2012 Spyder RT-SM5 Shifting Problems when cold

[KrazySpyderRider]

Got a 2012 RT SM5 back in April. Rode around all summer long without any issues. Got about 5k miles on it. Within last two weeks, when I tried to get it out of the garage early morning (temp between 65-75), it does not want to shift into reverse. I tried letting it idle for about 5 minutes, but nope. Once you get out of the driveway, in reverse, it doesn't want to shift into 1st. If I turn it off, I can shift to 1st. This morning I noticed after putting it in reverse, it started creeping (slower than a snail), with the clutch fully pressed. Pressed the brake, engine didn't stall and the RPM stayed in normal idle.
After riding around for a while, around town, no issues shifting or when the ambient temp is around 80, no issues.

Any help is greatly appreciated

:banghead:

 

[finless]

Take the cover off the shifter and check the fluid level. Sounds like the clutch is not fully disengaging and this is probably the reason.
If the fluid is really dirty looking, time for a flush of the system.

Bob

 

[3 Wheel Addict]

My 13 SE-5 is doing some crazy things now that is cooler here to. I have noticed that mine shifts really hard, not hard like difficult but hard like "BAM"! When I push the shift button it hits so hard i'm afraid it's going to shear off the dogs on the gears. I don't completely understand how that automatic shifts into gear without a clutch? If it's that centrifugal thing then it acts like the oil is too thick. I never shift until the temperature gauge is at least one bar now and that helps a little...

 

[KrazySpyderRider]

Thanks Bob

Checked clutch fluid, level was low. Added DOT 4. Will update tomorrow after a chance to ride when temp is low.

 

[Chupaca]

Little checking..!!

clutch fluid level and oil. Make sure you are running recommended oil or same spec oil and the level is good. Check clutch fluid level and the condition of the fluid. If dirty, contaminated or contains moisture replace it. These are good starting points....good luck..!! :thumbup:

 

[KrazySpyderRider]

Smooth Sailing

Thanks folks. Adding clutch fluid solved the issue. Just got back after a test run and still got a big smile on my face... Could be that it's frozen in place but it worked.hyea:

 

[finless]

Thanks folks. Adding clutch fluid solved the issue. Just got back after a test run and still got a big smile on my face... Could be that it's frozen in place but it worked.hyea:

Great to hear! :clap:
Glad I could help. I think your the first person I helped with a solution
I happen to have a SM5 and with 3K on it, my fluid was a little low but I was not having shifting problems yet. It's something to always check along with your oil, coolant, and break fluid!

Bob