Using and handling motorcycle controls, both primary and secondary, refers to the essential skill of managing all the levers, pedals, switches, and gauges that operate the motorcycle. It involves understanding the location, function, and correct usage of each control to ensure safe and effective riding. Mastery of these controls allows the rider to respond quickly and appropriately to various riding conditions, enhancing overall safety and riding performance.
Also Read: Ultimate Guide for Motorcycle Riding Positions
As riders, we need to know these controls to maintain control of the motorcycle in different situations. Without this knowledge, riders risk losing control, leading to accidents or hazardous situations. It is best to learn these controls before riding in traffic so using and handling them becomes more instinctual than deliberate, allowing the rider to focus on the road and surroundings rather than fumbling with unfamiliar controls.
What are Motorcycle Controls?
Motorcycle controls encompass a range of components used to operate and manage the motorcycle. These controls are what riders need for steering, accelerating, braking, shifting gears, and signaling to other road users while out on the road. While the basic functions of these controls generally remain consistent, the exact placement and operation of these controls can vary between different motorcycle types and models.
Understanding these controls is critical for safe and efficient motorcycle operation. Inadequate familiarity with the controls can result in delayed responses, improper handling, and increased risk of losing control, especially in traffic or emergency situations. Having said that, we listed the primary and secondary motorcycle controls that you need to familiarize yourself with in order to avoid getting in trouble when you take your bike for a spin.
Primary Controls
Understanding the primary controls of a motorcycle means familiarizing yourself with the controls related to basic motorcycle operation, maneuvering, and other fundamental riding tasks.
Clutch Lever
The clutch lever, found on the left handlebar, controls the clutch mechanism of the motorcycle, allowing the rider to engage or disengage the power from the engine to the transmission. Pulling the lever disengages the clutch, while releasing it engages it.
What is it for: It is primarily used for smooth gear shifting. It helps in starting, stopping, and slowing down without stalling the engine.
How to use it: Squeeze the clutch lever before changing gears and release it gradually while applying the throttle. This coordination ensures a smooth transition between gears.
Where to find it: Located on the left handlebar, typically within easy reach of your left hand.
Handlebars
Handlebars are the main interface for steering and controlling the direction of the motorcycle. They also house several other important controls.
What is it for: Handlebars are used to steer the motorcycle by turning them left or right.
How to use it: Hold the handlebars firmly with both hands and use gentle pressure to steer the motorcycle in the desired direction.
Where to find it: Positioned in front of the rider, connected to the front fork of the motorcycle.
Front Brake Lever
The front brake lever is located on the right handlebar, just in front of the throttle. It controls the braking mechanism of the front wheel.
What is it for: The front brake lever is used to slow down or stop the motorcycle by applying pressure to the front brake.
How to use it: Squeeze the lever gently to apply the front brake. Always use the front and rear brakes together for balanced stopping power.
Where to find it: On the right handlebar, directly in front of the throttle.
Rear Brake Pedal
The rear brake pedal is a foot-operated control located near the right footrest. It engages the rear wheel brake.
What is it for: The rear brake pedal is used to help slow down or stop the motorcycle, complementing the front brake.
How to use it: Press down on the pedal with your right foot to apply the rear brake. Use it in conjunction with the front brake for optimal braking performance.
Where to find it: Near the right footrest, operated by the rider’s right foot.
Gear Shift Lever
The gear shift lever is found near the left footrest and is used to change the motorcycle’s gears. It is typically operated by the rider’s left foot.
What is it for: The gear shift lever is used to select different gears to match the speed and power requirements of the motorcycle.
How to use it: Use the clutch lever to disengage the clutch, then lift or press the shift lever with your foot to change gears. Release the clutch smoothly while applying throttle to engage the new gear.
Where to find it: Located near the left footrest, operated by the rider’s left foot.
Throttle
The throttle is the right handgrip on the handlebars, which controls the engine’s power by regulating the flow of fuel.
What is it for: The throttle is used to increase or decrease the motorcycle’s speed.
How to use it: Twist the throttle toward you to increase speed and away from you to decrease speed. It should automatically return to the idle position when released.
Where to find it: The right handgrip on the handlebars.
Starter (Kick/Electric)
The starter mechanism can be either an electric button or a kick-start lever, used to start the motorcycle’s engine.
What is it for: The starter is used to ignite the engine and begin operation of the motorcycle.
