Hi, i just bought a used 2007 Harley sportster 1200c. It only has 1300 miles on it. I rode it a little when i got it but not much because it wasnt shifting right. it went into 1st and 2nd fine but would not go into 3rd. I then called a harley dealer and they told me it probably just needed a clutch adjustment.After taking it for another ride i realized i could get it to shift into the other gears if i continuisly tapped the shifter down a little bit after each gear.Well finally i got it up to the harley dealer to adjust the clutch when they told me the bad news. They said the bike didnt have a drop of transmission oil in it. I do not understand this, the bike only has 1300 miles on it how could it possibly have no trans oil. The mechanic said it has no leaks either. Then were did the oil go? They put oil in it and its still not running right. So they said theyre going to have to take it apart again to try to see what damage was done. They said the transmission was bone dry!!!!!!!!!!!! This dosnt make any sense. Does anyone have have any suggestions on why this would happen? Also what damage do you think was done?

 

Goof question, the tranny in my 99 RKC started shifting funny too, it wants to stick in 1st gear, and was difficult to shift to other gears, I check the fluid and it was only down about 1.5 oz.s from full, I can't believe being down that much would hurt the tranny, but it still wants to stick in 1st gear, and some times I have to reach down and yank it up with my hand, after I drive it a little ways it seams to shift like it is supposed to, so I would like to know the answer also, and I would be interested in knowing what damage is done to your trans.
Terry

 

The good news is that it only had 1300 miles on it.

I imagine the previous owner would have an interesting story.

 

I can just imagine what HD will charge for this ! Engine out splitting the cases Good God

 

My bike is a 99, the problem I had was a shift paul adjustment, as I understand it the newer bikes do not have this adjustment.
I hope all turns out well for you HarleyJohn, and you do not take to much of a beating.
Terry

 

No oil 1300 miles? I would suspect the guy went in for the 1000 mile service and the tech forgot to refill the trans. See if you can get the service paperwork from the guy and go back on the dealer. Just a hunch.

FWIW, this would not be the first post about this on here.

Also, one more reason I change my own oil.

 

Good time to install a Baker F6F transmission.