February 27th, 2014, 03:24 PM | #1 |
Your face
Name: Wes
Location: SF Bay Area
Join Date: Jul 2013 Motorcycle(s): 2014 Honda CBR650f Posts: A lot.
|
Does anyone make clutch levers like this?
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?
__________________________________________________
"even a proper fitting helmet can 'get loose'" -csmith |
|
February 27th, 2014, 03:30 PM | #2 |
#squid
Name: nickypoo
Location: Five Guys
Join Date: Jul 2011 Motorcycle(s): Track dedicated 2008 ZX6R Posts: A lot.
MOTM - Jul '16
|
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...
__________________________________________________
|
|
February 27th, 2014, 03:36 PM | #3 |
Certified looney toon
Name: Teri
Location: 39°52'40.7"N 118°23'53.8"W (Northern NV)
Join Date: Jun 2012 Motorcycle(s): 2012 Ninja 250, 102k+ miles -- 2014 CB500X, 42k+ miles Posts: A lot.
Blog Entries: 16
MOTM Jul '13, Jul '14
|
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. |
|
February 27th, 2014, 04:42 PM | #4 |
Que Buenos Son!!!
Name: Ryan
Location: Grovetucky, OH
Join Date: Jun 2012 Motorcycle(s): Aprilia Shiver 750, Husaberg FE 450, Ninja 300 (sold), xr100 Posts: A lot.
MOTM - Nov '14
|
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.
__________________________________________________
Don't do something because it's easy,.. Do it because it's not! If you aren't going forward, then you're falling behind. "Drive it like you stole it"!!! |
|
February 27th, 2014, 05:09 PM | #5 |
ninjette.org sage
Name: Brian
Location: Orange County, CA
Join Date: Apr 2012 Motorcycle(s): '12 ninja 250r Posts: 762
|
^This. Adjust the cable too then so it engages further away from the grip. And/or put adjustable levers
|
|
February 27th, 2014, 05:51 PM | #6 |
wat
Name: wat
Location: tustin/long beach
Join Date: Sep 2009 Motorcycle(s): wat Posts: Too much.
Blog Entries: 5
MOTM - Oct '12, Feb '14
|
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.
__________________________________________________
|
|
February 27th, 2014, 05:56 PM | #7 |
Your face
Name: Wes
Location: SF Bay Area
Join Date: Jul 2013 Motorcycle(s): 2014 Honda CBR650f Posts: A lot.
|
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
__________________________________________________
"even a proper fitting helmet can 'get loose'" -csmith |
|
February 27th, 2014, 06:08 PM | #8 |
Private Joker
Name: Ben
Location: Towson, MD
Join Date: Nov 2012 Motorcycle(s): '99/'01 Ninja 250 "sketchy", '13 Ninja 300 "yoshi", '03 GSXR 600 "merlin" Posts: A lot.
MOTM - Mar '14
|
Worst case scenario you can always pick up a cheap lever like that and then bend it yourself.
|
|
February 27th, 2014, 06:28 PM | #9 |
ninjette.org sage
Name: Justin
Location: Fresno CA
Join Date: Jun 2012 Motorcycle(s): 12' Ninja 250 Posts: 831
|
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 |
1 out of 1 members found this post helpful. |
February 27th, 2014, 06:31 PM | #10 |
Private Joker
Name: Ben
Location: Towson, MD
Join Date: Nov 2012 Motorcycle(s): '99/'01 Ninja 250 "sketchy", '13 Ninja 300 "yoshi", '03 GSXR 600 "merlin" Posts: A lot.
MOTM - Mar '14
|
^ I use those and use the clutch with the middle/ring fingers. It works just fine, the brake is also perfect for 2finger braking.
|
1 out of 1 members found this post helpful. |
February 27th, 2014, 06:33 PM | #11 | |
ninjette.org sage
Name: Justin
Location: Fresno CA
Join Date: Jun 2012 Motorcycle(s): 12' Ninja 250 Posts: 831
|
Quote:
*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 >.< |
|
|
February 27th, 2014, 08:47 PM | #12 |
Ninjette Jockey
Name: Tim
Location: Stockton, Ca
Join Date: Oct 2010 Motorcycle(s): Ninja 250R, Harley Davidson Heritage Softail, 2 Honda Monkeys, Polini & GRC mini GP Posts: A lot.
