How To Properly Break In Your New Harley-Davidson Clutch And Products To Adjust Your Clutch Lever

Over the years, I've had the opportunity to break in numerous new Harley-Davidson clutches, whether it's on a fresh-off-the-lot bike or one fitted with new clutch plates. As a Police Motorcycle Officer and Instructor, I've honed a specific process based on real-world experience. This method not only accelerates the break-in period for your Harley's clutch but also ensures the widest and smoothest friction zone possible, reducing overall grabbiness in the clutch plates. (Watch the video below for a demonstration)

For those unfamiliar with the term, the friction zone is the critical area where the clutch plates are neither fully engaged nor disengaged. Some riders might call it “dragging the clutch.” Mastering control within this zone is crucial for maneuvering your motorcycle, particularly at lower speeds. Experienced riders, like police officers, frequently operate within this zone to navigate challenging courses, which directly translates to safer street riding.

While some may argue that simply riding normally will eventually break in the clutch plates, this approach is suited for riders content with minimal training and limited clutch use. However, I strongly advocate for the break-in process I've outlined, as it significantly widens the friction zone and reduces grabbiness, benefiting riders of all skill levels.

Furthermore, neglecting to continually train and improve your motorcycle riding skills is, in my opinion, a disregard for your own safety. Riding motorcycles inherently carries risks, so why not minimize them by striving to become a highly skilled rider? After all, we all share a passion for riding, and enhancing our skills ensures a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone.

Products I Use & Recommend To Enhance Harley Clutch Lever Adjustments & Function:

Between 2014 and 2020, Harley-Davidson employed a top-of-the-line hydraulic clutch system, which performed exceptionally well. However, in 2021, they reverted to a less favorable cable clutch system, a change reflected in my new 2024 Harley Street Glide.

The drawback of cable clutch systems lies in their finicky nature, necessitating both internal and external adjustments. Moreover, each Harley, even of the same year and model, can feel distinct due to these variable adjustments, leading to inconsistency in clutch feel. Additionally, cable clutches often induce more rider hand fatigue.

In stark contrast, Harley's previous hydraulic clutch system boasted superior performance, requiring no adjustments throughout the lifespan of the clutch plates. Furthermore, every Harley equipped with this system delivered a consistent clutch feel and pull, minimizing rider hand fatigue.

Some inexperienced riders may criticize hydraulic clutches for their perceived inability to adjust the clutch engagement point off the grip, a feature commonly associated with cable systems. However, this misconception is debunked by my personal experience. I outfitted my Harleys, including my Police Electra Glide, with a hydraulic system featuring the esteemed PSR Adjustable Clutch Lever. Complemented by the matching adjustable PSR brake lever, these components empower me to fine-tune my clutch lever, achieving precise engagement exactly where I desire it off the grip. For riders seeking similar control and comfort enhancements, a range of PSR adjustable clutch and brake levers are readily available at the Law Abiding Biker Store.

Given the shift to cable clutches by Harley, we can still optimize the setup. Harley incorporates a plastic adjuster along the cable line, essentially an automatic adjuster. However, this system lacks the flexibility for riders to fine-tune play or engagement preferences. Fortunately, I've discovered a solution in the form of the Fat Baggers EZ Clutch Adjustor Upgrade. This aftermarket product replaces the stock plastic adjuster with a more durable metal counterpart, enabling precise external adjustments for clutch lever positioning. We carry these clutch adjusters right in the Law Abiding Biker Store.

In my detailed tutorial video, I'll guide you through the installation process of this EZ clutch adjuster upgrade, ensuring your Harley's clutch lever sits exactly where you desire. It's worth noting that internal clutch adjustments will still be necessary from time to time.

GET A PSR ADJUSTABLE CLUTCH AND BRAKE LEVER IN THE LAW ABIDING BIKER STORE (CHROME OR BLACK)

 

 

GET A FAT BAGGERS EZ CLUTCH ADJUSTER FOR HARLEY IN THE LAW ABIDING BIKER STORE