Ideally, your car should drive smoothly and one of the best ways to ensure this is by using the clutch properly. However, bad driving habits not only cause an uncomfortable ride, but could also damage your car and clutch in particular. Here is what you should know about getting the most of your clutch:
Tips to reduce wear and tear to your clutch
Do not ride the clutch; only use it when necessary
Do not treat the clutch as a foot rest
Avoid downshifting each time you slow down the vehicle
Fully disengage the clutch between gear changes
Fully engage the clutch when changing gears
With a manual transmission, it is best to put the car in neutral and take your foot off the clutch – this will prolong the life of the clutch release bearing. When it’s time to go, just push the clutch and select first gear ready to go.
Common clutch failure symptoms
Clutch pedal makes noises when engaging and disengaging
Clutch pedal is hard to engage, or feels loose or feels ‘spongey’
Clutch pedal sticks to the floor
Should you suspect or experience any problems with your clutch, we highly recommend that you have a qualified technician attend to it immediately to avoid further damage, expensive repairs or causing an accident.
BMW South Africa has recently launched the dynamic new Roadster F 900 R and the F 900 XR in the Adventure Sport segment. In so doing, BMW Motorrad is further expanding its product range for the popular mid-range.
Both models offer sporty riding pleasure, straightforward handling and a unique range of equipment options, packaged to offer attractive value for money. Based on a powerful shared backbone, the two models differ significantly in terms of character and positioning.
The new F 900 R – the Dynamic Roadster for purist riding pleasure
Suitable for everyday riding, the new BMW F900 R is a dynamic roadster fashioned for self-confident, sporty and active bikers. Aimed at experienced riders and newcomers alike, the new F 900 R’s aggressive design, sound, engine output and torque conveys an irresistible sense of freedom.
The new F 900 XR – a genuine “XR” for the mid-range
The F 900 XR boasts sporty riding dynamics combined with upright, GS-like ergonomics, outstanding long-distance and passenger suitability and a design that conveys a powerful sense of character.
The new F 900 XR also benefits from the technology transfer from the upper class: Adaptive Cornering Light and Keyless Ride are unique features in the mid-range.
In addition to sporty riders, the XR is also aimed at newcomers thanks to its low minimum seat height and attractive entry price.
Pic Courtesy of BMW SA
Technology benchmark in the segment
The two new models – the F 900 R and F 900 XR – currently set the technological benchmark in the mid-range segment with their high-quality standard equipment (Connectivity, LED all round as standard) and their wide range of optional extras – in some cases unique in this class (including Adaptive Cornering Light, Keyless Ride, Dynamic ESA, Riding Modes Pro, Shift Assistant Pro, ABS Pro, engine drag torque control (MSR), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), and RDC.
2-cylinder in-line engine along with new engine drag torque control
In the new F 900 R and F 900 XR, enhanced riding dynamics are ensured by the further development of the 2-cylinder in-line engine first introduced in 2018 in the F 850 GS. While offering a particularly emotional sound, the engine produces 77 kW of power and 92 Nm of torque.
In addition to the standard anti-hopping clutch, the new F 900 R and F 900 XR can be fitted with engine drag torque control (MSR) for the first time. MSR prevents the rear wheel from slipping as a result of abrupt throttling or downshifting, thereby ensuring even greater safety.
Pic Courtesy of BMW SA
Two standard riding modes
The new F 900 R and F 900 XR already offer the “Rain” and “Road” riding modes as standard. The standard trim also includes ABS and ASC Automatic Stability Control, which can be disengaged.
With “Riding Modes Pro” as an ex works option, the sporty characteristics of the new F 900 R and F 900 XR can be experienced even more intensively. The additional riding modes “Dynamic” and “Dynamic Pro”, Dynamic Traction Control DTC and banking capable ABS Pro are available, along with Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) and the new engine drag torque control (MSR).
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