Cannot shift up from 2nd to 3rd gear.

[Clive]

Hi,
After 5 months storage outside under a waterproof bike cover, my NT700 will not change up from 2nd. Before storage, with regular riding, it wasn't always easy to change up even then.
Today when running on the centre stand with the rear wheel clear of the ground, it apparently changes up through the gears when I forcibly pull up on the gearchange lever. However, there is an unpleasant knocking/grinding noise as it runs and the wheel turns. I'm not sure if this is from the engine area or the final shaft drive at the wheel.

 

[mikesim]

The first thing to check is the clutch adjustment. It sounds like the clutch discs aren't releasing easily. The freeplay at the end of the clutch lever should be about 1/4". I have seen one time where an owner used an oil additive that was incompatible with the clutch disc friction material and over the course of storage the friction on the clutch plates had swollen to the extent that they would not release. I doubt that this is your problem though.

Hope this helps!

Mike

 

[ST1100Y]

After 5 months storage outside under a waterproof bike cover, my NT700 will not change up from 2nd.

I'd clean and grease the rose-joints and pivot of the shifter linkage...

However, there is an unpleasant knocking/grinding noise as it runs and the wheel turns.

with no load the (straight cut) side gear (output shaft) is hunting...

 

[cliffh]

Here is an easy check. Check the amount of clutch cable that is moved at the clutch lever when pulled. Then look to see if about the same amount of cable moves at the clutch/transmission end. I've had cables rust internally during storage. The lever still pulls SOME cable, but the cable sheath can contract enough to prevent full movement at the clutch end.

The clue to me was that it got worse while in storage.