Bought a new harley in feb. have ridden 80 miles. Now clutch slipping. took to harley shop (NC) was told improper operation and was not covered under warranty. would cost me 500+ dollars . The story this is a new rider, riding in her driveway, or a development at 0-30 mph. Bought the video from Jerry (Motorman) Palladino (Ride Like a Pro) and that is the way she is practicing. Learning turns and things while in the (he calls the friction zone)or I'd say slipping the clutch, while maintaing twice idle speed with a little pressure on the rear brake. I ride an Electric Glide Classic, I would love to be able to ride like a pro. But if it means that riding with the clutch in the friction zone is going to cost me 500+ dollars every few hundred miles I'll just ride my own ride. would like some expert advice on this. Thank You, Elmer
Motorcycles - Harley Davidson - XL 1200 C Sportster Custom
Answers & Comments
I've taken Jerry's class several times, advanced riding techniques each time and use them during numerous (15) parades each year. My 2000 Ultra Classic clutch has held up fine.
Some things to remember are: while using friction zone with slight pressure on rear brake (which really stabilizes the bike) is to keep the rpm's around 1500, not 3000. Also, after you practice for a while, ride around in 2nd or 3rd gear to cool down the bike engine and transmission.
The Motorcycle Police depts of Georgia and Florida all use this technique and they tell us the clutches hold up just fine for them.
Slipping the clutch a little should not hurt it.
But I don't agree with the part on "little pressure on the rear brake".
that is definitely wrong, as well as needlessly complex.
I doubt the clutch is bad already. they are very tough clutches.
Probably just adjustment too tight. Loosen the cable.
But clutch replacement easy.
Less then a half hour.
Materials only $50.
I'm from trinidad, I ride all the time, I ride just like I drive a manual car, Balancing the clucth when i need to and only usiong it to change gears and slow down. Other than that. The so called friction zone !!!! we dont use that ****.
In riding you need to find your own style. All someone can do it teash you how to use the machine but no one can teach you to ride.
You will need to learn counter locking if your riding at TOP speeds . but other than that ,, ride as you drive a manual car. Forget, counter locking, etc. Start the bike, put it in 1, and let the bike roll on its own terms. dont mash brakes, simply guide the bike using the handles and use the clutch ownly to slow down. When she has the up, then you can move foward like in acceleration etc.
Forget those videos , it teaches a concept, riding is an art from that can only be taught by yourself. similiar to that of driving a car.
riding with the clutch like that will burn the clutch out. remember the clutch is being pushed by the engine and held back by the brake.. eventually it will burn!!