Harley-Davidson Gear Shift Linkage and Neutral Issues

If you are experiencing Harley neutral issues, “hard neutral,” or having a tough time shifting your Harley, you may need to address your Harley-Davidson gear shift linkage as an assembly. Sometimes, misaligned shifter linkage splines will be obvious to diagnose. Other times you may need to examine the assembly more closely.

As Bob explains, proper clutch adjustment should always be confirmed. When attempting to fix a Harley-Davidson gear shift linkage issue, verify correct adjustment at the clutch pack and in the cable per your service manual’s specific requirements for your year, make, and model. Also, be confident that your clutch lever is capable of completing full travel. Sometimes, path of travel can be limited, or cut short by an oversized, after-market hand grip, or possibly some other add-on.

If your shift arms are not properly aligned or your Harley-Davidson gear shift linkage is set to an incorrect length, you may experience binding, which will limit or diminish your leverage. If you are replacing or reinstalling the stock shift linkage on your Harley, it is important to assemble it back to the exact position it was in previously. When installing an after-market shift assembly, it is important to try to copy the original, stock, and configuration whenever possible to achieve the same correct leverage.

Last but not least, always set your foot lever(s) for correct function and for rider comfort. When setting your forward-most lever, be sure to allow for the boots that you will most typically ride with. When set correctly, you should be able to up-shift without having to lift your entire leg in an awkward motion. If your bike is equipped with a heel shift, be sure that you have enough clearance between the lever and your floorboard. If the lever is set too low, it may have a limited path of travel that will restrict or limit your up-shift.

How often should I check my Harley-Davidson gear shift linkage?

It is important to inspect your shift linkage assembly regularly. Try looking it over every time you check your lights and tire pressure. If pinch bolts become loose, remove them, clean them, and reinstall to factory torque specs with Loctite.

If shift arm splines or shaft splines are worn, the components should be replaced. If a shifter shaft is to be replaced, it is also important to replace shifter shaft bushings at that time.

Proper shift leverage is very important. Whether you are riding a 2015 Touring model or a 1989 Sportster, the theory is the same.

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