Does anyone make clutch levers like this?

[rasta]

I'm most comfortable pulling the clutch with 3 fingers (pinky-ring-middle), leaving my index finger in place on the handlebar. Problem is, when the lever is pulled in my index finger gets pinched between the handlebar and inner part of the lever. It's not a huge problem, it just gets annoying, like when I'm sitting at a light with the clutch pulled in.

Does anyone make a lever that is shaped in such a way that won't pinch my finger? Just a little more space/curvature by the base of the lever would be great. Couldn't really find anything on Google, probably cause it's a hard search term.

(Nobody needs to suggest pulling the clutch in differently, because I've tried 3 different methods [all 4 fingers, ring-middle-index, and pinky-ring-middle] and I like the latter way the best.)
@massacremasses?

[nickjpass]

Don't pull it in as far? I also have similar style, and I've hurt my fingers doing that...so I stopped. I now place my index finger on the perch, or whatever the part is next to the lever that doesn't move, and use my other fingers to brake, with my pinky on the handlebar, or i use one or two fingers the normal way. Whatever I feel like doing...

[NevadaWolf]

How long are your fingers? Would an adjustable lever work when its set out further so it disengages fully before the lever is pulled that close to the grip?

Sorry, don't know designs well enough to recommend one that is curved more.

[ninjamunky85]

Well first off, the clutch on these bikes disengages fully in like the first inch of lever pull. You don't need to pull it even close to the bar. It took me a while to get used to, but now I just pull the lever a little pull, just enough to disengage the clutch and it works fine.

Or you could just bend or cut the lever to a shape that works better for you. It's not like the OEM levers are very strong metal, I've seen it done many times over the years.

[broilmebk]

Originally Posted by nickjpass

Don't pull it in as far? ...

Originally Posted by ninjamunky85

Well first off, the clutch on these bikes disengages fully in like the first inch of lever pull. You don't need to pull it even close to the bar...

^This. Adjust the cable too then so it engages further away from the grip. And/or put adjustable levers

[alex.s]

i do the same thing with my clutch hand (pinky, rink, middle finger with index around the bar) and i use shorty "the2wheels" levers ($25 on ebay) and don't seem to have a problem. i wear size 8.5 gloves with longer than normal fingers though so YMMV.

[rasta]

Originally Posted by alex.s

i do the same thing with my clutch hand (pinky, rink, middle finger with index around the bar) and i use shorty "the2wheels" levers ($25 on ebay) and don't seem to have a problem. i wear size 8.5 gloves with longer than normal fingers though so YMMV.

I have a pair of those that I have just sitting around. Didn't think they would help with this issue....but I think I'll throw 'em on anyway and find out

[Sirref]

Worst case scenario you can always pick up a cheap lever like that and then bend it yourself.

[Aggrotech]

i bought http://www.ebay.com/itm/Clutch-Brake...67d6b5&vxp=mtr these awhile back and love them.

also..
on #1
on #6
even on 1 i have some decent room, as you can see on 6 i have plenty.

you have massive hands O.O

[Sirref]

^ I use those and use the clutch with the middle/ring fingers. It works just fine, the brake is also perfect for 2finger braking.

[Aggrotech]

Originally Posted by Sirref

^ I use those and use the clutch with the middle/ring fingers. It works just fine, the brake is also perfect for 2finger braking.

Jes. I just used my right 3 to see just how much room i have compared to the OP, i normally use my index/middle. Cant imagine having hands that big tho lol

*edit* my biggest issue is i cant completely turn left without the brake lever clipping the windshield/fairing bit, which is super annoying. Ive tried over and over to get the fitment on my clipons just right but i guess im gonna have to do some shaving on the triple tree so i can angle the clipons correctly >.<

[misfitsailor]

I use the same shorty levers! I use only 2 fingers on both brake and clutch. The controls are so light on these bikes that no more are required. The adjustment feature is wonderful.

[subxero]

you should design new levers. They anchor at the bar ends. Cable feeds through bar to keep it tidy. So they would be kind of like lever protectors but they are actual levers.

(I really need to start marketing some of my awesome ideas)

[kdogg2077]

Originally Posted by Aggrotech

i bought http://www.ebay.com/itm/Clutch-Brake...67d6b5&vxp=mtr these awhile back and love them.

also..
on #1
on #6
even on 1 i have some decent room, as you can see on 6 i have plenty.

you have massive hands O.O

These would look sweet on my red Ninja. Might have to pick up a pair.

