How A Motorcycle Clutch Works | MC GARAGE

At the root of it, the clutch serves to engage and disengage the engine from the rear wheel. Without a clutch to couple and decouple the crankshaft and the transmission, you’d have a really hard time starting, stopping, and shifting your bike, so let’s have a look at how it works.
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The clutch may appear pretty complicated, but it's a fairly simple assembly that consists of an outer basket, inner hub, pressure plate, a bunch of clutch plates, and clutch springs and bolts.
The basket is geared to the crankshaft by the primary gear, and the inner hub is splined onto the end of the transmission’s input shaft. Nested between the basket and the hub are the clutch plates, with alternating friction plates, and steel plates. The friction plates have tabs that mesh with grooves on the outer basket, while the steel plates have tabs that sit in grooves in the inner hub. So each type of plate is locked into either the hub or the basket.
The pressure plate sits on top of this stack of plates and forces them all together with springs. When the clutch lever is out the clutch springs keep everything sandwiched together and the basket-geared to the crank-and the hub-attached to the transmission-are locked together so that the engine can drive the rear wheel. Pull the clutch lever and the pressure plate is forced away from the clutch pack, which permits the plates to slip past each other and the outer basket and inner hub to turn independently.
As you’re releasing the clutch lever and opening the throttle, the clutch plates are gradually pressing together and gripping each other, and as they do torque is fed from the engine to the rear wheel.
You may be wondering, why are there so many plates? It all comes down to the clutch’s capacity to transmit engine torque. We won’t get into the mathematics of it, but the torque capacity of a clutch is a function of the frictional force and the radius of the clutch plates. So, you can either have a larger diameter clutch with fewer plates, or a smaller diameter clutch pack with more plates. You could also up the spring pressure, but that would make for a really heavy clutch-lever pull.
Some bikes, like older BMWs and Moto Guzzis with longitudinal crankshafts that run front-to-back, use a single-plate clutch that's as big as a dinner plate, just like in a car. That works with those bike's layouts because they have space for a big clutch, but on most bikes the crank runs across the frame and design limitations mean a smaller-diameter clutch is desired. In that case, you gotta have more plates to handle the torque.
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[@ronnie141z]

Dude honestly whatever you do please do not ever stop making videos like these. I have seen so many people, moto vloggers etc. sitting on their bikes with GoPros on doing mystical hand gestures and also people who have actually taken the hardware apart trying to explain how a motorcycle clutch really works but honestly speaking it was only until today that I know what the term 'Wet Multiplate' actually means in my bike's specifications. Thank You so damn much. Love from India!

[@ronnie141z]

Ari Henning In all it's glory yes, Thank-you for replying and wishing you utmost success, will share and sub for sure :)

[@vikend]

Couldn't agree more. I understand everything and I'm a total beginner on bikes and English is my second language. I instantly subscribed :)

[@LockieNZ]

I agree Ronnie. Ari has a lot of great technical knowledge and is excellent at explaining it.

[@slatteea]

This video is so straightforward and clear, even a Harley owner could understand.

[@Swervyzx10]

Now, to make a video to help them understand wearing gear. A helmet at the very least.

[@robertanthonyfarrell]

still consistently blown away by these videos - straight to the point and really well thought out and presented. great job, guys

[@Superhueman]

Couldn't agree more!

[@pradeepsudupi]

the most practical motorcycle channel period.

[@oc0dyc]

This channel is one of the few major publication channels I follow and actually enjoy. You do a great job of explaining while not showing any obvious bias. Cheers!

[@Siper2]

This is one of the best bike channels out there, keep it up you guys! I love this series.

[@Josh123-j6d]

The way you explained is so intuitional compared to so many other explanation videos using diagrams!

[@erickgutierrez5700]

Keeping us Noobies well informed and educated about bikes that Dealership doesn't wanna teach us. Keep making em' and ill keep watching em'. Fan from the PH 🇵🇭

[@baxterenrife]

Explained clearly and concisely. I now get it.. Many thanks

[@zeuscallie1572]

When my kid asks how motorcycle parts work I just pull up your videos and let you explain. Thanks for doing such a great job, keeping it simple without all the extra BS.

