I agree, it can be done in such a way as to have very little wear on the clutch; just takes a little effort. I'm just lazy that way I guess.

Another problem with engine braking is that it is a good way to lose traction on your rear tire. It is much easier to regulate the brake than it is to regulate the clutch, engine, and tranny at the same time; plus the rear brake.

I am curious...

How many people who engine brake begin their braking with a down shift?

 

I've always engine braked but, was told by a HD mechanic it can cause wear.

 

you shoud use your brakes for braking and down shift to be in the appropriate gear based on your speed which also slows you down...which is a little different than just down shifting for the purpose of braking.

 

I use brakes to stop and the gears to help...not the other way around.

 

With abs these days, not wise to engine brake in wet weather, as stated be in appropriate gear and let the abs do its thing. Dry weather no prob engine braking.

 

for 07 and up your owners manuel says AVOID ENGINE BRAKING , my uneducated guess is harley knew the new cranks are a bit suspect.

 

I drive a tractor trailer and you always use the engine & trans to help slow you it's the same in your cage or on your H-D. The engine & trans speed you up why can't it slow you down? or they would have given you a 1 speed trans!

 

Well stated !!

 

The following is an excerpt from the Touring models owners manual:

Downshift (Deceleration)


Do not downshift at speeds higher than those listed. Shifting to lower gears when speed is too high can cause the rear wheel to lose traction and lead to loss of vehicle control, which could result in death or serious injury. (00045b)

Gear shift pattern is first gear down; next five gears up. Refer to Downshift (Deceleration) Gear Speeds: Six Speed for shifting speeds.

Downshift (Deceleration) Gear Speeds: Six Speed

GEAR CHANGE

MPH

Sixth to fifth

50

Fifth to fourth

40

Fourth to third

30

Third to second

20

Second to first

10



NOTE:
The shifting points shown in the tables are recommendations. Vehicle owners may determine that their own individual shifting patterns may differ than those stated and are additionally appropriate for individual riding styles.

See Shifting Sequence: Downshift. When engine speed decreases, as in climbing a hill or running at a reduced speed, shift to the next lower gear while partially closing the throttle so the engine accelerates as soon as the clutch lever is released.

NOTES:
Disengage the clutch completely before each gear change.
Partially close the throttle so the engine will not drag when clutch is again engaged (clutch lever released).

Shift to neutral before stopping engine. Shifting mechanism can be damaged by shifting gears while engine is stopped. (00183a)

The gear shifter mechanism permits shifting the transmission to neutral from either first or second gear.

 

Always