I just purchased new a 2006 Suzuki Boulevard M50. My question is is it ok to downshift into 1st while slowing down to a complete stop like at a traffic light or a stop sign?
2007-11-30 11:00:45 · 14 answers · asked by Matt S 1 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Motorcycles
push the lever down
2007-11-30 11:08:16 · answer #1 · answered by honda 24 2 · 1⤊ 5⤋
It is "OK" to downshift into first, but it is not always wise to do so, unless you are already at 5mph or less. Here is why: Let's say you are going 30 mph and you engage the clutch, downshift from 4th all the way into 1st while coasting (and braking) to a stop. Now, for whatever reason, at 15 mph you need to accellerate or apply power. When you release the clutch you will probably lock up the rear wheel since the bike is in 1st gear, way too low for 15mph.
A better practice is to use your engine braking to help slow the bike as you approach your stop. Go from 4th into 3rd and slowly release the clutch and let the engine start slowing the bike down, the go into 2nd and do the same. When you get around 5-7 mph it is OK to pull the clutch lever, downshift into 1st gear and use your brakes to complete the stop.
It is also a good idea, IMHO, to keep your bike in 1st gear when at a stop light or stop sign. That way, you are ready to move out in a hurry if necessary without having to reach for the clutch, put your foot on th peg and shift into 1st. I always leave a couple of bike lengths between me and car in front of me just in case someone comes up behind me too fast, I have several feet to "escape" if necessary.
2007-11-30 19:26:30 · answer #2 · answered by TxGoldwing 2 · 3⤊ 0⤋
TxGoldwing has already told you exactly what I would have.
Being able to escape can be the difference between life and death (or crippling injury).
Sometimes I use compression braking, sometimes not. But, I am always in the proper gear to MOVE if I have to.
I make my downshift to first at 5-10mph, or just before I come to a stop. While I also will sometimes hit neutral at a long light to rest the left hand, it's usually a short break and then back in gear BEFORE the light changes. You never know whos gonna jump where.
2007-11-30 20:09:37 · answer #3 · answered by Firecracker . 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Always make downshifting to first gear part of your stopping procedure, just keep the clutch squeezed in. You need to develop the habit so it will become automatic should there be a need to pull quickly away from a stop to avoid being rear-ended. Besides that you need to be in first gear to go again after a stop and, if you are parking, the bike is more stable parked in first. You may consider taking a MSF Rider Course. Call 1 (800) 445-9227 to find a course near you.
2007-11-30 21:39:34 · answer #4 · answered by Steven S 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Yep, but downshift only when you've moved into a speed that's appropriate for the gear you're downshifting into. You never know when you're going to have to go!
2007-12-01 20:35:42 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Follow the general instructions in your user manual for that and use a little common sense .... don't deliberatly shift into first gear at a speed that does not accommodate first gear at a reasonable RPM (say 5,000). Get in the habit of stopping in first gear for the simple reason that one day you may need to make a quick get-away from a rear-ender.
2007-11-30 22:24:25 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
Yeah it's ok to downshift to first while slowing down, as long as you are going a speed that you would normally use first gear when accelerating.
Normally I will engine brake in second gear then just drop to neutral and use only the brakes to complete the stop. I normally sit at a light in neutral so that I can relax my hands.
2007-11-30 19:09:33 · answer #7 · answered by boogie_4wheel 7 · 2⤊ 3⤋
dont slam it into 1st if above 20 mph. if u do, it will be the equivalent to slamming on the brakes, and u'll cause the rear tire to skid slightly....and it could be disasterous if the road is wet.
u need to learn how to use the brakes right besides that. get into the habit. u'll need this if a cager left turns u.
2007-11-30 19:36:09 · answer #8 · answered by forktail_devil 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
yes, you can down shift if the speed is appropriate to the gear you choose. a motorcycle can cause a problem in a long run by inappropriate down shifting of gears.
2007-12-04 07:06:04 · answer #9 · answered by Erica J 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes you can, but you should be in low rpm's (under 4000's) or your rear tire might lock up and if your in traffic you could hit a car or another motorcycle if your traveling in the middle of a lane.
2007-11-30 19:21:22 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 3⤋
Yes , at 60 mpy pull in on cluch, down shjft to first , then dump the cluch . this will bring you to a smooth stop.
2007-12-01 05:14:59 · answer #11 · answered by g.blakeney 1 · 0⤊ 2⤋