Find the sweet spot of clutch engagement.!!

In this video I'll show you the easy way to find that sweet spot of the friction zone. And, I'll show you a tool that you can use for even more help with the clutch and throttle.
www.ridelikeapro.com
www.champu.com
Don't forget to call for our 3 pack special offer, Shortcuts to Riding Like a Pro DVD, Surviving the Mean Streets 2 DVD, and the high speed bonus disc DVD and practice guide for $25.00 (includes shipping), for domestic orders only. 866-868-7433 between the hours of 9am to 6pm EST.

[@phammoura1]

Glad to hear Donna is doing well after surgery. Didn't know. All the best!!

[@brownmsb]

Thanks your videos are helpful and out of all the techniques that i see on the web, yours make most sense to me. I hope your wife Donna recovers quickly. I had shoulder surgery last fall and is starting to feel better now. Thanks again and God bless you guys!

[@jayrovers]

I love watching Donna ride.... She's so smooth and capable of a rider.... and she's obviously passed her vast knowledge on to you Jerry.... because you're not so bad at riding yourself! 😉😉😉😂

[@jeffbowen4600]

I'm happy to hear Donna's recovery is progressing, and am looking forward to seeing her in the saddle again soon! She was very kind and willing to help during the course.

[@wpankey57]

Agreed. She is "good people." Oh yeah, so is Jerry. 🙂Wishing her significant relief from pain and a complete recovery.

[@andrewphillips4897]

What happened to Donna?

[@motorman857]

@@andrewphillips4897 total hip replacement

[@scottbollinger3641]

@@motorman857 ..WOW ..

[@Roadglide117]

Glad to hear Donna is doing better! Ride safe. Peace ✌

[@markwhatley9955]

Excellent demo.

[@alsavage6320]

Nice to hear that Donna is doing good I think your video is great on that sweet spot on the clutch assembly I tried it on my Goldwing and it works great

[@locoocho2415]

Prayers for your wife Donna and her recovery 🙏 Appreciate this video Jerry using the friction zone.

[@shairunadc7358]

Thanks Jerry and Donna from Spain, we are learning a lot, a whole new world has opened up for us with these techniques!! Thank you a lot !

[@deauvilledad07]

Glad to hear Donna's making good progress in her recovery. Ride safely 🤓 💙 🏍️

[@williampoff913]

One useful tip!! Thanks Jerry, and we are still praying for Donnas full recovery. God bless!!

[@lonerider1976]

I trained this "friction zone" exercise this morning on an empty parking lot. It improves my control of the bike. Thanks so much sir. I already bought your videos (downloaded). 👍👍👍

[@thewheel2023]

Yes please keep sharing the Harley experiences you had. Glad to hear the Mrs. Is healing great stuff!

[@motorman857]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/Zny0Z5-AnqZ-etU

[@wpankey57]

Another great tip. I've never done the clutch only without any throttle. I'm going to try it next time I can get out. BTW: send some sunshine and warmth to Chicago. All the best to Donna from s.p.

[@haroldhdknoxstreet-glide5331]

Hope Your wife is all recovered best wishes from Germany and thanks for all the expertise knowledge

[@truckerg4010]

Good to hear about your better half. Prayers for speedy recovery

[@jobeta22]

I did the Softbrake lever on your reccomendation. Night and day difference. Ride safe and thank you for all you do to educate us on being better riders.

[@danthechippie4439]

I'd be interested to hear a little more on Hove that cluch lever is working out for you. Thankd

[@motorman857]

If you mean the softbrake.com lever, I wouldn't ride without one on my hydraulic clutch bikes.

[@bebopredux]

Doesn't appear that Softbrake makes levers for Softail models. 🙁

[@motorman857]

@@bebopredux That's because softtails have a cable clutch that you can adjust yourself.

[@Nomad1957]

Glad to hear Donna is doing well. I bought some videos from you recently and they are a big help. My riding improves everyday.

