I read the manual concerning the clutch adjustment since I had some play at the lever.

Would it be safe to say that adjusting the cable is like adjusting where the clutch catches? I like to ride where the clutch catches a little after I release it. Right now, it's set up where I let it out about maybe an inch and it catches. I don't want it that way. I turned the adjuster away from the lock nut and it took away the play I had. Can I just keep going away from the lock nut and have the clutch catch sooner? Will that hurt anything?

Also, how would I know if I need to adjust the clutch under the cover?

 

you an adjust the cable however you want it to act. the proper way to adjust the cable is in your service manual, and if you don't have it, then it's another 60 bucks you gotta spend if you plan on keeping the bike. i believe the clearance at the clutch lever is between 1/16" and 1/8". the actual clutch adjustment is made behind the derby cover.

 

Yep, what Jim said..
You want the clutch to engage with the lever all the way out?? Hard to use the friction zone that way...you only have engaged and disengaged that way..

 

If I'm reading the OP's post correctly, I think he wants it to begin engaging as soon as he begins to release the clutch lever. If so, I'd be concerned about the clutch not completely dis-engaging when the lever was pulled in. I could be wrong, though...

 

You have to leave more free play in the cable because it goes through the fairing

 

That's right, but not right away. Just more than it is now.

Do I adjust the cable for this? No need to remove the derby cover right?

 

If all your looking for is more or less play in the handle just adjust the cable there is no need to remove the derby cover. A little adjustments goes along way, like other have said if you adjust it to much the clutch may not engage or disengage which ever direction you are wanting to go.

 

You might be right..either way...all the way out or all the way in,doesnt seem like it would work right...and yeah,adjusting it that close to the grip,I too would wonder about full disengagement.
Still no room to play with the friction zone...

 

just moved the friction point today. Adjusted the cable into factory specs, probably around .090. Gives me more feather room.

 

Yeah..I like my friction zone at about the 1/2 way point..