Engine braking... Good or Bad?
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 13,389
Likes: 26
From: Windham,Maine
Actually that was part of the engine breakin procedure.Every so often just roll the throttle back to idle while going down a hill for example,it helps cool the pistons by drawing oil up around the cylinders.
Banned
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 911
Likes: 0
From: KY
Are you talking about adding an engine brake (used to run them on moto-x)? That's quite a bit of machining expense and not really worth it IMO... besides they make your bike sound like a goat fart.
Are you talking about regular engine compression while coasting down? That's normal and a good thing for control. Though you might want to buy the video "Ride Like A Pro" cause there are great skills to use on some curves, slow speed, and in crash avoidance situations that are a blend of braking/power/countersteering.
Are you talking about regular engine compression while coasting down? That's normal and a good thing for control. Though you might want to buy the video "Ride Like A Pro" cause there are great skills to use on some curves, slow speed, and in crash avoidance situations that are a blend of braking/power/countersteering.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 7,604
Likes: 38
From: Landrum, SC , elevation 986'
But the saying goes:
Whats easier to replace...Brake pads or clutch pads.
Tourer
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 347
Likes: 1
From: Lexington, IL
I can speak to any Harley specifics but I've downshifted on every vehicle I've owned for as long as I've been driving (in conjunction with braking) and never had any adverse reactions. (and I keep my stuff for a LOOOOOONNNG time - every vehicle I own except my bike has over 100k on it and still runs like a top with nothing other than normal maintenance.)
Just my .02
Regards,
Dave
Just my .02
Regards,
Dave
Cruiser
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 135
Likes: 0
From: South Jersey
Downshifting should be second nature when riding a bike. Safe for the motor, and the rider, too. As far as clutch pads go, most Police Motorcycle Training courses will tell you that the HD clutches are different than the other brands, because its a "wet" clutch, unlike a car, where it is a dry friction type. They were specifically made to take the punishment. Not trying to offend, just trying to get the info out there. And yeah, if you downshift too early, you'll know it. Scared the hell outta me one time, never again.
Cruiser
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 101
Likes: 2
From: Richland, Washington
When I rode a sport bike, I was engine braking most of the time, but on my 883, I don't find it necessary or good for my engine. I surely don't like the sound of the high rpm's when I do...besides I've always heard that on a HD engine it's better to run it a bit slow in the gear than rev it up too high.
Just what works for my bike. Enjoy your 883 I sure enjoy mine!
Just what works for my bike. Enjoy your 883 I sure enjoy mine!
Cruiser
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 244
Likes: 0
From: Missouri
IMHO using the engine to slow down is much more controllable than heavy braking. That being said, on two occasions I've had the rear break loose using the engine to slow down.......both times were my fault and yup I was showing off. Be real careful doing this when on wet pavement. Results in what they call a compression slide......trust me, I know of what I speak.......
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Road Master
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 948
Likes: 0
From: Oklahoma City
Been doing it with every vehicle I've ever owned.
When done properly,and in conjunction with applying the brakes, it is a safe and effective means of slowing down.
Just throttle back to begin the slow down, then downshift, throttle down,
apply some brake....repeat...etc...
When done properly,and in conjunction with applying the brakes, it is a safe and effective means of slowing down.
Just throttle back to begin the slow down, then downshift, throttle down,
apply some brake....repeat...etc...
