Kong714

Wondering if anyone can help - I've got an XVS650 Dragstar and on returning to it after winter, I've noticed that the gearshift pedal is loose (ie moving from side to side) and its difficult to change gears as a result. Its probably been knocked by someone/something as its on the street most of the time. Its been garaged at a mate's house so I can't get to it easily but I'm going there this weekend to try and sort it out. Has anyone had a similar problem? Is there something I can tighten easily, or does it need me to fit a new circlip? If so - I;ve never done this before, is it easy? Can I get a circlip that'll do the job from anywhere or only from a bike dealer? Sorry for all the questions and not really knowing much, not been riding long and a bit mechanically dumb!