How To Make A Harley-Davidson Clutch Easier To Pull

The clutch is one of the most important parts of a Harley-Davidson motorcycle. It acts as a connection point between the engine and the transmission, disconnecting the two when pulled so gears can safely and efficiently shift. Frustratingly, this essential lever can become hard to pull over time, with a host of internal components potentially being to blame. The less common form of Harley clutch is the hydraulic variety, which can become hard to pull due to air making its way into the line or the hydraulic fluid being low or in need of refreshing. For the more common cable clutch system, the first and simplest method to get the lever moving is simply lubricating your clutch cable.

All you have to do for this method is disconnect the clutch cable from the lever on your handlebar — first loosening the cable adjuster on the lower section of the motorcycle to lessen cable tension — and apply your chosen cable lubricant to the housing. You might not even have to go this far, since something as minor as an improperly tightened cable can make clutch pulling more difficult than it should be. This can be remedied by using the aforementioned adjuster. Alternatively, you can look into the more involved solution of installing an easy pull clutch kit, like that from Muller Power. These additions are intended to make the clutch pull smoother, reducing muscle strain in one's hand while riding.

Unfortunately, sometimes these more straightforward solutions won't be enough. Theoretically, Harleys should last a while with regular maintenance, but in time, part replacements may be in order. An increasingly difficult-to-pull clutch could even be a symptom of bigger internal issues.

If you ride often, or your Harley is generally older, a tightening clutch may mean some parts need to be replaced. A worn-out clutch lever and its associated hardware may need to be swapped out, especially if the pivot pin that connects it to the handlebar is dirty or rusty and inhibiting movement. In a similar vein, an old and worn clutch cable could be in need of replacement. The point of connection where the lever and cable meet can be a point of wear and tear, ultimately leading the cable to fray with repeated movement or, worse yet, snap off entirely.

Ideally, part replacements and maintenance will be enough to keep your clutch lever moving smoothly. With that said, the average motorcycle clutch will only last so long before needing to be replaced, with no amount of lubrication, adjustment, or small part swaps being enough to save it. In addition to your Harley's clutch lever being difficult to pull or even being stuck, other signs of a failing clutch include unpleasant sounds and smells coming from your motorcycle, concerningly abrupt and jerky gear shifts, or unusual revving patterns. At this point, it's recommended to have your Harley looked at by a professional and repaired as needed.

No matter how you look at it, a tight Harley clutch lever needs to be taken seriously. Best-case scenario, it will only take a minor fix to get moving again, without much more to worry about in terms of your ride's overall health. If not, there's a good chance the remedy could be a bit more extensive and potentially require professional help.