First Low Side Crash

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Npeart
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#11 Unread post by Npeart »

Hey, Sev. Thanks for your prompt reply!

Well. . . that's why I'm practicing in a parking lot to start. I cannot see not having the coordination you spoke of and still hitting the street.

Can you or someone else answer my question about shifting at higher speeds, i.e., 3rd to 4th, 4th to 5th?

Is the clutch let out much faster at higher speed shifts?? As opposed to low speed shifts where you want to slowly let power out to the rear wheel?
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d2mini
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#12 Unread post by d2mini »

Npeart wrote:You are saying the engine will not lug in 2nd at low speeds?
It will if you let go of the clutch.
That's why you need to keep the rpms up as needed with the gas(right hand), while slowly letting the clutch out as needed with the left hand.
-dennis

2004 Triumph Thruxton 900
2006 Suzuki V-Strom DL650

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BubbaGump
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#13 Unread post by BubbaGump »

Npeart wrote:Can you or someone else answer my question about shifting at higher speeds, i.e., 3rd to 4th, 4th to 5th?

Is the clutch let out much faster at higher speed shifts?? As opposed to low speed shifts where you want to slowly let power out to the rear wheel?
Personally I think it's all the same. Once you get a feel for it, you'll know you're doing it right cuz you wont over rev the engine or lug the engine due to low speed and high gear. You can clutch/throttle quick or slow, its coordinating what you're doing with each that takes practice. You'll get it. No problems practicing 1st to 2nd back to 1st. Once you feel more comfortable...kick it into 3rd. :scooter:
Those of you who think you're cool annoy those of us who really are! 8)

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Sev
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#14 Unread post by Sev »

Personally I just dump the clutch on an upshift, and try to match revs on a down...

Of course, it's already been established that I'm crazy...

Seriously though, just REALLY smooth on the clutch is all you need.
Of course I'm generalizing from a single example here, but everyone does that. At least I do.

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Npeart
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#15 Unread post by Npeart »

Okay, so Sunday morning my rider coach had me go from 1st, 2nd and finally 3rd! Wow! I can't believe how fast 35-40mph feels. I can't imagine what 65-70mph feels like! I followed the advice provided in this thread and eased out the clutch after each downshift and, boy, you really can feel the power getting cut to the rear wheel. Now I know why I had that low side! I just popped out the clutch on the down shift and the rear wheel must have locked. To test this even further, I downshifted from 3rd to 2nd and then right down to 1st. and then I let the clutch out. You really can feel the engine braking affect the rear wheel as you ease out the clutch. It's been a great learning experience and my rider coach says I'm street ready. So one night this week he and I will hit the road and actually get around some cars, stop signs and sharp turns. I'll let you know how it goes. Thanks to all who contributed here. You've been a great help.
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