1978 GS750 Parking Lock and speed! HELP!

[Scudder]

Just got in from the first real test ride of my 1978 gs750. Great ride, however I've already got a couple issues. Number 1. I turned the key all the way to the right to lock the front wheel in place, and now I can't get it unlocked. I pushed it in as directed, turned to the right, and removed the key. Everything worked fine. But... now I can't seem to get the front wheel unlocked. Help!!!

Number 2... before the front wheel locking episode, I took it for a good spell down the highway. It wouldn't get over 55mph. Quite a disappointment. It ran smooth, but no acceleration. When I got home I noticed gas leaking from the carb area. I expect the carbs will need kits. Are leaky/dirty carbs capable of ruining acceleration and speed? I expect the answer is yes, but would like feedback from other GS owners.

Thanks
Scudder

[BassCliff]

Greetings and Salutations!!

Hi Mr. Scudder,

You should turn your key all the way to the left when turning off the bike and locking the front wheel. All the way to the right is "Park" which usually turns on the tail light, as for emergency situations on the side of the road.

Yes, your carbs need work. Don't bother with the "rebuild kits" as they don't contain the stuff you really need, and the stuff it does contain is of questionable quality. The complete carb guide is located in the links below. This is how I say "HOoooowwDY!"

Here is your very own magical, mystical, mythical, mind-expanding "mega-welcome". Please take notice of the "Top 10 Common Issues", the Carb Rebuild Series, and the Stator Papers. Now let me roll out the welcome mat for you...

Please click here for your mega-welcome, chock full of tips, suggestions, links to vendors, and other information. Then feel free to visit my little BikeCliff website where I've been collecting the wisdom of this generous community. Don't forget, we like pictures! Not you, your bike!

Thanks for joining us. Keep us informed.

Thank you for your indulgence,

BassCliff

[Scudder]

Still won't unlock

Thanks for the welcome. Just went out, and tried to unlock the front wheel which is on parking and the taillight is on. Still no luck on getting it unlocked. Is there a trick to it that I'm not aware of? The key won't budge from the "all the way right" postition. I have the owner's manuel and it says how to get it locked into park, but doesn't say how to get it out. I suppose.... because you should be able to turn the key to the start position with no hassle.

thanks again,

Scudder

[bonanzadave]

Might have to try to spray some penetrating oil in there. Could be tough if you cant get the key out. Try some WD40 with the little red tube.

[Scudder]

It's come undone.

Finally got it. WD-40 and some jiggling worked. Thanks.

Scudder

[Dave8338]

Now onto your carbs. Easy enought to do and will make that bike run the way it is supposed to. Cliff has set you up with all the info you need. If you have additional questions...just ask. Welcome to the GSR your one stop bike shop, online!