Trans help??.... I think

[thePST]

Noob here who could really use some help.

I was riding in my neighborhood yesterday, and down shifted to come up to a stop and the bike locked up on me.  Wouldn't shift, or roll at all even with just the clutch pulled in.  Started up but when I would try and put it in gear the whole bike would sink down for a second and then stall.  Got it towed to my place and then later I tried it again and it magically shifted into gear.  I've been too scared to ride it though, in case this happened on a busy street.  I know it is due for an oil change, along with new rear brake pads and brake fluid.  The only thing I can think is maybe the heat made the rear wheel lock and because I couldn't move it it wouldn't shift.

Any help an advice is greatly appreciated.  Really hoping its not a big transmission issue.

Bike is a 78 750f if that helps with anything.  TIA

[Lucky 1]

It is wise to rev the engine just a bit before downshifting.
You cannot just jam it into gear up or down with high rpms.

IT does not have syncros like a car. There are four shifting dogs(pegs) on the side of a gear
Those 4 pegs have to fit into 4 holes on the gear next to it.

Also check to make sure your clutch is working properly.
Trans is probably ok . a beginner mistake.

[thePST]

I think I normally do rev it a bit. But maybe not consistently enough. I'll pay more attention to that. But can that cause it to lock up like it did? Was it maybe because I was in between gears then?

Also what would I check on the clutch? I need some direction because I'm such a noob haha.

If it seems alright is it safe to ride?

Thanks for the response. I really do appreciate it.