The Harley Clack

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Sep 2, 2011 | 09:54 AM

Very High Plain Drifter

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From: North London, UK

The Harley Clack

So, I'm cruising to work this morning and as I cycle through the gears I get to wondering - why does the gearbox on a Big Twin make that distinctive "clack" sound when shifting?

Is it the length of the shift linkage? The sheer size of the cogs? Some obscure engineering decision? As far as I know, only Harley's have such a loud gearshift.

Why is this?

Sep 2, 2011 | 10:00 AM

CSP067

Tourer

Joined: Oct 2008

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From: Nevada

Good question, I'd like to know the answer myself. Especially first gear ... no matter what you do, that first shift after starting is loud enough to wake the neighbors.

Sep 2, 2011 | 10:06 AM

Very High Plain Drifter

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I suspect that first shift of the day is so loud and violent because the oil in the box isn't up to temperature and hasn't circulated properly.

Sep 2, 2011 | 10:22 AM

carpetride

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From: florida swamp

Put 85/140 gear oil in the tranny and it will shift smoother and quieter.

Sep 2, 2011 | 10:26 AM

Fuzzman

Road Captain

Joined: Sep 2009

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From: At Home

It's not a problem..It's a feature! You know it's in gear. If it bothers you that much to go from neutral to 1st. Hold the clutch in for a few seconds. Won't make a sound.

Sep 2, 2011 | 10:32 AM

Nicky Pass

Road Warrior

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Its the primary chain tightening when you put it into gear. Its the tried and true 1903 Harley technology we all know and love.

Sep 2, 2011 | 10:34 AM

Very High Plain Drifter

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From: North London, UK

It doesn't bother me - I actually like the very positive and mechanical nature of the shift. But compared to other manufacturers, Harley's gearshift is loud.

Just wondering why, is all. I remember the Suzuki's I learned on had a very quiet shift. You only knew you'd changed gear because the lever stopped moving. Perhaps that was because the lever was directly connected to the outside of the gearbox, rather than via a fairly long linkage.