This is prob a stupid question and Im sorry but, is it okay to clutch in while the throttle is still open(or on its way to being closed/partially open)>???? I find shifting this way is smoother.

 

Are you talking about an up shift or a down shift?

 

I was always told because most bikes have wet clutches unlike a car, so it is ok to feather the clutch. Unlike a car or truck where it is best to have the clutch either in or out.

 

The idea is to pull in the clutch, shift quickly, and let the clutch back out quickly.
You don't want to be slipping the clutch (riding with the throttle on and the clutch pulled in part way) because this will cause it to wear out before it's time........pg

 

Let it out quickly within it's traction zone. You don't want to let it out too quickly if you're not so experienced with your bike. Might just get a rodeo-like suprise..

 

piniongear and biggol are correct.

No reason to have throttle in that equation.

With practice you'll get it....

Throttle on...
Throttle off...clutch in/shift...clutch out
Throttle on...

One fluid motion.....

 

No question here is stupid......don't drag the clutch....if you are new to the bike then quit thinking about it too much...just ride...take it easy.

 

I'man MSF instructor here in Texas and in the beginning stages of the class, we workon clutch control and easing the clutch into thefriction zone when starting out. Once the bike is rolling, it is just like the previous posters have said.If the bike is revving up to high RPM's durin upshifting, youneed to roll off the throttle sooner. On downshifts, it is a good idea to blip the throttle slightly to match engine speed with road speed.If you think about it, whenwe firstdrive astandard shift car,we eventually learn how to shift up and shift down smoothly. It just takes practice. Keep it simple and don't think about it too much. You'll be fine.

 

rev it up to about 5 grand, drop the hammer, then hang on!!!!!!!!

 

buy a honda and shift with the throttle opened up...hell...don't use the clutch at all...it's fun on those bikes