GOD willing I should be closing a deal tomorrow for a 2006 V-Star 650 [16,000 miles] so I been checking all kind of videos, from all this one seems to me the one that points to a very important issues with the cycle... thanks very much, I'll certainly double check the transmission. GOD BLESS YOU ALL !
THANK YOU! Great video, I would like to add from my current experience with this same problem: 1) My screw was BENT, plus the top was all chowed up. I have to REPLACE the screw, it's M5 x 35mm flat head phillips drive. Don't just reinstall it if it's questionable. 2) Parts of the screw/ metal shavings end up in the bottom of the engine casing and need to be cleaned out. I have to assume they are also in the oil filter, so I have to get into the other side and change that.
Sir, I can not thank you enough for taking your time and making this video and sharing it with the world. You saved me a lot of time and headaches of trying to figure this issue out on my own. I have the identical problem so your video is without a doubt , a life saver. I plan to order the gasket tonight and will do this repair in the next few days, Thanks again!
@@2001himax hello again, I wanted to let you know that I fixed the screw but I am having a great deal of difficulty getting the left cover back on. Unfortunately, the shaft for the Starter Idler Gear came out when I removed the cover, and I am having a great deal of trouble sliding it back in. I have cleaned and greased it but I just can't slide it back into the little hole, and I can't put the cover back on. Have you ever had this issue? Can it be put back into place without having to remove the rotor? Thank you for any assistance that you can provide.
@@taotuhao5969 As I recall I think this can be put back in without pulling the rotor. It's been a while since we worked on his V Star. All I can say is I wish I was there to help you. We did pull the rotor one time and we bought the tool from E-Bay and I made a strap wrench from a car timing belt to hold the rotor while we used the tool. We replaced the rotor. I remember the tool cost $90. Hope this helps. Norman
At 5;46 on the video see how I talk about the washer going on the shifter shaft ? When you took the cover off did that washer come off and you thought it was on the starter shaft? Check, If that washer in on the starter shaft the cover will not go in place. This may be the problem. Let me know.
Tao, Could you E-Mail me a couple of pictures and point to the shaft you are talking about ? My E-Mail = paulymax@comcast.net If I see it I may be able to help. Norman
I replaced a cluch on my Yamaha for 1st time. I traced the gasket on a cardboard and punches out the blot holes. All you do then, is fill the holes. Job well done.
Aah I see Norman.If he can afford it and had proper storage for it, he should think about keeping both bikes.That VStar is such a nice bike!All the best!Bob
Thanks for the video and great info. I have the same year Vstar 1100 and it's good to know what to look for if I develop shifting problems. Very informative and appreciated!
Awesome thnx mate ,I've got that problem ,nd just fixed heaps of others the worst being a nut on the Driveshaft,very dangerous when it comes loose $1500 to $5000.00 fix .if you don't stop suddenly ,on your ride ! Not to mention The clutch problem ,no wonder they don't make em any more .,this bike has always been serviced etc and these problems are a good excuse for bodgy mechanics to rip people off ,instead of finding the real problems ...
Thank you for this amazing vide. Very nice. I'm having same problem on my vstar650. Im new on all about motorcycles so my question is if the transmission are the same?vstar 650 and vstar 1100? Becasue everywhere mechanics wanna charge me 500 bucks to fix it haha. Thank you so much in advance
Hi Adib, I don't know if the 650 & 1100 are the same. You can take off the side cover and look for the screw. If so see if it is tight. Let me know what you find. Any bike ,you take to the shop today, costs a lot to get worked on. I have a video on setting the valves tappets. The shop here wants $320 to do the job. Thank you for your comment. Norman
Did you ever find out what the problem was on your 650?. I have a 650 but won't go into 5th gear, sometimes it's hard to go back to 1st gear also. Please let me know, I am tempted to take mine apart. It's winter so can't ride that much.
had this problem happen to me today on the way to work today thanks alot for the video. will be doing this some time this week and hopfully fix the issue
Im sure this is my problem. Since my prior mechanic took out. Becuase my cover wouldn't fit. Turns out the starter popped out of place and was the problem the whole time. Turned on and stayed in, then rode it, and it got stuck on 3rd gear... i don't have the confidence to fix it myself.
First I would take off the left side cover and look in there. Sounds like something is a miss. Work the shift pedal and move the back wheel slightly back and forth as you go down in first then into neutral then second. See if the fork is loose or out of place. Check the screw to see if it is tight like I show in the video. Hope this helps. Norman
Hi Reeves, Did you check your small metal tubings ? They are the ones that come out right by your exhaust pipes. They are an air induction tube. My Suzuki have them. Take your finger and run it along these pipes and feel for any burnt out holes through them. It happens where they make a bend due to the heat. Mine are find but the V Star had them so we took them off and I cut metal a little bigger than the hole, J B Welded it over the hole then when hard put J B Weld over that. Both tubes had holes. They would have cost a lot of money to get new ones. Check yours. P.S. Do not put rubber hose over these. Too much heat. Norman
@@2001himax no not yet I'm taking it apart after work today. And I'll see if that's the problem. I'm going to try both. Thank you for the response and the information. It's a great video.
