For a smooth power transfer from the engine to the transmission, which is smoother and effective, you need high-quality clutch plates. Clutch plates are made to effectively engage and disengage power, enable you to shift gears, and regulate acceleration. However, much like any mechanical component of a motorcycle, clutch plates are prone to wear and tear. This is because once they start to fail the resulting symptoms can be irritating and catastrophic.
This can be observed in your motorcycle becoming increasingly difficult to shift, exhibiting jerky acceleration, or even losing power completely under load. Although clutch plate failure can be unpredictable, it is generally a consequence of stress or neglect. At AliWheels.com, we are committed to ensuring that every rider understands the mechanics beneath their seat.
We have compiled a list of the 9 most prevalent reasons for motorcycle clutch plate failure. As well as how you can prevent them from maintaining your bike in optimal condition.
1. Riding the Clutch
Riding the clutch is one of the most common causes of premature clutch wear. Partially engaging the clutch and not fully releasing the clutch is a common occurrence in dealing with heavy traffic. As riders control the throttle to clutch engagement balance for smoother control.
If the engagement and disengagement of motorcycle clutch plates are not properly executed. The friction generated during riding the clutch can exceed tolerable limits on the friction material. The heat can reduce the longevity of the ride’s materials beyond standard rates of wear.
Prevention tip: In this case where clutch riding occurs. It’s crucial to have the habit of fully releasing the clutch after changing gears to prevent idling the friction. Also, hone low-speed control techniques such as throttle finesse that disguises as clutch dragging.
2. Poor Quality Motorcycle Clutch Plates
Cheap or counterfeit motorcycle clutch plates are of low quality, so they aren’t the best option. The usage of cheap motorcycle clutch plates leads to problems. These plates having the ability to endure high temperatures and pressure are made from inferior materials. This causes inconsistent performance and rapid wear. You should invest in high-quality clutch plates to ensure only the best for your ride.
3. Lack of Attention to Maintenance
While grease and oil receive regular attention, the clutch system is often neglected. There are traces of dirt, small metal pieces, and grease that can be found inside the clutch housing, which leads to increased wear, slippage, and even failure of the plates. When it comes to motorcycles that have wet clutches, oil that is no longer optimal can turn into sludge, and this can severely impact clutch function.
Prevention Tip: Follow the recommended servicing schedule for your motorcycle. Have your mechanic check the clutch during the regular servicing. Remain alert for signs that may include difficulties with shifting or clutch slippage as they offer clues to other problems that may be greater.
4. Over Adjustment of Clutch Cable
A clad incorrectly can lead to the agitating clutch disengaging too early or too late. Slipping under load tends to happen when the clutch is held too tight which in the end damages the plates. If the cable is too slack disengagement occurs which complicates the neutral position or seamless shifting.
Prevention Tip: Check that you can inspect and set the tension on your clutch, or you can ask your mechanic to do so regularly. The correct amount of slack, typically measuring 10-20mm, guarantees activation and deactivates at the optimum setting.
5. Aggressive Riding Style
The fast and fierce techniques such as downshifting, shifting the gears, braking the engine at higher RPMs, or doing doughnuts could be quite fun, but will surely inflict damage on the motorcycle clutch plates within the vehicle. It is well-known that sporty riding techniques place a significantly increased burden on the vehicle’s clutch system.
Prevention Tip: Both performance riding and servicing have their advantages, but striking a balance is fundamental. Gentle engagement and release of throttle, smooth application of clutch pressure, and letting go of the clutch while under load are just some practices that can enhance overall rider skill while preserving their clutch.
6. Oil Contamination
Most motorcycles nowadays come with wet clutch restraints, which essentially means that the motorcycle clutch plates are suspended in perimeter oil. If that oil gets contaminated with dirt, coolant fluids, water, or metal shavings, it can significantly compromise the quality of friction surfaces. This presents the risk of slipping and overheating which could lead to permanent damage somewhere.
Prevention Tip: Investing in good quality oils specifically designed for motorcycles provides better protection, especially when changed at the intervals suggested in the owner’s manual. Never hesitate to remove and replace component systems where oil looks burnt, milky, or gritty accompanied by changing the clutch oil filter, and the damage can be averted.
7. Overloading the Motorcycle
Every motorcycle has a limiting maximum load capacity, and consistently overloading it by transporting heavy luggage or a passenger shifts the burden to the clutch system—over straining it. Without appropriate modifications to the motorcycle’s clutch system, over-the-road touring modifications and escorting with the bike are guaranteed to wear out the plates over time.
Prevention Tip: If your bike is frequently as a workhorse, consider switching to AliWheels.com and getting heavy-duty motorcycle clutch plates that are designed to handle higher torque thresholds. Restricting your motorcycle’s weight limits will also help ensure proper maintenance of the motorcycle.
8. Overheating the Clutch
Excessive heat will always destroy the friction material and add stress to the clutch degenerating its productivity. In one way or another there are a lot of daily activities that melt away the clutch—riding endurance in stop-and-go bumper-to-bumper traffic, aggressive stair climbing starting, and just simply riding in high temperatures. Have you ever noticed an unusual scent similar to an ignited component? That’s the scent of warning.
Prevention Tip: During long journeys, clutch mounts wishing to keep sane will want to give themselves the necessary clutch rest in between highly physically demanding cycling, especially if their foot is on the gas pedal. Solo riders and adventurer enthusiasts tend to pivot towards installing heat-proof motorcycle clutch plates for enhanced durability under extreme conditions.
9. Using the Wrong Oil Type
Using the wrong type of oil is a common mistake that most riders make, they utilize synthetic automotive oil, unaware that it contains friction modifiers which are terrible for wet motorcycle clutches. As a result of this, the clutch begins to slip, even if the plates are brand new.
Prevention Tip: Only use oil that is labeled “JASO MA” or “MA2”, these formulations are designed for motorcycles equipped with wet clutches. When unsure, refer to your owner’s manual or seek advice from our expert team at AliWheels.com for assistance.
Your motorcycle’s motorcycle clutch plates are not merely items subject to wear and tear; they are essential for ensuring smooth and safe power delivery. Factors such as riding habits, maintenance practices, and the quality of components all influence the longevity of your clutch.
By knowing the nine most prevalent causes of motorcycle clutch plate failure, you can have an advantage and ensure that your ride is safe from clutch plate failure and how to prevent the issue, which also saves you money on avoidable repair expenses. Ride wisely and treat your motorcycle clutch plates with the care they deserve.
If you have already started noticing symptoms such as clutch slippage, challenges in shifting, erratic acceleration, or a burning odor, do not delay in addressing the issue to ensure a safe and smooth ride. Visit AliWheels.com to browse our carefully selected range of motorcycle clutch plates.
Why Opt for AliWheels for Motorcycle Clutch Plates?
- Authentic OEM & High-Quality Aftermarket Choices
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- Safe Online Shopping Accompanied by Trusted Reviews
Whether you are replacing worn-out components or enhancing performance, AliWheels.com is your one-stop support in motorcycle maintenance. We are committed not only to providing parts but also to supporting your journey, every mile of the way.
Ride Smart and Safe with AliWheels.
