Do Motorcycles Have a Reverse Gear?
2 Answers
Motorcycles do not have a reverse gear. The reason motorcycles lack a reverse gear is that they generally use chain drive transmission, unlike cars which use shaft drive. Therefore, motorcycles do not have a reverse gear. Motorcycles avoid shaft drive because it generates a rightward tilting force during acceleration, which could lead to a dangerous fall if forced. Motorcycles have 4 gears, all of which are forward gears. Gears 1 to 2 are low-speed gears, gear 3 is the cruising gear, and gear 4 is the high-speed gear. To downshift, you can press the rear part of the gear shifter with your foot. Operation method for shifting gears on a motorcycle: Before starting, the motorcycle is in neutral, and the foot pedal is relaxed. To start, grip the clutch lever with your left hand to disengage the clutch, and press the gear shift lever down one notch with your foot (each gear change requires gripping the clutch again). Shift into 1st gear. Slowly release the clutch lever. When it's about 3/4 released, simultaneously continue releasing the clutch lever while twisting the throttle grip to increase the engine speed, transferring power to the rear wheel. Once the rear wheel starts moving, fully release the clutch lever to engage the clutch, completing the starting procedure. Next is upshifting: slightly increase the throttle to raise the speed. Close the throttle (turn the throttle grip forward and downward completely with your right hand), quickly grip the clutch lever fully with your left hand, and lift the gear shift lever one notch with your foot while holding the clutch. Release the clutch with your left hand, twist the throttle grip with your right hand to accelerate, and successfully shift into 2nd gear.
As a seasoned motorcycle rider with years of experience, I find this issue quite common. Most motorcycles indeed don't have a built-in reverse gear, as their design prioritizes lightness and agility, with the transmission only handling forward gears. I remember my first Honda CBR—when parked on a slope, I had to push it backward by hand, but you get used to it. However, some large touring bikes like the BMW R 1250 RT feature an electric reverse function, using a small motor to assist in backing up, which is handy in parking lots. Models without reverse aren't dangerous; instead, they help develop pushing techniques. I recommend beginners learn basic pushing methods, like using body weight to control direction, ensuring safety and preventing falls. If the budget allows, opting for a model with reverse is an option. Overall, the absence of reverse isn't a flaw but part of a motorcycle's charm, adding to the flexibility and freedom of riding.
