Ive searched these forums and found threads with similar problems but no real answer why. Sometimes when I shift from first to second it droops back into neutral. I sometimes find myself trying two or three times and it still drops down. Sometimes the indicator light stays off but its not in any gear. Ends up I have to hold the shifter lever up with my foot as I release the clutch.
This doesnt happen all the time, and I dont shift hard or abuse my bike, but I dont shift like a wuss either. I think Im doing it the same way every time but once in a while this happens. If anyone knows what the problem is would be a big help.

 

Hey there! Did you ever find out what teh problem was. I have an 01 883 hugger with 2800 miles that is doing the same thing!

 

I'm no expert on this, but I suspect your shifter drum needs adjusting.

 

Sounds like a weak or broken shifter drum spring. Or the pawl needs adjusting because it is not moving far enough to engage the drum correctly.