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Possible Clutch problem

T

TomFowler

Joined Jun 2013
14 Posts | 0+
Nantwich
Hi All,

If anyone can shed some light on this, it'd be most helpful.

When accelerating hard, not every time, but 50/50, when it gets to approximately 7500-8500 revs, it feels as if the clutch is being held in slightly, it over revs, then finds itself again all within about a second. I'm not sure where to even start on the troubleshooting of it, but if anyone has had or has heard of similar problems, could you let me know so I can start to sort the problem out!
 
My 2008 RSV is doing exactly the same thing.
Revs get to around 7500-8500 revs and it feels (and sounds) like the clutch is slipping.
But no problems with it at other revs.
Only done 3500 miles, so can't be the plates.
I've heard some valve that replicates a slipper clutch on downchanges can cause slippage problems.
But I'm stumped as to what to do next as well.
I don't want to pay £80 + fitting for new clutch plates if it's not those that are the problem.
 
Have either of you changed the oil recently? The wrong grade can cause a small amount of clutch slip.
 
Not sure what oil dealer used.
Luckily by mate is workshop manager and I'm out with him tonight so I will ask.
I'm also going to replace that air vacuum valve thing and get the clutch bled.
After that I suppose new plates.
 
Im sure its not plates, it would slip at all revs especially low down when your using the motors torque.
 
RSV 69 said:
Im sure its not plates, it would slip at all revs especially low down when your using the motors torque.
Click to expand...

I think you're right, it doesn't make sense.
I'll try new oil + bleed + new vacuum valve.
Have trackdays looming, need it sorted!
 
7500-8500rpm is where peak torque occurs, so if it's likely to slip it'll be here. The wrong type of engine oil is a likely cause, especially considering the low mileage.
 
ride4fun said:
7500-8500rpm is where peak torque occurs, so if it's likely to slip it'll be here. The wrong type of engine oil is a likely cause, especially considering the low mileage.
Click to expand...

Cheers
What is the best oil spec?
My mate says it's definitely fully synthetic in it.
Confused looks from him as he didn't think if would be a problem.
They're not an official Aprilia dealer, but do get them through the shop.
 
This is where I'll probably contradict myself, as I use Silkolene's Comp 4 15W-50 engine oil, which is a synthetic oil, but suitable for semi-synthetic applications. I've been using it in my bike for three years/10,000 miles, and I've had no clutch issues.
 
Would Motul 5100 fit the bill?
It seems to be available in 5L bottles, which I think I need?
Others only seem to come in 4L bottles.
 
Bol D'or said:
Would Motul 5100 fit the bill?
It seems to be available in 5L bottles, which I think I need?
Others only seem to come in 4L bottles.
Click to expand...

I'm not an oil expert, but it seems to use Ester technology the same as the brand that I am using. I checked the Motul website, and it is one that they recommend, although it says it comes in 1L, 2L and 4L cans, or larger drums, but not 5L. I always buy 4L + 1L for top-ups. The only way to be sure is to try it, or from someone elses experience.
 
Ordered Motul 5100 + K&N oil filter + new oil seal for filter housing.
Hopefully this will be the end of clutch clip!
Will, of course, advise back on this thread.
Thanks all for help, really appreciated.
 
Ooh, one more thing
Should I do some sort of flush to get fully synthetic out?
Will the plates not be 'contiminated' with it now?
 
Bol D'or said:
Ooh, one more thing
Should I do some sort of flush to get fully synthetic out?
Will the plates not be 'contiminated' with it now?
Click to expand...

No need to flush the system; the small amount of the previous oil remaining will be insignificant. As for the clutch plates being contaminated, you'll just have to wait and see if the problem starts to subside over time; I think it probably will.
 
Anyone wanting a KN-152 filter?
That's what I ordered to do the oil change, but I need the longer KN-564.
Can't send the KN-152 back as it's got oil finger prints all over it!
Otherwise as new.
 
Im getting the same thing after yesterdays oil change to Rock Oil Sigma 15W/50 recommended by people from the forum.I had an cluch slipping on Silkolene comp 4 15W/50 but not so bad as now where the bike does it all the time at high revs and Im starting to loose patience for this bike even thou it was my dream bike to buy :/
 
Apologies for tagging on the end of this thread but im not sure how to start a new one.
I have just changed the levers on my bike for shorter ones and on my ride to work this morning my clutch was slipping, not sure if the lever change is just a coincidence but your advise would be greatly received.
The bike is an 02 Mille with 16k miles and generally in great condition - what should i be looking for to get it working again or do i simply need a new clutch?
Anyone in Portsmouth good at fixing these bikes as its my first and my Haynes manual is still shiny new

Thank you
 
Notw1981 said:
Apologies for tagging on the end of this thread but im not sure how to start a new one.
I have just changed the levers on my bike for shorter ones and on my ride to work this morning my clutch was slipping, not sure if the lever change is just a coincidence but your advise would be greatly received.
The bike is an 02 Mille with 16k miles and generally in great condition - what should i be looking for to get it working again or do i simply need a new clutch?
Anyone in Portsmouth good at fixing these bikes as its my first and my Haynes manual is still shiny new

Thank you
Click to expand...

Do your new levers have span adjusters? If so, maybe they need slacking off to relieve the pressure. A partial bleed would probably rectify this issue to suit your new levers. I am miles away from Portsmouth, so can't really pop by to do it for you, but it only takes a few minutes to do.
 
The plot thickens, jumped on the bike to come home through the new forest and it all seemed fine no clutch slippage and perfect power delivery. By the time i hit the motorway the bike had warmed and the clutch began to slip at 45000 RPM and i struggled to maintain any kind of speed.
I have just sat down having pushed my bike the last mile home.

Any ideas what i am to do?

In answer to your question ride4fun it does have a span adjuster but in all the 6 positions i cant say it feels different

Advice greatly received
 

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