Hi Rik,
we have exactly the same problem with a recently aquired 2004 Rev80.
When we went to buy the bike(private deal) it started fine. Tried to start it the next day and as you described the kickstart travelled from top to bottom with nothing engaging. After 15mins of rocking bike back and forward in gear and moving the kickstart slowly by hand it would engage now and again. Then got a good swing and the bike started. Rode the bike for 10/15mins and stopped it. The kickstart then engaged first time every time for the rest of the afternoon. Since then it is a hit or a miss if it starts easily or not. Will strip it over the Christmas period and let you know what I find.
Has no one else come across this problem ?
If you have what was the cause.
Cheers Sandy