Does replacing the clutch on a stock virago xv535 require removing the exhaust system?
i don't think that you would need to touch the exhaust system as their on oposite sides. I would take it to a bike shop to get it done also as they know what their doing.
step one of any repair is to read your shop manual! I am a certified H.D. and Honda tech and I still refer to the shop manual before starting any repair. However your exhaust system is on the right side and your clutch is on the left side.You should be able to do this job without touching the exhaust. How are you going to compress the clutch springs? You do realise that you need to do that to get the bolts off and clutch plates out?
