On my '08 XL1200C with 21K miles, this little issue has developed.

About half the time, when I go to shift into 2nd, it stops in neutral. I'm shifting with the same amount of force as I ever have--this is a recent development. Another flick of the shifter and I get it into 2nd no problem.

Any ideas why this would start happening?

 

Could be clutch adjustment.

 

Adjust clutch & shift pawl. Check linkage for too much play and adjust accordingly.

There is a 2005XL service manual here on pdf http://www.sendspace.com/file/h952ae

The clutch adjustment should be the same. Pretty easy.

 

Thanks, guys.

It's a recent development and never happened to me on any of my other bikes (Harley and non-Harley).

appreciate the advice.