[@larryritchey8557]

Great and simple demonstration on the friction zone. Glad to hear Donna is on the mend. 😎

[@tomfillmore9710]

Great tips and tricks Gerry couldn't explain it any easier thanks glad Donna is doing better good to hear take care and thanks for the knowledge

[@gregoryhumphrey2831]

Thanks for updating us on Donna.

[@petertrapani8701]

Great video on the friction zone for riders. Happy to hear you wife is doing better. Be Safe🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🏍

[@benitomercado7617]

Thanks for the advice sir! Once it starts warming up here in Wisconsin. I’m going to get out and practice more on my Iron 883.

[@paulvernon1882]

Glad to hear Donna is getting better. In about 6 to 8 more weeks she may chase you down and put you in your placed...talking about her camera skills like that. Take care have a great day.

[@Mac1968ish]

Jerry great video as always thank you for sharing

[@jamesgibson301]

I figured it out thanks to you Mr. Motorman

[@justanotherviewer52]

Thanks Motorman. Can't have too much knowledge. And an easy skill to practice.

[@johncarmen2098]

We're praying for Dona!

[@WarriorNoldor]

Thank you your advice has helped me a lot.

[@kniveswalletsandmore....3141]

SPOT ON SIR! The best example I've ever seen

[@scarface1961]

Excellent content Motorman. Best wishes to Motorwoman. I know this is an older video, but I have missed her camera shake. LOL!

[@rogerscott9332]

I like that. Going to practice this when the rain stops.

[@jeffbanfieldsflwr3537]

These videos have really really helped. I just passed my weekend long begginers course assessment. I now have my license!!

[@geraldgoodiii6993]

Those soft brake clutch levers are amazing

[@michaeldocarci8854]

Hey Jerry “Motorman!” I’ve watch this video of yours and it helps me work on my tight turns on slow speed more better. My bike’s sweet spot is a lot more out on the clutch (4-4.5), and I was having a hard time to control my sweet speed on tight turns like almost have my palm wide open. But adjusting to get that sweet spot to where my palm is in a position with more grip and control, makes it more doable for me to make that tight turns in slow speed. I really do appreciates your lesson videos!

[@carver7689]

Glad to hear Donna is recovering. Hopefully in another couple of weeks her pain will ease-off altogether and she can get back to normal living. I wonder if taking turmeric supplements might help with the pain & inflammation? Might be worth checking out. In the meantime, I need to go practice my low speed maneuvers. It's been awhile since I tried to do that with the friction zone. Thanks, Jerry!

[@bebopredux]

I began to look at using the friction zone like this: the clutch is my left hand throttle. At low speeds. Instead of my right hand using a twisting motion, my left hand uses a linear motion...forward... backwards...in between....in small increments. Praying for Donna. Pain is tough. Recovery is slow. Setbacks are always precursors to breakthroughs! I'm a nurse of 40+ years.

[@bikerbrinrac]

Great way for newbies to learn the friction zone 👍

[@shupshekitty]

For a Harley the friction zone is about an inch wide. It's easy to find on my Harley. On my Yamaha V-Star it's maybe a 1/4" wide at the outside end of travel. I've heard of clutch lever mod that makes the Yamaha easier to find, I'm going to try it. Great to hear that your Wife is getting better.

[@mkultraification]

Ooh. I bet that throttle lock is nice on long rides down the interstate.

[@dobietoms1463]

Great video

[@paulvernon1882]

Glad to Camera Girl is doing better. You need her to make you look good.😉. Thanks for all the great videos and tips.

[@mikefryman2617]

Best wishes to Doctor Donna

[@bruceshearer1719]

A very good video🇨🇦

[@roadglide]

100%. That’s it. On point. Just takes a small amount of time, nano minutes, to familiarize with a simple techniques to add quality of life to your motorcycling experience. Ride safe and ride often. Thank you for posing Jerry.

[@Saauuullll]

Great vid

[@NICK_KIRAK]

Thanks a lot, Jerry. Best regards to You and Donna. You are my teachers. After learning your course, I've started to ride like a pro.