Unreal.... Been riding bikes for about 30 years and am constantly amazed at the "these bikes are known for this problem, and these other bikes are known for this problem".... Is there a bike manufacturer that is known to make shit that just works, for a long time, and doesn't randomly just break, or short out, or isn't properly lubricated from the factory so it wears out.... ? I've owned bikes from damn near all of the companies and in one way or another they're all designed to fail.... Gets on my last nerve.
Hi Austin, I have seen bikes with low miles have problems then other ones rode hard with little or no care last for years. You never know. Look at the Honda's from back in the 60s and 70s that ran forever. Not long ago Harley had a problem with , if I am right, the Sportster line. A part broke in the motor that tore up the motor. I was going to buy a new Sportster 1200. That is when I bought the Suzuki Boulevard C50. I just had a problem with the Suzuki that I may do a video on. You never know. I saw a study that ask rider the most reliable bikes. #1 Yamaha #2 tied Honda & Suzuki. Harley was way way down.
Thanks for the video. I have always had a problem down shifting to neutral and first with my Vstar 1100, I wonder if this has been my issue the whole time?
my girlfriend just bought a 2005 650 v star. it started doing this when i took it out for a run the other day.. could not get into first... i will be taking the cover off soon to get this looked at... it only has 20 thousand miles on it... must have been hard miles...
Hi Chris, In this video we are working on a 1100 cc bike. The 600 my be the same. Not sure. But I would open it up and see. Let me know if it has that screw. The V Star are known for this problem. Another problem the V Star and the Suzuki Boulevards have is the small pipe that comes off the engine at the exhaust ports. It is the air induction system. Reburns fuel from the exhaust. Run your finger over these pipes and see if there are any holes burnt through them, especial at the bends. Two pipes cost over $200. I took his off, both pipes were burnt through, so I cut some metal and used J.B. Weld to put over the holes. Worked great. Let me know how you make out. Norman.
Any idea if this screw starting to come loose leads to very clunky shifting? I know the Vstar has clunky shift but what I’m talking about is not the typical clunky shift. It’s more like a clunk with grinding infused. Been happening for about 800 miles. I’m going to adjust the clutch cable low but I’d be surprised if it solves the issue. I think this may be my issue
His bike did not make any noise, it was just some gears that he couldn't get it into. We found the screw came out and rub on the keeper that is right above the screw. I would check the screw first. It is some work but would be better than doing something more involved. It could also be in the clutch plates being worn out. There should be some videos on doing a clutch job. Hope this helps you. Norman.
@@2001himax thank you for the input Norman. I just ordered the gasket. So I’ll be opening it up and taking a look. Clutch cable adjustment didn’t improve the situation. I’ll do as you showed in the video. If it doesn’t improve my issue at least it will prevent a future issue.
@@2001himax will do going to Rick Roush Motorsports and ordering the gasket the screw and the clip and if I luck they have it in stock I'll tear it apart Sunday after I fabricate one of the screw Jacks I have laying around here to raise the bike in any case I'll let you know what happens
@@2001himax well being the dumbass I am I tore off the left side and that's not the side that the shift cam is on on the 650 so I started putting the left side back together and I noticed floorboards and the shifting arm were bent and it was scraping the engine guard so before I tore the right side apart I decided to straighten all of that stuff fill it full of oil and see what would happen and luckily that was my problem the floorboards and the in the shift lever got bent because I was trying to practice u-turns and I dropped the bike
@@TheFred1952 bRO THIS HAPPENED TO ME TOO!!!! U-Turns and I dropped the mf bike... okay I have the 650 version as well please tell me exactly what you’ve done to fix this issue... can’t even get the damn bike out of my drive... :(
Good video on this issue. I have a question though. I just test ride a used 2002 V Star 650 and found out when I met the guy it won't go into 4th, but it'll go into 5th. When trying to engage 4th there's a chattering/grinding noise. The guy who's selling it says he thinks it's the linkage for the clutch, but I think the trans needs rebuilt with 4th gear replaced. That doesn't sound like it could be the screw, does it? I mean, it's highly unlikely I'll buy this bike but it did make me curious.
Hi Michael, I don't think it is the screw. Joe's bike didn't make a noise like that. It just wouldn't shift. Check before you buy the cost of getting it fixed even if you plan on doing the work. Norman
He sold the V Star and the workbook with it so I can't say how many pins are in there. I watched my video but can't tell by that. You may need a workbook to see. One thing to try if you have it all back together is go through the gears like I show on my video to see if it works. Hope this is of some help. Norman.
I heard you say you worked for Honda I have a Honda Shadow Sabre 1100 and had a similar problem my bike down shifts fine but when I would go fro 1 to second It would not go into gear at all does Honda have some set up as v star
I am not sure if they are the same. I worked for Honda back in the late 60s and the bikes back then are so different than now. The best way is to get the Clymer book for your make and year of bike. It will show all parts. Hope this helps.
Hi sir. I took my bike (2017 Indian scout)3 weeks ago to the dealership. The problem that I have sound similar to this video. What happened with my bike is that I was riding all good but all of the sudden when I made it to the stop sign I have a hard time trying to shift form 2nd to 3rd gear or from 3rd to 2nd and 1st. Do you think this will be similar???? Or what you recommend?
