I have used sprague clutches on packaging machines for years. They do eventually wear out. The sprags develop a small flat spot that keeps them from rocking into lockup. It takes a long time for this to happen.
There is normally a spring around the perimeter of the sprags that holds them under tension. This tension provides the grip so they respond quickly. You can get a bit more life out of them by shortening the spring but it's tricky to get right.
Thick, cold oil will make it harder for them to lock up. If you ride in cold weather, thinner oil will help. Usually there is some sort of slip clutch in the starter system that loses friction as time goes by. The slip clutch is often what gives trouble well before the sprag clutch. Some slip clutches can be taken apart and shimmed for higher torque.
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2011 EC250E
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