Disconnect your cable and see if its that. use some WD-40 and spray some on the end of cable, not the casing, then move the cable in and out to work the lube through too the bottom of the cable. When the WD is the same color running out the bottom start the whole process over with some engine oil (like 5w 30), till you get it coming through the bottom. It will take a while but when its done your cable will be cleaned and lubed. If you´re thinking about other products like spray lithium grease Don´t because over time It turns to thicker grease vs. thinner oil and will slowly make the clutch harder too squeeze. Thats what I used the first time and It seemed like a good idea. However 1 month went by and it started to stiffen up again. I used some oil from my bike; clean not dirty; on recommendation from my local bike shop and I haven´t had any trouble since. The cleaning process took much longer than when I oiled It. Also take the cable completely off the bike so you can hold tthe cable straight up and down so the metal cable doesn´t block the flow. I also tied the top part of the metal cable to a broomstick and held the bottom part of the metal cable with my boots. Then I was able to move the casing quicker than when I just held on too it. It would´ve been easier if I´d had a long board I could have tied both cable ends too. Also check the clutch lever for free play with the cable off, if that´s O.K. put the cable back on, adjust it, and then try it. If your clutch is still tough please tell us more! One more thing DON´T lube the brake cable there is a plastic sleeve inside that will swell and make the cable useless. I think a prieveous owner of my SECA found out the hard way. Hope this helps.