Engine Braking in Motorcycles: With and Without a Quickshifter (A Beginner’s Guide)
Engine braking is a useful technique that helps motorcycle riders slow down without using the brake system. This technique allows for smoother deceleration, better control, and less wear on your brakes. Whether you’re riding a bike with a quickshifter or one without, engine braking is something all motorcyclists should learn, especially beginners. In this guide, we’ll explain how engine braking works and how to use it effectively as a beginner, both with and without a quickshifter.
What is Engine Braking in Motorcycles?
Engine braking occurs when you close the throttle, causing the engine to resist the bike’s motion and slow it down. This is a natural deceleration process that happens because the engine’s compression (as the pistons move) works against the motion of the bike. On manual transmission bikes, engine braking is most noticeable when you release the throttle and let the engine work to slow the bike down, especially when downshifting.
Engine Braking Without a Quickshifter
For motorcycles without a quickshifter, engine braking relies on your ability to manage the throttle and the clutch in conjunction with shifting gears. Here’s how to use engine braking effectively as a beginner:
1. Release the Throttle Smoothly
- Why: The moment you release the throttle, the engine starts to resist the bike’s motion. This is the beginning of engine braking.
- How: Gently roll off the throttle when you need to decelerate. Avoid closing the throttle too abruptly, as it could cause jerky deceleration, making it harder to control the bike.
- Tip for Beginners: Practice releasing the throttle slowly and smoothly. Get comfortable with the feeling of deceleration without using the brakes.
2. Downshift Gradually
- Why: The more you downshift, the more engine braking you will feel. This is because a lower gear increases engine RPM, creating more resistance that helps slow the bike down.
- How: To downshift, close the throttle, pull in the clutch lever, and shift to a lower gear. Then, gradually release the clutch while keeping the throttle closed. Be careful not to downshift too abruptly, as this can cause the engine to over-rev or make the bike jerk.
- Tip for Beginners: Start by downshifting one gear at a time. Avoid downshifting too quickly, as it can cause the rear wheel to lock up or the engine to rev too high. Shift smoothly, and ensure the engine speed matches the gear you’re shifting into.
3. Use the Clutch Smoothly
- Why: The clutch disengages the engine from the transmission, allowing for smoother downshifts and engine braking. If the clutch is not used smoothly, you might experience jerky shifts or even lose control.
- How: Pull in the clutch lever as you prepare to downshift, and release it smoothly after you’ve shifted gears. Don’t ride the clutch (keeping it partially engaged) while decelerating, as this can cause unnecessary wear.
- Tip for Beginners: Practice clutch control in a safe, empty space. Get used to finding the “friction point,” where the clutch engages, to ensure smoother shifts and more predictable engine braking.
4. Avoid Over-Revving
- Why: Downshifting too aggressively can cause the engine to rev too high, which might damage the engine or transmission, and can also lead to a loss of control.
- How: Be mindful of the engine RPM when downshifting. Shift smoothly and gradually, and pay attention to the tachometer if your bike has one, so that the engine speed doesn’t spike unnecessarily.
- Tip for Beginners: Downshift only when the engine RPM has dropped enough to avoid a high rev. Downshifting one gear at a time ensures the engine doesn’t over-rev.
Engine Braking With a Quickshifter
Motorcycles with a quickshifter allow you to shift gears without using the clutch, often without even closing the throttle. This changes how engine braking feels and how you use it. Here’s how to use engine braking with a quickshifter:
1. Release the Throttle Smoothly (Same as Without a Quickshifter)
- Why: Just like in bikes without a quickshifter, releasing the throttle initiates engine braking. The difference is that with a quickshifter, you can downshift more quickly without using the clutch, which makes engine braking more immediate.
- How: When you need to slow down, ease off the throttle gently. The engine will immediately start to resist the bike’s motion and decelerate.
- Tip for Beginners: Focus on smooth throttle control. Avoid snapping the throttle open or closed, as that could lead to unstable deceleration, especially when you’re just learning.
2. Downshift Quickly Using the Quickshifter
- Why: The quickshifter allows you to shift gears faster and without using the clutch. It helps you downshift quickly, which increases the engine braking effect without interrupting throttle input.
- How: As you release the throttle, tap the gear lever to downshift. The quickshifter will automatically handle the clutch disengagement, allowing for a quicker and smoother shift into a lower gear.
- Tip for Beginners: Use the quickshifter to shift one gear at a time. Downshift as needed, but don’t rush through the gears—give yourself time to adjust to the change in engine braking.
3. Maintain a Smooth and Controlled Ride
- Why: Quickshifters can make the process of downshifting easier, but they still require smooth throttle control and balance to avoid jerky movements or losing control.
- How: Maintain steady throttle input and avoid excessive revving. Quickshifters allow you to shift faster, but you still need to use engine braking in combination with your throttle control to maintain smooth deceleration.
- Tip for Beginners: While a quickshifter simplifies the downshifting process, always remember that smooth throttle management and gradual deceleration are key. Focus on fluid, controlled shifts rather than fast or abrupt downshifting.
Additional Tips for Beginners Using Engine Braking
- Use Engine Braking for Safety:
Engine braking can be particularly useful in situations where you need to reduce speed without making sudden movements. Use it when approaching corners or traffic, or when riding downhill to prevent brake fade. - Combine Engine Braking and Brakes:
Engine braking works best when combined with the brakes, especially in more complex riding situations. If you’re coming to a stop or need to decelerate rapidly, use the brakes in addition to engine braking for the safest and smoothest result. - Practice, Practice, Practice:
The best way to get comfortable with engine braking is to practice. Find an empty parking lot or quiet road where you can practice releasing the throttle, downshifting, and using the clutch smoothly. Start at lower speeds and gradually increase as you gain confidence.
Summary for Beginners
Using engine braking in motorcycles, whether with or without a quickshifter, is a valuable skill that helps you slow down smoothly and maintain better control. Here’s a quick recap for beginners:
- Without a Quickshifter: Release the throttle smoothly, downshift gradually, and use the clutch carefully to maintain smooth engine braking.
- With a Quickshifter: Release the throttle, tap the gear lever to downshift quickly, and use smooth throttle control for a more immediate engine braking effect.
- Always practice in a controlled environment to build confidence and develop smoother throttle, clutch, and gear control.
- Combine engine braking with the brakes for better safety, especially in emergency or high-speed situations.
By mastering engine braking, you’ll improve your riding technique and ensure a smoother, safer ride.