Should the clutch be pulled when a motorcycle makes a U-turn?
3 Answers
When making a U-turn on a motorcycle, the clutch should be pulled. When starting to practice, the speed should be controlled at around 20-30 km/h. At this speed, drive straight to tilt the body of the motorcycle to the left. Specific operation: Adopt an outward leaning posture (the rider and the motorcycle lean in opposite directions), press the pedal with the right foot, use the right knee to press the weight onto the fuel tank, support the body with the right foot stepping on the pedal, and consciously turn the handlebars to the left. Pull the clutch and firmly step on the rear brake to lock and slide the rear wheel. Precautions: The rider should pay special attention to debris piled up on the roadside, slow down and honk within 50-100 meters, and indicate the direction of travel with turn signals or hand signals. At night, use small lights, adhere to the principle of slowing down, looking, and then passing, and closely watch the inside of the turn, being vigilant against pedestrians, bicycles, and motorcycles running parallel to the roadside and unclear about the direction of travel, competing for the right of way.
Having ridden motorcycles for over a decade, I can tell you from experience that pulling the clutch when making a U-turn is absolutely standard practice. During low-speed turns or U-turns, not pulling the clutch can easily cause the engine to stall, leading to sudden stops, affecting balance and increasing the risk of falling. For example, at crowded intersections in the city, I always pull the clutch lever and gently apply the throttle to control speed for smooth, slow turns—this makes the bike’s steering smoother without jerking. Once you develop this habit, handling becomes effortless, especially useful in narrow alleys or when maneuvering in parking spots. Additionally, it helps coordinate the front and rear wheels during turns, preventing loss of control. I recommend beginners practice in open areas, combining it with brake use—soon, you’ll master the rhythm and ride worry-free.
When I first started learning to ride a motorcycle, I was also confused about this, but through practical experience, I understood the importance of usually pulling in the clutch when making a U-turn. Especially at low speeds, like doing a U-turn in a narrow neighborhood lane, not pulling the clutch can easily cause the engine to stall when decelerating, making the bike jerk suddenly, which really got my heart racing. During practice, my instructor emphasized that pulling in the clutch disengages the engine power, allowing you to focus on steering and speed control, making the turn smoothly without panic. I tried it multiple times in the park—pulling in the clutch while giving it some throttle, and even with a large turning angle, I didn't lose balance. This technique is simple and easy to learn; beginners should start adapting at low speeds while also observing their surroundings. Remember, it's even more crucial in wet weather or slippery road conditions—safety is the top priority.