I am not sure if the Indian is the same. If you have the work book on that bike it would show an exploded view of that area. The dealer will find the problem. It could be something simple. I always get a Clymer book from E-Bay for each bike I own. There is a ton of information in the book. Also put in "You-Tube 2017 Indian Scout shifting problem" to see if anyone else is having problems like yours. Hope this helps. Norman.
My friend's 650 just has an issue where it shifts but there is a grinding noise and no power getting to the rear wheel. But the shaft drive does turn when in gear. Thinking this must mean something wrong with the final drive at the hub on the wheel. What do you think?
First I would drain the oil from the final drive to see if there is any metal in it. Weather or not I would take the final drive apart to see if something is wrong. If something is wrong you can look on E-Bay for a used final drive. Way cheaper than new. Norman.
Hello there!! Let me first thank you cause on 1 of your video you gave me an advice with a issue that i was having on my 04 Suzuki Volusia. An yes it was the (water pump) it need it replacement. Now my other issue😂 is that it wont shift (3rd, 4th, 5th) gear. I noticed when you mentioned that it (Couldn't be clutch) cause otherwise it wouldn't shift at all, my (1rs, & 2nd) gear work fine. Would you happen to have a video that would help me with this issue?
Hi Juan, So glad you got the water pump fixed. On the shifting, I would first remove the shiftier peg from the rod that comes out of the side of the bike, get the back wheel off the ground so you can move the wheel back and forth while you take a pair of pliers and turn the shiftier and go through all the gears. If it works then there is something wrong with the linkage. If you can't get it in 3, 4 and 5th. gear something else is wrong. This is a start to your problem. I will look at my book and get back to you and see if I can help you. Norman
Juan, On you-tube type in ( 2004 Suzuki Volusia no 3rd., 4th. or 5th. gear ). A lot of info on what could be wrong. Also if you go down the list you will see replacing the clutch by "Two wheel obsession" . In case you need to replace yours. This is not your problem but when you find your problem and have the side cover off you may want to replace it if it has high miles. First I would take the side cover off the left side of the bike and look at the shifting mechanism. Work the shifting rod and see what all moves. Take a magnet and go under the clutch and all around the area and see if it picks up anything that may have came off or broken off. Take your finger and go over all the parts to see if any thing is loose or out of place. Also you will need a new gasket. When you get a gasket get one that is not folded. Joe got a gasket that was folded and I laid it out very carefully put it on and it leaked. I made him a gasket. Let me know what you find. Norman
Is the gear change system the same for the vstar650? Seems to me it would be at least similar. My issue is that its difficult to get it into 1st or from 1st into neutral sometimes. It really sucks when it get stuck at the intersection
Hi Jonathan, I don't know about the 650. We were working on my nephew's 1100 and had the book on it. Also we saw a video on you-tube about this issue for the 1100. Sorry I can't help you more. Norman
hey , im sorry to just start asking questions but here goes , my name is eric by the way , but i laid my bike over in my daughter's yard , bent the floorboard and now it wont shift hears , its stuck kinda like what u made ur video on , can u help me ?
Hi Eric, I had my wife's info on here instead of mine. E-Mail me at paulymax@comcast.net and just say "Hi" and we can talk about your problem. I take the bike went down on the left side. Norman.
Has the bike been sitting for a long time? The first thing I would do is place the bike on a flat surface. Do not start the bike, have it in first gear. Pull the clutch in all the way and push it forward hard. This will sometimes free up the clutch. Try this many times. Norman.
@@2001himax thanks man. Im not trying to tell you what to do by any means. Its just my opinion and like buttholes we all have 1 lol. But again great video my friend. It took me alot of trouble shooting to find this exact problem and i wish i saw your vid before hand lol woulda saved me a days work.
@@Hunterslife315 I say my videos are what works for me. Some tell me an easier way an I use what they say. At 70 years old I am still learning. All comments are welcome. Ride safe my friend. Norman.
I am not sure. I would put V Star 650 shifting problem on you-tube and see what comes up. If you can't find anything I would take your bike and try like what I show on this video. You need a gasket and some time but it may be the same. If it works please leave a comment and let me know how you make out. Norman
@@2001himax I took the left side off and the set up is slightly different from your video the clutch linkage is on the left side for the 1100 on the 650 Its located right behind the clutch basket so I cleaned up the left side put back on ..now waiting on a gasket so I can work on the right I used a permatex gasket maker I'm am going to just go with a oem gasket for when I take off I'll keep u informed thanks
Yes, Once the screw comes loose you could loose one ,two or even three gears. That one screw keeps the lever in place to move the small wheel that changes the gears. Hope this helps. Norman
Hi Bob, This video was just made, He bought a Harley V Rod but still has the V Star. Thinking of salling the V Star it had the shifting problem so it had to be fixed before selling. You may be thinking of when we did a video on the V Star when we changed the starter clutch. The two videos would look the same as we had to take the same side cover off to work on it. If I were to put an older video back up I would say so. We have done so much work on the V Star it is in great shape. I had thought of putting my video on the Harbor Freight motorcycle lift back up due to getting so many views on it. What do you think ? I think I have it on a DVD. Will have to check. Ride safe, Norman
Hi Mitchell, First check my video at 5:44. Make sure that the washer is on the shifter shaft. Then I talk about the shaft in the top left corner. That shaft and gear is for the starter. When taking the cover off this shaft most times will come out with the cover. If it did pull the shaft out of the cover. You have to put the shaft through the gear and into the hole behind the gear. The gear dropped down a little when the shaft came out so you lift it up and insert the shaft through it. Now the cover should go on. Just take your time and wiggle the cover as you go. Hope this helps you. Norman.
