clutch arm stiffness

i have a problem with my clutch slipping when trying to start my bike. It's a relatively new engine and probably shouldn't be doing what it's doing. The clutch does not slip when the bike is running. However when I let go of the clutch lever it will squeak and not grab and turn over the engine...

First time installing...My clutch is so stiff/firm that there is no way my clutch cable and hand lever can pull back the clutch arm to disengage the clutch and allow the back wheel to spin freely. The only way i can disengage the clutch is with my hand and it takes alot of pressure to do so...