The Marvelous Machine

Our motorcycle machines are truly a mechanical work of art. The dictionary defines a machine as “a device consisting of fixed and moving parts that modifies mechanical energy and transmits it in a more useful form.” It is the fixed and moving parts of a machine that can present a challenge to us as riders.

If our machines are properly maintained and we do good pre-ride inspections of the bike (TCLOCS), we can greatly reduce the possibility of any equipment failure. However, just in case we encounter a challenge such as a………

BLOWOUT

If we use good quality tires, keep them at the proper pressure, change them when the tread is worn, then the chances of having a blowout are small. However, should a blow out happen to either of our tires, we must react quickly and properly.

1. Do not use the brakes: braking hard will only make things worse. If we must use some brake, apply gradual pressure to the brake on the good tire and ease over to a safe spot to stop.
2. Ease off on the throttle and slow down gradually; rapid deceleration could throw the bike out of control.
3. Hold onto the handle bars firmly; a great shuddering may take place as the out-of-round tire flops against the pavement, but we only need to be concerned with keeping the front wheel pointed ahead until we can safely stop.

STUCK THROTTLE

Some of us may have had bad dreams about this, but few have experienced the problem. That is why all contemporary motorcycles have a cut-off switch by the right thumb for just such an emergency. Practice flipping the cut-off switch while stationary. Chances are that we will not have a throttle stick, but if we do, we will know how to deal with it.

As we hit the cut-off switch, pull in the clutch and then look for a safe place to stop.

BROKEN CLUTCH CABLE

Just imagine we are cruising along in fifth gear; we want to downshift; we pull in the clutch lever… and there is no return action! The lever just lies up against the handgrip.

No fun, but not dangerous. We can shift the bike without a clutch. This is not advisable unless necessary, but it can be done. Just back off on the throttle and shift down a gear. Look for a safe place to stop. If we have a sensitive foot, we may be able to find neutral before coming to a complete stop. If not, be prepared for a jerky halt.

Ride Smart, Ride Safe and Have Fun,

David