Neutral Too Easy

[Cycle_Gator]

Looking for ideas

2004 K1200RS, 14,000 miles

Sometimes, especially when warm, seems like shifter needs a little "extra" boot to get from 1st to 2nd without staying in neutral. Once in a while it will even pop back into neutral from 2nd. Most of the time this happens under easy acceleration as opposed to twisted to the wall:) .

Any ideas or similar experiences out there?

Cycle_Gator
aka Tim
:bikes

[st3ryder]

1. Gently "pre-load" the shift lever, just enough to take-up the spring free play.
2) Engage/pull clutch lever and shift up into second, keeping upwards toe pressure on the shift lever throught the shifter lever's upward motion, ie make a deliberate shifting action, not a "stab."
3) Disnegage/let out the clutch lever *while keeping upwards toe pressure on shift lever.*
4) Roll-on the throttle.

Best case scenario: You just need to "get use to" the above shifting technique and will get smoother over time/usage.

Worst case scenario: you have rounded-off the 2nd gear engagement dogs, and need a new cog etc.

Another consideration is perhaps you are using gear oil that's too slick. A good 85/145w dino oil works well, and even better IMO than some "slicker" thinner oils.

[crgrbrts]

My K75S acts exactly the same way -- always has since I got it.