[EsrTek]

OP Have you tried to adjust lever positioning?
I don't mean the how far lever travels to bar, but to make sure your wrists are in proper alignment. It does make a difference to where your fingers are placed.
This:

Not This:

[misfitsailor]

Originally Posted by EsrTek

OP Have you tried to adjust lever positioning?

That is great advice. I often see bikes where the levers are rotated in all sorts of uncomfortable angles. This is as important adjusting the shift lever to the optimum position.

[Xtina]

The levers are designed to use the index and middle finger (sometimes ring) which is the correct way to pull the levers. I suggest changing the way you grab the lever before changing levers.

[rasta]

Didn't realize there was a correct way to pull the lever

[Xtina]

Originally Posted by rasta

Didn't realize there was a correct way to pull the lever

Actually there is. And it's taught at the MSF course.

[csmith12]

As an MSF coach...

To my understanding at least in the US (KY), during the first day on the range we require all riders to cover the clutch and brake. We like to see all 4 fingers on both controls. On the second day, we reprimand riders for covering the controls.

We are looking for all 4 fingers on the levers while performing the drills as well, especially during the Emergency Stopping drill and Braking in a Curve drill.

We are also asked to watch for 2 finger lever techniques during the range drills and give riders a friendly reminder to use all 4.

Is it different in Canada Christina?

[rasta]

Aw shucks

[nickjpass]

Originally Posted by csmith12

As an MSF coach...

To my understanding at least in the US (KY), during the first day on the range we require all riders to cover the clutch and brake. We like to see all 4 fingers on both controls. On the second day, we reprimand riders for covering the controls.

We are looking for all 4 fingers on the levers while performing the drills as well, especially during the Emergency Stopping drill and Braking in a Curve drill.

We are also asked to watch for 2 finger lever techniques during the range drills and give riders a friendly reminder to use all 4.

Is it different in Canada Christina?

The coaches when I took the course kept hounding me about that. I rode dirt before that and was used to my technique. She eventually told me if I could pull the lever in easily with one or two fingers, I could do that.

[MR2Aaron]

Originally Posted by csmith12

As an MSF coach...

To my understanding at least in the US (KY), during the first day on the range we require all riders to cover the clutch and brake. We like to see all 4 fingers on both controls. On the second day, we reprimand riders for covering the controls.

We are looking for all 4 fingers on the levers while performing the drills as well, especially during the Emergency Stopping drill and Braking in a Curve drill.

We are also asked to watch for 2 finger lever techniques during the range drills and give riders a friendly reminder to use all 4.

Is it different in Canada Christina?

In my class, they actually told us "you really only need like, two fingers" during the classroom portion. I just did what carried over from my days as a road cyclist, and used two fingers on the brake, and three on the clutch, and they never said anything to me.

[csmith12]

I am not sure how strict they are at enforcing the 4 finger rule. That is what I was told and I am sticking to it until I know for sure, it seems YMMV.

Part of the course has you riding a motorcycle on an MSF approved range.

There are rules that apply to the riding exercises and these are designed to ensure a safe learning environment.

You must abide by the rules provided to you during the course.

Do not practice on a motorcycle without your RiderCoach's permission. First use only.
Always wear your protective gear when sitting or riding on your motorcycle.
Know the location of the engine cut-off switch and how to use the switch.
Cover the clutch at all times -- keep all four fingers curled over the clutch lever. This will enable you to squeeze the clutch lever immediately in an emergency, thereby cutting off power to the rear wheel.
Keep wrist down on throttle hand.
Always check to the rear, to the sides, and in front before moving your motorcycle.
Keep a safe margin of space between yourself and other students when practicing in a group. Don't bunch up.
If you have a riding or mechanical problem with your motorcycle, move it out of the path of other riders and consult your RiderCoach.
If an emergency arises, stop and call for help from the RiderCoach.
If you do not understand an exercise, ask for further explanation before attempting to perform it.

Source link: http://www.msf-usa.org/index_new.cfm...A0C9486A&spl=0

[Firehorse]

Originally Posted by subxero

you should design new levers. They anchor at the bar ends. Cable feeds through bar to keep it tidy. So they would be kind of like lever protectors but they are actual levers.

(I really need to start marketing some of my awesome ideas)

They already make those. I'll see if I can find the link.

Originally Posted by csmith12

As an MSF coach...