[@MrMeeseeksC416]

thank you for spending the time to make these videos. as a 30 yr old intermediate rider, I prefer your methodology and way of teaching compared to the younger crowd. Your videos have helped me become a better rider and I thank you for that. One question about this technique though.. how much wear and tear does this have on your clutch plates and packs? not enough to worry about?

[@motorman857]

Not enough to worry about. Motorcycles have wet clutches. They are cooled by oil. They are designed to be slipped.

[@MrMeeseeksC416]

Thank you for the knowledge

[@markd1619]

Thank you for this video. It will help me. I refer to it as the engagement zone as to when the clutch begins to engage. Question, This could also be considered riding the clutch. I was taught to either have the clutch engaged or not and riding the clutch would prematurely wear the clutch out. is that true? Prayers for a full recovery for your other half.

[@motorman857]

It is not true. Without using the clutch at low speeds, you will forever be a duck walking foot dragging doofus.

[@adventureguy4119]

its suprising to me at just how far out the friction zone is

[@rcafmaintainer3723]

Glad to hear Donna is doing good. Can you please put a link to the throttle lock device you mentioned there? Thank you.

[@motorman857]

Ebay throttle lock.

[@rcafmaintainer3723]

@@motorman857 I got the Go Cruise from eBay, very well made.

[@johnmacias01]

Awesome content! Would you know about the Rekluse auto clutch for Harley touring?? Just wondering if that would help with slow speeds Thanks

[@motorman857]

They work. If you just can't get the hang of using the clutch, that may be the way to go.

[@danthechippie4439]

Great video as always. Ya I was wondering about Dona, I'm glad she is making a good recovery. Is that her real hair poking out of the back of her helmet? Is there a hole or something back there? Beard looks good on ya Gerry

[@motorman857]

Yea I take a drill and...🤣C'mon. It's a stick on pony tail.

[@danthechippie4439]

@@motorman857 ha ha, Hay I had to ask

[@dalejarman2754]

Hi Jerry I have used your techniques. My question is when using the throttle do you maintain a constant rpm or do you constantly rev the throttle a little bit to keep up the revs?

[@motorman857]

You can do either. Blip the throttle a bit, or hold a steady throttle. Find the style that suits you.

[@somerandomname9252]

Very nice video. Although the overlay of your clutch hand was about 4 seconds behind the main screen. So there”d be something on the road you’d swerve around, but the overlay wouldn’t “see it” until a handful of seconds later. Bit confusing when looking at both videos together, but anyway. 😎👍🏻

[@charlieswearingen500]

Have you ever used a product called Ride-On? It's a motorcycle tire balancer and sealant that once me home safely with a punctured front tire while traveling minimal highway speed. I have used it a lot and if you are familiar with it I would like to know your opinion about the use of tire sealants in general. Do you consider it to be a safe and practical solution to flat or unbalanced motorcycle tires?

[@motorman857]

No I never tried it.

[@charlieswearingen500]

@@motorman857 ~ If you have the time or inclination give it a try. I really like it in my car and motorcycle tires...

[@andrewphillips4897]

What is the easiest way to carry out a 'U' turn on a very steep hill? I normally travel until I find a level area or a side street.

[@motorman857]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/lZeceKuNbp5ra68

[@Charlies_Riding_Adventures]

I just purchased a used 2019 Ultra Limited. The clutch engages immediately with very little lever release. It’s so close to the grip that it really caught me off guard the first time I rode it and was close to dropping it. I was under the impression that late model Harley with hydraulic clutch, was close to fully released lever. Any thoughts why it’s so different??

[@motorman857]

I've never ridden a Harley with a hydraulic clutch that grabbed too close to the grip. It could be an after market lever.

[@Charlies_Riding_Adventures]

@@motorman857 I am guessing it is. I looked at the brake pedal after re-searching soft brake, and the brake pedal in the lower position as seen with their products. It’s probably a safe bet they changed all the control levers. To be honest I was pretty confident getting on this bike, and that experience was very humbling. Another instance showing me that you have to respect the machine. Thanks for your feedback Jerry.

