trouble shifting into 1st...

[michael38]

I just bought a 2012 ninja 250 (used) with only 1000miles on it and I took it for a spin last weekend. I found that when I was in neutral (sometimes even 2nd), I had trouble shifting into first (sometimes the neutral light goes off even though I'm still in neutral). I've googled this and many suggested that I roll the bike a little and/or let the clutch go a little when shifting to 1st gear. I just went out to test it out and it works

But my question is if there's something wrong with the bike? My buddy got the same bike but in a different color says that his bike shifts smoothly across all gears. Should I bother getting it checked out or should I just adapt to the bike?

[psykick5]

That's just how the bike is. I rode a few different bikes at my MSF and that's how they were, too (they were brand new). Just a tiny bit of roll will let you drop it in first so it's all good.

[michael38]

But the thing is, my friend's 250 did not experience this "problem".... is this "fixable" and is it worth it?

[csmith12]

Well, first off... Have your friend ride yours for a bit to see if he experiences the same issues that you are finding. Ride his if you can.

Next adjust the shift lever to a position that is comfortable and also provides clearance of your boot if your foot is still under the lever. (creates false neutrals and such)

Next keep your feet back from the lever until you need to shift. Some say ride with the balls of your feet on the pegs. While that is good for cornering, sometimes you just wanna be comfortable while cruising or your feet need a break.

[csmith12]

Make sure you clutch cable is adjusted within spec as well. Some also say better oil aids in smother shifts. Placebo? Maybe, maybe not depending on the quality of oil you have in there now.

[choneofakind]

I'm with Chris here. Swap rides with your friend for a bit.

If you find that the difference is due to the rider, not the bike, adjust the levers a bit. Also make a point to shift with a purpose. I'm not saying bash on the shifter, but be firm and make sure you move the lever the whole way.

Side note: mine only seems to have trouble shifting to first if I leave it in neutral for a long time, say the length of a light. At lights, it's a better idea to shift into first as you come to a stop and hold the clutch the whole time. Leaving it in neutral or second at a light leaves you stranded if a scenario arises that would require you to move immediately. If you're always in first as you stop, you're ready to go.

[michael38]

My friend did ride on my bike and he was the one who pointed out the difference to me (at first, i thought it was normal because of posts on different forums). I'm sure that if I ride his bike, I will notice a difference.

As for adjusting the lever, what would be the ideal position? Would adjusting the lever affect how the gears are shifted?

Thanks for everyone's help

[dino74]

Originally Posted by michael38

But my question is if there's something wrong with the bike?

I've experienced it on both my 250s

[csmith12]

Would the position of the lever effect the shift? Technically no, as long as the lever is moved enough to complete the movement of gear changes. The rest is all about comfort of the rider.

Assuming a mechanically sound bike, the neutral light going out and still being in neutral is indicative of a "weak" shift or a quick stabbing type of shift and somewhat normal on the 250 as riders learn the "personality" of these lil bikes. I am not going to say it's normal for all bikes but having to fuss a little to get into first is not totally uncommon, especially at a 0mph. The difference in shifting my R6 and 2010 250 is noticeable enough at any speed.

Everything lubed up good down there? lol Funny sounding question but no dry sockets.... if you know what I mean.

If you have verified that everything is in adjustment, lubed and the problem persists, change the oil and use a different brand that what you used last time. Cheaper than tearing into it and quite possibly not worth looking into further until more of a problem, start riding it aggressively or is a safety concern.

[alex.s]

the positive neutral finder only prevents shifting into second.

sometimes the dogs on the gears are simply not aligned with their trenches and the output shaft needs to rotate slightly. this is an issue with every dogbox trans. they are designed for shifting while moving. they aren't exactly designed to be stopped per-se

[lgk]

Originally Posted by dino74

I've experienced it on both my 250s

yep,
i rock the bike a little and it goes into gear without a fuss

[Lychee]

This is normal. It usually happens to me when I am at a light and messing with the shifter at a stop. Meaning I am shifting from neutral to first and back for no real reason other than to pass the time. If I don't play with the shifter, it does not happen. When it does happen, I use one of the two methods you mentioned to drop it into first and ride on. You just gotta adapt to the bike.

[michael38]

Ok, I will make sure everything's lubed up and I'll also change the oil. I guess I'll have to learn to adapt to the bike