To my understanding at least in the US (KY), during the first day on the range we require all riders to cover the clutch and brake. We like to see all 4 fingers on both controls. On the second day, we reprimand riders for covering the controls.

We are looking for all 4 fingers on the levers while performing the drills as well, especially during the Emergency Stopping drill and Braking in a Curve drill.

We are also asked to watch for 2 finger lever techniques during the range drills and give riders a friendly reminder to use all 4.

Is it different in Canada Christina?

In Canada - near Xtina, my newbie courses made me keep all four on the bar at all times and then use all four when braking or clutch. They said after the course we could do whatever gave us the best control. I kept using the first two - index/middle (like I do now) until the instructor joked about taping my four fingers together, lol!
Better control with index/middle since the index is supposed to be the most sensitive ?

[Firehorse]

Originally Posted by subxero

you should design new levers. They anchor at the bar ends. Cable feeds through bar to keep it tidy. So they would be kind of like lever protectors but they are actual levers.

(I really need to start marketing some of my awesome ideas)

Oops, was thinking about the brake guards he makes. He has some pretty nice folding levers though!
Small business, all made in house - pretty nice guy too!

http://www.mikeymoto.ca/#!mmr-components/cbi3

edit - found the bar end levers.. they're on many vintage bikes, UK mostly.

[rasta]

A lot of newbs take the MSF, many of which have never been on a motorcycle prior to the course. So there there are a few things in the course that aren't necessarily practiced in real life but are present to keep dem newbs safe. For example, does anyone keep their wrist square to the throttle at all times? Doubtful. Also, at every stop, the instructor had us use the kill switch. Don't think I've touched that button since.

[csmith12]

Originally Posted by Firehorse

until the instructor joked about taping my four fingers together, lol!

hahahahah Imma steal that for my later use if I may.

Originally Posted by rasta

instructor had us use the kill switch. Don't think I've touched that button since.

Hi everybody, my name is Chris and I am a kill switch user.

[Firehorse]

Originally Posted by csmith12

hahahahah Imma steal that for my later use if I may.



Hi everybody, my name is Chris and I am a kill switch user.

You may

I use/check my kill switch/kickstand safety switch all the time. When I crashed - read fell over in parking lot... - instincts kicked in and I flicked the switch just like I was taught! Woohoo. My instructors told me that my first reaction should be the right reaction, panic or not.

[NevadaWolf]

I over use the kill switch, to the point where folks have helpfully "reminded" me my tail light was on. Key is not the first thing I reach for and usually only remember after I get my gloves off.

Ah well.

[Xtina]

Originally Posted by csmith12

As an MSF coach...

To my understanding at least in the US (KY), during the first day on the range we require all riders to cover the clutch and brake. We like to see all 4 fingers on both controls. On the second day, we reprimand riders for covering the controls.

We are looking for all 4 fingers on the levers while performing the drills as well, especially during the Emergency Stopping drill and Braking in a Curve drill.

We are also asked to watch for 2 finger lever techniques during the range drills and give riders a friendly reminder to use all 4.

Is it different in Canada Christina?

Yes it is. You can use 2-4 for the clutch but only index and middle for the brake. You don't need all fingers on the brake and it stops people from over braking and locking the front. And no covering of any levers.

[Xtina]

Originally Posted by Firehorse

They already make those. I'll see if I can find the link.



In Canada - near Xtina, my newbie courses made me keep all four on the bar at all times and then use all four when braking or clutch. They said after the course we could do whatever gave us the best control. I kept using the first two - index/middle (like I do now) until the instructor joked about taping my four fingers together, lol!
Better control with index/middle since the index is supposed to be the most sensitive ?

We were told never use all four fingers. I guess there needs to be some sort of guidline for all instructors so everyone gets the same teaching.

[Firehorse]

Originally Posted by Xtina

We were told never use all four fingers. I guess there needs to be some sort of guidline for all instructors so everyone gets the same teaching.

Yup, seems like different instructors use different guidelines and sometimes preferences. I took the course twice, college Ministry course and RTI at Mosport. RTI was fantastic, like night and day. I'll be taking the next course from them too.

[Xtina]

Originally Posted by Firehorse

Yup, seems like different instructors use different guidelines and sometimes preferences. I took the course twice, college Ministry course and RTI at Mosport. RTI was fantastic, like night and day. I'll be taking the next course from them too.

Either way this is not correct in any sense.