Whats causing this?

[bristolmod]

When trying to kick start the Lambretta, the K/S sometimes goes to the floor although there is some resistance (i.e. its NOT the K/S ratchet faulty). Its like the clutch plates are not transmitting the motion to the rear sprocket; the chain; and in turn the piston.

Eventually it will kick over as normal, and the engine fires OK.

Once running there is NO clutch slip and the scooter performs well.

I would have thought that if the clutch plates/ springs were "iffy" then this would also be noticed when the scooter was running, but its not.

Any ideas before I dismantle the clutch? The oil is correct and the tension on the handlebar lever is correct

Chris

[tony]

Does sound like clutch mate. What may be happening is as the motor warms the steels expand slightly and it may just be enough to hold. I would change it and go from there.

OR the kickstart shaft itself is rubbing on the clutch as you kick , pressing down on the top plate sending the clutch askew and slippage is occurring due to this

Either way have the side case off and have a look.

[bristolmod]

thanks Tony. I used the bike yesterday afternoon after my initial post and no problems at all. Also kicked over fine this morning.

No doubt there is something amiss somewhere so I'll replace clutch and springs in due course.Thanks for your help

Chris

[ArmandTanzarian]

Could be the cable getting stuck and not releasing the clutch sometimes