Hi Ron, I wonder if the Suzuki Boulevard is the same due to the Suzuki and Yamaha being so much alike. Never heard of the Suzuki having gear shifting problems. Norman
I do not know about your bike. You need the Clymer work book to find out. They sell the book on E-Bay. Type in " Clymer work book for 2003 Honda Shadow Ace" it should come up. Hopes this helps. Norman.
Hi Jared, I would try the methed I show in this video. These bikes are known for the screw backing out. Put a new gasket on the side cover. I make my own gaskets. Norman.
@@robertross4274 , On the V Star 1100 it was a loose bolt. I don't know the 650. You need a Clymer work book and take the left side cover off to see if it's the same. It could also be the clutch plates or gears.
@@2001himax thank u .I I just changed my clutch plates a few days before this problem im going to take the left side off in the morning I hope it's just a quick fix .. I've been subscriber and learn allot from your videos
@@robertross4274 Block the rear wheel off the ground so when you take the side cover off you can go through the gears and watch to see if anything is a miss. Moving the rear tire back and forth will help it go through the gears. Let me know how you make out. Norman
Hi Brenden Don't say anything to the seller about the fix I show. You may get the bike at a better price. Then you can check the bolt I show. I have been so busy working on our kitchen. Got a new metal roof and got a leak so they are going to fix that. Then Lois' car needs 1/4 panels fixed for inspection. I am welding new metal in. We bought new kitchen cabinets in the raw and finished them ourselves. Came out great. Saved a lot of money. Can't work on kitchen till the leak is fixed. Thank goodness it didn't leak where we remodeled. I get her car done then I want to get the Honda bike inspected. Please let me know how you make out with the V Star. Norman.
My nephew sold his bike and his workbook went with it so I can't look it up. You can take the side cover off and go through the gears like I show to see if the shifting arm is a miss. Make sure the screw is tight also. Hope this helps.
Funny Story, He got a lift and another bike. Then he sold both bikes. He said he was going to scrap the lift so I took it home. Then he bought a Harley so I told him I would give him the lift back. It's still here. I am keeping it for him. Norman.
Hi Tim, Thank you for your comment. I have three bikes so I have a book on each bike. When I have a problem I study the book late in the evening and look on You-Tube for any help I can find. Most times I can work it out. Norman.
GOD willing I should be closing a deal tomorrow for a 2006 V-Star 650 [16,000 miles] so I been checking all kind of videos, from all this one seems to me the one that points to a very important issues with the cycle... thanks very much, I'll certainly double check the transmission. GOD BLESS YOU ALL !
Hi Osvaldo, Thank you for your comment. Norman.
THANK YOU! Great video, I would like to add from my current experience with this same problem:
1) My screw was BENT, plus the top was all chowed up. I have to REPLACE the screw, it's M5 x 35mm flat head phillips drive. Don't just reinstall it if it's questionable.
2) Parts of the screw/ metal shavings end up in the bottom of the engine casing and need to be cleaned out. I have to assume they are also in the oil filter, so I have to get into the other side and change that.
Thank you for watching my video. Norman
Actually you're right. Always better to replace smaller parts like 30 cent pcs. You dont wanna pound on it. You want it to be a perfect fit.
Sir, I can not thank you enough for taking your time and making this video and sharing it with the world. You saved me a lot of time and headaches of trying to figure this issue out on my own. I have the identical problem so your video is without a doubt , a life saver. I plan to order the gasket tonight and will do this repair in the next few days, Thanks again!
Thank you Tao for watching. Norman
@@2001himax hello again, I wanted to let you know that I fixed the screw but I am having a great deal of difficulty getting the left cover back on. Unfortunately, the shaft for the Starter Idler Gear came out when I removed the cover, and I am having a great deal of trouble sliding it back in. I have cleaned and greased it but I just can't slide it back into the little hole, and I can't put the cover back on. Have you ever had this issue? Can it be put back into place without having to remove the rotor? Thank you for any assistance that you can provide.
@@taotuhao5969 As I recall I think this can be put back in without pulling the rotor. It's been a while since we worked on his V Star. All I can say is I wish I was there to help you. We did pull the rotor one time and we bought the tool from E-Bay and I made a strap wrench from a car timing belt to hold the rotor while we used the tool. We replaced the rotor. I remember the tool cost $90. Hope this helps. Norman
At 5;46 on the video see how I talk about the washer going on the shifter shaft ? When you took the cover off did that washer come off and you thought it was on the starter shaft? Check, If that washer in on the starter shaft the cover will not go in place. This may be the problem. Let me know.
Tao, Could you E-Mail me a couple of pictures and point to the shaft you are talking about ? My E-Mail = paulymax@comcast.net If I see it I may be able to help. Norman
I replaced a cluch on my Yamaha for 1st time. I traced the gasket on a cardboard and punches out the blot holes. All you do then, is fill the holes. Job well done.