[@hondo1829]

You going to Daytona? I’ll be there Saturday.

[@motorman857]

I'll be there March 9th. Thanks for the warning though 😁

[@hondo1829]

@@motorman857 😁😁😁 I’ve been practicing 👍👍almost 2000 miles on bike since Oct. mainly weekend cruising.

[@petedetects7012]

Hello Jerry , the tight turn camara girl made is it only possible with the handlebar hitting its locking limits . I ride a Roadglide ultra with stock bar . Every time I attempt that technique it seems like my elbow is hitting my side preventing the bars from completely hitting the locking position. Is there a recommended spot my elbows should be at when making a tight turn. Thanks for you information.

[@motorman857]

Camera girl was not even close to full lock when making the turns shown in this video.

[@petedetects7012]

@@motorman857 I was impressed with how small the circle looked. Thank you for responding to my question.

[@amalfi460]

I bought your ride like a pro 18 years ago. I thought it said to drag the rear break for slow speed riding

[@motorman857]

It did and still does. As I state in this video, if your having problems finding the friction zone, try this method.

[@DucNguyen-jy3gi]

Is being in the friction zone too often harmful to the gearbox/engine? Thanks

[@motorman857]

Only if you rev the crap out of the motor while in the friction zone like some kind of doofus.

[@pissoff247]

If i try this on my bike without giving any throttle, the bike stalls. Its a small 411cc single cylinder. Wonder if there is something wrong or needing yo be adjusted

[@motorman857]

Either your idle is set too low, or your letting the clutch out too fast.

[@wonderpvp3201]

Hey, I have a question and can't find any helpful answers! I have a big bike and when I hold my clutch at the friction zone like you did, it doesn't have enough power to make it move without any throttle. Is that normal, or should check on it or smth? Because on the course the bike I learned on had enough power to do it, and it was a similar bike. My first bike is a GS 500 E, and the bike I learnt on is ER-5. Thanks for any answers.

[@motorman857]

Since I don't know what bike you have, I can't answer.

[@wonderpvp3201]

@@motorman857 No problem, I asked it somewhere else as well, I got some useful info, but thank you!

[@reginaldwilliams4782]

Sir do you have a upcoming class for new riders?

[@motorman857]

I only offer my Ride Like a Pro course that advances your skills. You must have a motorcycle license to take my course.

[@reginaldwilliams4782]

@@motorman857 got it, got a bike, got a class in May I will try and contact you when all requirements are met. I rode for some time, starting back in the day. Ft Campbell Kentucky now it time for a new lease on life. No more dirty Bird 🐦

[@lindalou5653]

So you basically dont use the right hand to steer bike much, correct?

[@motorman857]

incorrect. Push forward on the right grip, the bikes leans right and turns right and visa versa.

[@stugutka]

Hi sir new rider on heavy old bike! Can I ask a question isn't that bat for your clutch in a long term?

[@motorman857]

No. Motorcycle clutches are cooled with oil unlike automotive clutches which are dry clutches.

[@stugutka]

@@motorman857 thank you sir for quick response :)

[@Voltomess]

Wait I'm new to motorcycles you wanna say that If I don't touch my throttle and release my clutch bike will go without stall?

[@motorman857]

Yes.

[@luapmckeever721]

How many clutches do you burn through in a year?

[@motorman857]

Zero

[@aarondeere]

I know you've said it doesn't wear the clutch much especially if it's a oil cooled one but was wondering how often you've had to replace one on the bike you use in your course. Your videos have helped out quite a bit. I still have some work to do but practicing.

[@motorman857]

I've never had to replace a clutch in my bikes.

[@aarondeere]

@@motorman857 thanks

[@lostinadaze203]

Why turn the wheels back and forth. Does that apply to trikes.

[@motorman857]

I'm not sure what you're asking. But, a trike steers just like a car. You turn the handlebars in the direction you want to go just as you would the steering wheel in your car.

