Rekluse Auto Clutch Pros & Cons - Everything You Need To Know
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- čas přidán 6. 07. 2024
- Rekluse Auto Clutch Pros & Cons. Everything you need to know about How a Rekluse clutch works while riding is covered in this video. I ride my KTM 250 SX Rekluse auto clutch dirt bike for 20 minutes to give you the most comprehensive Rekluse clutch review on function, on CZcams.
We Cover:
Starting in gear with the autoclutch
Technical riding anti-stall with the Rekluse
Lack of engine brake on steep backward slopes
Bumps start are possible with Rekluse
I've Had this Rekluse Auto Clutch in my dirt bike for approximately 10hrs of riding now. I'm very happy with the Rekluse Torq drive performance and the function of the Rekluse EXP auto disc.
My KTM 250 SX is equipped with the Rekluse Radius X clutch. Please see my Radius X Install video here for the complete install of the clutch: • Rekluse RadiusX Instal...
I also have a Rekluse Radius CX Install video here: • Rekluse RadiusCX Insta...
Visit the Rekluse Website for fitment of your bike: rekluse.com/products/dirt-bik... .
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Thank you for making this video. This is exactly what I needed to fully understand how the Rekluse is working. I'm sold!
I race hare scrambles and GNCC races. I rode my first motorcycle in April of 2021, and since then have raced in about 35 races. I recently put in a rekluse into my 300xc, and it immediately has made me a faster and more competitive racer.
It makes me not have to worry about turns or small hills. I don’t have to modulate the clutch, which allows me to hit the trail harder and with more confidence.
I also don’t have to kick start when I fall, saving time.
I can see how purists may look at the rekluse and say I’m not going to learn m, but the reality is I’m
Not kalib Russell and never will be, so at this point I’m content to be the best I possibly can, which means allowing myself to have all the advantages I can have I.e. the rekluse.
The only con I’ve seen so far is you don’t have the power hit as hard, but I’m certain as I ride I can fiddle with the power valve and lock in the power how I like.
Summary:
A rekluse clutch on a bike that is going to be raced on hare scrambles and the such will make that racer 1-3 minutes faster immediately.
Agree with all of that 👍 Sounds like you're having a blast and that's what matters most.
Year later, you may have tuned it more now. I have my most current one in the #3 position on my Belleville spring for more bite. I also have the springs set in the EXP disc to not feel like an auto clutch at all. It doesn’t freewheel at any RPM.
Thanks John for this video, will help me a lot, even the cons. I'm 52 and starting Enduro. My Husqvarna dealer told me about Rekluse, that it will help me to find confidence and fun on the bike in a more secure way...
I'm in the same boat as you regarding fine motor control. In my case it's age-related as I'm 70 years old. I recently installed a Rekluse on my KLR 650. It's extremely useful for me and it's sure to extend my ability to ride into the future without worrying about a numb hand and the problems associated with a decrease in fine motor control.
Awesome Mark! You're a riding inspiration. Ride on my friend ✊
If you want to.extend your riding career get rid of that tank of a motorcycle . Get yourself a ktm , Beta , Sherco . A modern light weight bike will change your life , its like magic.😊
If he’d willing to drop the cash on a dual sport, a new 250EXC-F lowered an inch (depending on his height) would be a great fit. I have multiple friends in their 60s that do just that. Really light well mannered machines. My buddy Gasser is in his 80’s and he loved riding light 200EXC.
He may be riding lots of pavement and back roads. The KLR is a pretty good machine for that as long as things don’t get too rough and slippery. I found mine quite stressful in anything but commuting with how much chassis flex there was… and I was a strong 38 year old, sub-140lb elite mountain runner and long distance triathlete.
Here’s Gasser’s channel. He gets after it for and old timer! youtube.com/@gastonbelanger5346
@@Matthew-wn8oq I agree but, approaching 74 years and almost 60 years riding, my wife might hasten my demise if I bought another toy. I rode BMW's for years along with smaller bikes. Here's the last small one that I had - it was a blast! www.youtube.com/watch?
v=fHUdjrr4upI
I have a rekluse radius cx with torqudrive plates on my 2018 husqvarna fe450. This thing made the bike an absolute all around monster. Totally worth the money.
👌 Beauty of a machine.
Dude!!
Keep it up man damn!
Nice 👍
I wish people shared knowledge like this all the time!
Love it bro. My kids will see this
Thank you. Trying to remember to keep the language clean in my videos too. You know... kids and all 🤣
This is a fantastic video on the pros and cons of the Rekluse. To each their own, but I learned a ton. Thanks for creating this for the weekend warrriors.
Happy to hear it had value for you 🤙
Bike I bought had one on and I love it. No stalling is the best thing. He forgot to mention another great advantage. Jamb on your rear break and it won't stall ever. Coming into corners or down steep hills you don't have to cover the clutch. I put a LH rear break and solves the stopping on hill problem. Also have a small thick bungee band I can loop over lever and Bam, parking break as if it was a normal bike in gear. Problem solved.
qtubin the rear brake anti-stall most of the reason I bought one. I mentioned that in my other video but guess I forgot in this one. Appreciate the comment 🤙
what did you do with your clutch lever? do you have both a LH rear break and a clutch set up on the bars?
