To Stop the Engine
Select the neutral gear position and close the throttle so reducing the engine speed
to “tick-over”. Turn the ignition switch to the “OFF” or central position, or, on
Bushman models, depress the “cut-out” button to stop the engine.
Notes on Gear Changing
When changing gear, not only should a suitable road speed be selected at which to
perform the operation, but the gear change should be timed in such a way that the
relative speeds of the engine and gearbox coincide as closely as possible. For this
reason, when changing up, the throttle is momentarily closed when disengaging the
clutch, allowing the engine (and corresponding gearbox pinions) to slow down to the
lower speed at which they will operate in the next higher gear.
When changing to a lower gear, the engine speed has to be increased relative to the
road speed, and the throttle should not therefore be closed, but even opened slightly,
while making the change. As soon as the clutch lever is gripped, the engine will
automatically increase in speed, and the lower gear will engage quietly at the correct
speed.
Changing gear therefore whilst appearing complicated is mainly concerned with
the synchronisation of engine speed and road speed, by co-ordination of hand and
foot operations. After a little practice, smooth and quiet gear changes will be
possible at all items and eventually become a purely automatic action.
Using the Gearbox
Correct use of the gearbox must be made in order to obtain best results in all round
performance, especially with regard to acceleration and hill climbing capabilities.
It is not always appreciated that the power developed by an I.C. engine depends
upon the engine speed. Hence, on a machine travelling up hill the engine speed will
fall as a result of the increased load, with a corresponding fall in power output. In
order to maintain sufficient power, a lower gear must be selected in order to increase
the engine speed and so obtain more power.
Similarly, for good acceleration from moderate speeds in top gear, more power is
required and here again the solution is to change down to a lower gear.
It is better to
allow the engine to “rev” in a lower gear than to labour in a higher one.
Riding Hints
Use the throttle to control the speed of the machine, as gentle but definite braking
is obtained by merely closing the throttle. On wet roads and particularly under icy
conditions, the use of the engine as a brake is to be recommended. A change to lower
gear increases the braking effect.
Try to anticipate the need to change gear or to brake, so that changes in speed are
smoothly carried out. Always use both brakes together and apply them smoothly and
progressively. Never accelerate or brake fiercely, especially on bends or wet roads.
Both actions are signs of an inconsiderate driver and always remember, a good driver
The rider who has just purchased a new machine will do well to remember that all
the internal parts are just as new as the enamel and plating which can be seen, and
they must be well “run-in” before the engine can be given really hard work.
