Tips

How to Handle a Snapped Clutch Cable While Riding Your Motorbike

The clutch cable snapping renders the driver unable to disengage the clutch, shift gears, and maneuver the vehicle with ease.

Administrator

6 August, 2024

If your motorcycle’s clutch cable snaps, it’s important to safely bring the vehicle to a stop and have it towed to the nearest repair shop for a replacement. The clutch cable is the only component that directly controls the engagement and disengagement of the clutch, allowing for smooth and precise gear shifts.

Motorcycles with manual clutches, also known as “clutch-hand” motorcycles, have a clutch lever on the left handlebar. To disengage the clutch, you squeeze the lever, and to engage it, you release the lever. Popular clutch-hand motorcycle models in the Vietnamese market include the Honda Winner, Yamaha Exciter, and Suzuki Raider.

Illustrative image of a broken motorcycle clutch cable.

While clutch-hand motorcycles offer an exhilarating riding experience, they can also present some challenges. One of the most common and significant issues is a broken clutch cable. This can be dangerous as it prevents the rider from disengaging the clutch, shifting gears, and controlling the vehicle, especially at high speeds.

Why Do Clutch Cables Suddenly Snap?

One of the main reasons for a broken clutch cable is the lack of lubrication inside the cable core. Additionally, the issue may lie in the clutch cable fixation point below the engine.

This area is particularly susceptible to breakage due to the misalignment of the cable core, which rubs against the clutch adjustment screw. To fix this, simply inspect and adjust the cable core so that it doesn’t rub against the edge of the screw.

Another contributing factor to premature clutch cable breakage is improper maintenance. The clutch cable is a critical component that requires regular lubrication every 10,000 km. During operation, the cable experiences significant friction with its outer casing, and regular lubrication can significantly extend its lifespan.

How to Handle a Broken Clutch Cable

The simplest and most common solution is to walk or push your motorcycle to the nearest repair shop and have the clutch cable replaced.

However, if you insist on riding the motorcycle with a broken clutch cable, you can use a technique called “live gear shifting.” This involves shifting gears without using the clutch. First, put the bike in neutral (N) and start the engine. Then, push the bike until you reach a speed of 5-10 km/h, and shift from N to first gear and ride as usual.

To shift from first to second gear, slightly release the throttle to reduce engine speed, and then quickly shift gears. You can repeat this process for the remaining gears.

Downshifting without using the clutch can be a bit more complicated. To downshift, gently increase the throttle and then quickly release it while simultaneously using your foot to shift gears. Once the gear shift is complete, increase the throttle again to prevent the bike from stalling.

Source: VTC news

Frequently asked questions

Stay calm and do not panic. Release the accelerator and gently apply the rear brake to slow down and stop the motorbike safely on the side of the road. Once stopped, turn off the engine and do not attempt to ride the motorbike further as it can cause additional damage.

You can use a wire or a strong string to connect the clutch lever to the clutch arm, bypassing the broken cable. This will allow you to operate the clutch and continue riding temporarily until you can get the cable properly replaced.

You will need a wire or a strong string, pliers, and a knife or scissors. The wire or string should be sturdy enough to withstand the tension and pressure of the clutch mechanism.

First, cut the wire or string to an appropriate length, allowing some extra for knots and adjustments. Then, create a small loop at one end of the wire/string and securely attach it to the clutch lever using a knot or by threading it through a hole in the lever. Repeat the process to attach the other end of the wire/string to the clutch arm.

Ensure that the motorbike is securely parked and the engine is turned off. Wear gloves and eye protection to avoid any injuries while working with the wire/string and clutch mechanism. Also, ensure that the wire/string is tightly secured and cannot slip off during operation.

Yes, but only as a temporary measure until you can get the clutch cable properly replaced. The temporary repair is not a long-term solution and should only be used to get you to a safe location or a repair shop. Ride with caution and avoid sudden acceleration or aggressive clutch usage to prevent further damage or accidents.