"6/24/24 Review on JesBuilt shift detent bearing
Installed on 1980 Honda CB750K - Bike owned by author for 20 years and 84k miles
I have been a very happy owner of my 1980 CB750K for 20 years now. This motorcycle has
seen all types of riding in my time and had careful and regular maintenance since I purchased
the bike. I have lovingly repaired, modified and ridden this bike and I never miss an
opportunity to make the motorcycle better either through modification and updates or
correcting any issues that may arise.
When out riding I regularly spend 2-8 hrs in the seat searching for technical roads to test the
motorcycle on. This reliable machine isn't my only motorcycle, but it is my heaviest and least
willing to flick into a turn. All the same I treat it like we are on the last lap at the Isle of Man
trying to eke out a few tenths on the clock. That is my fancy way of saying this old girl gets
regular visits to redline and W.O.T. is not at all foreign to it on the back roads of Northern
California.
When Jes posted on FB that he had a bearing upgrade for the shift drum detent available it
peaked my interest. My Honda, as many Hondas already have a decent shift feel. I can
immediately compare it to other motorcycles like my 74 Norton Commando or my ‘97 Ducati
900ss. Of the 3 the Honda has the most consistent and predictable shift.
I was happy to see the installation notes provided. The instructions are clear, short and
simple. Disassemble, Drill, remove, install, torque to spec and re-assemble. I am
paraphrasing of course, but to the person familiar with their bike, this modification will need
little instruction. The person just jumping into the excellent world of the DOHC Hondas, some
basic mechanic tools and a factory manual will fill the gaps on how to get there and general
procedure. Jes also being readily available is a big bonus.
I time all my repairs on my motorcycles as I have been a mechanic for some time. Clocking
in and out of a job is a habit. I had my bike on the lift and back off running in 1 hr and 30 min. I
spent a few minutes “while I was there” cleaning and checking the condition of my clutch
basket, gasket surfaces, wire routing etc.
One thing to note. When I was looking at the original detent wheel that was about to be
replaced, I saw that the diameter of the wheel did not match the cutout on the detent on the
shift drum. There was a small but obvious difference in the 2 with the drums cutout being
smaller. There was no obvious wear. The new roller bearing is smaller. I placed the bearing
on the detent plate and found the fit of the bearing to be almost exact. I assumed this may
make the feel of the shifting “notchy” but as you’ll read this was not the case
First test ride within the neighborhood showed an immediate difference. The shifting was
smooth, very fast and felt almost effortless as any intentional pressure on the shift lever
resulted in a fast and crisp shift. It feels like this bearing wheel actually provides forward
movement of the shift drum.
Very excited, I planned a long ride. A couple weeks pass as the weather here in Northern
California has been hot enough to melt even the hardest of riders. I was able to escape the
heat for a morning ride today.
What a wonderful difference. The bikes shifting is very consistent. From off the driveway cold
to a well warmed up engine (approx 3 hrs total ride time). Predictable, crisp and confidence
inspiring. No missed shifts or false neutrals. Finding neutral rolling into a stop or after stopped
was better than original and did not fault once.
I can't say enough good about this. I am happy to recommend this to anyone with a DOHC
Honda
It’s a rare occasion when a part can make a good thing better. I spend most of my days
reversing the ravages of time and damage of bad aftermarket parts, but JesBuilt has nailed it.
Such a simple piece that makes a very obvious difference. I will be purchasing another for
my big bore track bike and likey a 3rd for my project racer.
Thank you JesBuilt. Solid product and great upgrade for our old Hondas."