Topic: Clutch "Chatter" At Low Speed

[NewOldSchool]

Hey all,

I have a 1974 CB750 K4, and it has 24,500 original miles. I use Honda GN4 oil and have the clutch adjusted perfectly as per the manual and the rear cush drive rubbers are brand new.

 My problem is that if I try to creep forward under light load or if I slip the clutch in a slower turn such as a U turn the whole bike repeatedly lurches and the clutch chatters loudly. If I let it out  progressively under load and accelerate it works fine and engages well. It also does not slip while in gear at all. Is it possible the clutch is just a little glazed (or no big deal at all?) or should I start shopping for a new clutch?

[72500john]

not an expert on the cb 750..but clutches are alot like disc brakes. steel plates and friction discs. if it really bothers you.. replace the discs and plates..the plates (steel) are most likley warped a bit. not to worry this is normal wear and tear. other wise ride it and replace it when it slips. springs may be weak a bit. but you can check that when the clutch really needs done or you can. put washers under them to increase your tension in the mean time.
thats the best take i have on this..i am sure alot of other people out there got more great advice i missed.

[Tews19]

May be the infamous clutch rattle. Not sure if it needs to be replaced if it is functioning, may just be an irratant

[TrueSpin]

Honestly, check your chain tension. That really sounds like a loose chain bouncing on the sprocket.

[Tews19]

Honestly, check your chain tension. That really sounds like a loose chain bouncing on the sprocket.

I didnt read the post fully... Cam Tensioner. Before I adjusted mine, I live on a hill and I would have the same symptons.

[Stev-o]

My K4 acts the same way and has approx 24K miles as well. I do not know the full history of my bike and if the clutch has ever been replaced but am considering changing it out. Cycle X sells a kit for approx $110.

[NewOldSchool]

Haha I see your point. Ive done everything else to it besides the clutch too...

To the others, the cam chain is adjusted correctly. Someone also suggested its the regular clutch rattle, its also not that its a different sound and can be felt through the bike when it happens. The drive chain is also correctly tightened, it is a new sprocket and o-ring chain set as well.

I need to change the oil/filter soon anyways so I'll just take the clutch out when I drain the oil and mic. the plates and fibers. Ill also check for bent plates or ridges in the clutch basket fingers.

[CycleRanger]

I need to change the oil/filter soon anyways so I'll just take the clutch out when I drain the oil and mic. the plates and fibers. Ill also check for bent plates or ridges in the clutch basket fingers.

If you're gonna go that far and you've already done everything else you may as well just replace the plates while yer there.
I''m really diggin' my new Cycle X clutch.

[NewOldSchool]

I need to change the oil/filter soon anyways so I'll just take the clutch out when I drain the oil and mic. the plates and fibers. Ill also check for bent plates or ridges in the clutch basket fingers.

If you're gonna go that far and you've already done everything else you may as well just replace the plates while yer there.
I''m really diggin' my new Cycle X clutch.

True story.

[scottly]

Check the clutch cable and make sure it slides freely, with the front wheel turned both to the left, and to the right. (Rule out the easy stuff first. )

[Danno]

if it got overheated at some point like when it was in need of adjustment the plates will be warped and grab intermittently check the oil for cork bits as the warped plates can knock little pieces off during the u turn you described
 that would deffinately show that a new clutch may be in order if the plates are warped that much that it is knocking off bits
to check the oil for pieces of anything I use an old piece of bed sheet and pour the oil through it the pieces are evident then also inspect your filter for pieces