@@apostate4apostate494 I added lefthand rear break, OX, kept clutch lever of coarse. Love the the LHRB. Barely touch the foot break. Takes a bit to get used to but way more control
Absolutely the best review I’ve ever watched in my life you should do this for a living thank you so much
Well that's the nicest comment, so thank you.
If I could figure out how to ditch my day job(s) for about 6 months and rent a small garage space, I would do it full time... and the production value would go WAY up. Right now I scrap together what I can, in spare time I don't have. I don't feel like it comes through, but I'm like a anal version of Kris Keefer.
Unfortunately I haven't been able to solve that problem yet, but would like to achieve it in the next 2 years. Having some fun with it in the meantime.
So stay tuned, you just added to the motivation pool 🤙
thanks for your video and your messages below. very well explained and handled. keep up your good work
John - this vid is the reason I came to your page - and I'll def be sub'ing and watching more. Thanks for the super-thorough review - it answered all my concerns and questions! Super interested in the anti-stall bit (while contenting to using the clutch normally!)
Great! Glad it helped. I installed one for a friend who was struggling with flameouts. Took the bike from one he didn't want to ride, to the one he rides the most, with the most confidence.
It'll be good to have some lady subs too! 😍 Analytics says I get (a) lady view like... once a month 🤣 I might be working with a young female rider soon. Maybe I can upload some of that to gain more interest.
Have used the Rekluse on my bikes for 10 years. Currently on a KTM 300xcw. The main point of the clutch for me is the left hand rear brake with no foot brake, great for really technical terrain, especially steep downhill sections with case-deep trenches! I don't think I could ride anywhere near as gnarly terrain with a stock bike.
My E-KTM has a LHRB and I'm really starting to love it. It was murder for my left hand (the bad one) at first, and still is for hard MX braking, but in the gnar and wheelies it's pretty badass 🤘
so you took the foot brake off and put it where?
I love the Rekluse in my 06 RM 250 ( it's the older model with the ball bearings ) and no it hasn't caused any premature clutch wear. Great video.
I love your attitude and approach to the instruction. Nice balance, good clear audio and very thorough. Keep up the great work and thank you from TEXAS! Husqvarna TX300i
Glad you enjoyed 🤙
Great Explanation on both sides of having one. Bought a 2020 Yamaha 250 FX to ride woods after being off bikes for 14 years I am just out having fun, nothing to prove and would welcome an auto clutch as handling this beast through the tight areas is challenging enough. Thanks for the video.
Exactly why I got one. 14 years off, bad wrist, bike too powerful for small spaces. Let other friends ride it... they bought them too.
A lot of people don't seem to understand the clutch works exactly the same if you choose to ride it like it doesn't have an auto.
this was a hell of a review/explanation u covered everything eloquently my friend awesome job
Thank you. Glad it helped 🤙
Very thorough info. Thanks!
Great demonstration great video thanks for sharing this 🙏
Thx man. Nice explanation and video. Thanks for taking the time to make vid
Enjoyed the vid...thanks John
Great video you answered a lot of the questions i had 👍
Really great video! Thank you
Awesome video mate. Very informative and it came over really well. Cheers
Appreciate it 🤙
Covered very well! I love the no hander. I ride the rocky single track with a wr450. A rekluse bumped my ability to get through the tough stuff immediately. I have a left hand rear brake which I believe is a must on steep mountain trails. You are going to be better and safer. Money well spent if you're not going to get an education with it.
These clutches can be extremely helpful to reduce flameouts when in the nasty rocks!
Just watch out, you may have some haters now that dont realize you can still use your clutch lever just like you could before. 🤣 People love to hate what they don’t understand.
Enjoy the ride 🤙
thanks man awesome video that was a huge help !
Very good and informative video. Thank you.
Haha, don't Moon Launch! Thanks for the vid. I've been curious about these for awhile, but have never ridden with one. Video addressed my questions and the lack of engine braking question I had was fielded in your comments. Nice looking and sounding bike too.
Yeah, I prefer rubber side down on earth 🤣
Glad we could answer some questions for you together 🤙
This is exactly the information I was looking for! Thanks for creating this video man! Rekluse should send you some merchandise, I imagine you sold a few $1k clutches with this video 😂
Are you listening Rekluse? 🤣
Probably more than a few. At this point probably a few dozen at a minimum. Haha
I bought one after watching this! haha
Joseph Johnson Haha, Nice! Enjoy! 🤙
Joseph Johnson how are you getting along with it? Probably have a handful of ride by now.
@@JohnHowerton137 ordering one tomorrow!
Great video. Alot of useful info.
That's a very good demonstration. Certainly seems bullet proof, that's for sure.
Awesome review thanks!!!!
Buying a pre-owned 500 EXC with a recluse perfect video for me to have found. Thank you
Fantastic bike. Wish I could find one. Unicorns in these parts.
