Downshifting on a motorcycle can be accomplished in a number of ways. First of all, it is enough to change a gear without using the clutch, put a little pressure on the gear lever and turn off the throttle. This method is not particularly recommended as it is difficult to perform. Second, you can squeeze the clutch, select the next gear to finish by releasing the clutch gently. Perhaps the best method, however, is the method described below.
Steps
Step 1. You will have to use the front brake with just one or two fingers in order to downshift this way
It is best to use the index finger and middle finger to brake, keeping the ring and little fingers on the throttle.
Step 2. After starting to brake, squeeze the clutch and select the next gear as you normally would
Step 3. Now the hard part
Without releasing the clutch, use the palm of your hand and / or your ring and pinky fingers to rev the engine a little.
Step 4. Remember to keep the braking lightly with your index and middle fingers
Step 5. When the engine speeds up a bit, release the clutch again
The aim is to reduce the engine revolutions, which is necessary for traveling at a low speed. This smooths the transition between gears and eliminates the need to slip the clutch a lot.
Step 6. If the motorcycle makes a strange forward motion when you release the clutch, it is because the engine was turning too fast
Don't do the same next time.
Step 7. If the bike decelerates quickly, the engine was not turning fast enough so you will need to accelerate more before fully releasing the clutch
Step 8. Repeat these steps each time you downshift
This technique is especially useful when using low speeds, which generally have a greater distance between gear ratios.
Step 9. Done
Advice
- Practice will make you better. If you can't do it the first time, keep trying, it becomes natural over time.
- If you have just learned to ride a motorcycle, I would recommend that you first learn to brake with two fingers, but don't worry about this method of downshifting until you feel more comfortable riding your motorcycle.
Warnings
- Look for a lonely terrain or a road with little traffic when you go to learn this technique, or when you learn any other technique with the motorcycle.
- Do not practice moving techniques when turning, as you could have an accident and be thrown from the motorcycle. It is best to practice on the straights and on flat ground.