[@antonetrinh8662]

Wow. This channel is amazing. Straight to the point and no BS. I've learned so much in less than 5 minutes.

[@AnonDrewT]

Always wanted to see how it works visually, thanks MC Garage! I know how it works, but haven't seen one!

[@subnigra]

I do not comment often on youtube videos. but i just wanted to let you know that you are awesome...Thank you.

[@ApexIXMR]

You guys are awesome. And best of all, you don't pressure your viewers to sign up for some nonsense premium youtube channel.

[@pseudonym9215]

This is turning out to be a really informative series.

[@LAShooters1]

Nice description of how a clutch works. Thanks.

[@bikerbobcat]

This is the most straight forward, concise and clear video I've ever seen about what a clutch is and how it works. I've always known about the components but not what they do and why. thank you thank you thank you

[@annabanna666]

I really like these mechanical videos explaining different parts on bikes prob one of my favorite things on bikes on youtube full stop. short and clear and concise information. teaches me alot and gives me confidence to work on parts I thought where alot harder than they really are . brilliant series guys keep it up

[@nickaguado7]

Awesome friggin video. I respect this guys ability to teach

[@albertpoon4356]

You give the best explanation of the workings of this clutch,thank you

[@shashankganesh38]

that was just fantastic. I have been curious about bike clutches and this one just cleared it out.

[@vishalburat2475]

Thank you for the video. I was not able to understand the clutch system before but now I got it.

[@harindugamlath]

This turned out to be a great series! We need more MC Garage!!!

[@craigmonteforte1478]

Hey i am 55 years old and usually for. Me its easiest to understand mechanical things bu physically looking at it or by. Reading a shop manual with good illustrations ive been riding and fixing. My own motorcycles since i was a kid and despite knowing what a motorcycle clutch pack looks like I really didnt understand how it worked so. I watched your video and learned pretty easily I’m not sure if it was your simplified explanation or the tone of your voice but i do again want to mention usually a video isnt as easy for me to understand something mechanical as easy as. Your video did. So i just wanted to say thanks and i hope you do continue to make similar videos in the future at the moment i am not riding a motorcycle due to a Traumatic Brain injury ( non motorcycle related) that caused. Some paralysis. In my right hand/arm , and left leg that would affect my clutching and shifting i turned to KZbin to see. What might be my options as far as making a bike a auto or semiautomatic transmission as i remember. I had a early 1970s Honda Minibike set u that way and ironically the motorcycle i actually. Do own at this time is a older Honda with a similar engine that was my Fathers that he bought and put into inside storage in the early 60s so ive been trying to learn as much as i can on the basics as i found out Honda did make a Semi Automatic clutch pack for those old Monkey bikes but the case is a little different than mine so it wont fit if i want to maintain the factory look on mine which i do ! Just For giggles i thought that would be the route keeping in mind it is only a 90cc motor and would never really be. A touring. Bike for the highways and may Be for local shows and possibly parades ? Because it was my Dads i just want to have fun with it

[@remotegod255]

I think I *FINALLY* understand how a motorcycle clutch works! It's especially funny because I left my clutch exposed on my Ducati 748 (arrogantly thinking I looked cooler) and made a stupid mistake when I was learning the bike, ending in my clutch in pieces across the asphalt. Not pretty. But the worst part is, I had NO idea what all those parts were for, and so had to shell $$$ I didn't have to get it fixed by an expensive dealership. Now I understand what all the springs were doing, and I've learned my lesson on many levels XD

[@JohnnyWooh]

Hell yeah, getting them knowledge gains! Thanks MM

[@danielreid1010]

would love to see a video on multi stage lock up clutches, but these videos are excellent and extremely informative.

[@SriramDinesh]

Short but crystal clear explanation of how clutch works. Great work bro.

[@Guzzilunatic]

Fantastic breakdown on how it all works. Extra bonus points for bringing up the BMW and Guzzi design.

[@allenhuling598]

Another great vid, Ari! Simple concept, but until you know....you just don't know!!

