How not to BURN your Clutch on Motorcycle.

Summary

In this video, the host shares essential tips on how to properly care for your motorcycle’s clutch to avoid premature wear. He explains common mistakes like revving the throttle too much after starting the bike, keeping the clutch engaged while idling, and cranking the bike in gear. Proper clutch lever adjustment, avoiding burnouts and wheelies, and using the right engine oil—mineral oil instead of synthetic—are also covered. By following these simple steps, riders can ensure their clutch lasts for tens of thousands of kilometers, saving time and money on unnecessary replacements.

Takeaways

• 😀 Always shift to neutral before starting your bike to avoid unnecessary clutch wear.
• 😀 Avoid giving too much throttle when engaging the clutch to prevent burning the clutch plates.
• 😀 If you stop at a traffic signal, switch to neutral and release the clutch to avoid prolonged clutch engagement.
• 😀 Never crank the bike while it's in gear, even with the clutch pulled in, as it causes slight clutch burn.
• 😀 Ensure the correct amount of free play on your clutch lever to prevent partial clutch engagement and unnecessary wear.
• 😀 Avoid doing burnouts and wheelies frequently, as they can significantly wear down the clutch plates.
• 😀 When doing a burnout, use oil on the rear wheel to minimize traction, but be aware that frequent burnouts still wear the clutch.
• 😀 Always use the recommended mineral oil for your clutch plates; synthetic oils may cause slippage and damage.
• 😀 Clutch plates can last well over 30,000 kilometers if used correctly, so avoid premature replacements.
• 😀 Regularly check your clutch and oil to ensure they are in good condition to prolong their lifespan and performance.

Q & A

Why is it important to avoid burning the clutch on a motorcycle?

Burning the clutch reduces its lifespan and can cause it to fail prematurely. A well-maintained clutch can last over 30,000-40,000 kilometers, while improper use can lead to the need for frequent replacements, costing time and money.

What is the correct procedure for starting a motorcycle to avoid burning the clutch?

When starting a motorcycle, first shift into neutral, then crank the engine. Once the engine is running, pull the clutch lever and engage the first gear. Avoid giving excessive throttle when engaging the clutch, as this can lead to clutch burn.

What happens if you give too much throttle while engaging the clutch?

Giving too much throttle while engaging the clutch causes excessive strain on the clutch plates, leading to overheating and eventual damage. It is important to give only the necessary throttle when engaging the clutch to prevent this.

Why should you avoid cranking the motorcycle when it is in first gear?

When cranking the engine in first gear, even with the clutch lever pulled, the clutch plates may still experience some burn. To avoid this, always shift the bike into neutral before cranking the engine.

What is the issue with keeping the clutch engaged in traffic?

In traffic situations, if the clutch is engaged and the bike is moving slowly, it causes the clutch plates to burn gradually. To avoid this, it is recommended to either disengage the clutch completely or shift into neutral to reduce the strain on the clutch.

What is the minimum required play in the clutch lever, and why is it important?

The minimum required play is the small amount of free movement in the clutch lever before the clutch starts to engage. If this play is not properly adjusted, even when the lever is fully pulled, the clutch may not disengage completely, leading to unnecessary wear.

How does clutch lever adjustment affect clutch performance?

Improper clutch lever adjustment can lead to situations where the clutch is not fully disengaged, even when the lever is pulled all the way back. This causes friction and burn on the clutch plates, shortening their lifespan.

What should you do if you need to move a motorcycle out of a parking spot?

When moving a motorcycle out of a parking spot, always shift into neutral before attempting to move the bike. This prevents unnecessary clutch wear that would occur if the bike were in gear, even with the clutch pulled.

How can doing a burnout or wheelie affect the clutch?

Performing burnouts or wheelies puts extra strain on the clutch since it requires using the clutch to engage power to the rear wheel. This repeated usage can lead to premature clutch wear and eventual damage.

What type of engine oil is recommended for motorcycle clutches?

Mineral oil is generally recommended for motorcycle clutches, as opposed to fully synthetic oil. Using synthetic oil when mineral oil is required can cause the clutch plates to slip, leading to premature wear and failure.