Does it lurch forward when you put it in 1st? If it has sat for many years the clutch plates might be stuck.
With the bike on the centerstand and the rear tire free to turn pull in the clutch and try shifting into 1st. If the motor continues to run that means the electrical systems for the clutch, neutral and side stand interlocks are OK. If that's the case, the rear brake can be used while running on the centerstand to free the clutch. With the motor running, keep the clutch lever pulled in, select 1st and start applying the rear brake. You might have to give it some gas while doing this if the plates are badly stuck. The plates will be free when you can hold the rear wheel still using the rear brake while idling in 1st with the clutch lever pulled in.
If the clutch frees up doing this, consider replacing the fiber plates. Once they get sticky they usually stay sticky.
Good Ridin'
slmjim & Z1BEBE
A biker looks at your engine and chrome.
A Rider looks at your odometer and tags.
1973 ('72 builds) Z1 x2
1974 Z1-A x2
1975 Z1-B x2
1993 CB 750 Nighthawk x2
2009 ST1300A
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