general motorcycle questions?

Question

im taking an msf class in a couple weeks, i just want some knowledge before i go.

first, i know to shift from a stop to first you need to catch the friction zone with the throttle and slowly let off the clutch till it catches, but do you need to do that for every gear? for instance, shifting from 1st to 2nd, do you just roll off the throttle, squeeze the clutch, shift up one, and just release the clutch right after, just like that? or will that hurt the bike?

also, coming to a stop. should i downshift all the way to 1st and then stop, or can i just release the clutch, break, and then downshift all the way to first when stopped?

thank you! sorry if i don't make sense the way i'm wording things.

Answer 1

You worded your question just fine.
Yes, you do need to do that for every gear.
A question for you - do you know how to drive a standard transmission automobile? The principle is the same. If you "snap"(just let go) the clutch, you instantly connect the engine to the trasnsmission. You could possibly stall or more likely lurch. Even to the point of lifting the front wheel. Either would lead to a loss of control. Ease out the clutch as you apply the throttle. When coming to a stop, it is always good practice to downshift a gear at a time as you slow down. This way, you are always in the proper gear if you should suddenly have to speed up. Things happen, sometimes you need to get out of the way. Good general driving habits make it easier to stay safe.
Welcome to the world of two wheels.

Answer 2

The Firecracker said it best. Also if you downshift when your moving the gears engage easier. If your sitting still the bike will not go though the gears smoothly. Sitting at a stop light with cars honking at you while you try to get the bike in first gear is not fun for a new rider. You make more sense than most and it's a good question.

Answer 3

Generally, you can just release the clutch after shifting. You can downshift either way. Most riders probably downshift before they stop. You can learn to use the engine as a brake also.

Answer 4

when shifting from 1st to 2nd gear, you just squeeze the clutch, shift up, and let go a little bit faster than you would when you are going from a stop. what's an msf?

Answer 5

easily while you're only paying for a bike for organic money mark downs on gas you're actually not possibly spending in any respect. $2000 to $4000 for a used motorbike, Registration expenditures $a hundred-$2 hundred, New license at DMV $25, Riders direction couple $a hundred returned, then Helmet $a hundred to $2 hundred, Jacket and different kit $3 hundred or so. via that factor you ought to of spent the money on gas. Its as much as you, yet get it for the reason which you prefer to income have the money to take a position and you have relaxing.

Answer 6

for the 1-2 shift your correct.

on slowing down i believe(at least in FL) the want you to hit every gear. i.e your in 5th and need to stop, you shift to 4th and let the clutch out then squeeze it in then go to 3rd and so on

Answer 7

first things first.. youve got it down pat for taking of & shifting gear.. wont hurt the bike at all....

& shifting down the gears as you slow down is the way to go..that way if you need to take off in a hurry to avoid the car heading straight for you ... your already in the right gear..

Lastly.. you worded the question perfect.. I understood exactly what you wanted to know...

Answer 8

You'll learn it all in your MSF class. Don't worry.

Just keep your mind open and understand that you start from ZERO experience. A motorcycle is NOT a car, and it is NOT a bicycle; it operates entirely different from either one, so keep your mind open and learn all you can.

Answer 9

no, you're making sense! what you're saying is correct and is the way i do it. dont sweat it too much as when you do the course they expect you not to be perfect (thats why they are there).