Maximize Clutch Performance with the Rekluse Adjustable Slave Cylinder

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What is the Rekluse Adjustable Slave Cylinder?
3. Importance of Free Play Gain
4. Common Mistakes & Misconceptions
5. Checking Free Play Gain
6. Adjusting the Rekluse Slave Cylinder
7. Exp Disk Engagement Springs
8. Fine-tuning with Idle Speed
9. Avoiding Excessive Drag
10. Using the Slave Cylinder for Emergency Bump Starts
11. Conclusion

Introduction

In this article, we will delve into the world of Rekluse and explore the functionalities and applications of their adjustable slave cylinder. For those unfamiliar, Rekluse specializes in auto clutch systems for bikes equipped with hydraulic clutches. The adjustable slave cylinder is a key component in achieving optimal clutch performance. We will discuss the importance of free play gain, common mistakes, and misconceptions, as well as provide step-by-step guidance on checking and adjusting the slave cylinder. Additionally, we will touch upon exp disk engagement springs, idle speed fine-tuning, and using the slave cylinder for emergency bump starts. Let's dive in and explore the world of Rekluse!

What is the Rekluse Adjustable Slave Cylinder?

The Rekluse adjustable slave cylinder is a vital component in the functioning of the Rekluse auto clutch system. Whether you have a cable-actuated clutch or a hydraulic actuated clutch, this adjustable slave cylinder allows you to adjust the free play gain of your clutch. Free play gain refers to the amount of play or slack in the clutch lever before it engages. This adjustment is essential for the proper operation of the auto clutch system.

The adjustable slave cylinder is not meant for changing performance characteristics. It is important to note that attempting to eliminate drag by adjusting the slave cylinder can have detrimental effects on the clutch's performance. We will explore this further in the next section.

Importance of Free Play Gain

Free play gain plays a crucial role in the effective functioning of any clutch system, including the Rekluse auto clutch. Without proper free play gain, the clutch can slip and eventually fail. To understand the significance of free play gain, let's draw a parallel with a cable-actuated stock clutch.

Think back to your previous experience with a cable-actuated clutch. Over time, the clutch pack wears, and the free play in the lever decreases. Eventually, the lever becomes tight against the perch, posing a risk of clutch slippage. The same concept applies to the Rekluse auto clutch system. Without sufficient free play gain, the clutch will not engage properly, leading to performance issues and potential clutch failure.

It is crucial to check and adjust the free play gain before every ride. Similar to checking chain tension, this is a maintenance task that requires regular attention for optimal clutch performance. Refer to your Rekluse installation guide for the appropriate tolerance and adjustment procedure.

Common Mistakes & Misconceptions

One common mistake users make when encountering drag with the Rekluse auto clutch is immediately adjusting the adjustable slave cylinder. Adjusting the slave cylinder clockwise may alleviate the drag, but it also reduces the free play gain. Operating the bike without sufficient free play gain will lead to clutch slippage and eventual failure. Therefore, it is vital to resist the temptation of using the adjustable slave cylinder as a quick fix for drag issues.

The key lies in understanding that some drag at idle is normal and desired in a Rekluse clutch. This slight drag ensures smooth engagement and prevents freewheeling on downhill slopes. Fine-tuning the idle speed can help manage the amount of drag. Increasing the idle speed will result in slightly more drag, while decreasing it will reduce the drag. It's all about finding the right balance that provides a seamless riding experience.

Checking Free Play Gain

As mentioned earlier, checking the free play gain is an essential pre-ride task. By inspecting and adjusting the free play gain, you can ensure optimal clutch performance. Start by referring to your Rekluse installation guide for the recommended tolerance.

To check the free play gain, follow these steps:

1. Ensure the bike is in neutral and the engine is off.
2. Pull the clutch lever towards the handlebar and note the amount of play before resistance is felt.
3. Measure the distance between the lever and the handlebar at the point of resistance.
4. If the free play gain is within the recommended tolerance, no adjustment is needed.
5. If the free play gain is outside the recommended tolerance, proceed to adjust the adjustable slave cylinder as necessary.

Regularly checking and maintaining the free play gain will help prolong the life and performance of your Rekluse auto clutch.

