Finding neutral?

[offcenter]

It's a pain finding neutral on my '99 1500.
Some times I'll go back and forth between first and second several times before it will go into neutral.
Is there something there that needs replacing to make it easier to find the detent for neutral?
Thanks guys.

[blupupher]

It's a pain finding neutral on my '99 1500.
Some times I'll go back and forth between first and second several times before it will go into neutral.
Is there something there that needs replacing to make it easier to find the detent for neutral?
Thanks guys.

Step one, change your oil.

For me, trouble finding neutral tells me it is time for an oil change.

Just curious, what oil is currently in the bike, and how long in service?
How long have you had the bike? I know it takes me a while to get used to finding neutral on a new bike sometimes.

[Rambozo]

Also make sure your clutch is not dragging. Inspect, change fluid, clean, and bleed system if things seem off.
If the fluid is low, make sure the slave cylinder is not leaking into the engine oil.

[WingAdmin]

Ditto on the oil. You might want to think about using the Mobil 1 oil that many GL1500 owners (myself included) swear by. It smooths the transmission immensely and makes it much easier to find neutral, besides just being an overall excellent motor oil.

[ct1500]

If your clutch is not fully disengaging it will cause the symptoms described. Check for a worn/hollowed out bushing (#2) and push rod (#1) at the clutch lever. These parts where they contact need occasional greasing.
https://partsfinder.onlinemicrofiche.co ... 20CYLINDER

[offcenter]

I've had the bike about four years.
I already use Mobil 1 based on Scott's postings, and I change it regularly.
I replaced the clutch bushing at clutch lever a couple of years.
I've checked the clutch. It disengages completely and works very smoothly.
I also installed the shifter brace kit and a new oil seal last year.
This problem feels like the detent in the shift mechanism is so small that
I jump over it instead of dropping into it.

[Rambozo]

Did you change your boots? Some can make finding neutral more of a challenge. Diabetes can also contribute to shifting issues.

Did this start after you installed the shifter brace, or has it always been an issue?
It's not like the detent can fill itself in, but the spring can get weak. However, you would feel that in every gear position.
Put the bike on the center stand and try shifting with your hand to see how things feel and look for signs of binding.

[fnickel]

Here's a potential solution that won't cost you any money. Neutral is always easier to find while the bike is still rolling. Try it and see if it helps your situation. Just make a habit of going into neutral before the bike comes to a stop. I have the same problem with one of my old dirt bikes. Almost impossible to get to neutral when at a standstill. Much easier to do while the bike is still rolling.