Thank you for watching.
Aah I see Norman.If he can afford it and had proper storage for it, he should think about keeping both bikes.That VStar is such a nice bike!All the best!Bob
Thanks for the video and great info. I have the same year Vstar 1100 and it's good to know what to look for if I develop shifting problems. Very informative and appreciated!
Thank you for your comment. Glad it helped you. Norman.
You just saved my bike sir! Thank you!
Thank you for watching.
Awesome thnx mate ,I've got that problem ,nd just fixed heaps of others the worst being a nut on the Driveshaft,very dangerous when it comes loose $1500 to $5000.00 fix .if you don't stop suddenly ,on your ride ! Not to mention The clutch problem ,no wonder they don't make em any more .,this bike has always been serviced etc and these problems are a good excuse for bodgy mechanics to rip people off ,instead of finding the real problems ...
So true. Ride safe , Norman.
Thanks for the video, I have my 650 missing 1,2 gear. Will work this weekend and check that screw.
Hi Carlos, Please let me know how you make out. Norman.
I'm missing 1st and 2nd too. Please let me know if this fixes it
I wish I lived beside you. You can fix anything.
IM IN THIS POINT NOW. ILL CHECK THIS ONE FOR SURE WHEN I REPLACE MY STATOR THANK YOU GUYS!
Thank you for your comment. Norman.
Thank you for this amazing vide. Very nice. I'm having same problem on my vstar650. Im new on all about motorcycles so my question is if the transmission are the same?vstar 650 and vstar 1100? Becasue everywhere mechanics wanna charge me 500 bucks to fix it haha. Thank you so much in advance
Hi Adib, I don't know if the 650 & 1100 are the same. You can take off the side cover and look for the screw. If so see if it is tight. Let me know what you find. Any bike ,you take to the shop today, costs a lot to get worked on. I have a video on setting the valves tappets. The shop here wants $320 to do the job. Thank you for your comment. Norman
Did you ever find out what the problem was on your 650?. I have a 650 but won't go into 5th gear, sometimes it's hard to go back to 1st gear also.
Please let me know, I am tempted to take mine apart. It's winter so can't ride that much.
Same problem on my 650. Going to take it apart to see. Anyone know for sure?
had this problem happen to me today on the way to work today thanks alot for the video. will be doing this some time this week and hopfully fix the issue
Let me know how you make out. Norman
Im sure this is my problem. Since my prior mechanic took out. Becuase my cover wouldn't fit. Turns out the starter popped out of place and was the problem the whole time. Turned on and stayed in, then rode it, and it got stuck on 3rd gear... i don't have the confidence to fix it myself.
My 1st gear on vstar 1100 2002 keeps popping into neutral. I have to force the clutch pedal down until i am ready to shift to 2nd gear
First I would take off the left side cover and look in there. Sounds like something is a miss. Work the shift pedal and move the back wheel slightly back and forth as you go down in first then into neutral then second. See if the fork is loose or out of place. Check the screw to see if it is tight like I show in the video. Hope this helps. Norman
@miamimotogroup5371 did you ever solve this issue?
@@CreatingExcellence it was ⚙️ gear issues. More expensive to fix then bikes worth. I sold it and bought a harley lol
Oh and yes.....I would like to see the bike lift video return.
Thank you for the vid that was my exact problem too.
Hi Reeves, Did you check your small metal tubings ? They are the ones that come out right by your exhaust pipes. They are an air induction tube. My Suzuki have them. Take your finger and run it along these pipes and feel for any burnt out holes through them. It happens where they make a bend due to the heat. Mine are find but the V Star had them so we took them off and I cut metal a little bigger than the hole, J B Welded it over the hole then when hard put J B Weld over that. Both tubes had holes. They would have cost a lot of money to get new ones. Check yours. P.S. Do not put rubber hose over these. Too much heat. Norman
@@2001himax no not yet I'm taking it apart after work today. And I'll see if that's the problem. I'm going to try both. Thank you for the response and the information. It's a great video.
Let me know how you make out.
Good video same problem Vic gunner 2015
It's worth a try. All my best to you. Norman.
Unreal.... Been riding bikes for about 30 years and am constantly amazed at the "these bikes are known for this problem, and these other bikes are known for this problem"....
Is there a bike manufacturer that is known to make shit that just works, for a long time, and doesn't randomly just break, or short out, or isn't properly lubricated from the factory so it wears out.... ?
I've owned bikes from damn near all of the companies and in one way or another they're all designed to fail....
Gets on my last nerve.
Hi Austin, I have seen bikes with low miles have problems then other ones rode hard with little or no care last for years. You never know. Look at the Honda's from back in the 60s and 70s that ran forever. Not long ago Harley had a problem with , if I am right, the Sportster line. A part broke in the motor that tore up the motor. I was going to buy a new Sportster 1200. That is when I bought the Suzuki Boulevard C50. I just had a problem with the Suzuki that I may do a video on. You never know. I saw a study that ask rider the most reliable bikes. #1 Yamaha #2 tied Honda & Suzuki. Harley was way way down.
Thanks for the video. I have always had a problem down shifting to neutral and first with my Vstar 1100, I wonder if this has been my issue the whole time?
