The clutch / clutch cable on my wife's 2005 XL883 is too tight. I've adjusted the clutch, as per the shop manual and lubed the crap out of the cable, using synthetic oil. It's still too tight. I'd say about 50% tighter than my Softail's clutch cable.
What makes you believe it is too tight? The pressure you need to exert when you pull the lever in compared to your softail? Has it always been a bear or just after it was adjusted?
Did you start by loosening the clutch cable then taking off the Derby cover then remove the locknut and spring and adjust the adjusting screw first?
I never had a bad cable..........But I am sure others had. Only take a few minutes to pull the cable off and give it a tug at one end to see if it is binding.
Yes to your questions. It takes more exertion to pull in the clutch on the Sportster. I followed the directions exactly as stated in the manual. I guess now I should ask is it all right once I feel tension on the adjusting screw to back it off more than 1/4 of a turn? Will this help or mess up the clutch?
Clutch too tight 
Linear Mode
