Tips on motorbike gears in Bali
by Nick on May 5, 2005
I rent a Honda Supra 110CC motorbike and have been riding it for the last 2 years or so. The Honda Supra is not super powerful and has a top speed of about 80kms on the flat. The 4 gears are changed with the left foot and are pretty simple to figure out.
My tips on using gears are:
Do not use 1st gear. It is geared too low and is very jumpy. You will have an accident if this is your first time riding a motorbike.
When changing gear you have to roll the throttle almost all the way forward as you pop into the next gear, then give more gas. Failure to do this will mean the engine will roar.
Do not downshift when riding on gravel, the shudder may cause you to skid.
When riding across flat ground that is unstable use 3rd gear as it is a more mellow gear and you are less likely to skid.
I sometimes use 3rd gear when driving home at night to make sure I do not exceed 40kms, the top speed in that gear.
Do not coast around corners in 4th gear. Downshift to 3rd or even 2nd if the corner is tight and use the engine to help slow you down in a controlled manner.
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{ 8 comments }
Howdy Nick,
But i like to hear the engine roar and skid the wheels !!
Remind me to bring you an electric wheel chair next time im on my way to bali ..
cheers Mick
G’Day Mick,
Its been a long time. Is the gnat on steroids still running?
I have been thinking about a new bike for long time and after the little citizen is birn who knows I might look around for something.
I saw an old friend at the gym recently. She doing okay.
Yer nick, the ” Gnat ” is still flying along.. It loves its new home.. The smooth roads lets it really show its pace !
For i would still suggest a tiger.. Much better handling especially under brakes . Hire one for a few days on your next long trip.. im sure you will realise quickly that a better riding position combined with more power will make those trips so much more plesent. Even at your old ladies pace !!
I still chat to miss X everynow and then.. Always a woman of mystery.
Will see ya in the second week of June.
Cheers Mick
Hi mick or nick could you tell me how to change gears i need to know how to change gears do i click the pedal up to change up a gear or is that to change down. etc. any help be much appreciated.chris
wheres neutral? and first.. like is neutral all the way to the bottom!
wheres neutral? and first.. like is neutral all the way to the bottom!
Jon,
You may want to take beginner lessons on motorbike riding, coz you sounded totally clueless. I am sure you can also buy books, such as “Motorbikes for Dummies”. Please no offense intended.
You didn’t mention the cute habit folk have in Indonesia, of sneaking out of a corner on the right (incorrect) side.
It was not unusual for me to coast around a corner and find someone coming at me head-on, as s/he made a short cut.
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