Inconsistent Shift Lever Resistance

[mbopp]

So when shifting between gears the amount of force it takes to change gears varies.  The problem being that from time to time I can hardly shift, or it seems stuck (usually downshifting.  Usually after trying again it will work with some force. 

The sprockets were replaced recently and it seems like that is when the issue began.  But going back to the shop they took a look, and did not believe it had anything to do with the work they did. 

I have changed the oil and clutch fluid and things seem to be about the same, sometimes shifts easy, other times very hard. 

So does anyone have any ideas on ways I can diagnose the issue.  Is this a common in the Ducati world.  At a high level the clutch and shifter themselves seem very different from my previous Honda, and Suzuki, so I feel a little out of my element.  That being said, I'm willing to learn.  Any help you can provide would be wonderful. 

Thanks in advance

[He Man]

How many miles? ever droped the bike on the left side?

When does the problem occur mostly at a light or while moving?

[mbopp]

The bike has not been dropped that I am aware of.  (I've only been owner for a week, but the former owner is trustworthy).  Well actually it did tip on that side in the garage, but supposedly the "issue" was present before that.   I guess I shouldn't completely rule out the possibility that the shift lever was affected by the fall.  Is there anything I should look for in this case?

It happens when I'm moving, usually slowing down for a stop or turn.   

[He Man]

Theres an adjustment behind the case. High mileage, or bikes that have been drop can have this lever knocked out of position and it becomes hard to shift. adjusting it will make it more crisp feeling.

[mbopp]

Thanks He Man, this sounds like it could be the issue. There are a fair amount of miles on the bike. Do you have any details? or can you point me in the right direction as far as where this adjustment is made?  Is this adjustment under the cover on the left side of the bike near the shifter?  I guess I'm just wondering what part of the bike I'm looking at here since I'm not familiar with this adjustment.

[JohnnyCanuck]

Does your bike have a dry clutch?

If I'm not careful when I wash my bike and get water in the clutch it doesn't disengage properly for a while and shows up as very hard shifting.

[mbopp]

No, I have a wet clutch. 

So looking at this thread http://www.ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=19013.0 I have a better idea of what could be causing the issue. 

For reference...


Is bolt #15 what could be the culprit?  Possibly loose? 

So how invasive is this task?  I know I need to drain oil (unfortunately I just changed it).  Are there many parts to remove? or is this accessible after simply removing the cover?  I assume I'll need to replace the gasket. 

I guess if this is a potential fix, I'm wondering if I should attack it myself, or if I should just take it to the shop.  I don't have a whole lot of time for monkeying around like I used to.

[He Man]

i cant remember which bolt it is. its not invasive at all.

Just tilt your bike over to the right side, i usually just lean the handle bar against the wall, just a little oil will come out. then adjust it. there are instructions on how to adjust it  and the spec for it. on the duc manuals if u can get one, or just search this forum for details. im sure there are somewhere.

all u need is some time, a knife to scrape off the old gasket and a new gasket (paper or threebond works)

[corey]

there is actually a service bulletin for this issue... but no, not a recall. there is a new parts kit that replaces both springs in that diagram, as well as adds some new washers and spacers to tighten things up.

there is a special tool for indexing the "shift harpoon" in the proper spot, but it can be done without.

note that as I understand the procedure, it is necessary to remove the flywheel to get to the necessary bolts to fit the parts kit and index the overshift stops.

also note that another probable cause for this issue is shifting like the incredible hulk. don't slam on that thing, it will knock stuff out of alignment in there. also if you get a false neutral, be sure to clutch in, shift UP a gear GENTLY, and handle the situation with a calm, cool demeanor.

if it DOES get stuck in gear... do NOT stop your bike on a sidewalk, remove a wooden post from the ground that is marking someones dig site, and begin to PRY on your shift lever with it... 

eventually your bike is going to get STUCK in a gear, i would take care of it before it wrecks a good day... like mine did...
picking it up from the shop in 10 hours