Cannot push start bike.

1982 650. I am able to turn the motor freely (as well as good compression) using the 19mm flats under the timing cover, however when I bought the machine I tried to move the motor by turning the rear wheel and could not. I even tried to push the bike and only managed to drag the tire.
Is this normal for shaft drive bikes?

 

It is more dicfficult to turn the engine via the rear wheel, but it should turn. Try it on the center stand in 5th (to turn the engine, not to start), or give her a really good run before releasing the cluch, or find a slight down-grade.


If you find that the transmission is locked up it may be because of a broken alternator chain guide being jammed in the gears.

 

Should have mentioned, clutch works (will disengage rear wheel from engine) and rear wheel will turn with engine while turning the 19mm.

 

OK then. You just need to run faster
You might have an easier time putting it into second. That will give you a bit more advantage once you let the clutch out.

You are holding the clutch in while pushing, aren't you?

I had to bump-start mine several times when my starter failed on the way back from a multi-day trip. Not so much fun in the 105ºF heat, but she started up on th first push once I got the technique down.

 

HA