Hi William, Please let me know if you find that was the problem. Norman.
my girlfriend just bought a 2005 650 v star. it started doing this when i took it out for a run the other day.. could not get into first... i will be taking the cover off soon to get this looked at... it only has 20 thousand miles on it... must have been hard miles...
Hi Chris, In this video we are working on a 1100 cc bike. The 600 my be the same. Not sure. But I would open it up and see. Let me know if it has that screw. The V Star are known for this problem. Another problem the V Star and the Suzuki Boulevards have is the small pipe that comes off the engine at the exhaust ports. It is the air induction system. Reburns fuel from the exhaust. Run your finger over these pipes and see if there are any holes burnt through them, especial at the bends. Two pipes cost over $200. I took his off, both pipes were burnt through, so I cut some metal and used J.B. Weld to put over the holes. Worked great. Let me know how you make out. Norman.
Any idea if this screw starting to come loose leads to very clunky shifting? I know the Vstar has clunky shift but what I’m talking about is not the typical clunky shift. It’s more like a clunk with grinding infused. Been happening for about 800 miles. I’m going to adjust the clutch cable low but I’d be surprised if it solves the issue. I think this may be my issue
His bike did not make any noise, it was just some gears that he couldn't get it into. We found the screw came out and rub on the keeper that is right above the screw. I would check the screw first. It is some work but would be better than doing something more involved. It could also be in the clutch plates being worn out. There should be some videos on doing a clutch job. Hope this helps you. Norman.
@@2001himax thank you for the input Norman. I just ordered the gasket. So I’ll be opening it up and taking a look. Clutch cable adjustment didn’t improve the situation. I’ll do as you showed in the video. If it doesn’t improve my issue at least it will prevent a future issue.
thanks my 650 V-Star just started shifting bad very hard to keep it in first gear that will give me a starting point
Hi Fred, Let me know how you make out. I wanted to know if the 650 is the same as the 1100. Norman.
@@2001himax will do going to Rick Roush Motorsports and ordering the gasket the screw and the clip and if I luck they have it in stock I'll tear it apart Sunday after I fabricate one of the screw Jacks I have laying around here to raise the bike in any case I'll let you know what happens
@@TheFred1952 Thank you. Norman.
@@2001himax well being the dumbass I am I tore off the left side and that's not the side that the shift cam is on on the 650 so I started putting the left side back together and I noticed floorboards and the shifting arm were bent and it was scraping the engine guard so before I tore the right side apart I decided to straighten all of that stuff fill it full of oil and see what would happen and luckily that was my problem the floorboards and the in the shift lever got bent because I was trying to practice u-turns and I dropped the bike
@@TheFred1952 bRO THIS HAPPENED TO ME TOO!!!! U-Turns and I dropped the mf bike... okay I have the 650 version as well please tell me exactly what you’ve done to fix this issue... can’t even get the damn bike out of my drive... :(
Good video on this issue. I have a question though. I just test ride a used 2002 V Star 650 and found out when I met the guy it won't go into 4th, but it'll go into 5th. When trying to engage 4th there's a chattering/grinding noise. The guy who's selling it says he thinks it's the linkage for the clutch, but I think the trans needs rebuilt with 4th gear replaced. That doesn't sound like it could be the screw, does it? I mean, it's highly unlikely I'll buy this bike but it did make me curious.
Hi Michael, I don't think it is the screw. Joe's bike didn't make a noise like that. It just wouldn't shift. Check before you buy the cost of getting it fixed even if you plan on doing the work. Norman
Did you figure it out? My bike won’t go past 50mph
How many pins are suppose to be in the shift drum gear?
He sold the V Star and the workbook with it so I can't say how many pins are in there. I watched my video but can't tell by that. You may need a workbook to see. One thing to try if you have it all back together is go through the gears like I show on my video to see if it works. Hope this is of some help. Norman.
I heard you say you worked for Honda I have a Honda Shadow Sabre 1100 and had a similar problem my bike down shifts fine but when I would go fro 1 to second It would not go into gear at all does Honda have some set up as v star
I am not sure if they are the same. I worked for Honda back in the late 60s and the bikes back then are so different than now. The best way is to get the Clymer book for your make and year of bike. It will show all parts. Hope this helps.
Hi sir. I took my bike (2017 Indian scout)3 weeks ago to the dealership. The problem that I have sound similar to this video. What happened with my bike is that I was riding all good but all of the sudden when I made it to the stop sign I have a hard time trying to shift form 2nd to 3rd gear or from 3rd to 2nd and 1st. Do you think this will be similar???? Or what you recommend?
I am not sure if the Indian is the same. If you have the work book on that bike it would show an exploded view of that area. The dealer will find the problem. It could be something simple. I always get a Clymer book from E-Bay for each bike I own. There is a ton of information in the book. Also put in "You-Tube 2017 Indian Scout shifting problem" to see if anyone else is having problems like yours. Hope this helps. Norman.
My friend's 650 just has an issue where it shifts but there is a grinding noise and no power getting to the rear wheel. But the shaft drive does turn when in gear. Thinking this must mean something wrong with the final drive at the hub on the wheel. What do you think?
