Clutch problem

Hi all,

Got my chaly on the road now and its running well, been having fun cruising around the back lanes in the evenings.
I think the clutch is pretty knackered on it though, when changing into 3rd the revs rise but the bike doesnt go much quicker, especially up hill.

Is repairing this just a case of replacing the clutch plates?
Do i need to replace the springs aswell?
How easy a job is this to do?
Could it just need adjusting?

If anyone could offer any advice on this I would be most grateful.

Cheers
Joe

The first thing to do is make sure the clutch is adjusted correctly and then if it still doesn't work correctly then you need to think about replacement.

For all engine related issues you can do no better than buying a Haynes manual for the Honda C50 & C70, Haynes do not make a manual for the ST70 but the engine is exactly the same so it is money well spent, I bought a new one recently (my old one was VERY old and had seen better days) and it cost me about £10. In the mean time, here is the section about adjustment:-
1. Clutch adjustment is provided by means of an adjustable screw and locknut located in the centre of the clutch cover. Slacken off the 10mm locknut and turn the adjusting screw firstly in the clockwise direction, to ensure there is no end pressure on the clutch pushrod.
2. Turn the adjusting screw anti-clockwise until pressure can be felt on the end. Turn back (clockwise) for approximately 1/8th of a turn, and tighten the locknut, making sure the screw does not turn. Cluct adjustment should now be correct.

If this fails to do the job then the plates will probably need replacing and the springs as well (there is no point doing just half a job). Foget about cheap copies or pattern parts, the genuine items are cheap enough and make there no benefit in buying non-genuine items. You will also need a gasket for the cover and a change of oil. Make sure the cover screws have good heads and have not been mashed up by previous owners, an Allen screw set is only a few £ and makes a tidy job. While you have the cover off make sure you give the bottom of the casing & gauze filter a good clean, you will have to clean the centrfugal filter as you rebuild the clutch assembly.
I did this job myself only a couple of weeks ago as part of my engine rebuild so I can testify it is quite straightforward.

I have just sent you a PM Joe with a link to download the Honda Owners Manual... should save you a few quid!

Many thanks for your prompt and informative reply.

I have adjusted the clutch and it is much better. It does still slip a bit, but I think will be ok for the time being.
Hopefully it will be ok until the winter when I can overhaul it.
Thanks for the tip on the haynes manual. I will be ordering one asap.

Cheers