Blog Entries: 3
|
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.
__________________________________________________
For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?. |
|
February 28th, 2014, 06:59 AM | #13 |
dirty boy
Name: Joe
Location: Johnstown, PA
Join Date: Sep 2012 Motorcycle(s): I don't even know anymore?? Posts: A lot.
MOTM - Apr '14
|
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)
__________________________________________________
I love the smell of burning pre-mix in the morning I don't think I'm a lot dumber than you thought that I think that I thought I was once. |
|
February 28th, 2014, 07:49 AM | #14 | |
ninjette.org sage
Name: Alex
Location: Ebensburg, PA
Join Date: Sep 2013 Motorcycle(s): 2015 Yamaha FZ07, Ninja 250r 2012 Limited Edition (Sold) Posts: 529
|
Quote:
__________________________________________________
"Take it easy driving. The life you might save might be mine." |
|
|
February 28th, 2014, 08:59 AM | #15 |
ninjette.org certified postwhore
Name: Eric
Location: Murfreesboro, TN
Join Date: Jun 2011 Motorcycle(s): '13 300 Posts: A lot.
|
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:
__________________________________________________
My replies are intended for street riding only, plz do not provide track only replies. Visit my new MotoVlog Channel !! |
|
February 28th, 2014, 09:51 AM | #16 |
Ninjette Jockey
Name: Tim
Location: Stockton, Ca
Join Date: Oct 2010 Motorcycle(s): Ninja 250R, Harley Davidson Heritage Softail, 2 Honda Monkeys, Polini & GRC mini GP Posts: A lot.
Blog Entries: 3
|
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.
__________________________________________________
For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?. |
|
February 28th, 2014, 02:12 PM | #17 |
ninjette.org guru
Name: Christina
Location: Toronto
Join Date: Jul 2012 Motorcycle(s): 2013 Ninja 300, 2007 Gsxr 600, R6-sold :( Posts: 270
|
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.
|
|
February 28th, 2014, 02:59 PM | #18 |
Your face
Name: Wes
Location: SF Bay Area
Join Date: Jul 2013 Motorcycle(s): 2014 Honda CBR650f Posts: A lot.
|
Didn't realize there was a correct way to pull the lever
__________________________________________________
"even a proper fitting helmet can 'get loose'" -csmith |
|
March 3rd, 2014, 02:19 PM | #19 |
ninjette.org guru
Name: Christina
Location: Toronto
Join Date: Jul 2012 Motorcycle(s): 2013 Ninja 300, 2007 Gsxr 600, R6-sold :( Posts: 270
|
|
0 out of 1 members found this post helpful. |
March 3rd, 2014, 04:53 PM | #20 |
The Corner Whisperer
Name: Chris (aka Reactor)
Location: Northern KY
Join Date: May 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2010 250 (track), 1992 250, 2006 R6 (street/track), 2008 R6 (track) Posts: Too much.
MOTY 2015, MOTM - Nov '12, Nov '13
|
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?
__________________________________________________
Goal: Shake A Million Hands | Look through the corners | Track Day Prep | Closest track? | The Mid-Ohio School |
|
March 3rd, 2014, 04:57 PM | #21 |
Your face
Name: Wes
Location: SF Bay Area
Join Date: Jul 2013 Motorcycle(s): 2014 Honda CBR650f Posts: A lot.
|
Aw shucks
__________________________________________________
"even a proper fitting helmet can 'get loose'" -csmith |
|
March 3rd, 2014, 08:26 PM | #22 | |
#squid
Name: nickypoo
Location: Five Guys
Join Date: Jul 2011 Motorcycle(s): Track dedicated 2008 ZX6R Posts: A lot.
MOTM - Jul '16
|
Quote:
__________________________________________________
|
|
|
March 3rd, 2014, 09:13 PM | #23 | |
ninjette.org member
Name: Aaron
Location: Pflugerville, TX
Join Date: May 2013 Motorcycle(s): 2003 Kawasaki Ninja 250 Posts: 154
|
Quote:
|
|
|
March 3rd, 2014, 09:36 PM | #24 | |
The Corner Whisperer
Name: Chris (aka Reactor)
Location: Northern KY
Join Date: May 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2010 250 (track), 1992 250, 2006 R6 (street/track), 2008 R6 (track) Posts: Too much.
