Clutch failure (or something)

[lpraden]

Hey all, I posted something previously on clutch slippage etc, and the dealer advised it was related to a bad clutch cable. I agree the cable was "kinked", however, they couldn't explain how it became that way.

I told the dealer (Winchester Sports, VA which seems to be a good dealer) that I thought there might be more to it than a cable, I noticed that the tension on the clutch was non existent, i.e. wasn't even enough to reseat the lever, however I was assured this related to the cable kink. so I ordered a new cable.

Well guess what, new cable sent to my home, installed and adjusted everyway possible, and NO CLUTCH, which of course leads me to the obvious, it is in complete failure.

Before I go to the trouble of towing the R3 to the dealer (50 miles) and having it out of commission for several weeks I'm sure, any thoughts on the cause? Just for information it is a 2006 model with a VIN of the last four being 5680. I am a very light driver, have not abused the bike in any way, and it only has 1900 miles on it. Is there an easy fix? I doubt it, and should I spend $$$ on a non-triumph clutch which would be more durable, consistent and reliable, which I would then purchase prior to towing the R3 to the dealer........

 

[martyn]

I would take it back to the dealer or get them to collect it as it is still under warranty.. ask if they do a loaner bike as well.

unless you are going to start putting a Turbo or a super charger the standard clutch is fine, i've done 11,000 miles in 7 months & no problems.

I think you have just got one with a duff clutch unfortunately but hey, that's what a 2 year warranty is for

Hope you get it sorted soon

 

[Thunderbolt]

Cable

When I took my lever off while re-routing the cable, I noticed that there was a lot of play in it. Could it be that you just need to re-orient the cable/lever? Does it feel as if you are compressing the springs?
I marked the shaft and lever and had a hard time getting all lined up again.

 

[lpraden]

I think I've tried about everything on alignment of the levers, etc, I'm thinking at this point the clutch doesn't exist, I know the clutch wasn't partially engaged for 1900 miles, I've gotten excellent performance from the machine, but something happened and I don't know what......

 

[TurboFan]

Better let the dealer sort this one out. I am reassured about the stock clutch. The springs may not be able to keep it from slipping a little, but even with my fat ass on the bike and I tend to right as hard as I can, and my 11,000 mile old bike had about 4,000 miles of demo rides on it. The clutch had insignificant wear when serviced , I had already bought a new pack, but will save it for later!

 

[rubber2burn]

Get the dealer to check , especially if something has broken up inside , causing debris in your oil . :?

 

[lpraden]

Well I took the advice and had the bike towed to the dealer for the paltry sum of $200.00 (usd) since it's fifty miles from my residence. It was no sooner delivered than I got a call from the dealership advising that something was broken inside (actuator?) and it would be most likely covered under warranty which is good news. As soon as I find out what the exact problem was I will post it so others may be aware of similar occurences. Terribly frustrating.

Also, I called U.S. Triumph customer service number prior to towing the machine and was given a major b.s. runaround about assuming the cost of the tow if it was a warranty covered matter, i.e. they didn't want to cover it. They were completely worthless and trying to counter my argument every which way but loose. Not a good way to instill customer loyalty...... I'll try again when I obtain a full disclosure of the problem