after riding for maybe 20 minutes or so yesterday, i came to a light and down shifted to second. Once stopped i was in N and chouldnt get out of N. I tried pushing down, tried pulling up....Nothing. after like 10 quick kicks it finally engaged into 1st. Its weird its done that now like 3 times since i bought the bike 2 weeks ago. What could it be?

Thanks

 

It happens sometimes. Roll the bike a bit, and then try it.
It's better to be in first before you stop, though.

If you absolutely have to take it out of gear while sitting (and it won't go back in), just a little roll while kicking it and it will drop in.

 

Two solutions to your prob:

1. Rock the bike forward and backward a foot or two with the clutch in while applying pressure down on the shifter.

2. Slowly let out the clutch while putting a fair amount of pressure down on the shifter.

It happens, particularly if you have the bad habit of not shifting to first until you are stopped. (Stop doin that!!) Get into the habit of shifting down to first as you are coasting up to a stoplight/sign/whatever and you'll never have this problem again!


edit: Kilgore beat meh!!

 

Haha! Barely, though... and your answer was pretty well put together...

And I liked your "stop doing that!!"

But seriously, groll, we've all done this. Nice feeling, isn't it?... when you're holding up traffic because you can't seem to get it in gear?
Ha ha... been there.
What's worse is when you stall and flood it... and then it won't start.
(I just did that a couple months ago on my KLR)

 

+5. These transmissions are designed to shift while the bike is in motion. Shifting to neutral before stopping is dangerous. What if the car behind you isn't paying attention is coming up to fast? You're gonna have to be able to take off before you get hit.

Best method I have is pull in the clutch, put pressure on the shifter, and roll backwards. It should drop down within 18 inches of movement.

 

hey thanks all for the quick feedback. I never knew that. Ill keep that all inmind

 

And if you haven't taken it, look into the MSF course. I learned this and much more in the class. It's a great way to pick up some good riding habits that may save your bike -- and more importantly your life!