Role of clutch in motorcycle and its types
A clutch is an important component in a motorcycle that allows the rider to engage and disengage the bike’s transmission and change gear. However, when a rider is shifting to a lower gear, the rider may feel less force. This can be quite dangerous when you are riding in a high gear and need to downshift multiple gears at the same time.
Super clutch was introduced to alleviate this problem and has become a prominent feature in many bikes. It used to be found mainly in high-end superbikes, but recently many bikes below 400cc have also included this feature. In this blog, we’ll explore more about what superclutch is, its benefits, and more.
What is super clutch?
When shifting down a gear, power is transmitted to the rear wheel through a chain. This usually leads to too much back torque and can result in the rider losing balance. The primary use of the super clutch is to reduce back torque and keep the rear wheel spinning.
The super clutch reduces the stress on the clutch discs during gear shifts. This allows the rider to shift down multiple gears at the same time without feeling the torque. The reduced torque prevents the rear wheels from locking and improves safety.
Advantages of super clutch in bikes
1. Improved control:
Fast downshifts can sometimes affect the rider’s balance and even lock the rear wheel, compromising control and handling. The super clutch prevents rear wheel lockup by allowing the rear wheel to spin freely during power transfer. This improves rider control and safety from downshifting. We encourage you to buy helmets online in India and helmet bluetooth headsets to stay safe on the road.
2. Reduced effect of engine braking:
Generally engine braking may not affect your bike for a short period of time, however, continuous engine braking can negatively affect the bike’s braking system, engine and clutch. A super clutch can reduce sudden forces on the bike, improving its lifespan.
3. Smooth ride:
Conventional clutches often cause back torque when changing gears. In rare cases, the engine seizes or the transmission fails and can completely jam the rear wheels, which can be dangerous. The Super Clutch does not have this problem and engages and disengages the clutch smoothly even in the event of a transmission malfunction. This improves the riding experience and prevents sudden jerks when changing gears.
Role of clutch in motorcycle and its types (cont.)
1. Reduction of wear and tear of gearbox:
The Super Clutch produces controlled spling and prevents the clutch plates from rubbing together, reducing stress on the gearbox, thus, improving bike life.
2. Fast speed and response time:
When riders need to make an emergency turn, they need to go down multiple gears quickly. Conventional clutches cannot handle this and can cause the rider to lose balance. However, the super clutch can help riders turn in a higher gear and brake later without much back torque. Here’s a guide to help you on how to deal with a rev downshift: How to deal with a rev downshift.
3. Better Position:
Riders may ride in an upright position for fear of accidentally going down. This can lead to many health problems in the future. However, by preventing understeer, the Super Clutch allows riders to focus on their position.
Types of super clutch in motorcycle
1. Mechanical super clutches
Mechanical superclutches generally have a simple and reliable setup as they achieve slip using only the rump and balls during high engine braking torque. Because of its simple design, this is the most common type of super clutch you’ll find on motorcycles.
When the back-torque force is too great, the hair is pushed up on the rump, forcing the pressure plate away from the clutch. This ensures that the plates slide against each other for a short period of time and then return to normal once the engine speed matches that of the wheels. Although mechanical super clutches have a simple design, they require regular maintenance to ensure that the hair and rump are clean and lubricated.
2. Hydraulic super clutches
Unlike a mechanical super clutch, a hydraulic super clutch uses a hydraulic piston. This hydraulic piston helps control the pressure on the clutch plates. If the bike suddenly detects back-torque, hydraulic pressure is built up to counter the force, adjusting the clutch plate pressure.
Compared to bikes with mechanical super clutches, bikes with hydraulic brakes offer a smoother riding experience. They are more complex and less common than mechanical slip clutches. These are commonly found in India with high cc popular motorcycles for long road trips. One of the reasons some riders prefer hydraulic super clutch bikes is that they don’t require regular maintenance.
How does super clutch work in a motorcycle?
The purpose of the super clutch is to change the connection between the gearbox and the engine. Conventional clutches have flat surfaces and create friction when they encounter back torque. Normally, the clutch propels the bike forward. However, during rapid deceleration, the torque forces the rumps together.
Meanwhile, the rump and balls in the super clutch slide over each other to absorb the extra force. This creates some space between the base of the clutch and the hub. The super clutch absorbs the entire force generated by the torque by being virtually inactive. If this were not the case, the friction created by the clutch could throw the rider off balance and even affect the engine and gearbox.
How to maintain super clutch bikes?
Since most bikes use a mechanical super clutch, regular maintenance becomes an important part of their upkeep. Best practices include reading and following the manufacturer’s instructions. A typical super clutch maintenance includes disassembling, cleaning and greasing them. If you notice abnormal wear or tear on the friction plate or any other component, you should replace the part immediately.
Result
Super clutches provide a smooth and safe riding experience for motorcycle enthusiasts. Earlier, these were found only in the top-end bikes, however, over time most bikes below 400cc have also included them. They may seem a bit expensive at first glance, but they can save you a lot of money by improving the lifespan of your bike and its components.
To further improve the performance of your bike, upgrade your bike with the best bike accessories like chain guards, air filters, lights for motorcycles and more. Visit the Bikester Global Shop today and find bike accessories from India’s best brands at the best prices.