GS clutch 'drag'

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zobbidoo's picture
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Joined: 2008/03/06

Thought I'd get advice before I hand over precious money to a garage:

My GS ('06, 78,000 km) has suddenly developed clutch 'drag' (the term used by the Haynes manual). (It refers to the clutch not disengaging the engine from the gearbox.) Thus, when slowing down, the clutch has no effect and you have to use the brake to bring the bike to a complete standstill. You use the brakes to make the bike stall because there is no clutch.

If anyone has had this experience, I'd appreciate to hear from them what the cause/solution is and how much it will cost to fix.

Thanks

Chris

Charles Oertel's picture
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Joined: 2007/04/14
  1. It is probably the master cylinder on your handlebar.  Either dirt has gotten in to the tiny ports, or the seal on the piston has gone.  It is quite a common failure in all hydraulic clutches, and you get replacement parts for it (a master cylinder kit).  I have had to do both brake master cylinders on my trials bike recently.  It is not hard to do, but once you start bleeding the clutch circuit etc it is easier if you are somewhat mechanical and have a vacuum pump.
  2. Do not take your bike to a 'garage'.  Both dealers and several independent mechanics will be able to sort out your problem and the price is fair.  Look at the adverts page or search this site for a suitable mechanic.
  3. I have just finished putting a refurbished stator into my 650 Funduro, but now the starter will not crank.  I am taking her in to Andrew King at Kingtek in Retreat.

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Joined: 2007/06/25

Depends on where you live, Southern Suburbs see Andrew King @ Kingtek, Cape Town see Shane Hoskins @ Yamaha Paarden Eiland, Far North see Alf.076 282 5748

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zobbidoo's picture
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Joined: 2008/03/06

What a drag!

Much appreciated, Charles! Smile

zobbidoo's picture
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Joined: 2008/03/06

Rene aka Cheesy wrote:

Depends on where you live, Southern Suburbs see Andrew King @ Kingtek, Cape Town see Shane Hoskins @ Yamaha Paarden Eiland, Far North see Alf.076 282 5748

Thanks very much, Rene. I appreciate your time.

Chris

zobbidoo's picture
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Joined: 2008/03/06

hi Charles - you were right - it was indeed the master cylinder.