XJ 750R Will not shift into higher gears

Yamaha XJ 750 1981 will shift into 1st neutral and 2nd. Will not shift into 3,4 or 5. Everything working normally in 1st neutral and 2nd. Ideas?

 

Is your oil level correct? I am assuming your clutch is adjusted properly as you can get 1st and 2nd gears. Take the cover off behind the gear shift pedal and check the mechanism to see if anything is damaged. There is a hole there where you can see into the crankcase with a torch. Try and see the alternator/starter clutch chain guide for damage. Check for small bits of plastic in the oil, check the oil when you drain it. The alternator/starter clutch chain guide can break up and that makes gear selection difficult when plastic bits get into the gears and shift drum. To replace the guide you have to split the crankcase.

 

This is for emergency repairs at the roadside but it will give you an idea of what I referred to above.

https://www.xjcd.org/emergency_guidectomy

 

Awesome! Thank you so much. I am a first-time female owner and just learning the tricks of the trade. Thanks again for the help

 

You are welcome let us know what you find.