1999 harley sportster does not shift gears

if the stick goes into the top of the box , pull the turret and fix the shift lever pivot
it the shifter is through linkage , fix the linkage where it has come off

If it's in limp in mode it won't shift out of 2nd gear. Get the trouble codes read. The solenoid pack is a pretty common failure. But don't just throw parts at it. Get the codes first.

The lock shift solenoid that works withe break pedal has gone bad... it's located next to or In front of the shifter.. on some vehicles. You have a key slot that you can use another key or small screw driver in it to unlock the shifter. Just replace that and it should be fine..

cable goes down steering colmn under carpet under drivers seat thru floorboard

sounds like restricted fuel filter or restricted exhaust.
your local exhaust shop can perform a simple and free test to see if the cat can is plugged.

My VW is not shifting into reverse at all; I think a certain person was driving and mistakenly pressed the gear shifter down for all gears--reverse is the only gear you press the shifter down first in. Doesn't grind, 1 2 3 and 4 work but no reverse no reverse lights.
I've read several complicated (can't see scenario's) posts on screens and linkage and a cable fixed one guys problem but still no solutions.

brake application is good. Try pushing shifter forward before stepping on brake than push the button in. good luck

The gear shifter has a switch inside of it. The shifter has to be replaced.

it sounds like the shifter linkage has broken. Its not tough to fix your self if you are mechanicaly inclined. Some times you get lucky and its just a pin. Remove the console around the shifter and inspect everything if not in the shifter then get under there and inspect.

tepfy

You have to hold the lever on the gear shifter up then go all the way to the right and straight back.