[@jonasstruyk1113]

Brilliant-simple language-perfect amount of information.

[@daltonwilliams6297]

Genius design. Cool to finally see how it all works

[@paulocarreiro5855]

There's no better way to appreciate your bike (apart from riding it) than to understand how it works. This was another great video. I subscribed to the paper magazine to see if this way of doing things transpires to the printed words. In eight weeks' time I'll know.

[@paulocarreiro5855]

***** Thanks.

[@mikesiravo6439]

Excellent tutorial - the best video on clutch talks!

[@srikiranat]

With this haircut, you look like Michael Schumacher 😀. Thanks for taking the time to explain the clutch.

[@saulovilanova2184]

Excellent. Simply excellent. Thank you.

[@HeroRR]

I'm looking forward to the slipper clutch video!! :D

[@DearMajesty]

Motorcyclist Magazine is awesome! You may not have the largest fanbase especially compared to some pretty clueless motovloggers, but the content is legit and you have a real fan base. Quality over quantity...I came here today and there were more than 1,000 likes and not a single dislike.

[@pataconaso]

As always, MC Garage rules. Thanks Ari and the team.

[@motosurge]

Stiffer clutch springs do result in a heavier clutch lever, but the upside is zero slippage and all the engine drive is being transmitted to the rear wheel for max power. So if your OEM springs are too soft, upgrade them to a stiffer version and enjoy the difference. I did and I LOVE it.

[@ComandanteJ]

This channel has little room for improvement. Because it's already awesomely awesome.

[@jamesbarrick3403]

Best motorcycle channel on youtube... by a longshot!

[@moneyspent1]

thanks Ari and the MC crew! i think the short concise videos are great

[@pebear]

Great Vid, you can talk about the primary drive, since you are at the clutch. You can discuss chain, belt and geared primary drive systems.

[@bsmukler]

This whole series is great: clear and concise, and very informative.

[@joeybonzo1758]

Very informative and concise, thank you!

[@Lesminster]

Great video. Straightforward, simple, clear. Now I finally know how clutch mechanism works ;) Thx.

[@ele-k-trick8071]

I was just wandering today how clutch works, timing couldn't be any better!

[@mrrtifosi]

Your videos are freaking awesome!! I mean the visualization of the thing that you explain works for me! Keep up the good work!

[@abfkwbdkdmggfilw-uv5bn]

Exactly what I was looking for thanks

[@TheJynx2011]

love these videos. can't stop watching them. just bought a bike and wow these have been informative. keep em comin.

[@jth_1016]

extremely well explained cant wait for the slipper i tore my r6 apart and have a good understanding but nothing like you guys

[@jackxish]

Fantastic im getting more confidence working on my bike because of these videos keep it up .thanks enjoy

[@dahveed284]

I love these videos. The presentation and the production value are great and they're the correct amount of time. Keep up the good work! Might have to resub to the magazine because of these...

[@fossrus1983]

Best moto channel on KZbin!

[@motobob]

Great explanation - please keep up these vids they're awesome

[@luckyzeropresence5229]

Your videos are very helpful! Great channel!

[@Lancers262]

Keep making these videos, you are going to give me the motivation to build my own motorcycle.

[@kennethpeterson3188]

Just started watching you videos. They are fantastic. Straight forward and get to the point. I just used your info on tire changing. Was a lot easier than the last time I changed my tire. Have a lot more videos yet to watch. Maybe one day you will have one on carb sync. Thanks again

[@kareemrampersad2452]

I’d vote u for present. Great theory n practical. I understand now.

[@ltcjohnson1966]

Thank you, Ari. This sorta explains why, when idling in neutral, there seems to be more clutch related noise. I presume it is the outer basket spinning and the disengaged inner ring & pressure plates are free to loosely spin and rattle around. (I'm doing my best to sound intelligent but haven't a clue what I'm saying)

[@kevinchen8204]

Nice, Clear, and easy. Awesome!!!

[@toddmarten1364]

Great video! Best explanation of an MC clutch I've ever seen! Thanks!

[@erikj6128]

spot on video, short and simple as always! good video to watch for clutch basics!

