Clutch Question

[Kilroy]

Hi Everyone,  Have a question regarding the clutch on my '03 standard with 54k miles to date.   It appears that the clutch lever engages the clutch in about the last 1/2 inch or so.  I do not really feel any slippage, at times I hear a clunk when shifting between gears.  No issues finding neutral or general shifting.

I am told that when the clutch engages that far away from the bar that I am going to have a problem with the clutch damper plate wear.  Something about the rivets breaking off and causing tremendous damage to the engine.  I hope I explained my concern well enough to get some good advice on what I should do, if anything.

As always, thanks for any and all input.

Kilroy

[flash2002]

You should start with the eazy stuff first.  Clean and inspect all the clutch parts from master to slave, fill, bleed and see if that helps. One more thing, check the pivot cam in the handle if it's worn out.

[Patrick]

When you mention the 'last 1/2", I'm thinking you mean about 1'2" from the lever being fully released [ hand off]. If so, thats normal.

As long as the lever pulls and releases easily and smoothly and the clutch operates smoothly all should be good.

These transmitters are clunky, normal for them.

[falconbrother]

As long as the clutch fully disengages you should be fine. 

[DK]

As long as the clutch fully disengages you should be fine. 

I agree.

However, it's normal for the clutch to allow the bike to "surge" forward when in gear with the clutch fully disengaged before things are fully warmed up.

[Grumpy]

If the rivets are coming out of the damper plate, one symptom is the lever will not pull back all the way to the grip.