly straightforward for a relative mechanical novice and how much would i be expecting to be out of pocket ?

[Sligeach]

have a look at the top of the V4 workshop forum sticky for a link to my video on how to replace the cluctch yourself

[Zaz]

Thanks mate, will do.

[viper61]

Also make sure the cable is adjusted correctly, as they stretch over time.

If it does turn out to be the clutch it's not a tricky job. Just get a new gasket too for the clutch cover, otherwise you'll regret it later when it leaks and you'd wish you spent £2 and an extra 2 minutes to fit one.

[Gavin jap4]

if you need clutch plates we do Ferodo ones at £37.99 a set with free shipping to grey bike members

[dgunthor]

i'd check it's adjusted ok first - dick jones on broadway (behind reg braddick cycles) is great local mechanic (and v. reasonable too) since you're in cardiff

[amorti]

Also make sure the cable is adjusted correctly, as they stretch over time.

If it does turn out to be the clutch it's not a tricky job. Just get a new gasket too for the clutch cover, otherwise you'll regret it later when it leaks and you'd wish you spent £2 and an extra 2 minutes to fit one.

It sounds like you need a new cable. They get stiff over time and need replacing. Other than that the 400's clutches aren't heavy, not if you are used to riding bigger bikes (Try a 955i Daytona some day if you want heavy).

[Zaz]

I think i may replace all the internals of the clutch and the cable too, if only for peace of mind.

I was having an issue earlier where i'd select a gear, open the throttle and it would respond - then seem to disengage the gear and re-engage it a split second later, Im wondering if i may have some more serious issues so i will try to make some mental notes about how it runs and take it over for a visit to Dick Jones if i can find his number.

[Malc]

Get a new proper Honda cable and set it properly, you'll find everything will be fine.

Don't get pattern cos the lengths can differ and cause more problems than they solve.

[Zaz]

Where do people generallt get their spares from, i know of David Silver but what happened to Graeme France, he still operating ? had a bunch of stuff from him previously.

Seems teh bike has done 4500 miles in 10 years so i will drop the fluids and replace, change the plugs / filters etc.

Just got to get a parts list and prices :)