First I would drain the oil from the final drive to see if there is any metal in it. Weather or not I would take the final drive apart to see if something is wrong. If something is wrong you can look on E-Bay for a used final drive. Way cheaper than new. Norman.
Hello there!! Let me first thank you cause on 1 of your video you gave me an advice with a issue that i was having on my 04 Suzuki Volusia. An yes it was the (water pump) it need it replacement. Now my other issue😂 is that it wont shift (3rd, 4th, 5th) gear. I noticed when you mentioned that it (Couldn't be clutch) cause otherwise it wouldn't shift at all, my (1rs, & 2nd) gear work fine. Would you happen to have a video that would help me with this issue?
Hi Juan, So glad you got the water pump fixed. On the shifting, I would first remove the shiftier peg from the rod that comes out of the side of the bike, get the back wheel off the ground so you can move the wheel back and forth while you take a pair of pliers and turn the shiftier and go through all the gears. If it works then there is something wrong with the linkage. If you can't get it in 3, 4 and 5th. gear something else is wrong. This is a start to your problem. I will look at my book and get back to you and see if I can help you. Norman
Juan, On you-tube type in ( 2004 Suzuki Volusia no 3rd., 4th. or 5th. gear ). A lot of info on what could be wrong. Also if you go down the list you will see replacing the clutch by "Two wheel obsession" . In case you need to replace yours. This is not your problem but when you find your problem and have the side cover off you may want to replace it if it has high miles. First I would take the side cover off the left side of the bike and look at the shifting mechanism. Work the shifting rod and see what all moves. Take a magnet and go under the clutch and all around the area and see if it picks up anything that may have came off or broken off. Take your finger and go over all the parts to see if any thing is loose or out of place. Also you will need a new gasket. When you get a gasket get one that is not folded. Joe got a gasket that was folded and I laid it out very carefully put it on and it leaked. I made him a gasket. Let me know what you find. Norman
Is the gear change system the same for the vstar650? Seems to me it would be at least similar. My issue is that its difficult to get it into 1st or from 1st into neutral sometimes. It really sucks when it get stuck at the intersection
Hi Jonathan, I don't know about the 650. We were working on my nephew's 1100 and had the book on it. Also we saw a video on you-tube about this issue for the 1100. Sorry I can't help you more. Norman
hey , im sorry to just start asking questions but here goes , my name is eric by the way , but i laid my bike over in my daughter's yard , bent the floorboard and now it wont shift hears , its stuck kinda like what u made ur video on , can u help me ?
Hi Eric, I had my wife's info on here instead of mine. E-Mail me at paulymax@comcast.net and just say "Hi" and we can talk about your problem. I take the bike went down on the left side. Norman.
My clutch won’t disengage, shifts into gear with clutch in, lurches and stalls
🤷🏼♂️
Has the bike been sitting for a long time? The first thing I would do is place the bike on a flat surface. Do not start the bike, have it in first gear. Pull the clutch in all the way and push it forward hard. This will sometimes free up the clutch. Try this many times. Norman.
nice info thanks for the video, keep it posting
Thank you for watching.
Good vid bud. Just my opinion id spend the 35 cents for a newer screw. But good job.
Hi Cal, I agree.
@@2001himax thanks man. Im not trying to tell you what to do by any means. Its just my opinion and like buttholes we all have 1 lol. But again great video my friend. It took me alot of trouble shooting to find this exact problem and i wish i saw your vid before hand lol woulda saved me a days work.
@@Hunterslife315 I say my videos are what works for me. Some tell me an easier way an I use what they say. At 70 years old I am still learning. All comments are welcome. Ride safe my friend. Norman.
@@2001himax yes sir. You can never stop learning at any age. God bless
i think this might be my problem thank u so much for video...
Thank you for your comment. Norman.
Where is your dentist at I need a good one
Great video 👍 ...now I am experiencing the same problem my question is would it be the same fix for a vstar 650cc ..
I am not sure. I would put V Star 650 shifting problem on you-tube and see what comes up. If you can't find anything I would take your bike and try like what I show on this video. You need a gasket and some time but it may be the same. If it works please leave a comment and let me know how you make out. Norman
@@2001himax I took the left side off and the set up is slightly different from your video the clutch linkage is on the left side for the 1100 on the 650 Its located right behind the clutch basket so I cleaned up the left side put back on ..now waiting on a gasket so I can work on the right I used a permatex gasket maker I'm am going to just go with a oem gasket for when I take off I'll keep u informed thanks
@@robertross4274 Sounds good.
@@robertross4274 How did you make out with xvs650 shifting issue. I own Custom and finicky to get into neutral. Thanks
So that screw also prevent the gear from going to the 1st?
Yes, Once the screw comes loose you could loose one ,two or even three gears. That one screw keeps the lever in place to move the small wheel that changes the gears. Hope this helps. Norman
Norman, is this an old video?Your nephew now has a Vrod doesn't he?
Bob
Hi Bob, This video was just made, He bought a Harley V Rod but still has the V Star. Thinking of salling the V Star it had the shifting problem so it had to be fixed before selling. You may be thinking of when we did a video on the V Star when we changed the starter clutch. The two videos would look the same as we had to take the same side cover off to work on it. If I were to put an older video back up I would say so. We have done so much work on the V Star it is in great shape. I had thought of putting my video on the Harbor Freight motorcycle lift back up due to getting so many views on it. What do you think ? I think I have it on a DVD. Will have to check. Ride safe, Norman
Getting the cover.back on .
