Shifting Issue

[badgertom]

I recently purchased a 1980 Yamaha XS400GS. When shifting from 1st to 2nd , 3rd, etc. I do not sense or feel that the bike is going inot the next gear (nor do I hear a "click"). Most of the time I believe the bike actually goes into gear and rides okay. I changed the drive plates and springs but this did not help. Is the problem with the transmission? (Is there a problem with the shift detent?) Anyway can someone help?

[coffee_brake]

Always try the easy/simple stuff first. If you haven't already, have you tightened up the clutch cable? for its age, is the clutch cable stretched out beyond use? There should be just a little free play at the lever, maybe 1/4". Some of the older bikes have another clutch adjust inside the engine cover where the cable goes, you can check that too.

Of course you are using good fresh oil, not some goop that may be years old?