When to change a clutch?

[Mark2910]

Here goes for my 1st newbie biker question. My Sturdy Keeway Speed 125 rarely gives me any grief but recently its started sticking in gear, Doesn't go in neutral right away or when going from 1st to 2nd it can be awkward. the screw around the clutch cable is almost right out and the bite is right at the top of the level. So should i think about ordering a clutch or is it something else?

Thanks in Advance Im a bit wary about taking into a garage as i got quoted £160 for a Service.. and since been told that's a bit steep.

[symonh2000]

[Mark2910]

it doesnt slip at all.. just all the above.. I'll try a new cable then.. gotta be cheaper and easier

[numpty2]

I'd certainly check that cable first. Replacing a clutch can be a big job. Clutch cables normally have adjustment at both ends. Even if you have to replace the cable, it'll be quick & cheap, unlike a clutch change.

£160 for a service is ridiculous. Oil + oil filter + spark plug, I'm guessing £20 in total. If you are going to check the valve clearances you'll need some feeler gauges. Even starting from scratch you won't need to spend more than £40 on tools, and this only once. I'm guessing this is a basic air cooled single cylinder, so maybe 2 hours to do all the work slowly yourself, including 2 cups of tea. Bike servicing is very easy, and the sooner you start the better. You should be able to find instructions for your bike online. There may even be an owners group somewhere (Facebook, Yahoo?).

[GREENI3]

£160 for a service on an air cooled chinese 125?

Sounds like they're trying to rip you off to me.

I paid about £65 at my local dealers, for a full service on my old Lexmoto Street 125, which is basically the same bike as yours.
And that included: valve adjustment, spark plug, air filter, oil filter, fuel filter, oil and 2 hours labour.

Try other garages/dealers for quotes.

£100 tops for a full service on a bike like yours, but even thats a bit too much tbh.

[Mark2910]

[GREENI3]

Buy yourself the Haynes manual for Chinese 125's.
That will be a good resource to start with, for someone such as yourself.

I've bought one for every bike I've had and has always been useful to have a quick read on a job before attempting it.

Best £15 you'll ever spend.