Instructor: Clinton Smout

When maneuvering at low speeds, slipping the clutch on your motorcycle is an essential skill with a manual clutch. Most riders learn that if you slip the clutch too much you can wear it out quickly, so why do riding instructors tell you that you need to slip the clutch? On this episode of Rider Skills we talk with Clinton Smout about clutches, how they work, warning signs that you’re abusing your clutch and more.

Clinton Smout is based in Ontario, Canada and is a regular on Adventure Rider Radio’s Rider Skills© program. He has been a motorcycle instructor for most of his adult life, is a certified BMW Off-road instructor and is the chief instructor and owner at SMART Adventures.

SMART Adventures: https://www.smartadventures.ca

Images: Clinton Smout

DISCLAIMER: This segment is not intended as a substitute for taking a rider training course. We recommend that you work with a professional trainer before trying any of the techniques discussed, or do so at your own risk. Canoe West Media, Adventure Rider Radio and Clinton Smout do not assume any responsibilities for injury and damages, including and not limited to, yourself, another person, motorcycle, etc. 

Links:

Rekluse Auto Clutch - Africa Twin DCT Demystified - How a Slipper Clutch Works: Auto Clutches, Dual Clutch Transmissions and Slipper Clutches: Joe Boisvert from Rekluse, Warren Milner, Retired Honda R&D, and Karl Engellenner, motorcycle machinist and race bike builder, explain how these systems work, in easy to understand terms. Not for just the mechanically inclined, listen in and next time the clutch conversation comes up, you'll be in the know. You might even find yourself considering the benefits of an automatic clutch, maybe even a DCT.