I have a '65 XLCH that has always had a tricky clutch. When I bought the bike, we rebuilt the top end and at the time I was told the clutch was "going to be what its going to be". At that time, it meant that when the clutch was fully engaged and you were at a stop light, the bike would still slightly pull forward. Although this would happen, with both feet down you could restrain the bike. 6 years later its worse. I don't bother with 1st gear when riding. I usually kick it over and slam it into second. When at a stop light I am cautious to find neutral before coming to a stop. It does shift fairly well into 3rd and 4th when riding. Although the clutch cable does not have much play, and the clutch worm has been recently replaced, if sitting at a stop light and your in 2nd with the clutch engaged, you have to also use the break and idle up a bit to keep from stalling. The bike will also skip gears from time to time when shifting. What do I need to do to make this bike shift properly and is it a repair I can do myself? I'm fairly handy and not afraid to take something apart to figure it out.
Much thanks!

 

If you're even a little bit mechanically inclined, this is an easy job. Get a stock replacement cable and a Barnett's clutch. Also get a service manual. Replace the cable and clutch, and adjust according to the manual. That should fix you up, although there could be some problems with the shift forks due to being kicked all those years, but let's not borrow trouble. Fix the easy **** first!