I have had my 2002 ST1100 (~53000 mi) about 1.5 years. I’m having some symptoms that make me wonder if the clutch is going out. What's happening is the clutch engages at the very end of the lever travel. It didn't seem to be this way when I first bought it but I can’t say for sure that it was ever much better. It’s not slipping in any gear that I have noticed. The only other issue is that when it’s cold out (below about 60 deg. F I guess) the clutch will make a squelching noise (almost like squealing a tire) when engaging from a dead stop. I always let off and re-engage the clutch a little slower and sometimes it will squelch a second time. I plan to bleed the clutch system first to rule that out but I really don’t know if that’s a logical fix for these symptoms or not. Do I just need a new clutch? Any advice will be much appreciated.
ST1100 clutch engages at very end of lever travel
- Thread starter Nolan-GA
- Start date
bdalameda
PaleoCyclist
The squealing squelching sound is called clutch chatter - it is usually caused by additives used to lower friction in automotive oils. Using an oil made for the wet clutches formulated for motorcycles will prevent this. It happens much more often when the oil is cold. Usually does not hurt anything but it is annoying. Regarding the reduced play in the clutch. A couple of things to try: Lubricate the clutch lever pivot bolt and make sure the clutch master cylinder is clean inside. If the clutch master cylinder is dirty it can plug the small orifice inside that bleeds the pressure off when you release the clutch lever and this will gradually tighten the feeling of the clutch throw so that the clutch will feel like it goes to the end of the throw to release. Eventually the clutch can be held on and cause slippage if this continues. I would carefully clean out the clutch master cylinder making sure all the small orifices are clear and bleed with fresh fluid.
Dan
Dan
Last edited:
It is quite normal that the clutch works with very little movement of the lever. This "issue" has been mentioned by those new to ST ownership for many years. Cable operated clutches have a bit of loose play in the mechanism, but a hydraulic clutch starts working as soon as you start to pull in the lever. There is absolutely no need to pull the lever more than a half inch to release the clutch plates.
If you are not having any problems, other than that noise that may be resolved as Dan said, forget it.
If you are not having any problems, other than that noise that may be resolved as Dan said, forget it.
Also check out the brass bit in the clutch lever assembly as these can get worn and cause problems. There are previous threads on this site with detailed instructions and the part numbers to order replacement parts if needed. Hope this helps.
Slydynbye
Will ride for Pie
Ditto, the VFR lever is adjustable. You can reduce the ridiculous reach required to grab the Clutch.
Just double check the style as some VFR levers aren't the same. Also the if you have an ABSII the lever for the CBR1100xx will work.
ReSTored
Site Supporter
I have the same bike and same "end of travel" engagement situation. 120,000 km or about 75,000 miles. As Bush has noted I think it's a function of a hydraulic clutch. Clutch works fine and no slippage so no issue for me.
John OoSTerhuis
Life Is Good!
+2 This is a known, required periodic maintenance issue. I’m on my third brass bushing at 190K. Have a look; an easy quick check!
John
The Cheese
I don't have much to add here that isn't said already. I just replaced the lever and bushing on mine. The lever was floppy and drove me nuts. Could even hear it rattle at idle! Worked just fine tho. 14 & 2 on the pic below. Check #1 for wear n straightness. I have not had to replace one yet. But I have only had two 11s so far.
Normal to barely touch the lever and the clutch starts to slip. Lever needs to be almost all the way out to engage fully.
14. LEVER, L. HANDLE
53178-KE8-006
2. BUSH
22885-MB0-006
Normal to barely touch the lever and the clutch starts to slip. Lever needs to be almost all the way out to engage fully.
14. LEVER, L. HANDLE
53178-KE8-006
2. BUSH
22885-MB0-006
Thanks so much guys. Great information. Thanks the fast replies. My clutch lever is slightly loose and I can hear it rattle at certain rpms. I'll be looking it over this weekend.