Quote from: sh on August 21, 2008, 11:10:49 PM
actually, I don't see why a slipper clutch isn't the norm on all bikes.  I guess rev matching is pretty fun too.

Production costs of slipper clutches, et al, aside... an abstract comparison of sorts:

Learning to ride on a non slip dry clutch, is kind of the same as learning to mountain bike on a rigid framed bike. Both require you to be smooth and fluid in your actions. You have to adapt your riding style to suit the equipment. With mountain biking, the rigid frame makes you choose smoother lines, and perfect your technical skills. When you add those skills to a suspension (front only, or dual suspension) bike, you have a much faster and more efficient "machine"...bike and rider.

Learn to ride with a non-slip clutch, and the same principles apply. Knowing when, and how, to shift and manipulate the clutch will ultimately have greater benefits when moving to a slipper unit. Again making a much faster and efficient "machine."

Just my $.02

ok, now i'm a little confused.  i thought that the slipper clutch only engaged when it was needed.  am i incorrect and it's actually always working?  there have only been a few times that i felt like the slipper actually engaged on the bike--and all occasions were pretty abrupt/panic stops where i really botched the rev-match into first. 

Quote from: b. on August 22, 2008, 09:47:18 AM
ok, now i'm a little confused.  i thought that the slipper clutch only engaged when it was needed.  am i incorrect and it's actually always working?  there have only been a few times that i felt like the slipper actually engaged on the bike--and all occasions were pretty abrupt/panic stops where i really botched the rev-match into first. 

When the engine RPM is a great deal lower than the drive train RPM, engaging a regular clutch will cause the rear wheel to "hop" as it slows drastically to match the motor. A slipper clutch, on the other hand, will slip, allowing the rear wheel to continue at almost the same speed, until the RPMs match up. It can also be called a "back torque limiting clutch" for that reason.

More info:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slipper_clutch

Quote from: Vindingo on August 20, 2008, 07:14:58 PM
1500 miles and you are ready for something bigger?   

the throttle turns more than 1/2"...

Yeah, I know.  Probably too early to upgrade.  Part of it is that I feel too tall for the bike (though I've been to one of the Zeitgeist meets and I think at least a few of you guys are taller than I am so it's probably not a great excuse).  The other part is that I'm thinking now that I've ridden a bit, I kind of want a shiny new bike....even though the pre-dented one I have now does have some character!