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[firesam23]

I've always had a cable clutch and my new bike has the hydraulic clutch.  What can I expect to be different?  I would think the feel.  Anything I should know?  My bike is being delivered next month.  Hoping to get some insight. Thanks

[North Georgia Hawg]

There are some other recent threads about the hydraulic clutches. Basically, they feel a little different because the friction zone is not adjustable like cable clutches. The friction zone tends to out further than you may be used to... Most are over halfway out, or more. This can feel odd to people who are used to operating a cable clutch.

You bleed the hydro clutches to "adjust" them. It's really only making sure there is no air in the system, just like with brakes. There is no real adjustment available on the hydro clutches.

One thing to know is that as the clutch plates wear, there is less total volume in the system, and over time the master cylinder on the left side of the handlebar will get more and more full of fluid - not less and less as with the brakes. You need to check the level through the sight glass to make sure it isn't too full. It takes quite a few miles for this to occur though.

Harley specifies to change the clutch fluid every two years. I coincidentally just changed mine, and it was quite dark, which is normal due to the assembly lube they use to lube the system at the factory.

Also, the DOT 4 brake fluid that is used in the hydraulic clutch WILL DAMAGE PAINT, so cover all painted surfaces near the clutch or brake reservoirs before you take the reservoir tops off when refilling or changing fluid!

Ken

[firesam23]

Thanks for the great info.  I'm told it's take some getting use to.  But looking forward to the upgrade. 

[Bav]

I found it easy to get used to and prefer the feel over the cable.


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[ptnlinda]

I to am noticing a difference having a cable clutch previously. Early days yet but getting used to it. Don't dislike it just different.

[msemersky]

I have had both and enjoy the hydraulic clutch.  Last year at Sturgis I did the Rekluse EXP clutch and is probably my favorite upgrade on my bike.  Makes low speed maneuvers easy and now I don't mind traffic. Have about 5k miles on my clutch without any issues. Pretty amazing product.

http://www.rekluse.com/exp_hd.shtml

[firesam23]

Thanks that clutch looks awesome.  I'll check it out. 

[TXGator]

I have one inch from when the clutch starts to engage to the end of travel on the lever.  I thought it was just me but have had others take a look.  It is the only thing on the bike that operationally concerns me.. Still love her though...

[skorch]

I've always had a cable clutch and my new bike has the hydraulic clutch.  What can I expect to be different?  I would think the feel.  Anything I should know?  My bike is being delivered next month.  Hoping to get some insight. Thanks

I prefer the Cable clutch-I want to rid my CVO street glide of the hydro unit. The feel is different,somewhat disconnected feeling and a stronger pull effort than my previous cable setup. Too many parts,fluid to take care of a simple task of clutch movement. my 2 cents

[smkblwr]

Skorch, I am with you, I miss my old cable pull clutch, the Hydro clutch is nice but I miss the feeling and feedback I had with the cable and the adjustablility.