[@jac_attack04_59]

Love the videos and channel, don't stop making these videos! Clutches make SO much more sense to me now!

[@teoyamahar1639]

Best motorcycle informational channel on KZbin, keep it up !

[@BosephusBigelsworth]

Exceptional tutorial, subscribed!

[@PhiTonics]

Great videos as always, I would like to suggest a video about "spark plugs' and maybe how to interpret what they look like in various conditions. And also changing your front/rear sprockets, and how that effects your bike performance.

[@4theriders]

good one! and you touched up on the energy conserving thing too! I made that mistake once. hehe. ten miles later, I was changing the oil again.

[@glenjamin2703]

A lot of riders swap out their flashers which more often than not means going from bulbs to led's and messes with you flash rate. How about a vid showing how to remedy that by swapping out the relay or adding some resistors? Awesome vids guys! Keep up the good work!

[@santanagonzalez5012]

Best video explanation so far. Thanks man

[@christianregitz5791]

I'm honestly fascinated.

[@larryavilez8060]

Ahhh this video is a god send thank you

[@markhooper5824]

That was brilliant mate.👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@jarnovandenhove6703]

Hi, thank you guys for the great MC garage series! There seems to be a lot of confusion on the internet about adjusting the clutch engagement point and whether or not this is possible. I suspect a similar informative video could solve a myriad of internet discussions! thank you anyways!

[@fernandogre1690]

Very informative videos, thank you.

[@vitorsantos5088]

Good Work, keep this videos coming!

[@jorgemtds]

My Yamaha FJR has a Slip&Assist clutch. I have no idea what that means so your next video about that subject will be great.

[@deepak5297]

All my doubts have been cleared. Straight forward video. Thank you guy.👍 Love from India 😀

[@AirsoftNY]

great video, concise and informational

[@Akhileshpa]

Good explanation very easy to understand.

[@zserfvgyhn]

Thanks Ari! MC Garage is so awesome and I am definitely learning a lot!

[@blackiredi]

Yes, slipper clutch video would be great. Explanation and how to replace. And if you want to use your Tuono to demonstrate... even better.

[@djordjemarkovic9400]

Great job guys! Keep it up.

[@noelfarrugia2679]

Quick video idea: How to wash/clean a motorcycle :) Thank you for these videos! They're super informative and addictive! :D

[@wotmof]

Great videos from this guy, simple to understand and detailed. :)

[@yahircruz711]

I love this Guy!

[@pritamlad7011]

Nice video... I like the way you explain the things.👍👍 can you make a video on gear shifting mechanism and disk brake trouble shooting. thanks!!!

[@mnavrrojr]

Thanks Dude, great info!

[@TamsenCooper]

I am so impressed at your videos. Clear, concise and packed full of information which is easy to follow. Thank you for your videos, I have subscribed and hope to improve my own channel by learning from your style.

[@shreedevi2005]

Excellent explanation!

[@xBonyKnees]

jeez, just realized that even though i am subscribed - i am not getting your videos in my feed. I have been trying to catch up tonight on all the ones i missed. Great video!

[@harshaansinghsaluja6715]

Great knowledge.. following you to know everything about my motorcycle.

[@RussssseLLLLL]

Great work guys! Awesome video! The KTM is looking sweet! When will we get to see some race videos?

[@danishfaizan7911]

Very helpful. Thanks!

[@avpilas]

Thanks for helpful video!

[@mariuspike]

Always a pleasure to watch you video's. Thanks MC' Garage!

[@KZ-yj7op]

Your videos are great, keep up the good work.

[@KZ-yj7op]

Not to mention you look like Christph Waltz and that's awesome. What would it take for you to do a video with a thick German accent? 5,000 likes, 10,000 likes?

[@JayanandSupali]

Hey Ari, you look to have lost some weight. Hope ya health is good. As always, very good explanation to make complex things understand with ease. Keep it coming.

[@JayanandSupali]

i wish you speedy recovery and back to some bumble swinging action.

[@shashankshekhar9602]

It videos are great buddy😀very informative & concise👌👍