How to use it: For electric starters, ensure the bike is in neutral, depress the clutch, and press the starter button. For kick-starters, ensure neutral gear, then use the kick lever to start the engine.
Where to find it: The electric starter button is usually located on the right handlebar. The kick-start lever is typically above the right footrest.
Secondary Controls
Secondary controls, on the other hand, provide additional functionality and information to enhance the riding experience and safety. While primary controls are necessary for basic motorcycle riding operation, secondary controls aid in monitoring the motorcycle’s performance and communicating with other road users.
Speedometer
The speedometer displays the motorcycle’s speed in kilometers per hour (km/h) or miles per hour (mph).
What is it for: Monitoring your riding speed.
How to use it: Regularly glance at the speedometer to ensure you are within legal and safe speed limits.
Where to find it: On the dashboard, in front of the rider.
Tachometer
The tachometer shows the engine’s revolutions per minute (RPM), indicating how hard the engine is working.
What is it for: Preventing engine strain by staying within safe RPM limits.
How to use it: Check the tachometer to avoid exceeding the redline RPM.
Where to find it: Next to the speedometer on the dashboard.
Indicator Lights
Indicator lights include high-beam, neutral, and turn signal indicators, which display essential information about the motorcycle’s status.
What is it for: Providing visual cues about the motorcycle’s condition and operations.
How to use it: Observe these lights for information such as when the high-beam is on, the bike is in neutral, or a turn signal is active.
Where to find it: On the dashboard or instrument cluster.
Ignition Switch
The ignition switch turns the motorcycle’s ignition system on and off. It often includes additional positions like lights and park.
What is it for: Starting and stopping the engine, as well as controlling the electrical systems.
How to use it: Turn the key to the “on” position to start the motorcycle and to “off” to stop it.
Where to find it: Typically located near the handlebars or on the side of the motorcycle.
Choke
The choke adjusts the air-fuel mixture for starting a cold engine. It is typically a lever or knob on the handlebars.
What is it for: Assisting in cold starts by enriching the fuel mixture.
How to use it: Use the choke when starting the motorcycle in cold conditions and turn it off once the engine warms up.
Where to find it: Usually on the handlebars or near the carburetor.
Engine Kill Switch
The engine kill switch stops the engine instantly in emergencies. It’s a crucial safety feature.
What is it for: Quickly stopping the engine in case of an emergency.
How to use it: Flip the switch to the “off” position to stop the engine immediately.
Where to find it: On the right handlebar.
Fuel Supply Valve
The fuel supply valve controls the flow of gasoline to the engine. It often includes a reserve setting for low fuel situations.
What is it for: Managing the fuel flow and accessing reserve fuel.
How to use it: Turn the valve on to allow fuel flow and switch to reserve if the main supply runs out.
Where to find it: Near the fuel tank, typically on the side of the motorcycle.
Turn Signals Switch
The turn signals switch activates the motorcycle’s turn indicators. They often need to be manually turned off.
What is it for: Signaling turns and lane changes to other road users.
How to use it: Flip the switch to signal a turn and manually turn it off after completing the maneuver.
Where to find it: On the left handlebar.
Horn Button
The horn button activates the motorcycle’s horn, a vital tool for alerting other drivers.
What is it for: Warning other road users of your presence or alerting them to hazards.
How to use it: Press the button with your thumb to sound the horn.
Where to find it: On the left handlebar.
Light Switches
Light switches control the motorcycle’s headlight and taillight. Most modern motorcycles have automatic lights that turn on with the ignition.
What is it for: Ensuring visibility in low-light conditions and signaling your presence.
How to use it: Use the switches to toggle between high and low beams.
Where to find it: On the left handlebar.
Stands
Stands, including kickstands and center stands, hold the motorcycle upright when parked.
What is it for: Stabilizing the motorcycle when it’s stationary.
How to use it: Use the stand to keep the motorcycle upright and ensure it is fully retracted before riding.
Where to find it: Attached to the frame, usually on the left side or underneath the motorcycle.
Video: Motorcycle Controls
Learn more about the motorcycle controls and what they do for you as a rider by watching this video from Howcast:
Summary
Understanding and mastering these controls is essential for safe and effective motorcycle operation. Familiarize yourself with your specific motorcycle’s layout and functions by consulting the owner’s manual and practicing regularly until using these controls becomes second nature. Then, and only then can you go for drives on your motorcycle without compromising your and the other road users’ safety.