Shifting without the clutch

[Toshiva]

I have a 98' RMX 250, and when I shift up and down, I never use the clutch... I'm just curious, is this dangerous to my bike? should I use it?:silly:

 

[happy]

cool book

I've got this book by Donnie bales and gary semics that says when the throttle is off you can change down for there is little force on the gear box. though it is to my understanding that you will eventually bend the shifting fork if you repeatedly do this on the upshift.

 

[HiG4s]

There is certianly more wear on moving parts just shifting without the clutch, but on high performance race bikes the parts are designed to withstand the stress. From this stand point I always plan on using the clutch but if I'm in a position that would keep me from gaining needed accelleration or would cause me to lose control of the bike when I loosened my grip to use the clutch I don't worry over it, I know the bike can handle it.

Also if you modulate the throttle, that is blip the gas to get revs up when down shifting or let off slightly when up shifting you greatly reduce the stress on the shifting mechanism. If you become good at it, you might not be putting any more wear on the parts then if you did use the clutch.

 

[FMX_novice]

ok, its a very fast way to shift, practice it.
1.pull clutch
2.release gas
3.shift up
4.release clutch
5.turn throttle
This is the safest way to shift without the possibility of breaking something. It is the best method for non-racing scenarios, because your shifting fork, gears and clutch will get the least abuse.
If you are racing and want more power off the shift, do this
1.Pull clutch
2.Lower gas to 40%
3.Shift
4.100% throttle
5. Release clutch

 

[KXKen]

I like to use downshifting without the clutch as a type of braking effect. I read about this in some riding technique book and once you get a handle on it works quite well (at least I think so).

 

[High Lord Gomer]

Originally posted by FMX_novice
If you are racing and want more power off the shift, do this
1.Pull clutch
2.Lower gas to 40%
3.Shift
4.100% throttle
5. Release clutch

I disagree...if I'm trying to get maximum acceleration, I:
1. Keep throtle pinned,
2. Tap clutch and upshift at the same time.

If you let off the throttle on a starting line straight, even for an instant, you might as well use it to wave goodbye to all those that have just passed you. :confused: