Motorcycle clutch cable - principle of operation, replacement

The clutch is an important part of any motorcycle. The job of a clutch is to transfer torque from the engine to the gearbox. Thanks to him, two-wheeled vehicles can accelerate and brake, as well as smoothly shift gears. 

In motorcycles, the most popular are friction and sliding solutions, which can be divided, for example, into: wet multi-plate clutches. Regardless of the type, we can find it in almost all designs. cięgno Bowdenaalso known as clutch cable, clutch cable. This is what we will focus on today.

What is a clutch cable?

This part is responsible for disengaging the clutch. Allows you to drive a motorcycle. 

How does a motorcycle clutch cable work?

The tendon is made up of several layers. The first, outer layer is the armor, and under it is the steel frame of the tendon. Under this frame there is a thin plastic that reduces friction, and in the middle there is a working element of the cable, i.e. spirally twisted thin wires.

The cable transmits the motion caused by the vacuum from the clutch to the lever. When the driver presses the clutch pedal, the cable is taut and the lever moves. The lever, together with the release bearing, exerts pressure on the driven shaft, which, in turn, transmits pressure to the release lever. This causes the clutch disc to move, i.e. the engine may disengage from the gearbox. 

It sounds complicated, but in practice it is not. Due to the simplicity of design and reliability, the line is still a popular solution. 

When does the clutch cable need to be replaced?

Links are prone to various failures. The most common fault is line breakwhich occurs due to wear (abrasion) or corrosion. 

Another reason for failure incorrect clutch cable adjustment. During assembly, the cable was deprived of working play, which can lead to slipping of the clutch. It may be the other way around, i.e. due to incorrect assembly, the cable has too much slack, which leads to a "pulling" of the clutch, i.e. to insufficient drive shutdown.

A damaged cable must be replaced immediately. Bet on the highest quality item. The VICMA 17673 Clutch Control Cable is an important part of the motorcycle control system, so manufacturers have placed emphasis on quality materials to ensure its long service life. 

How to replace a motorcycle clutch cable?

Replacing the clutch cable is not difficult. If you have a repair arm, you can easily do it yourself.

1. Remove the old clutch cable.

Get rid of any elements that prevent access to the link. This can be, for example, an adjusting screw or an engine cover. Once you have access to the cable, loosen it and remove it. To do this, remove all nuts, latches that hold the cable in place. When the line is taut, it can be pulled out. 

2. Lubricate the new cable.

Before installing a new cable, such as VICMA clutch cable 17673, use a special lubricant. This will prolong its life and reduce the risk of premature failure or jamming.

3. Install a new tie rod.

Now you can install the new cable. When assembling, make sure that the cable is laid in the same way as the old cable. Leave a gap between the cord and any heat source.

Adjust the cable by adjusting its slack as needed. Consult your vehicle owner's manual to find out how much play is allowed on the lever before the clutch is engaged. Ready!

In order for the new clutch cable to serve you for a long time, regularly lubricate it with preparations containing Teflon or silicone.