MOTY 2015, MOTM - Nov '12, Nov '13
|
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.
Quote:
__________________________________________________
Goal: Shake A Million Hands | Look through the corners | Track Day Prep | Closest track? | The Mid-Ohio School |
|
|
March 3rd, 2014, 11:24 PM | #25 | ||
ninjette.org sage
Name: Ms.T, Queen of the Night
Location: Ontario, Canada
Join Date: Jun 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2011 Ninja 250 Posts: 938
|
Quote:
Quote:
Better control with index/middle since the index is supposed to be the most sensitive ? |
||
|
March 3rd, 2014, 11:35 PM | #26 | |
ninjette.org sage
Name: Ms.T, Queen of the Night
Location: Ontario, Canada
Join Date: Jun 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2011 Ninja 250 Posts: 938
|
Quote:
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. Last futzed with by Firehorse; March 4th, 2014 at 12:33 AM. Reason: research, lol! |
|
|
March 4th, 2014, 12:44 AM | #27 |
Your face
Name: Wes
Location: SF Bay Area
Join Date: Jul 2013 Motorcycle(s): 2014 Honda CBR650f Posts: A lot.
|
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.
__________________________________________________
"even a proper fitting helmet can 'get loose'" -csmith |
|
March 4th, 2014, 06:14 AM | #28 | |
The Corner Whisperer
Name: Chris (aka Reactor)
Location: Northern KY
Join Date: May 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2010 250 (track), 1992 250, 2006 R6 (street/track), 2008 R6 (track) Posts: Too much.
MOTY 2015, MOTM - Nov '12, Nov '13
|
Quote:
Hi everybody, my name is Chris and I am a kill switch user.
__________________________________________________
Goal: Shake A Million Hands | Look through the corners | Track Day Prep | Closest track? | The Mid-Ohio School |
|
0 out of 1 members found this post helpful. |
March 4th, 2014, 01:33 PM | #29 | |
ninjette.org sage
Name: Ms.T, Queen of the Night
Location: Ontario, Canada
Join Date: Jun 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2011 Ninja 250 Posts: 938
|
Quote:
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. |
|
|
March 4th, 2014, 02:21 PM | #30 |
Certified looney toon
Name: Teri
Location: 39°52'40.7"N 118°23'53.8"W (Northern NV)
Join Date: Jun 2012 Motorcycle(s): 2012 Ninja 250, 102k+ miles -- 2014 CB500X, 42k+ miles Posts: A lot.
Blog Entries: 16
MOTM Jul '13, Jul '14
|
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.
__________________________________________________
<-- Linky Hey Unregistered! The code [you] shows the username currently logged in. IBA # 56020 AMA # 521481 Fun Rides! ][ My Videos ][ My Gear Hold yourself to the same rules you expect others to follow. |
|
March 5th, 2014, 02:54 PM | #31 | |
ninjette.org guru
Name: Christina
Location: Toronto
Join Date: Jul 2012 Motorcycle(s): 2013 Ninja 300, 2007 Gsxr 600, R6-sold :( Posts: 270
|
Quote:
|
|
|
March 5th, 2014, 02:57 PM | #32 | |
ninjette.org guru
Name: Christina
Location: Toronto
Join Date: Jul 2012 Motorcycle(s): 2013 Ninja 300, 2007 Gsxr 600, R6-sold :( Posts: 270
|
Quote:
|
|
|
March 5th, 2014, 04:06 PM | #33 |
ninjette.org sage
Name: Ms.T, Queen of the Night
Location: Ontario, Canada
Join Date: Jun 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2011 Ninja 250 Posts: 938
|
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.
|
|
March 6th, 2014, 01:00 PM | #34 | |
ninjette.org guru
Name: Christina
Location: Toronto
Join Date: Jul 2012 Motorcycle(s): 2013 Ninja 300, 2007 Gsxr 600, R6-sold :( Posts: 270
|
Quote:
|
|
|
Similar Threads | ||||
Thread | Thread Starter | Forum | Replies | Last Post |
Brake and clutch levers | ubnewbie | Motorcycle Gear | 13 | July 21st, 2012 08:05 PM |
Clutch - any way to make it softer? | Betlog | 2008 - 2012 Ninja 250R Tech Talk | 1 | June 30th, 2010 02:19 PM |
|
|