Adjusting the Rekluse Slave Cylinder

When adjusting the Rekluse adjustable slave cylinder, it is important to remember the purpose of the adjustment: to achieve the proper free play gain and not to eliminate drag. To adjust the free play gain, follow these steps:

1. Locate the adjustable slave cylinder on your Rekluse auto clutch system.
2. Using the appropriate tool, turn the adjuster clockwise to decrease the free play gain.
3. Conversely, turning the adjuster counterclockwise will increase the free play gain.
4. Make incremental adjustments, ensuring you stay within the recommended tolerance.
5. Test the clutch engagement and feel before riding to ensure proper functionality.

Remember, the goal is to find the right balance of free play gain that allows for smooth engagement and prevents clutch slippage. Avoid excessive adjustments that eliminate all drag, as this compromises the performance of the Rekluse auto clutch system.

Exp Disk Engagement Springs

Within the Rekluse auto clutch, you will find exp disk engagement springs that further influence the clutch's engagement behavior. The exp disk engagement springs come in three different settings: low, medium, and high. Each setting corresponds to a different level of spring stiffness.

The low engagement setting utilizes a softer spring, causing the clutch to engage at a lower RPM. On the other hand, the high engagement setting uses a stiffer spring, resulting in engagement at a higher RPM. The medium engagement setting provides a balanced compromise between the low and high settings.

The choice of engagement spring setting depends on personal preference and riding conditions. Experimenting with different settings allows you to fine-tune the clutch engagement to suit your riding style.

Fine-tuning with Idle Speed

Adjusting the idle speed can be an effective way to fine-tune the Rekluse clutch's drag characteristics. By slightly increasing or decreasing the idle speed, you can manipulate the amount of drag at idle.

If you want to reduce drag, try decreasing the idle speed. This adjustment will result in a smoother idle, with less drag when in gear. Conversely, if you prefer slightly more drag for better off-idle response, consider increasing the idle speed slightly.

Remember, finding the right idle speed that provides the desired amount of drag is a subjective process. It may require some trial and error to achieve the perfect balance that suits your riding style and preferences.

Avoiding Excessive Drag

While a slight drag at idle is desirable, excessive drag can hinder the riding experience and potentially lead to issues like freewheeling on downhill slopes. It is important to find the sweet spot where the drag is noticeable but not excessive.

Excessive drag can occur when running a low idle with a high engagement spring setting. This combination requires higher RPMs before the bike starts moving forward, leading to a less intuitive riding experience. It is recommended to avoid this setup to ensure optimal clutch performance.

Regularly check and adjust the free play gain, exp disk engagement springs, and idle speed to find the ideal balance of drag for your specific riding needs.

Using the Slave Cylinder for Emergency Bump Starts

In an emergency situation where your bike won't start, the Rekluse adjustable slave cylinder can be utilized for a bump start. Follow these steps:

1. Turn the adjustment on the slave cylinder one full turn counterclockwise (360 degrees).
2. Place the bike in neutral with the clutch lever pulled in.
3. Generate traction to the rear wheel by either pushing the bike or having a friend assist.
4. Shift the bike into second gear while increasing rear wheel traction.
5. This should hopefully bump start the bike.
6. Once the bike is running, select neutral before coming to a stop.
7. Adjust the slave cylinder back to its original position.
8. Recheck the free play gain to ensure proper functionality.

This emergency bump start method can be a helpful tool in situations where traditional starting methods fail. However, it should not replace proper maintenance and troubleshooting procedures for persistent starting issues.

Conclusion

The Rekluse adjustable slave cylinder is a vital component in achieving optimal performance with the Rekluse auto clutch system. By understanding the importance of free play gain, avoiding common mistakes, and fine-tuning the clutch's engagement behavior, you can unlock the full potential of your Rekluse clutch.

Regularly checking and adjusting the free play gain, exp disk engagement springs, and idle speed will ensure a seamless riding experience. Remember to find the right balance of drag that suits your preferences without sacrificing clutch performance.

The Rekluse adjustable slave cylinder also provides an emergency bump start option, but it should only be used in dire situations and not as a replacement for regular maintenance and troubleshooting.

Unlock the power of the Rekluse adjustable slave cylinder and experience a whole new level of clutch performance for your bike! Ride with confidence and control with Rekluse.

Note: For more information on Rekluse clutches and their offerings, visit Rekluse.