Downshifting Poll . . .
Grand HDF Member
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 3,553
Likes: 17
RE: Downshifting Poll . . .
I shift all the time... When I ride keep my engine speed relative to my road speed - whether that means up or down shifting. That guarantees my bike is always in the optimal gear should I need to rely on my throttle to get me out of the way.
Intermediate
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 28
Likes: 0
From:
RE: Downshifting Poll . . .
I tend to downshift anytime I'm slowing. One thing to keep in mind is that no brake light comes on when downshifted to let those behind you know that you are slowing. Not a bad idea to tap the brakes, although I usually don't think of it.
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 12,653
Likes: 18
From: Broken Arrow, Oklahoma
RE: Downshifting Poll . . .
"Why not, Minot? Freezin's the reason".
Sorry, had to. Stationed up there in 1977. I didn't know it got that cold in the U.S.
Let the engine do the majority of braking. Saves wear and tear. And definately don't lug the motor when cruising.
Sorry, had to. Stationed up there in 1977. I didn't know it got that cold in the U.S.
Let the engine do the majority of braking. Saves wear and tear. And definately don't lug the motor when cruising.
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 3,363
Likes: 109
From: Mesa, Az.
RE: Downshifting Poll . . .
I always downshift, it's hard to take off in 6th.
Seriously, I let the engine slow me down unless I have to stop REAL fast. It's good to keep the RPM's up in case you need to avoid a problem.
Seriously, I let the engine slow me down unless I have to stop REAL fast. It's good to keep the RPM's up in case you need to avoid a problem.
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RE: Downshifting Poll . . .
nope! brake pads are cheaper and easier to change than a new clutch... got out of this habit when i got the bike... ok ok i do on occasion when i am going by a hot chick and want the deep rumble... GUILTY
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Thread Starter
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Road Captain
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 539
Likes: 0
From: NH - Why not Minot, ND
RE: Downshifting Poll . . .
DannyZ71, yeah tell me about it! The coldest I've seen in my 5 years here has been -72F (winter '03-'04)with the windchill, and -55F (this past winter) without the windchill!!!
