2nd Gear Wheelies - How To

[jbernard]

Hey Guys,

I just picked up a 08' Hypermotard and I am in the process of breaking it in (almost there). I've read a lot of post on 2nd gear wheelies but I was hoping someone could breakdown the specifics. I want to learn 2nd gear wheelies but I want to be very cautios as this is the nicest (most expensive) bike I've ever owned.

1. For 2nd gear wheelies what is the best speed?

2. What is the rpm's?

3. Do you guys have to use the clutch at all to pop it up or do you just blip the throttle?

4. Do you have to compress the suspension at all?

I am just looking for a couple pointers. If someone could breakdown their technique it would be awesome. I was practicing this weekend and was really too timid - I did'nt want to loop it (it looks totally lame when it looks like your trying to pop it up and you don't!).

Thanks for the heads up!

[Da_Bull]

Whack the throttle open at 3000 and slide your butt backwards a hair. The front wheel will come right up; no drama.

[AXE]

Generally, if you are in the meat of the powerband which is gonna be around 3000-5000 rpm, you can simply roll on or snap the throttle a little and the front end will come up. How high depends upon how much throttle, body position, and temperment of the rider. I recommend just pulling some simple 1 footers until you figure out the power and handling characteristics, then add a little more as you get comfortable. I would also just maintain your normal riding position, as sliding forward or backward changes the handling of the bike and you don't need any additional variables.

Rarely are you gonna loop a bike, unless you have no throttle control whatsoever. With the compression braking of this motor, simply rolling off the throttle will drop this bike down quickly. Otherwise, you should cover the rear brake and if you get back too far, you can hit the rear brake and the bike will return to terra firma...............probably hard enough to bust your balls. The rear brake is very soft on most of the bikes from the factory. You should read my thread on bleeding the rear brake if you actually expect it to work when you need it.

Also, you need to adjust your suspension first as it will also dictate how easy you can get the bike up and how comfortable it is coming down. A too soft rear makes for harder wheelies. A too soft front makes for hard landings.

That being said, if you haven't been a wheelie guy until now. I would get a dirt bike and practice first. There are also some schools that teach wheelies, but I don't see the need. However, I would recommend practicing in an area with lots of room, no traffic, and good pavement.......................and preferrably no Gostopo!

Out!

[snow]

I'll pass I can bearly chew gum and walk at the same time...

[alrova]

I'm with AXE, if you can't wheelie a hyper in second please don't try. Practice with another throw away bike and then do it in the hyper.

[jbernard]

Thanks guys -

Axe...if my bike is stock what do you recommend I re-set my rear/front suspension to?

I've riden wheelies on my dirtbikes since I was a kid...the hyper just feels totally different + if I dump my dirtbike no big deal, if I dump my hyper I am screwed.

Thanks again -

[Suigeneris]

If your gonna do it just make sure you got a camera handy cuz we all want to see the outcome!

[AXE]

No need to discourage the him from trying.

If you are comfortable with wheelies on a dirt bike, then I recommend that you just ride the Hyper a while and when you get more comfortable with the power and handling, then you will be ready for the wheelie factor and set sail.

As for suspension, it varies for all riders. You should definitley start with setting your sag for your weight including your gear you ride with. Then it is a matter of preference for compression and rebound to match your riding style.

I did quite a bit of experimentation with setting the sag and I feel got it pretty good given some of the limitations with the front and rear spring weight for me.

Just do a search for my suspsension thread and it will tell you how I did it. Others have posted good info as well. I wouldn't worry about changing springs and oil and revalving until you have determined the stock hardware to be insufficient............It's pretty good for most riders.

Out!

[jbernard]

Thanks AXE!

BTW...I only have 100 and change miles on my bike (this past weekend was only the 2nd time I took it out / I've had the bike about 2 months). I am sure I will get it by the time I hit the 500+ mile mark; these bikes are just a totaly new concept for me. My last bike was a 05' GSXR 750 and this is a night and day difference and though the hyper is similar to dirtbikes its a lot heavier and $$$.

One thing is for sure...Hypers are AMAZING!!!

Later

[aLiEn]

Originally Posted by alrova

...if you can't wheelie a hyper in second

It's a little harder for us up here in Colorado

Pre-loading or clutch-up required.