Motorcycle Repair: Transmission clunk when changing gears, honda vt1100, shifting gears

Question
I have a 2005 Honda VT1100 Sabre bought new, has made a clunking noise when shifting gears since new, does not lunge forward, bike has 20,000 mi. on it, I use Honda GN4 10-40 oil & change it every 5000mi. Is this normal for this bike? Thank You

Answer
Hi Al.

This is very normal for most bikes.  If you read the really old issues of Road Rider magazine or Rider magazine, you will notice that, when they talk about reviewing the bikes that they test ride, they will often make mention of the bike making a nice, comforting clunk when put into gear.

Worry not.
Enjoy your bike.

Good luck and ride safe.
FALCON