Noisy gear changing

[Engn6719]

I have a 2006 ER6F model and as far as I can tell is the same mechanically as the naked version.The question I wish to ask is whether I have a clutch problem or its my crappy gear changing.When shifting from neutral to first whether stationary or moving you get quite loud clunk.Also when upshifting through the lower gears it's a bit of hit and miss as to whether it's a good or noisy change.I don't get a chance to ride very often and my first assumption is that my technique for changing gears is incorrect.
Could somebody enlighten me as to whether it's normal to be a little noisy going into first gear as described plus the noisy upshifting and it's just my technique or is it a clutch problem?

[z900/zx9]

Most bikes will clunck to a degree when engaging first gear,the other shifts should be smooth unless there is a mechanical issue which in that case it would be happening more often than not.

[MadKaw]

Make sure your chain is adjusted correctly and lubed, it makes a big difference to gear changes.

[Engn6719]

Thanks very much for the replies.Yeah I thought if it was a mechanical problem the fault would be present there all the time.I am pretty sure the chain adjustment is ok but will recheck that again.Just think I will have to ride more and more practice.

[dickfaber]

yeah, check the chain adjustment, and make sure the clutch disengages fully when the lever is pulled all the way in too.

but my er6 makes noisy,clunky gear changes when its due for an oil change (usually about 150-250 k's before its due)
try giving it an oil and filter change; cant hurt

[Engn6719]

yeah, check the chain adjustment, and make sure the clutch disengages fully when the lever is pulled all the way in too.

but my er6 makes noisy,clunky gear changes when its due for an oil change (usually about 150-250 k's before its due)
try giving it an oil and filter change; cant hurt

There may be some truth in that as it's coming up for a service.I actually bought the oil and filter today.What brand and grade of oil do you use?

[dickfaber]

yeah, check the chain adjustment, and make sure the clutch disengages fully when the lever is pulled all the way in too.

but my er6 makes noisy,clunky gear changes when its due for an oil change (usually about 150-250 k's before its due)
try giving it an oil and filter change; cant hurt

There may be some truth in that as it's coming up for a service.I actually bought the oil and filter today.What brand and grade of oil do you use?

oil choice? uh oh!




I use motul 5100 (10w40 i think) and genuine kwak filter, cheap and easy(er) to get (that being nearest bike shop is 400 k's away!)

[billwest]

Clutch adjustment?
Is it cable or hydraulic?

[Engn6719]

Clutch adjustment?
Is it cable or hydraulic?

Clutch is cable operated adjusted per the service manual.

dickfaber I am using the same filter and oil.I shall go ahead and do the filter and oil change and see if that improves the situation.
Thanks everyone for the advice.