My kids 2001 LT 80 ran awsome when I bought it used about a year ago. Was very well used when purchased but ran like a champ, except for a slow pick up. NOW it still has poor pick up and doesnt seem to hit its top speed any more. Clocked it at 25 with my Prarie 650, now it wont crest 20. Seems like it is winding out, but there is no power to the top end. Revs up but has nothing to show for it. I first thought that it might be a belt slipping at top rev. I changed the belt and the problem is still there. Also I test rode one (lt80) before buying this one and that one would stand up from a standstill, TOTAL POWER!!! Now this one, as the other one sold 20minutes after
I went to the ATM for the cash, is slow off of the line, decent power, but no pick up, decent mid range, no top end. I hate telling my son that I dont know what the problem is, someone please help this cash strapped father.........LT80, if you read this, please say you can solve it!!! Anyone else with any suggestions????

 

First of all you need to do a compression test to see if the engine is healthy..I'm thinking you also may have some transmission problems if you are getting lots of rpms but no top speed..Are the rollers in the variator ok(front clutch)?

 

Not to sure how to check the rollers, explain what I m looking for??

 

It has strong low end and mid range, just seems like the power and speed peter out once it its 3/4ths throttle. Plenty of noise like it wants to hook up, just no gusto! Happened all of a sudden....

 

I agree w/yeller.
Compression would be good to know. rollers also.
When you put the belt on:: Front clutch,under the belt (motor side) the big round hub, that's where the rollers are.
Plugged pipe,spark plug cap loose or blew off are a cpl other things top look at.
Might as well clean the carb well too.

 

Basically the variator works on centrifugal force..The higher the rpms the harder the little rollers are pressed against the ramps which makes them roll to the top and force the variator to close. This pushes the belt up higher and changed the gear ratio..If they are worn or one has gotten flipped on its side it may be preventing the variator from closing up all the way which is like leaving your car in second gear.It might also just be all gummed up with dust and crap...I would take it apart and inspect and clean it.The rollers may have flat spots on them as well.Anything that prevents it from opening smoothly could be part of the problem...The rear works a little different.It opens up with speed and has a spring to keep it closed at lower rpms....It may need a good cleaning too as they tend to get filled with dust.....I'm hoping LT80 or someone will jump in here as I have no actual experience with an LT80 but most of the CVT style bikes have similar design so there problems are usually similar as well.