Thank you for taking the time to do your awesome video’s. Very helpful. I’ve learned a lot. Btw I live on kauai. Just bought the rekluse clutch just waiting for it to come in. Can’t wait! Thanks Brother. Aloha! 🤙🏽
Appreciate it. It really is a lot of work and I wish I could do a lot more in higher quality, but I work 6 days a week. Most of it is done on my one day off... and that can really take the relaxation out of a day off. Comments like yours make it feel worth it. Enjoy the clutch. Trying to budget in another one in myself 🤙
@@JohnHowerton137 yes it is a lot of work doing video’s. A lot of people including myself appreciate the time you taking in creating them. It helps a lot! I don’t know why people would leave negative comments.
After all you are trying to help them out. Thank you again!
Yeah, constructive or critical I understand, but negative solves basically nothing. It's usually just a projection of insecurity.
Rubber side down my friend 🤙
This was a great video!
Fantastic video my friend. For us mere mortals it sure looks like it is a lot more fun having the Rekluse clutch. After all isn't the fun of a great ride the ultimate prize?
I believe it is the prize. Ride On my friend ✊
Hi John,
Great video. Thank you
I ride enduro bikes since early 80s, and I currently have a EXC 300 with Rekluse EXP, no clutch lever and LHRB only (no pedal).
I find it very useful in many hard enduro situations:
- the engine never stalls - no time wasted if you slip in a timed session
- less gear changes - quicker in timed sessions
- LHRB allows 100% accurate control of braking in critical conditions such as extreme and banked downhills
- LHRB allows to stop and restart in extreme climbs, withou having to use the right foot to brake
- great traction control on slippery surfaces.
Disadvantages are:
- no jump start, only kick or electric
- no clutching. I do not need it with my bike, it's a 300cc. Probably it would not work on a 125cc, or you would need to set a high enough engagement speed.
PS - I also have a EXC 125 and Bandit 1200 with manual clutch, I switch from one bike to the other withou any issue.
Correction - my Rekluse is the Z-Start Pro, not the EXP
Very nice breakdown. Thank you for taking the time to contribute. Totally agree with all of it.
I have friends who've had great luck with all the product's evolution over the years. They just keep getting more and more refined and durable.
I have no asperations to be a racer. I trail ride purely for the fun of it. A rekluse makes it more fun IMO.
What does IMO mean
@@jojoplayz5291 in my opinion
Do you have to do the basket when doing a rekluse
@@snailbagracing2327 No, it used the stock basket.
Thank you John. Just what I needed to know about the Rekluse. Got one on order for my KTM but I really didn't have an in-depth understanding of all the ins and outs.
Watch the video in the pinned comment too. More in depth. Enjoy!
My bad. This is the video
I heard about Recluse and got one for my Harley-Davidson Streetglide. It's great especially in stop and go traffic. So I got one for my KTM 690 Enduro R. It eliminates alot of stalling when riding single track trails. I like the ones I have. No problems.
I would have one in my 690 too if I wasn’t towing with it. First three gears in that bike are pretty tall. 14T would make it better off-road, but those long legs are nice for hwy, especially with a 16T. Rekluse no doubt makes it much less fussy to ride off-road.
Great video. Today was the first time I've ever heard of this. My last bike was a 82 husky 250. I just bought a newer 250f. Has the recluse on it. I thought the guy selling me the bike was crazy. Damn thing is awesome. Broke clutch lever? No problem
You’ll love it. Just learn how to adjust the freeplay gain and check it once in a while for the best durability. Enjoy 🤙
Awesome video!! Seriously thinking about getting one for my quad after seeing this.
Look through the comments. Apparently they're fairly popular in cross-country quad racing. With the way that quads throw you around I imagine they can be quite handy in really rocky and rooty stuff where it's trying to rip your hands off the handlebars making clutch work more difficult.
@@JohnHowerton137 I ride in the high desert of California mainly, but there are some areas that I can do some rock crawling/mountain claiming.
thanks for demo John,im 54 and just got back into riding again, i judt bought s 2005 crf 450x and thank god it has s rekluse clutch, never ridden before with one ,but will definitely be alot easier, especially with hand cramps, cheers for the info. GC .Aus .
You're welcome. Just make sure you keep the freeplay gain adjust properly and you should enjoy it very much.
Also keep in mind you need to adjust out the freeplay if you need to bump start the bike. Then adjust it back before riding. Your bike is kickstart, so that shouldn't be an issue like the bikes with dead batteries. Just a heads up for you in case.
Welcome back 🤙
thanks for the heads up mate🙂
LOVE THE VIDEO! THANKS FOR ALL THE INFO ON THE CLUTCH AND ILL BE PURCHASING MINE THIS WEEKEND.
JEALOUS YOU GET TO RIDE IN HAWAII!!
Evan Poe you’re welcome. Don’t be too jealous. 360 days of riding weather but almost nil legal places to ride 💩
@@JohnHowerton137 When I was NOT old... I did MX and Hare and trail racing/riding... The big thing was "LESS SOUND = MORE GROUND" Then spark arrestor's became mandatory... Then they went after the 2 strokes... While this was going on, land was being turned into malls and subdivisions so it's a world wide situation and unfortunately it's not going to change... Sucks...
Skee Skeeter that and lawyers 💩
informative just got a new to me 2018 WRR with Rekluse Auto and am just about to learn how she works in real applications thank you
A lot of them are set up really weird which is why many people don’t like them. I actually don’t run mine (have multiple) in this configuration anymore because I do like more of a “manual clutch feeling” when my hand is working, so if yours feels really on/off, look into swapping out/mix & matching different colored EXP disc springs (come in the kit). These days my bike feels like a manual clutch being that it wont freewheel at any RPM, but it still won’t stall even if both brakes lock and it comes to a complete stop. It really is the best of both worlds.
I hope to make a video about it sometime, but my weekends has been largely eaten up by work stuff (then moving) for quite a while. There is light on the horizon now though 🤣
Greetings from Puerto Rico very good video good explanation, I have a crf450 2019 with an impressive torque, I was a professional racer and I ran again after many years without doing it and I run motocross with my children, I put the rekluse and it is a strange experience but in good way, and it is the same as what you explain, the system has given me friendly mobility without losing the power of the motorcycle and has led me to enjoy more and without feeling fatigue I can take the motorcycle to my liking, soft and docile and aggressive and a lot of speed ... greetings 👋🏻
Very good. Yes, it can be a little weird, but when you learn the strengths, it's sort of hard to fault. Makes the bike a little more usable in other situations it may not have designed for 🤙
I have the Rekluse EXP on my 14 300 XCW. Positives outweigh the negatives in technical; another + is the ability to get off the bike and "walk" the bike up steep/loose gnarly stuff with it running and not using the clutch. A left hand rear brake is also handy when stopped on hillsides or going down steep sections when you need your right foot off the bike. The biggest negative to me of the Rekluse is the clutch is significantly harder to pull/feather on steep climbs when I need to keep rpms up.
Oh yeah. The off the bike stuff is great. Done that some in nasty tight rocky grass.
A lot of the newer models don't increase the clutch pull as much as they used to. They almost certainly make the upgrade kit for your bike.
Just install 1 on my 2018 yz250x its awesome
A really informative vid I have issues with my clutch hand as you do , I was concerned about loosing the lock up if it flames out uphill but I didn’t think about the rear brake on the handlebars. Thanks!
You’ll love both and probably not want to ride without one ever again. I find it ups the enjoyment level 5 fold when I’m not constantly focused on trying to keep my hand working to stay upright.
answered all my questions. thanks very much! just bought a 350 ktm that came with a rekluse. seems perfect for my style of riding...you know, cant lose my job style:)
Glad it helped! Watch the pinned comment video too.
This really makes me want to get one for my DRZ400S. I'm using it just to go on graded ORV trails, short commutes to work, and to explore logging roads for possible hunting spots or to find some of the plentiful abandoned mining ruins that are all over my area. Just being able to stop and take it slow to enjoy the scenery without constant clutch play would be a dream. Thanks for the video!
Yes, they are nice 😋 Just make sure you still ride around in the gear you normally would.
Excellent Video.
Excellent overview and very comprehensive! I have one on order for my 2010 WR450 cable clutched Yamaha. Can’t wait! We do a lot of technical single track up here in North Eastern Ontario Canada and arm pump can be an issue.
The anti-stall part of it is the best it really helps the tired weekend warrior actually enjoy his time away from work 🤣
@@JohnHowerton137 It’s over a year now with the Rekluse on my cable clutched WR450 revisiting this video. I have to say it is the best accessory I have ever put on a dirt bike. It has helped me keep up with guys half my age in some of the most difficult events we enter up here in North Eastern Ontario. An absolute game changer. Just installed one on my brand new 2023 Beta 300RR which has hydraulic clutch operation to begin with. Don’t care. Once you’ve tried an auto clutch you never go back. Again thanks for the comprehensive video!
Awesome man. Thank you for the follow up. Even better on the hydro bikes… less tinkering!
I feel the same way. Something that can help make what you already love even more enjoyable is worth it in my book. Especially when it helps dissolves some of these pesky but inevitable age limitations 🤣
Rubber side down 🤙
Love the vid! Usually see comparisons to manual bikes and not true reviews. I ride an AT DCT and modified to LHRB, and I love this thing. I don't miss a clutch at all, the DCT/auto-clutches just work differently which means different techniques. I think we'll see pros that come up on them real soon, and it'll become more of a preference. Rolling backwards down a hill is the worst part, especially since I removed the eBrake for the LHRB lol. Have to keep a velcro strap for locking rear brake. Thanks again for the thorough demo
I think there's more pros using them than people think. Especially in XC racing.
Very well done. Thx!
Thank you very much. Very interesting.
thanks, great explanation.
Nice video!
Great video thanks !
Very good 👍 video and informative and educational. Thank you 😊
Glad it helped.
Have plans to make another to address more questions and applications that I've gotten in comments.
Great video!!!
great video and explanation thanks
Debra JMJ welcome. Glad it was helpful.
I race hare scrambles and am a decent 58 year old "B" racer. I run a Rekluse because when racing for 2 hours, I get extremely fatigued. I ride the bike like normal, but rely on the Rekluse toward the end of the race when tired. A Rekluse and 300 2-stroke or 350 4-stroke is the best "old guys" combo IMO!
right there with you. finding the ktm 640 a bit large for off roading on my 5.8 150lbs 56 years old self. bought a 350 and braaaaap!
Great vid. 👍 if I'm blessed enough to be riding when I'm 60+ yo , I'll definitely add this to my bikes.
One of my main riding buddies is 65 next month. He loves his.
Nice video, super informative! Keep up the good work! 👍🏻
Mahalo 🤙
thx for the video great info
More subs to this gentleman...
I give this video a 10 out of 10 bumpy rocks! i got all my unanswered question answeared.
Glad it helped. I just put one in another one of my bikes (sold this video’s bike), so hoping to make a few more videos about it in the coming months.
Great info... thanks
Here in Jersey we rise some SUPER tight enduro trials, nonstop trees spaced less than handlebar width...it's like I'm in a pinball machine all day....but as a newer rider I would be stalling constantly without this thing on my rmz250. LOVE IT!
There's always that time... when the Handguardless clutch lever hits the tree and dumps the clutch for you 🤣
Brake lever on the other side hits and when the front end dives... dumps your balls into the gas cap 🤣
@@JohnHowerton137 ha ha ha! Thankfully I'm running hand guards.
@@JohnHowerton137 Just checking in, 2 years later and I an in another universe faster than I was when I wrote this initial comment. LOL. I was terrible back then. For the past year and a half I've been on a 350 XC-F also with a rekluse and I freaking LOVE IT. I got rid of the foot brake and installed another brembo master cylinder on the bars and connected that to the rear caliper and it's AMAZING. The control is so much better and braking modulation is perfect with the one finger midwest lever. I also have an Alta MXR and that quite frankly is the best dirt bike I have ever ridden. I'm easily 15-20% faster on that than I am on any other gas bike. It's 50HP of instant torque and you are always in the powerband 100% of the time. it's a dream. Here's one of my videos on it if you get time: czcams.com/video/v-oYmXzcTE4/video.html
In any case, I hope you're doing well, and happy riding!
@@JoshStreetDesign great comment my friend. Happy to hear. Both amazing bikes! I'll check it out 🤙
Thank you, great info, brother
Might make another video about them soon. Had them in 4-5 different sizes/types of bikes now. Have more input on their use and adjustment etc... Good product. Ordered another one last weekend for my 450.
I found a ktm that I like (350 exc-f) except it has a rekluse radius cx clutch. 12 years ago I rode a 450 exc and met someone with a rekluse and he mentioned how his clutch lever was completely disengaged and just flopped around doing nothing. I am an occasional trail rider and wanted to get more into slow, trials-like riding (I'm in my 50ies so my hand's arthritis is a factor). I was really under the impression I wouldn't be able to use the clutch. I had no idea that the newer ones allow you to still use the clutch so thank you very much for this video, it helped tremendously with all the examples you demonstrated. Many rekluse vids don't go into much detail. Cheers
Nah, the Rekluse has always retained full clutch lever function (above idle) to my knowledge. That's how you adjust the freeplay gain to keep it from slipping too much.
You'll love it. If you don't, it's not like its a permanent engine mod. Happy Trails 🤙
Husqvarna made the auto 430 and 500 from the late 70s to 87 was a fairly successful bike for woods and endurance racing
Bike sounds really crisp. I run the rekluse on all bikes except my 300 which I use in tight single track.
It runs decent. The gearing is off and it's jetted a little better for sea level (at 6,000ft in the video). Should put a JD needle in it.
I tinkered more this week. Put the yellow PV spring back in. Might work a little better next ride. Considering taking off the Steahly flywheel weight. First bike I've ever had one on. I think I prefer it to spin up faster, especially now that the Rekluse softened up the engine feel and the clutch is heavier with the steel drive plates & EXP disc. The bike feels like its going to pop when you get on it... and then it doesn't. Kind of throwing me off. I like predictable. Probably mainly the gearing. Only have like 11.5 hrs on this bike, so haven't gotten it fine tuned.
For where I ride the 300 is a much better engine delivery. Lot's smoother. Such good bikes. Especially '17 and newer.
Thanks for posting this. I’ve been really curious about this clutch as it would make so many of the tight trails in my area way more fun. I don’t care if some think it is cheating, it’s great technology that can make riding easier and more fun. That’s a great concept to me. Plus, if it saves me from stalling out and dumping it over in a glacier fed creek filled it silty water, that could save an engine.
You sound like you might be a guy who uses his brain instead of his ego 😉 It can make a day of riding for a weekend warrior a little more pleasant... you know... I have a “day off” to enjoy, instead of just “another work day” except doing my hobby.
I understand the purist side too, but sometimes, or some people just want a break from the grind. Frisky or fresh days you can still bang the clutch. Had Dillion Ferrandis never told anybody that he’d done races using one, nobody would have never known.
