How to Shift on a Quad With a Clutch

Driving a quad, ATV or motorcycle requires shifting gears to both accelerate and decelerate. First time riders can find engaging the clutch from a stop difficult and intimidating. Knowing a few simple rules and getting in some practice time anyone can learn to use a clutch to shift a quad like a pro.

Instructions

1. Understand how the clutch and gears work with the transmission to move a quad forward. The clutch disengages the flywheel when pulled in which releases the transmission from the engine. The transmission is now ready to receive the next gear selected and engage the transmission to the engine power.

2. Put the transmission in neutral by rocking the quad gently while pushing the shift pedal down until you hear the gears disengage. The quad may roll freely now with your rocking motion. Keep the clutch pulled in and start the motor.

3. Pull in the hand brake handle and push the gear pedal down once, you'll feel the transmission engage. Slowly release the clutch while adding throttle and when the quad begins to pull forward, gently release the brake. Continue letting the clutch out and adding just enough throttle to continue moving forward. Mastering the clutch, throttle and brake movement takes practice but becomes second nature quickly.

4. Change gear by letting off the throttle as you pull in the clutch lever. Pull up on the gear pedal until you hear it click into place and give the throttle gas while letting out on the clutch again. Changing gears while moving is much easier than starting from a dead stop.

5. Continue moving through the gears until you have reached your desired speed. Moving down through the gears when slowing down uses the same procedure.