How do you get it done.
Please n thanks
Hi Mitchell, First check my video at 5:44. Make sure that the washer is on the shifter shaft. Then I talk about the shaft in the top left corner. That shaft and gear is for the starter. When taking the cover off this shaft most times will come out with the cover. If it did pull the shaft out of the cover. You have to put the shaft through the gear and into the hole behind the gear. The gear dropped down a little when the shaft came out so you lift it up and insert the shaft through it. Now the cover should go on. Just take your time and wiggle the cover as you go. Hope this helps you. Norman.
Wow I guess if you didn't have a good friend like this guy you would be screwed. 🤣😂
So much info on You-Tube, It sure helps.
Hey Norman, Great info
Hi Ron, I wonder if the Suzuki Boulevard is the same due to the Suzuki and Yamaha being so much alike. Never heard of the Suzuki having gear shifting problems. Norman
2001himax hi norm,I don't know but my 109rt shifts clunky until I get the revs and trany in that sweet spot then it is smoother
What about a 2003 Honda shadow ace
I do not know about your bike. You need the Clymer work book to find out. They sell the book on E-Bay. Type in " Clymer work book for 2003 Honda Shadow Ace" it should come up. Hopes this helps. Norman.
I have a 03 1300 vstar and I have no second gear and 3rd is acting up y'all think that's what it would be
Hi Robby, This video is on the 1100. The 1300 may be the same. I would look at that screw first. Hopes this helps you. Norman
Mine just messed up I have to force it to first n 2nd n that's all it has I can barley force it to neutral
Hi Dark side of the moon, This video may help you. Worth a try. Norman.
@@2001himax yeah I appreciate it thank you
is a 2003 xvs650 the same design?
I am not sure. A viewer has a 650 and he said he is going to try his. I ask him to let me know if it the same. Norman.
I did the same screw but having a hell of a time Gettti
Thks for the advice it worked out well. Have a great day. N thks again
Hi Thanks for this
Thank you for watching.
Man I just lost 4 gear and 5 is slipping out
I’m in North Dakota just me my dog and my bike I hope it’s just the screw
Hi Jared, I would try the methed I show in this video. These bikes are known for the screw backing out. Put a new gasket on the side cover. I make my own gaskets. Norman.
Is this relevant to the 650 also?
The 650 may be different. You would have to have the book on the 650 to look it up. Norman.
Yamaha V star 650 it's not the same, don't even try😠
I did not know that.
Have u found the problem I have a vstar 660
@@robertross4274 , On the V Star 1100 it was a loose bolt. I don't know the 650.
You need a Clymer work book and take the left side cover off to see if it's the same. It could also be the clutch plates or gears.
@@2001himax thank u .I I just changed my clutch plates a few days before this problem im going to take the left side off in the morning I hope it's just a quick fix .. I've been subscriber and learn allot from your videos
@@robertross4274 Block the rear wheel off the ground so when you take the side cover off you can go through the gears and watch to see if anything is a miss. Moving the rear tire back and forth will help it go through the gears.
Let me know how you make out. Norman
Ytre
❤💯👍👍👍👍👍
Thank you so much for your comment. Norman
Buyin a vstar tomorrow “needs new transmission” hoping this is the problem!!! Can help but notice you havnt posted in a while everything okay??
Hi Brenden Don't say anything to the seller about the fix I show. You may get the bike at a better price. Then you can check the bolt I show. I have been so busy working on our kitchen. Got a new metal roof and got a leak so they are going to fix that. Then Lois' car needs 1/4 panels fixed for inspection. I am welding new metal in. We bought new kitchen cabinets in the raw and finished them ourselves. Came out great. Saved a lot of money. Can't work on kitchen till the leak is fixed. Thank goodness it didn't leak where we remodeled. I get her car done then I want to get the Honda bike inspected. Please let me know how you make out with the V Star. Norman.
i love how old people find a reason talk about out of subject things :) :) thanks for video tho
You're welcome. Watch, One day you will be old too.
on my 2006vstar 1100 theres no 5th gear. Not sure what's the problem.
My nephew sold his bike and his workbook went with it so I can't look it up. You can take the side cover off and go through the gears like I show to see if the shifting arm is a miss.
Make sure the screw is tight also. Hope this helps.
git a motorcycle lift !!
Funny Story, He got a lift and another bike. Then he sold both bikes. He said he was going to scrap the lift so I took it home. Then he bought a Harley so I told him I would give him the lift back. It's still here. I am keeping it for him. Norman.
Is this for all vstars or certain models? Watched entire video. Nicely done. Thanks
We were working on the 1100 cc bike. Sorry I don't know if the other ones are the same. Thank you for the comment. Norman
You would be a good guy to have around to work on bikes. I just got one thanks for the info
Hi Tim, Thank you for your comment. I have three bikes so I have a book on each bike. When I have a problem I study the book late in the evening and look on You-Tube for any help
I can find. Most times I can work it out. Norman.
Ha bat dem stillerz
I love this guy I watch all his videos
Thank you so much. Ride safe. Norman