The clutch is one of the most important components of a motorcycle. It is responsible for transmitting power from the engine to the rear wheel. However, if the clutch is not properly maintained or if it is subjected to excessive wear and tear, it can result in loss of power and poor performance. In this article, we will discuss the signs of clutch run-out and the reasons why the clutch plate wears out quickly.
Power loss
The first sign of clutch run-out is wear on the surface of the friction plate. This can result in loss of power or the power not reaching the rear wheel of the motorcycle. When the friction plate wears, the clutch grip will be lost and the engine power will be wasted before reaching the rear wheel.
The engine roaring
The effects or signs of friction plate wear can be felt when the speed of the motorcycle cannot be increased or is slower than usual. The engine roaring you twist the throttle to the high rpm and feel like the motorcycle won’t move but the sound is louder. That means the clutch has been damaged.
There are several reasons why the clutch plate wears out quickly:
1. Clutch plate quality
The first reason is related to the quality of the clutch plate. Some people make a mistake when changing motorcycle clutches and value price over quality. Quality clutches are expensive because they are made of high-quality materials, unlike cheap clutches. Only quality plates are durable.
2. Wrong Sprocket size
The second reason is excessive weight load due to a load of goods or passengers. In this case, to avoid running out of the clutch early, the use of the correct sprocket is the main key. For example, the ideal load for your small motorcycle using a 36-point rear sprocket is 70kg, but if you exceed it to 150kg, then it is recommended to change to a larger sprocket, which is 38-40 in the example above.
3. Bad engine oil
The third cause of quick clutch wear is the use of engine oil. Typically, engine oils create a smooth surface on the plate when there is friction between them. The oil contains a substance that can dissolve impurities such as micro dust that can be sharp enough to damage the clutch plate. However, some lubricants may lack or have ineffective amounts of this substance, underscoring the importance of choosing the right engine oil for your motorcycle.
4. Excessive riding
Excessive riding of motorcycles, beyond their intended daily use, is the fourth reason for quick clutch plate wear. Daily usage motorcycles are manufactured with materials suitable for their intended purpose, which is not racing. Attempting to ride a motorcycle in a manner similar to a MotoGP machine will result in frequent clutch plate replacements.
Conclusion:
To maximize the use of the motor clutch, it is important to address these four reasons for quick clutch wear. Use a quality clutch, choose the best black oil, make an assessment in the selection of sprockets, and ride carefully. By following these steps, you can ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your motorcycle clutch.