Every bike has brakes on the front and rear wheels. However, experienced bikers often use the engine as a third braking component. Many nurture the myth that engine braking damages the motorcycle engine. On the contrary, engine braking is a good technique to safely and efficiently lower the bike's speed without losing control over it.
Understanding what is engine braking in a bike can help you enhance your overall control of the vehicle and reduce brake fade.
Read further to know what is engine braking in a motorcycle, how it is done, and its benefits.
What is Meant by Engine Braking in a Motorcycle?
Engine braking is slowing down a motorcycle without engaging the brake. In that case, the motorcycle starts to decelerate due to the friction created by its engine. This is attained through the closure of the throttle when the bike is still in gear. In the engine braking process, engine drag is allowed, which creates internal friction and vacuum that slow down the bike.
When nearing a curve or sharp turn, bikers mostly roll off the throttle to downshift one gear, amplifying the engine braking effect. Gear downshifting increases engine speed, thus increasing the engine drag effect.
How Does Engine Braking in Motorcycle Work?
When the throttle valve in a motorcycle closes, the air intake valve closes, too, allowing only a minimal amount of airflow to the engine. Consequently, the engine burns less fuel and decreases its RPM. This decrease in RPM causes the engine to resist the rotation of the wheels, hence slowing down its speed.
In the closed throttle, the higher the engine RPM, the stronger the suction. Hence, the greater the engine-braking force.
Engine braking in bikes involves two forces:
- Vacuum: Vacuum develops inside the engine when its throttle is closed.
- Internal friction: This is the resistance inside the engine and drivetrain that slows down the wheels.
Learning how to do engine braking in a bike correctly provides an advantage in situations where controlled deceleration is necessary.
When Do You Need to Use Engine Braking?
Situations where engine braking in a motorcycle comes in handy are:
When the vehicles in front of you slow down, engine braking helps you decelerate gradually, in sync with the surrounding traffic, rather than relying solely on your brakes. This reduces excessive wear on your brake pads and other components.
While riding a bike downhill, it can quickly reach breakneck speed. At such a time, engine braking comes in handy, avoiding brake fade.
How to Use Engine Braking in a Motorcycle?
Knowing how a bike engine works is necessary to understand the context of engine braking.
Here's how to use engine braking in bikes efficiently:
First, press the clutch to disengage the engine from the drivetrain, which will cause the engine RPM to drop.
- Downshift to a Lower Gear
Shift to a lower gear. This increases the engine speed while decreasing the vehicle speed and thereby enhances the effect of the engine braking.
- Release the Clutch Gently
After downshifting, release the clutch smoothly to avoid jerks or instability.
Remember that engine braking is effective when combined with careful throttle management. Moreover, knowing how the bike engine works within the context of engine braking ensures that the brake application process is safe and effective.
Advantages of Engine Braking in a Motorcycle
Using an engine brake in a bike offers several advantages. Some of these are:
- Minimises Brake Wear and Tear
Engine braking reduces the number of times you use the brake, thereby decreasing the maintenance costs of brake components such as pads, rotors, and shoes.
- Increases Fuel Efficiency
When engine braking is applied, especially in fuel-injected bikes, the throttle valve cuts off air to the engine, reducing fuel consumption.
- Better Control and Stability
Engine braking in bikes offers better control over the speed when running in slippery conditions. While friction brakes ensure the wheels lose traction, engine brakes bring about consistent retardation and hence minimise the chance of skidding.
Continuously applying the brakes tends to heat them up and thus causes brake fade. Engine braking offers an alternative to regulating the bike's speed without putting pressure on the braking system. It prevents overheating and ensures efficiency in performance.
Conclusion
Understanding what is engine braking in a motorcycle is essential for riders who want to improve their braking techniques without relying solely on the brakes. Mastering engine braking in bikes keeps the speed smooth and does not strain the brakes as much, thus prolonging their life. However, it needs to be used correctly so that it does not cause over-revving of the engine or rear-wheel slip, especially on wet or slippery roads.
Remember that investing in comprehensive bike insurance with some unique add-ons can offer enhanced financial protection for unforeseen events.
As the engine is not covered under a comprehensive bike insurance plan, it is highly recommended that a little extra payment for add-ons be made. An engine protection add-on cover provides financial protection against costly engine repair and replacement due to oil, lubricant, coolant, or other leakage.
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