2003 Yamaha YZF-R6

Q:My clutch lever has always been stiff since I got the bike in December 2014. I’ve changed the cable and all the clutch pressure and friction plates. The stack is 43mm, thick pressure plate in first then the two thin friction plates alternated with the rest, and I still have the same problem. I fitted the original springs to see if the new ones were heavy duty ones, still the same. My friendly mechanic is as mystified as I am! Gary Davidson

A:Your description of the layout of the clutch itself and the fact that you have bought a new cable (is it genuine Yamaha though?) is a good sign but I do think the way forward here is to get hold of the Yamaha manual and check absolutely everything to do with the lever, cable and its routing, operating mechanism and clutch itself. I can tell you it is extremely comprehensive on this subject, taking you through every aspect that can be checked, including clutch lever free play and how to adjust it, the exact way to route the cable, all the measurements and checks for the clutch and setting up the operating mechanism including even which type of grease to use. If you follow all these recommendations it simply MUST work properly! cmm