starting on an incline

starting on an incline

by Nancy Eccles
(Kingston, New York, USA)

ACH!!! The first weekend I had my own bike, I had to stop at a stop sign on an incline. They didn't go over this in the class I took. I tried to start, but down she (and I) went. I was mortified! The car behind me stopped, and helped me get the bike back up, turned around and going back the way I had come. Now, I'm scared to death of having to stop on a hill. I've been practicing using the rear brake more, but does anyone out there have some advice for a second year rider who's avoiding hills at all costs?!!! Thanks, Nancy

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starting on an incline

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Apr 23, 2008

Hills! Hills! Hills!
by: Anonymous

We all probably have shared in similar circumstances regarding stopping on an incline. I finally suceeded, after stalling 100 times, and by then, shaking terribly. I later figured out after selling the 535 Virago, that the clutch really was terrible on it, and my new bike's clutch, a 1100 V-Star is much easier to ride, hill or not! So a big part of my problem was the lousy clutch, and not me! I had only ever ridden the Virago, and the same bike in the MSF class. Good Luck! Laura

Apr 22, 2008

Throttle-clutch control
by: Jacee

I too had the problem of being scared to stop on an incline. I learned that it is a throttle-clutch control issue. Don't be afraid to give it plenty of throttle - not until you redline it, but it won't hurt to rev the engine a little more than you think you should. After a little practice, you will get the "feel" of how much throttle you need versus how soon to let out the clutch. Let it out very slowly, but DO engage it. Keeping your right foot on the rear brake is excellent advice.

Apr 22, 2008

Great question
by: Christine

Nancy - I can truly relate to your "issue" with starting on an incline - I, too, had this problem for the first few years I rode. Here's my suggestion:

You need to keep your back brake pedal engaged (with your right foot) as you begin to throttle up when starting. Release the brake pedal as you begin to move, and you are all set.

I used to try to hold the bike up with my feet on the ground as I started, but using the brake is MUCH easier. You may feel a bit of a pull as you start, but that's okay. Think of it this way - throttle on, ease brake off.

It may take a few times, but you'll get it!

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