Motorcycle Clutch: Shift And Gear

Clutch wheelies can be used instead of power wheelies, when you want to have more control when riding your bike at low speeds, in tight areas. They can also prove to be useful when you want to shift to a higher gear.


For this you can use any type of bike, not only the powerful ones. While stock gearing works, you cannot clutch up in the 2nd. For that use a 520 kit; buy sprockets in 525 pitch and you will be able to change them and use stock chains.


Do not slide back, instead sit upright on the bike. You can clutch up at 70 mph in 3rd gear on a gsxr-600 with some practice.


Use a steady pace of 1500-2000 rpm at about 10-20 mph. Quickly throttle up and accelerate when ready to lift off. This compresses the rear suspension and allows you to clutch. Don't try to get speed, use a low RPM start as you get more power this way.


Instantly after accelerating, pull the clutch in and let the engine to about 6000RPM. Release the clutch at about 80%. Don't release too fast or your engine will drop to 2000RPM. More practice will be needed in order to get it right. When it is done right you will feel like the from wheel will get right up more faster than a power-bounce wheelie.


Master this and your bike will pop up a little. Throttle control comes next: do not let go of the throttle or the clutch if you want to go vertical and stay there as the height of your wheelie is in your control by using it.


When you feel adjusted with the clutch release movement you can add to it a lot of throttle. Then you can keep it up in 1st gear for few seconds. When you get more experienced you will be able to rev and clutch in the same time.


The front wheel is like a gyro, and it keeps your bike aligned. Do not stop it and let it speed; in order to do that do not touch the brake.


Going too much on your back? Gently use the back brake and keep the throttle at the same level so you don't lose RPMs.


Imagine the clutch as your foot kicking the back tire. So release the clutch in one fast motion; it will be like kicking that tire and bounce off. Exercise a lot by increasing the clutch and throttle as you progress. Damaging your clutch is inevitable, so check it regularly. Keep in mind that insurance companies will pay no money for this type of damage, so if it breaks you will end up paying for the damage. It is wise to put some money aside for this.


While wheeling you cannot steer or break your bike. Take a moment to think about the obstacles in front of you for 100-500 feet depending on your speed and do it only if the path is clear.Use a small dirt bike to get use to wheeling. Large bikes are more heady and more powerful. Also, injuries can get far more serious with those and the repairs are a lot more expensive.


Trust your gut and don't get involved in dangerous stuns, even when provoked by others around. Keep the wheelie to your own level and improve in time, with a lot of practice.


Use a helmet, gloves, jacket and protective gear. Stunt cages are welcome, also a 12-bar that can be installed on the back of your bike as it keeps it from "taking off" vertically. Practice on a private close course and keep some friends around that can provide some air or call for help if necessary. Remember to always play safe!

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