Help me i got back from a month vacation and (of course) upon my return i've got some motorcycle issues. my battery is all but dead so i tried push starting it and realized my clutch isn't really working. the lever has the same play it always did but it's not really engaging (disengaging? why oh why didn't i take auto-mechanics in high school?) the clutch. it'll roll if i really push on it but there's a lot of resistance. so where do i start? after i replace the battery that is.

This Is Normal . The Gear Ratio Is A lot Lower Thru Shaft To Tranny Than It Is Thru Final Drive. Its Going To Be Tuff To Push In Gear With Clutch Lever Pulled IN (Disengaged). With New Battery Installed And Engine Running It Should Not Clunk Hard From Neutral To 1ST. Gear If Clutch Is Properly Adjusted.

Are you sure it's the clutch, not a seized brake or something? Seems like it would be really tough to push at all if it's in gear (for any distance, anyway). Possibly to the point of dragging the rear wheel. I've got a 74 CB360, and a new battery is probably a good bet (or just charging the old one if it will hold a charge). The charging system is pretty weak, especially if you run with the headlight on. Best to start with a good charge. After that, you can adjust the clutch cable free play at the handlebar if it's just not pulling enough to disengage. Having the neutral light back will give you some indication of shifting success (as will running the bike and feeling it, probably). My guess is it ain't the clutch, but a dragging brake, which is also easy to adjust, but hey, what do I know? And by the way, good choice in bikes. A mid-70's Honda will teach you more than auto-shop would have anyway. PS- In the interest of science, I just went outside and tried to push the bike in gear. Couldn't do it. I think it's not the clutch.