Had the same problem with my 2003 - 1800R on the 3rd day after buying from original owner. I felt sick. Thought the tranny was toast or something major was wrong. Stealer "diagnosed" it over the phone as more than likely a bent sifter fork. Said they would have to pull motor, split case and "inspect". He said this problem is most commonly caused by abuse so extended Honda warranty probably would not cover. I went online and discovered that others had experiecned the same problem. Solution is (as the earlier replies suggest) to remove shifter, clean, lube (I used white lithum grease) and replace. I also removed chrome cover just aft of the shifter to expose and remove the shift linkage which has rubber dust covers over the ball joints. I pushed back the rubber covers, cleaned and lubed the ball joints then slid the rubber covers back in place. Works perfectly.
No wonder they are called Stealerships.
