A.J.S. 16MS, Instruction Book

Page: 15 / 94

If, at first, the lowest gear will not engage, release the clutch lever and after a second or
two, make another attempt. This condition may exist in a new machine, but it tends to
disappear after a little use.
Always endeavour to make the movements of hand (on the clutch) and foot (on the gear
pedal) as simultaneous as possible, and remember, in all gear changes, a steady pressure
of the foot is desirable. This pressure should be maintained until the clutch is fully
released. It is not sufficient just to jab the foot pedal and then release the clutch lever.
When actually in motion, it will be found sufficient to merely free the clutch a trifle,
to ease the drive when changing gear and, with reasonable care, changes of gear then
can be made without a sound.
Do not unnecessarily race the engine or let in the clutch sufficiently suddenly to cause
the rear wheel to spin. Take a pride in making a smooth, silent get-away.
When changing up to a higher gear, as the clutch is freed, the throttle should be slightly
closed so that the engine speed is reduced to keep in step with the higher gear ratio.
Conversely, when changing down to a lower gear, the throttle should be regulated so
that the engine speed is increased to keep in step with the lower gear ratio.
Do not slip the clutch to control the road speed.
The clutch is intended to be used only when starting from a standstill and when changing
gear. It must N O T be operated to ease the engine, instead of changing gear, or be held
out, in order to " free-wheel."
The exhaust valve lifter is NOT used in normal driving on main and secondary roads.
When travelling slowly, such as may occur in traffic or on a hill, and the engine commences
to labour, it is then necessary to change to a lower gear. Engine " knocking " or
" pinking " and a harshness in the transmission are symptoms of such labour. A good
driver is able to sense such conditions and will make the change before the engine has
reached the stage of distress. The gear box is provided to be used and consequently
full use should be made of the intermediate gears to obtain effortless running and smooth
hill climbing.
Keep the feet clear of the brake and gear pedals when not actually using them and keep
the hand off the clutch lever when not in use.
Drive as much as possible on the throttle, making the minimum use of the brakes.
When using the machine on wet or greasy roads, it is generally better to apply BOTH
brakes together, because sudden or harsh application of either brake only, under such
conditions, may result in a skid.
In all conditions, it is advisable to make a habit of always using both brakes together
rather than habitually using the rear brake and reserving the front brake for emergency.
NOTES ON DRIVING
13
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