@@JohnHowerton137 thanks for the feedback, I’ve been researching the pros and cons as I’ve never ridden a rekluse clutch but my brother has a Honda 250EX quad with a sport clutch which seems to be the same as a rekluse. I thought it was pretty nice, no stalling, you could still pop the clutch if you wanted. I don’t recall trying to slip it but there really isn’t a need to on that machine. I also ride snowmobiles which are 100% automatics and 4-wheelers with auto clutches. I’m thinking adaptation won’t be much of an issue for me compared to someone who rides dirt bikes exclusively. I’ll be getting a new YZ250X this April so I may put a rekluse in it. That’ll likely be the last gas bike I buy as I’m hoping the electric bikes will become way more mainstream in the next 5-10 years.
Zero adaptation. One minute in you'll forget it didn't have it when you bought it. I will say they are a little better with the hydro clutch. Less fiddling as you have no regular freeplay to deal with on top of the freeplay gain. Put a 250XC or variant on your radar. The counterbalanced 2T is amazeballs and there are 50 other reasons to choose it over the Yamaha too.
Sick ebikes are only 2 years out methinks.
@@JohnHowerton137 I thought about the KTM’s but I like my Yamahas and my Yami dealer. I’ve wanted a 250X since they came out so this year I decided I better get one before they quit making them or they get banned for emissions or something. My dealer only got allocated for three 250X’s and one already sold. In January. In Alaska.... fricking covid. He now just has one left, I’ll pick mine up this April.
I see myself being an early adopter of an electric model. I’d be thrilled if they are only 2 years out. I just learned KTM has that electric mini bike, very cool. I also heard that Yamaha has been working on electric motorcycles for quite sometime and I saw an article that Honda is testing one. I’m excited about what toys we’ll get to choose from in the future! One of my buddies talks with MX guys in the lower 48 as his grandson has been racing the circuit. The guy he spoke with had been test riding an electric MX bike and said it had zero hesitation and he was pretty impressed with it.
@@thatalaskaguy you’d likely change your mind about that once you own one 😉 This is why Austrian customer loyalty is so high. That said, I’m all about supporting the dealer who supports you the best.
The Alta was great, too bad dumb ass Harley sunk them. I was planning on owning once my dealer grabbed the line. Outside of Alta, Honda was kind of the first one with a real MX prototype that we’ve seen. Yamaha’s is a collab with another company in Europe. They have a cool trials bike already though. MX bike they just shoved someone else’s motor into a 250F frame. That said, Yamaha isn’t afraid to be the first with unique stuff in the market. KTM has had a prototype ebike since ‘09 and production for 8 years. That’s the Freeride E-XC. I can’t imagine they don’t have something MX in the mix. Their SXE is a no brainier for mini dads. They’re fast and easy. 50s are a flippin’ nightmare! The SXE fits the 50-65 bill, and they are rumored to have a 85cc version next year. The plan is to grow the next generation on Ebikes, so that alone should mean a 125/250F class bike from KTM in 2023 or 2024 at the latest. No one has said this... but I tend to be really damn good at predicting things/trends 🤣
Now I do a lot of hill riding in Hawaii. I kept the clutch lever below my Left Hand Rear Brake. Downhill, two fingers on the rear brake, one on the front brake. Uphill, right hand controlling the throttle, left hand feathering the clutch when the front end lifts off the ground during the climb. Losing momentum, more throttle, more feathering the clutch. Rekluse and LHRB make me want to ride my $10k dirt bike, that's what matters.
Russ Shappard right. I'm sure your weekend paycheck for riding your dirtbike is a little smaller than Graham Jarvis or Johnny Walker's.
If you're in Oahu, I know you have plenty of tricking climbs and conditions. I like the idea of the LHRB being the main lever in that tight stuff.
Thank you.
Great video and comment feedback. I've read the clutch pull increases with the rekluse over stock and some recommend converting to hydraulic. Is this true and if so how much did the resistance increase?
I'm already hydraulic on all my bikes. I think it depends on the machine. This 250-2T if I recall say 15%? My 250F I don't feel like much, if any.
I have no idea if this is true, but to me it feels more like maybe they increase lever throw (pull distance), which would make it feel stiffer. I bought a Midwest Mountain lever once because they're suppose to dramatically reduce pull. I didn't notice much of anything and sent it back.
Thing is, you don't have to pull the clutch anymore, so it doesn't matter much if it is a little stiffer because the hand will be so much more fresh.
If you were/are on a KTM (variant) you could switch to the 9mm master cylinder like the enduro guys to soften and lengthen the feel of the lever.
I bought an 04 YZ 450 that already had a recluse in it and it was my only bike for seven years the only thing that was weird was using the clutch when it's so flimsy it always felt weird. The recluse also had that feeling of riding one of those lawnmower powered go karts at the batting cages to it. 😅 Im much happier now just going back to old school on a 2022 YZ 450 FX.
They’re a lot different than that old clutch now. That was probably an old Z-Start model and likely wasn’t set up very well to boot. The one in this video could have been set up much better too. You probably wouldn’t even know the EXP 4.0 was in my current 450 unless I told you. Super smooth, perfect smooth pull, engine braking, the works.
love them. corner 1 gear higher, auto make sure power is there and 1 less gearchange to do on straight.
