How to Ride a Dirt Bike with a Clutch – Are you a new rider? Then you should know one of the most important things to learn is how to deal with the clutch. A dirt bike clutch is crucial for how the bike moves. When you pull the clutch lever, you disconnect the transmission, preventing the bike from speeding up even if you use the throttle. Releasing the clutch when the bike is in gear allows it to move forward. Fully releasing the clutch lever means the clutch is fully engaged, making the engine power go through the transmission and chain, and turning the rear wheel to move the bike.
To start moving from a stop, you “slip the clutch” in gear by partially releasing the clutch lever while giving some throttle. This partial engagement lets some engine power go through the clutch to the transmission, moving the bike forward. However, there’s a bit of power loss as the plates in the clutch slip against each other. A fully engaged clutch, without slipping, ensures maximum power transfer for smooth acceleration.
Why Understand the Clutch
Practicing clutch control is key for starting a manual dirt bike and improving your overall skill. Being “efficient with the clutch” means that when you need to slip it at low speeds, you can lower engine RPM, enhance traction, and maintain or increase your speed. This skill is crucial for navigating different terrains.
The clutch is used when starting by shifting into first gear and releasing the clutch lever slowly, called slipping the clutch. It’s also handy when navigating corners to prevent engine stalling or maintain power for better acceleration. Using the clutch while shifting gears, both up and down, makes the transitions smoother for a more comfortable riding experience.
How to Ride a Dirt Bike with a Clutch: The Process
Learning to ride a clutch dirt bike may take some time, but you can make progress within the first day by following these steps:
Choose a Safe Practice Area:
Gear up with essential dirt bike safety gear and find an open space to practice clutch basics safely.
Start with a Dead Engine Exercise:
a. Place the dirt bike on level ground.
b. Practice finding the clutch friction point without the engine running.
c. Use a large rock or log for stability if you’re a short rider.
d. Rock the bike back and forth using your left leg, engaging the clutch to find the friction point.
e. Practice until you can reliably recognize the clutch friction point.
Use Clutch Friction Point to Move the Bike:
a. Repeat the exercise with the engine on.
b. Start the engine with the clutch pulled in.
c. Set the bike to first gear and slowly release the clutch to move forward.
d. Practice moving the bike forward and back without stalling.
e. Take breaks, as using the clutch with one or two fingers can be tiring.
Practice Starting and Stopping:
a. Start the bike in neutral, pull in the clutch, and set it to first gear.
b. Add a small amount of gas (about 5% off idle) and gradually release the clutch to move forward.
c. Hold the position and let the bike move about 10 feet before increasing speed.
d. Use the clutch and brakes to stop safely.
e. If starting is challenging, use the rocking exercise from the previous step to gain initial speed.
By following these steps, you’ll gradually learn how to ride a clutch dirt bike, focusing on understanding the clutch friction point and practicing controlled movements.
Dirt Bike Clutch FAQs
Q1: What happens if you shift without the clutch on a dirt bike?
- A1: Shifting without the clutch on a dirt bike is possible but risky. It’s a technique for advanced riders, as it requires practice to avoid damaging the transmission. Incorrect execution can lead to expensive transmission damage.
Q2: Do I need to start a dirt bike in neutral?
- A2: No, starting a dirt bike doesn’t require being in neutral. However, when starting or restarting the bike, it’s crucial to have the clutch pulled in to disengage it. Otherwise, the bike may not start due to the neutral safety switch, or it might start and accelerate immediately if in gear.
Q3: How do you shift gears with a clutch on a dirt bike?
- A3: There are four ways to shift gears on a dirt bike with a clutch. For general use, it’s recommended to use the clutch by either letting off the throttle and then shifting or holding the throttle open while shifting. Two other methods involving holding the throttle open during shifting are specific to racing applications and can stress the engine/clutch.
Additional Tips on How to Ride a Dirt Bike with a Clutch
- Adjust Clutch Lever:
- Set the clutch lever for your comfort and reach.
- Make sure it disengages properly when pulled against your middle finger.
- Angle the lever slightly downward for better control.
- Refer to detailed guides for handlebar and lever positioning.
- Maintain Clutch:
- Regularly flush clutch fluid for a consistent and lighter pull.
- Check cable clutch for kinks or breakages, replace if necessary.
- Monitor motor oil levels and change as recommended for clutch performance.
- Master One-Finger Clutch:
- Start with two fingers for easier learning.
- Gradually shift to using only the index finger for better precision.
- Enjoy improved feedback and reduced arm fatigue.
Following these tips will gradually improve your manual dirt bike riding skills, making the learning process smoother and more enjoyable. If you want to learn more about the different parts of the bike’s handlebar, there are the clutch, throttle, and brakes.
Once you learn how to maneuver these parts, you’ll find there different maintenance tips including replacing the clutch, bleeding the brakes, and clearing a sticky throttle. In addition to maintenance tips, there are plenty of riding tips such as how to stand on a dirt bike and climb up a hill.
