Is it normal for a 2002 Harley Davidson FXD Super Glide to be hard to downshift from 3rd gear to neutral?

Question

I am considering the purchase of a 2002 H-D FXD from a private seller.  It is in great shape and has less than 4,000 miles on it.  The seller let me test ride it.  It was difficult to downshift from 3rd to neutral.  It was not impossible, but it took noticeably more effort to shift.  Since I am not a seasoned Harley rider, yet, I am not sure if this is typical or if there is a serious problem.  Any advise?

Uncle Joe · Accepted Answer

To begin with, you can't downshift from 3rd to neutral. What about 2nd?? A 5 year old bike with only 4,000 miles on it I would check the tranny fluid, its probably never been changed or could be low. Clutch could also be out of adjustment.

Anonymous · Answer

You may have a worn shifter spring in your gearbox the spring sadly enough are worth about 4.50 Aust. To check this lift shift lever by hand up and down if it feels excessivly loose that would most likely be your problem. If it was clutch problem it would be hard to shift up not down. These springs have a bad habit of wearing out. Cost involved would be around 600 AUST dollars as the gearbox has to be removed.

Slap Happy · Answer

Well, all bikes are different...but it usually doesn't take long to find the right pressure to apply to get it into neutral, it's just a matter of being one with the motor beneath your legs.
.....although, if the clutch was out of adjustment a little bit, that could make it hard too

Sportsterjohn · Answer

it is common for the shifting mech to get a bit out of adjustment.  I have an 02 fxdwg and it is a pain to find neutral.  Every now and then I get it serviced and it shifts easily for a bit.  I wouldn't really worry about it.

preacher55 · Answer

Been ridin' H-D for 40+ years & have owned 12. Each & every one was an SOB tryin' to find neutral while down shifting. Nature of the beast. You otta hear the clutch plates rattle in my '55 Panhead!

Is it normal for a 2002 Harley Davidson FXD Super Glide to be hard to downshift from 3rd gear to neutral?

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