You almost had me convinced, then I looked at the price of these things and changed my mind fast lol. I ride moto and woods, my gearing is too tall for woods so I have to use the clutch alot and have to let it out at higher rpm to keep it from stalling. This would probably fix the issue but I think Im just gonna wait till I have the money for 2 bikes and have one set up for each.
They aren't cheap, but the quality is there.
Countershaft sprockets are cheap and easy to change out from weekend to weekend. Get one tooth smaller and see how that works out. A compromise until you come up with another solution.
I really like your videos. I recently joined the woods racing community (EROC/AWRCS) and I'm liking it 👍 thinking about getting a rekluse clutch. Do they have them for a 98 Yz 250 smoker?
Amazingly they don't show one on the website. Hard to believe. You might give them a call on that bike.
Thanks for the kind words 🤙
Well I got to say thats one hell of a review and answered a few questions of mine. I been looking at these clutch's for a while now and I admit its not easy making changes. I tore the tendon in my index finger on my clutch hand and cant grab the lever anymore with it so trying to 3 finger a level and still being able to hold on has be difficult especially when your always trying to not pitch your finger between the level and the bar. It kinda hurts after a while. I never give up riding but to keep moving forward in life you gotta make changes or you'll never move forward and your always sitting still and getting left behind. Good job by the way for starting a shit storm on here it's pretty funny reading some of these comments. Being on top of the competition comes from you being comfortable with your environment. You got make them changes that works for you as a rider.
👍
... and you'll love one of these. You won't look back. They make riding much more enjoyable. Most the haters don't realize that the clutch works exactly the same as it did before, now it just doesn't stall or jump a corner on you every damn time your finger doesn't work.
@@JohnHowerton137 some people are just miserable in their own world. I know Star Racing Yamaha uses Rekluse in their factory bikes for a couple years now and they are running auto and a regular setup. They seem to be on top competition wise. So it cant be that bad on the track. I know the GNCC guys are loving this clutch in the woods which is where I really see it excelling at. Trying to find some who reviewed this thing and answers alot of questions people mentally have on this is just hard. But anyways good job on the revien and just keep up the good work and keep on keeping it real...
@@kochykoo victimhood is one of the primary things taught in our society today.
They are great clutches. I still have one in my 250XC-F that I love. I never get to ride that bike because we have basically no riding places that require less than 4 hours of driving anymore. My ebike motor is more or less a Rekluse, so outside of shifting a few times here or there when I ride the 250… the motor character is the same.
@@JohnHowerton137 i hear that. To many people try to manipulate others into what they want instead of letting others decide whats best for them. Everyone's needs, wants and beliefs are different. They choose the path thats right for them and take the lessons life teaches on what they choose. Reality of the fact is if you keep it honest and real about your experience with the matter in hand maybe it can help others look at things in a different view. I know alot of people has the same issue like you and don't have a place to ride and enjoy what their passionate about so the either give up or they come up with a way to create something where others can enjoy.
@@JohnHowerton137 stupid question... Have you played with spring setup on that rekluse to see how knarly it can get
The harder , steeper, rockier terrains you ride the more you’ll appreciate this. I have had it on my 500excf for 40 hrs and I very much like it. Engine brake downhill doesn’t bother me at all, sometimes you don’t really need it and freewheeling down is totally OK. When you do need it, you can give it some gas and with higher rpm clutch will stay engaged and you get your engine brake. One question I have for guys who run it, do you feel a good amount of resistance to roll with engine off and in gear, mine does have that and Imam curious if you all feel that. It doesn’t seem to affect anything, just my observation.
Doesn't bother me at all. The anti-stall far outweighs any low RPM engine braking. I actually like no engine braking downhill, as the suspension is more settled and absorbs better.
There is a little resistance in gear, but not as much as a manual bike with the clutch lever pulled in. Make sure your freeplay gain is set correctly.
@@JohnHowerton137 sounds good. Yeah, free play gain is on point, I experimented with the screw in all possible ways just to see how it affects this particular aspect. I sense that this is indeed normal. The bike runs like a champ. I am about to install left hand rear brake and that will be awesome in combo with this clutch.
You are a star John. Could you try it on sloping ground with thick leaf cover for us? Im on the side of a mountain in Italy, 35 degree slopes and it impossible to hang on to my RMZ 450 with 2 fingers on the clutch lever when it slides down, im thinking this Rekluse will allow me to grip the bike with whole hand, theres no flat land here, it stalls easy and i cant kick start it without ripping tendons...
I don't get the opportunity to ride that too much (about 4hrs round trip) but this video: czcams.com/video/3VYh6-dCpnM/video.html has at least some hard wet clay with roots covered in eucalyptus leaves. The terrain is MUCH steeper than it looks. The Rekluse is in the bike. My buddies dont have Rekluse. I'm a quite a bit better rider than them... but on a stiff, hard hitting MX bike. You can see it just makes it that much easier for me.
I have been thinking about buying a Recluce Auto Clutch for my 2019 KTM 250 xc-w. Maybe I will, thanks for the great video. Brother rider. Take good care of Smoky.. Did you install this clutch yourself?
