Avoid the habit of accelerating the gas when you stop

Jakarta (ANTARA) – Those who drive automatic motorbikes or scooters often have the temptation to “give it a little gas”, especially when the motorbike is stopped in traffic. This habit is often considered trivial by many drivers.

However, this action poses a high risk of damaging engine and CVT components. If this continues, life-threatening damage could occur and result in significant repair costs.

The negative impact is often driving an automatic motorcycle

1. Damage to the machine

According to Endro Sutarno of SiTEPAT, applying the throttle on a motorcycle with an automatic transmission in static conditions (for example in the middle of or stuck in traffic) makes the engine run without load. As a result, the piston can hit the valve, the valve can bend and the connecting rod is also at risk of breaking. In extreme cases, the machine can come to a complete stop.

2. CVT (automatic transmission) components are affected.

Pressing the accelerator while holding down the brake (for example at a red light or in a traffic jam) causes CVT components such as the V-belt, roller, pulley, clutch lining and clutch housing to work harder and repeatedly overheat. Consequentially:

• V-belts crack or break quickly due to continuous pulling.

• Rollers and pulleys wear more quickly causing vibrations and noise.

• The clutch lining and housing can wear quickly, causing squeaking and inconsistent acceleration.

Read also: Maintain your motorcycle’s automatic gearbox with these three steps

3. Initial symptoms that appear often

Cyclists often start to notice irregularities when:

• A harsh or “whine” sound is heard from inside the CVT.

• Acceleration is not smooth, as if there is a delay or is stuck in the middle of the rotation.

• Strong vibrations occur during operation due to worn components.

• The bike appears to “flatten” and lose power during acceleration.

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Tips for taking care of an automatic motorcycle so it lasts

1. Avoid riding when the motorcycle is static

Driving quietly while in position does not overload the CVT and engine is a major factor in premature damage.

2. Warm up the machine before use

Idntimes and Oke Jambi recommend waiting 1-2 minutes for the oil to lubricate all engine components before pulling off the throttle completely.

3. Do not open the throttle while applying the brake

Hindayat warned that the accelerator and brake should not be operated at the same time because this would cause excessive “pull” on the V-belt.

4. Perform CVT maintenance and replace belt as recommended

Routine maintenance and cleaning of dust in the CVT is essential. Replace the V-belt and roller every 15,000–20,000 km to maintain optimal performance.

Riding an automatic motorcycle is not just a myth, this habit has serious consequences. The engine may have problems, the CVT is damaged and repair costs may even increase if they continue.

However, by avoiding static riding, warming up the engine before riding, as well as carrying out regular maintenance and using the right oil, the performance of the motorcycle can be maintained optimally and the components will remain durable.

Read also: Take care of your automatic scooter by following the following five steps