Review: Rekluse Z-start clutch

[SpeedyManiac]

I installed a Rekluse clutch in my bike last week after riding my buddy's KTM with one. All I can say is wow. This sucker is great and I highly recommend it.

Installation:
I was a little worried about installation since there was a shipping delay and I didn't get my clutch until Thursday after work (I was leaving Friday afternoon to go racing in the Okanagan). My worries were pointless since the kit comes with everything needed including excellent instructions. I used the included 5 tungsten balls and used the L1 spring with 1 washer. Setting the gap takes a little time but nothing major. The brake pedal spacer they include is crap (looks nice, but isn't exactly a great performer) but luckily my brake pedal cleared the clutch cover without it.

Riding Impression:
Wow. I tested it by running two races over the weekend on pretty nasty BC terrain. The clutch performed flawlessly over the weekend and made the bike so much easier to ride. I had to adjust my riding style by staying on the pipe more and not lugging the bike all the time, but otherwise it was great. You do need to shift the bike, though I found I didn't need first gear as much. I loved coming into corners, locking up the rear wheel then just rolling on the throttle coming out. I passed a lot of guys on technical climbs (especially rocky ones) because it's as simple as gas and go. I really like in on long downhills. No more pulling in the clutch to keep from stalling.

I kept the lever on my bars and do use the clutch override from time to time. Feel is very light, but manageable. It doesn't fully disengage at high RPM, but until they make a Pro version for the GasGas I'll live with the current setup.

The only time I didn't like the Rekluse is on loose sandy hillclimbs. It still performs well, but feels weird. I'll live with it as I love it for everything else, especially rocks.

I do plan on trying the 10 tungsten ball setup in the future since Jim and a few others highly recommend it.


So, in summary, I can't say enough good things about the rekluse. Riders of any ability should give it a try, because it will probably make you faster.

[Eric K]

Technology is a wonderful thing. Rekluse is a great example of a technology to make us more effective in what we choose to do - riding.

[Brian VT]

Originally Posted by SpeedyManiac

It doesn't fully disengage at high RPM,...Riders of any ability should give it a try,

All my buddies have Rekluse. I'm scared to try one because when I screw up it usually results in WFO. I've saved myself from injury, or worse, many times just because I always have a finger ready to pull in the clutch when this happens.
It seems every time they almost have me talked into getting Rekluse I have an "incident" that changes my mind.

[sprocket74]

I took my Rekluse out because it made me lazy (lazier) on my 300. I find that I attack more without the Rekluse. I must admit though the Rekluse is magic in nasty rocks.

[gasIdaho]

Lazier or more efficient? I attack more with the Rekluse simply b/c I have more energy to concentrate on things like rock gardens, super steep techy switchbacks, etc. No more kick starting on the sides of hills or in the middle of technical sections. Pick the bike up still running and help it with a little throttle to the safe zone.

I still use it much like a regular clutch but when I get to the rides crux after 70 miles all I worry about is opening the throttle, pointing her and holding on with fresh arms. Sandy motocross type terrain is the only time I miss the regular clutch. The new Pro Model fixes that issue...too bad they haven't fitted one for the GG's

[Hollywood]

Originally Posted by gasIdaho

Lazier or more efficient? I attack more with the Rekluse simply b/c I have more energy to concentrate on things like rock gardens, super steep techy switchbacks, etc. No more kick starting on the sides of hills or in the middle of technical sections. Pick the bike up still running and help it with a little throttle to the safe zone.

I am more effecient. I have the pro on my YZ 250 and I love it. Totally made me a better and faster rider, hill climbs are easier too. I especially like it whe I roll up to my friends and not have to find neutral or clutch in when we are waiting a little.

Yesterday I emailed rekluse to see if they are making a pro for the gassers 2ts anytime soon. Pehaps they would if more people asked...

[gasIdaho]

Couldn't hurt to keep hounding them. I ride with some of the Rekluse boys on occasion and I know that they are slammed trying to keep up with the popular bikes. Not likely to see any Pro model for the GG's anytime soon.