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Ive experienced lots of 'em over last 12000 mi since I bought the bike [at 2000 mi], and initially had a couple from 6th to 5th. Transmission has 'normal' agricultural feel and is improving as it breaks in...but am I simply needing more definitive shifting inputs, more wear-in, or is there something else worth possibly consider here?? much oblige

Can you have a false neutral going from 2nd to 1st? That passes through neutral. I think what you're hitting is true neutral. I'd expect you just aren't getting all the way through neutral into second. I sometimes hit neutral going from 1st to 2nd. It isn't very often and I've learned what it feels like. When it happens an extra tap fixes the problem before it is a problem.

Just after I bought the bike I hit a few falsies going from 5th to 6th. Since I've become more positive I haven't hit that one in a long, long time.

You may want to change the gear oil in the transmission. I also add a little moly and have smoother shifts.

bahill wrote:Ive experienced lots of 'em over last 12000 mi since I bought the bike [at 2000 mi], and initially had a couple from 6th to 5th. Transmission has 'normal' agricultural feel and is improving as it breaks in...but am I simply needing more definitive shifting inputs, more wear-in, or is there something else worth possibly consider here?? much oblige

A good recommendation for the oilheads is to "pre-load" the shifter, apply the clutch and then finally shift.

Best regards
Oliver

Aside from the fluid change advice (can't hurt!), I can definitely validate the "preload" comment. I was also missing good shifts, since i was shifting the "old way" - pull in clutch, foot-push the shift lever. A vastly improved approach was mentioned on this site a while back. Before you begin a shift, put a "medium" amount of pressure on the shift lever, then, as you pull in the clutech and change throttle speeds, the shift will almost automatically happen. Also noted, that you can shift without the clutch simply by preloading, then working the throttle accordingly. I tried it and it worked, but I still commonly use the clutch - when done well, only a slight flick of the clutch is needed. This gives faster shifts too. Try it...

Much oblige - will try preloading it. Thx

I always preload (after advice some years ago) and it makes for a much better and quieter shift. Using 80/90 oil at present (got another 5l to use up) but have used synthetic in the past which made a noticeable improvement.