Luc’s Tips October 2012: Clutch Lever Position Adjustment
Last Updated: April 1st, 2024
Mastery of the clutch lever is crucial for motorcycle safety and enjoyment. An improperly adjusted clutch lever can lead to hand and wrist soreness and inconsistent application of the clutch lever. Often times riders just accept where the controls are located and end up adjusting their bodies to accommodate poor control positions. YIKES! Poor riding position makes for some uncomfortable riding.
Riders come in all different shapes and sizes. Motorcycles manufacturers do their best to get the riding position close to usable, but we need to go the extra distance to make sure the bike fits us correctly. Besides, isn’t some of the fun customizing our motorcycle?
THE BENEFITS TO A WELL POSITIONED CLUTCH LEVER
There are some huge positives to making sure the motorcycle clutch lever is rotated and adjusted properly:
- Reduced hand and arm fatigue means longer rides
- Proper hand position allows quicker access to the clutch
- Reduced tension in upper body allows for more enjoyable riding
PROPER RIDING POSITION
The end goal is to have the lever at a natural, comfortable position when riding. From our elbows to the fingers, our body should form a straight line. The position should be tension free. Our fingers should have easy access to the lever; we should not be reaching up or down to actuate the lever. We also want to make sure the last segment of our fingers rest lightly on the lever.
MAKING THE ADJUSTMENTS
A quick check of your motorcycle service manual will tell you what tools you’ll need for a job. Typically, a ratchet and socket or an Allen wrench is all this is required.
- Loosen bolts
- Make adjustment
- Determine that cables or hoses can move freely from every handlebar position (move bars side to side)
- Tighten bolts to spec (see service manual)
- Enjoy
Occasionally, you may find that the stock perch doesn’t permit enough rotation of the clutch lever. Handlebar rotation may be necessary or replacement of lever perch or master cylinder may be necessary. If a clip-on scenario is present, risers may be a recommended purchase.
Next, make sure the lever is easy to reach by adjusting the lever’s position in relationship to the hand grip.
Some levers do not permit distance adjustment so an aftermarket choice may be advisable, so a visit to your local parts provider may be necessary.
Of course, the next time you’re taking the bike into the dealership for an oil change or a friendly visit, I’m sure they’ll be happy to assist you with getting the clutch lever in the correct position. They may even have a fitment shop to help you in finding the right levers, perches, or handlebars.
-LUC
