Topic: Upshifting Without The Clutch... is it OK?

[sessna]

My transmission can be a little clunky so I searched this about the topic. In doing so I read someone mention about how it should shift smoothly even when shifting up without the clutch. IS THIS OK?

I tried it and it works about all the time if I rev to around 5k RPM and lay off the gas a bit and CLICK. Is this ok? Any tips on it? I'm loving it because my clutch springs need a gorilla grip. THANKS!

[333]

I don't want to hijack your thread or start another oil argument, but what kind of oil do you use?  Some transmission problems can be traced to the wrong or "cheap" oils.  I have used Honda's HP4 w/ Moly.  It is a blend of petroleum and synthetic oils.  It is approved for all of our type of bike excluding automatics and anything with a centrifugal(automatic)  clutch.  When I started using this oil, I immediately noticed smoother shifting.  I worked at a dealer for 11 years, and I always got good feedback when I convinced someone to try it.  It's expensive, but I feel my baby is worth it.  And being a synthetic, it will last longer.

Answering your question, I also shift w/o a clutch.  Increasing your level of lubrication will help in this practice.  Just don't force it.

BTW, what bike do you have?

And also, check your clutch cable.  Unless it a compitition clutch w/ H/D springs, it shouldn't be that tough to pull.

[sessna]

I'm using just Mobil oil... Clean 2000 it's called, I think?

I have a 76 Cb750F.

The springs are a bit on the Heavy Duty side... but they aren't much worse then what came with it. It's not super super hard... but it does get old. Especially in the city. Maybe when I change the oil I'll try regular springs.

[kettlesd]

Hi all,

Been away from the forum for awhile for personal crises, but glad to be back here (and riding too!)

Most of us miss the odd shift, but "power-shifting" without the clutch on a continued basis WILL lead to premature wear of the transmissions parts such as shift-forks, dogs, gear-tooth edges, etc. etc. Period. No question about it.

The clutches on these are harder than some machines to be sure - especially if comparing to a bike with a hydraulic clutch. But they are not that much of a bear to justify pooching your tranny in early IMHO.

If the clutch is that tiring, check your cable for binding and proper routing (no hard turns). The difference between a new cable and an old one can be amazing.