Stiff throttle

[Mike M in ohio]

     I know someone will have am idea or two:
     Just bought a 2003 mint black standard. It has a throttle lock system...the kind with the band that encircles the throttle...and when you depress the thumb lever, the band tightens to hold the throttle at the particular speed. Well, the throttle is stiff all the time. (That's what she said. Ha Ha) Even with the band completely loosened and the lever up, the throttle stays where its at all the time. So, I have to manually twist the throttle on and off to ride. (a bit nerve-wracking)
     I eyeballed the cab les and didnt see any obvious crimps or twists. Any suggestions from the experts in our ranks? Thanks, in advance for the guidance.   Mike in N.Y.

[Michvalk]

Some of those are a real bugger to get just right. Could be the grip is pushed on too far, or not far enough. Could be dirt/mung under the band, or could be cables. I would start by removing the thing completely, and see if the cables are working correctly. Then go from there

[Jess from VA]

Some will remove the grip to place the throttle lock.  When replacing the grip, they smooge glue up to the control housing above the grip (which impedes the return spring action).  You might carefully remove the grip (icepick and spray solvent with long thin nozzle; wd40, Gummout carb cleaner, yada), don't damage the plastic throttle sleeve under the grip.  Clean it all up and see if that is the problem.  When re-gluing the grip, put most inside, not on the throttle sleeve, and clean up any coming out the top.

I use clear RTV silicone sealant for the grips because it does not harden up in 3.5 seconds like most conventional grip glues, and it allows you time to work (and clean).  Leave overnight to set up.