What is the neutral gear on a motorcycle used for?
2 Answers
The neutral gear on a motorcycle can be used for towing, waiting at traffic lights, coasting in neutral, etc. Precautions for new motorcycles are as follows: 1. RPM and speed limits during the break-in period: Mileage - Maximum engine RPM limit - Initial 800 km: below 4,500 RPM, 45 km/h; 800-1,600 km: below 5,500 RPM, 55 km/h; over 1,600 km: below 8,500 RPM, 85 km/h. During the break-in period, engine RPM should be varied frequently, and all gears should be broken in. Do not keep the throttle at a fixed RPM for prolonged operation. The purpose is to allow balanced load-bearing of all components, but do not exceed the specified maximum RPM. 2. Allow oil circulation before riding: During the break-in period, whether starting from a cold or warm engine, allow sufficient idle time (3-5 minutes) for the engine to warm up, ensuring oil flows to all lubrication points. 3. Pay attention to engine cooling: During the break-in period, control riding time appropriately to avoid prolonged operation. Generally, after every 30 minutes of riding, turn off the engine and rest for a while to facilitate engine cooling and heat dissipation.
I've been riding motorcycles for twenty years, and neutral gear is particularly useful in daily life. For example, when stopping at a red light, shifting to neutral keeps the bike stationary while the engine idles smoothly, saving fuel and reducing clutch wear—my old bike runs much smoother this way. When pushing or moving the bike, neutral prevents the wheels from locking up, making it much safer. Once, when my bike broke down on a mountain road, I used neutral to push it to a safe area, avoiding an accident. Beginners often overlook this and start the engine without shifting to neutral, causing the wheels to turn and leading to falls or difficulty starting. Developing a habit of checking the neutral indicator light can extend your motorcycle's lifespan. These experiences make me feel that neutral isn’t just a gear—it’s a little helper for riding.