Topic: Stiff Clutch 1975 K5 vs. my 1972 k2

[2000daytona]

Hi: The clutch on my K5 is a lot more stiffer than my K2. What would cause the big difference? On the K5 I have checked the cable, the adjustment etc. and it is still very stiff to pull. If the clutch plates needed to be changed would it make it stiff? I looked at the scerws on the clutch side and it does not appear that someone had changed anything such as the springs. After riding the K5 and then the K2, the K2 clutch feels like nothing to pull. The bottom line is how to make the K5 clutch softer. Was there any differences in clutch specs. between these models? Any comments and insight would be appreciated. Thanks all for the excellent information. 2000daytona.

[jsaab2748]

Disconnect the cable at both ends. With the cable totally free, note how much effort is required to move the cable back and forth in its housing. There should be little to no resistance. Do the same to your other bike for comparison. This will tell you right away if the cable is worn inside. And you'll be suprised at the difference a new cable makes if you find yours is worn. I discovered this last year with my k5, and it had it's original cable. Good luck.

[2000daytona]

Hi jsaab2748 - Thanks for the tip. I do have a brand new clutch cable on but will try your advice just to make sure nothing is affecting the metal cable before it gets to the clutch arm in the housing. That was an original problem when I got the bnike, the old cable was frayed really bad and the clutch lever could barely move.Thanks!!