operated. The proper gear will also permit the engine to provide
sufficient power for the bike to accelerate if necessary.
When slowing down in traffic, or for road conditions, you must
shift down through the gears until an appropriate match is
obtained between engine and road speed. Remember to shift up
when the engine is turning too fast for the road speed and to
shift down when the engine is turning too slowly.
Shifting down is more difficult to do smoothly than shifting up –
and potentially more dangerous. You must open the throttle
slightly to increase engine speed as you shift down with the
clutch pulled in. If you don’t apply enough throttle, the bike will
lurch when you release the clutch. Shifting down without having
the engine speed up enough to match its speed with the
motorcycle’s speed may cause the rear wheel to skid.
Shifting in a turn
Do not upshift or downshift in a turn unless you can do it very
smoothly. A sudden change in power to the rear wheel can cause
it to lock or lose traction. The result can be a skid. It is best to
change gears before entering a turn.
Starting on a hill
It is more difficult to get the motorcycle moving on an upgrade
than it is on flat ground. There is always a danger of rolling
backward into someone behind you.
Here is what you have to do:
1) Use the front brake to hold the motorcycle while you start the
engine and shift into first gear.
2) Change to the foot brake to hold the cycle while you operate
the throttle with your right hand.
3) Open the throttle a little bit for more power.
4) Release the clutch gradually. If you release it too quickly, the
front wheel may come off the ground or the engine may stop
– or both.
5) Release the foot brake when the engine begins to take hold.
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