--- In
DSN_KLR650@yahoogroups.com, "Norm Keller" wrote:
>
> >I am thinking about taking a spare clutch >cable, it that necessary?
>
> Having broken no clutch cables in 40+ years of riding I expressed scepticism about the
need to carry a spare clutch cable for the KLR. Lube it and it should last forever, right?
>
> Notice the past tense in the previous text?
>
> Yes, you can start out without the clutch cable if the engine is warm and the clutch lever
is held in to bypass the safety switch. (I have the by-pass switch installed but didn't need
it)
>
> First the local dealer didn't have a cable in stock, which is the way things work out
sometimes so I went down the street to the Yamaha shop and they found an ATV cable
which fits with some modifications.
>
> I'm still using the much heavier ATV cable and have a new KLR clutch cable wrap-tied
parallel to the ATV cable. The ends are sealed by clamping a piece of hose over the bottom
end and sealing the hose with silicone. Top is sealed with silicone.
>
> The best parts of the experience were:
> 1) Confirming that the KLR doesn't need to disengage the clutch to get moving although
it is really interesting when turning left from a stop into heavy traffic!
> 2) Didn't happen the weekend before in the middle of a 500 mile, mostly gravel trip...
> 3) No one posted quotes of my messages opining that a spare cable likely wasn't
necessary. (VBG)
>
> Carry a spare cable!
>
> You may also wish to install a safety switch by-pass switch or make up a set of jumpers
and diagram to carry in case you need to by-pass.
>
Norm has the right answer, but he has not yet grasped the right reason. Carry a spare
cable for karmic prophylaxis. As long as you have a spare, your cable won't break. If it
does break ("the exception that proves the rule"), the spare becomes cheap insurance.