Not VMX, RT100 neutral selection problems

[Stewart Allen]

Hi guys, my nephew has just got his first bike a used 2000 model RT100. Reasonably tidy, he brought it round for a check over etc. The problem selecting neutral -

Not running - can select OK
Running with bike moving - can select OK
Not moving but with motor running cannot get neutral for love or money, can get 1st, try to jiggle it up to neutral and get either no movement or straight to second.

We are going to try dropping the oil & replacing with ATF, although I don't have high hopes.

Does anyone have any suggestions

[Doc]

Not sure how the yammie setup is but it maybe the spring on the selector drum locator that needs replacing. It's the spring that holds the little indent roller that actually locates neutral..maybe this spring is weak and allowing the roller to bypass the neutral indent?? New oil may help but I've found many bikes I've owned don't like selecting neutral without a little bit of a rock back and forward anyway. Not experienced with yams though sorry.. on the same note on most bikes I've always selected neutral before the bikes comes to complete stop to save said frustration especially on the big 400 as it is not primary kick setup and cannot be kick started if it's in gear 

shit I keep editing sorry but I just thought of another thing..if the clutch is a little sad it could be when the engine is idling with the clutch disengaged for any length of time it may simply be fading and causing a slight drag or load upon the gear cluster which in turn will make it impossible to select. Crappy oil can cause/accentuate this fade also..Clutch cable adjustment? 3 or 4mm freeplay max at the lever measured at lever where the cable enters in relation to the edge of the lever perch. Pretty bulletproof model so I doubt it would be too serious and mybe a common trait with this model..??

[Stewart Allen]

Thanks Doc, did try clutch adjustment which was my first thought it didn't matter whether there was no free play still had the same problem, also tried the rocking back and forward without even realising it, looks like it might be that detent spring, but will wait and see what results from the change in oil.

It would not be a problem for me either but as this is young nephews first bike & he is learning the clutch/thottle gear concept, it will make it easier if he can select neutral. My boys experienced the same learning as you on your 400, however they were learning on a XL70 (no primary kick), they learnt quickly not to stall it.   

Thanks for your help.