How to remove a gear shift lever?

[robartlum]

Almost got the bike running. I installed the new clutch lever but I realized that the gear shift lever was bent in and I cant downshift because the kickstand is in the way. Anybody know anyway I can bend the gearshift lever back into place? I tried bending it but no good on the bike.

How can I take it off so I can bend it back in place and reinstall?

Thanks for all the help, DMF!

Rob

[stopintime]

Hmmm... unscrew the center allen bolt and take off the link to the shift rod? But you know - I think they are cheap to replace with a new. Better?

[robartlum]

lol thanks. Yeah I might ask stupid questions but I'd like to know what Im doing before I break somthing. 

much appreciated.

[stopintime]

You're NOT the only one - me too   This board has been very helpful and is a great source. And see - no one is talking down to any questions.

[ScottRNelson]

I had a '96 Monster years ago with a bent shifter.  I removed it by taking out one screw and disconnected it from the rod that goes between the shifter and transmission, then clamped it into a vice and pounded it back into shape with a 2x4.  I had to re-fit it to the bike several times before I got it where I wanted it.  I figured that if it broke, I would have to buy a new one, which is the only other option anyway.

They seem to be fairly tough.

[dlearl476]

DOH! I can't believe someone posted this today!

On my SECOND trip to the DMV to straighten out a "NO Insurance Registration Cancelled" issue with the Monster, (the DMV entered the VIN wrong and I had to retrieve my incorrect title to correct it) I was in a bit of a hurry and forgot to put the sidestand down.  Third time the Monster's landed on my sorry ass.  I'm beginning to understand why they call them "Monsters". 

Anyway, other than my pride, no major juju but a bent shifter.  I figure it's God telling me I need something trick. 

[NAKID]

If you try to fix it, DON'T bend it back. Like Scott said, hammer it back into place. The aluminum will likely snap if you try to bend it...

[CRASH!]

But your original question was how to remove it....

You have to sacrifice an allen wrench. Take a hacksaw and cut it down so it'll fit. Just make sure you have the correct size. I cut one down only to find it was too small. Had to take the next size up and cut it too

Good thing I had lots of loose Allen keys collected over the years.