SV650 will do this if the oil level is too high. Also have clutch drag.
Most bikes have a passive neutral selector or whatever it's called so you can easily shift from 1st to 2nd without getting neutral. Could it be large clunky riding boots are messing up the feel of shifter?
I just pulled apart another XB today for 3rd gear issue. It would grind going to 3rd gear both directions.
Found it was a worn shift drum. It's rarely a shift fork as they are pretty hefty compared to dirt bikes or import bikes.
I'd check your oil level, clutches & shifter shaft first before assuming it's anything major internal