I did. If you look at my channel videos I have two installs filmed. Smokey’s and a KTM DDS. None like yours, but mostly the same.
hello John i thought you did a very good video on the rekluse i just bought a lightly used 13 exc-f 350 w 1350 kms 40 hrs with about 4000 in extras including core exp clutch plus the left hand brake ,Lm recovering from shoulder surgery so i haven't been able to try it your video helped and if i don't like the rekluse the bike came with the factory clutch,thanks for info
I doubt you wont like it. Especially recovering from an injury. Thank you and get well soon 🤙
Was considering a rekluse since I have problems with fine control on my clutch hand due to surgeries. After a while it is almost impossible for me to do a slow release on a clutch. So the question is, if I let go of the clutch to quickly using this will it cause major issues?
The clutch works normally. The benefit to you (like myself) is when you lose the ability to feel, you dont have to use the lever at all to keep riding normally. I still use it for shifts since that doesn't require the fine motor control, but other than that...
That's exactly what I was looking for..
Thx a lot👏🏻
You're welcome 🤙
That is a nice bike
Reminds me of my 1973 Kawasaki 75 mini bike!
great vid. thanks man! you rock.
I only ride on the street and I can see this being perfect for stop and go traffic. Many times I got stuck in traffic and playing with the clutch gets tiring real quick.
Yep. Just need to be careful the first few days until you’re used to it. You don’t want rev it up in “neutral” and go into the the back of a car 🤣
@@JohnHowerton137 Of course. I would get used to it in a parking lot first.
So which kit to buy for Suzuki DRZ400S to make it functional like an automatic scooter ?
It wont, only makes the clutch part similar to a scooter. You will still have to use the shifter AND be in the appropriate gear.
I installed a Rekluse on my 450 and a con I that I wasn't anticipating is you don't have engine braking. Unless you are going fast enough downhill to keep the RPMs up, the clutch will disengage, and you have to rely on your brakes to regulate your descent speed. Not a huge deal, just takes some getting used to.
You can change the EXP springs and pucks to combat some of this. Jeff Slaven's has a decent video about it somewhere.
Great video man, thanks for this. Al the info needed. I just have one question: I love the engine breaking on my KTM EXC-F going downhills, will the rekluse make it like I'm free wheeling or more like on a 2 stroke style? I'm heard you need to keep getting a full hand of throttle while descending so it doesn't freewheel full kamikaze style :) Is that right? Thanks so much in advance!
At idle RPM it will be Freewheeling. I'm not a engine braking kind of guy, so I never tested it downhill but riding it a gear low downhill with the RPMs up I would think would keep it locked up. Never tried it.
I sold this bike so I can't fo test for a definitive answer for you, but plan to put one in my new 250 when budget permits.
@@JohnHowerton137 Thanks so much for the prompt reply. Yes, that and the hill climb thing you approached here is the only thing that's keeping me from getting one in the future. I'll keep an eye on your videos for sure. Thanks for the amazing stuff you always put out!
@@mikemoralesofficial everything has drawbacks. I don’t ever intend on not making it hill climbs, so the roll back thing doesn’t bother me 🤣 Chances are the clutch will help you make it up the first time anyway. Haha
@@JohnHowerton137 that's exactly my thinking! 😆😎
Thank you very much.
Xr650l
Great informative video man! Answered all my questions and concerns. What island are you on? I’m on the Big Island.
Aloha!
EeZ3 808 me too 🤙
Wow thats awesome man! So yeah im slowly getting back into the sport after a 15 year bread. Im 48 and been riding and racing all my life. I even volunteered as a sweeper a few times for MaunaKea 200 back in the days. My son is back from Tennessee from the Army, he rides. My grandsons are getting into it, so ive been trying to part together a few crf 50’s. And ive been looking for something for me to ride, kind of leaning more towards a dual sport like a WR or CR or something. Thanks for the reply man! Maybe ill see you around sometime!
Aloha Bro!
bread=break. Fat morning fingers
@@EeZ3-808 know the feeling. My break was 15 years as well. Seems to be the sweet spot for a lot of people. Maybe that's how long it takes to recover financially 🤣
RIP Mauna Kea 200. I'm everywhere so I'm sure we'll meet at some point. Exciting things to come in the world of riding on the BI 🤙 Aloha
Hey John I'm 60 and have a 690. Been riding a couple years. I have been thinking about getting a smaller lighter dirt bike with the thought it would help me improve faster. Not to replace the 690 just a second bike to help with riding the 690 better. Do you think it would help me learn faster or would you say just ride the 690 more and learn on that? Thanks for your thoughts and cannel
Handling a smaller bike will no doubt improve your handling skills. This is why the top enduro guys ride trials bikes.
I would, and do. I ride a 250F or my little ebike the majority of the time. Being able to do something on the little bike will give you confidence to do more on the big bike.
I bet this would be amazing on those hard enduro races where you have to start your bike on the line
Could be amazing in general when your body and hands are so tired they barely function.
I now run a rekluse in all my bikes and I dont regret it for a second
Just when I think I don't want or need one anymore, I remember how awesome they are 😆 Ordering another next week.