Clutch engagement

[blkvlk777]

I have a 98 valk with about 12K miles on it.   There seems to be an issue with the clutch engagement.   When I start to release the clutch - just off the handgrip - the bike starts to engage.   Likewise when putting in gear, the clutch has to be pulled right tight against the handgrip.

I did change the fluid about 2 years ago.   Clutch fluid level looks proper.

I have 2 valks to compare so I noticed this immediately when I drove this one (wifes) bike. 

Any suggestions - is there an adjustment? 

thanks for any replies.

[sandy]

There are no adjustments for clutch engagement. Maybe there's still a bit of air in the lines. Get a Mity Vac and rebleed the lines using the MV. Your bike has low miles but is 12 years old. Moisture and crud in the lines can cause this. Get some denatured alcohol. Pull all the old fluid out. Refill with alcohol and use the MV to pull the alcohol through the lines. Refill with DOT4 fluid and bleed again. Check the little brass bushing in the clutch handle. All metric bikes with hydraulic clutches use the same bushing. Suzuki gets $4 and Honda gets $11 for it. Grease this with a heavy grease. These should fix your problem.

[Hoser]

Check the clutch lever bushing, it could be worn enough to cause that.  hoser

[daytona]

Does it slip into neutral like it should! or does it feel kinda bindey? You notice any chatter when taking off or a different feel in the lever as she takes the torque! If so guess what!!!

[Scott from FL, now in Maine]

+1 Clutch handle bushing 

[blkvlk777]

It does not seem bindy - it does go in and out of gear OK.   I will try the above recommendations to see if this cures the problem.  I will report out when I get a chance to work on it.  Thanks for the replies.