[@lostinadaze203]

@@motorman857 what video do you have on using a clutch on a hill. I’ve only ever driven an automatic bike and now I also acquired a 1990 Honda Goldwing 50 yr anniversary edition! Ugh it’s a manual! It’s so hard to get the hang of it but I’m getting better. However hills scare me! I went out by myself and got stuck on a hill- what a nightmare and panic attacks as it kept rolling down and stalling out! By the Grace of God I managed to pull it out to the top of the road. My son tried to show me how to do all three things - throttle, gas and brake! I also went to the garage and I’m having my mechanic put on those gadgets you recommended! I hope it will help me get used to it easier and maybe not panic but think about how to get out of it! Right now I am trying to avoid hills lol! I much prefer my Honda CTX700 ~ automatic! Sorry to say but there is nothing fun about learning to use a clutch ! What can I watch to help me, other than practice,

[@motorman857]

@@lostinadaze203 kzbin.info/www/bejne/e3fdi3yFr9J6nas

[@andretigiovaneti7587]

Where In FL are you guys?

[@motorman857]

Hudson FL

[@nitrocell9287]

Seems like its dragging the clutch, could it also be shortening the life of your clutch?

[@motorman857]

It's actually slipping the clutch. Since 99% of motorcycle clutches are cooled with oil, vs a dry clutch as in a car, they are designed to be slipped. Using the friction zone is the only way to master low speed maneuvers. The alternative is to stop the motorcycle, get off and push it thru a u-turn.

[@eddie8279]

I really enjoy learning from your years of experience! Thanks for all you do. You must have an enormous amount of patience to keep dealing with the amount of stupid people that you do.

[@danthechippie4439]

That's a bit harsh

[@eddie8279]

@@danthechippie4439 but true!

[@babesbikesbooze75]

Can you Please explain to my husband that using the friction zone Will NOT Burn up my clutch?!?!?!

[@motorman857]

Motorcycle clutches are cooled with oil. They are designed to be slipped for low speed control. If you keep the revs low, 1500 rpm's or so, and just a bit of steady pressure on the rear brake, you will not burn out the clutch. Rev the bike to 5k rpm's and load up pressure on the rear brake, like a doofus, and you will burn out the clutch.

[@stevegordon2644]

What happened to Donna?! Missed that video or comment

[@motorman857]

She had a hip replacement Feb. 1st.

[@michaelmorrison7632]

Do you worry about being in the friction zone too long? Are you worried about frying your clutch.Do you worry about being in the friction zone too long? Are you worried about frying your clutch. I try not to slip clutch too often on my bikes or cars of course. That may be a throwback to back to the sixties and seventies seventies when clutches seemed to wear out very often

[@motorman857]

Back in the 60's and 70's many bikes had dry clutches that were not cooled with oil. The point is to practice the technique until you master the clutch and throttle. Then use the technique when needed. As in u-turns, heavy traffic, maneuvering thru a crowded parking lot on bike night etc.

[@blackswanodysseys]

What about just watching the tach and noticing when it begins to dip?

[@millertimetravels4030]

Well I had 2 questions but heard the answer as I was typing it out for 1 of them. The second question is with using the friction zone are you worried about either burning up the clutch plates or frying the clutch fluid?

[@motorman857]

The vast majority of motorcycle clutches are cooled with oil. They are designed to be slipped.

[@robbaar7035]

I'm worried your clutch is going to be toast.

[@motorman857]

Motorcycle clutches are cooled by oil (wet clutch) they are designed to be slipped for low speed control. If you don't use the friction zone, you'll spend a lot of time pushing your bike and duck walking it.

[@user-on2md7gk4b]

Yes because if you just give it more throttle you will burn the clutch so if you give it more throttle you have to give it more clutch.

[@jimsbagels1991]

Lose the beard!

[@motorman857]

If my beard is a concern of yours, you lead a charmed life.

[@jimsbagels1991]

@@motorman857 You can have free bagels for life at my bagel shop, stop by any time