How to Slip a Motorcycle Clutch
Slipping the clutch is a technique used frequently by motorcycle stunt riders to initiate a wheelie. By slipping, or partially disengaging, the clutch, the transfer of rotational energy from the motor to the rear wheel is momentarily disrupted then re-engaged. The engine speed is then increased with an additional throttle input a split second before the clutch is re-engaged, lofting the motorcycle's front wheel into the air as the rear wheel is forced to catch up to the motor's increased rate of revolution.
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Instructions
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Find the point at which your motorcycle's clutch disengages by traveling at a slow speed around 15 to 20 mph. Pull in the clutch lever slowly until the engine begins to rev freely without propelling the bike forward. This is the disengagement point.
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Travel at a comfortable speed, somewhere around 20 mph, then accelerate to 30 mph.
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Slip the clutch by pulling in the clutch lever with one or two fingers until you reach the disengagement point. The motor should rev freely at this point.
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Twist the throttle grip slightly to increase the motor's revolutions and release the clutch smoothly. The front end of the motorcycle should lurch upward.
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Roll the throttle back down slowly to maintain height and to prevent the bike from flipping back.
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Tap the rear brake pedal lightly to bring the front end back down if you feel that it is too high off the ground.
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Tips & Warnings
When learning how to slip the clutch, practice on a smooth section of pavement that is free of obstacles.
Be smooth with the controls as sudden inputs on the throttle or brakes can easily make you lose control.
Take your time. It is easy to get frustrated, but patience will reward you.
Start slow. As you gain more confidence, slowly increase your throttle input to higher RPMs until you can successfully bring the front wheel up and hold there for a short distance.
Always wear proper safety attire, including gloves, boots and a motorcycle-specific jacket.
Wear your helmet. Even at slow speeds, head injuries can be fatal.
Do not practice on public roads for safety and legal reasons. Law enforcement does not favor stunt riding which can often lead to citations, fines and vehicle impounding.
