Today I’ve been a bit out of it since evening, so the blog is finally done (；∀；)
In the meantime, while waiting for an inspection, I thought the clutch plates might be getting sketchy soon, so I looked into it.
If you’re planning to replace them, buy them now—that’s the kind of part this is.
Clutch plates are a consumable.
Clutch plates are of course a consumable.
Unlike brake pads, you can’t easily see them visually, and they don’t wear down drastically.
However, they’re constantly exposed to hot oil in a harsh environment. I get the sense that hardening and degradation are more of a concern than wear.
And since they only slip significantly when you rev hard, it’s true that it’s hard to notice.
For example, brake discs and brake pads
With a good disc and pads that work well with it, you can stop well without squeezing the brake lever hard.
That’s the idea.
In the old days, if the pads didn’t bite (they’d slip), the clutch spring rate was increased to press them firmly without slipping—which made the clutch heavy.
With modern good friction materials and good surface treatment, power transmission is efficient, there’s no slipping, and you get a smooth, easy feel with an appropriate spring rate.
The OEM is probably still to the original design?
Well, there’s nothing wrong with OEM clutch plates, right?
I’m sure there’s no problem.
But if you’re spending the same amount of money, you’d definitely be better off with something equal or better—high performance, even—and it would be more efficient and solve most future issues.
I don’t think OEM parts get upgraded every time on old bikes.
*Unless a new version is compatible.
Inazuma 1200
21441-31E00 Friction *9 pieces ¥2,550 = ¥22,950
21442-31E10 Friction (large inner diameter) *1 piece ¥1,250
21451-31E00 Steel plate T=1.6 *7 pieces ¥800 = ¥5,600
21451-31E10 Steel plate T=2.0 *2 pieces ¥810 = ¥1,620
That alone comes to ¥31,420 before tax.
GSF1200
21441-31E00 Friction *9 pieces ¥2,550 = ¥22,950 *Same as Inazuma
21442-31E10 Friction (large inner diameter) *1 piece ¥5,850 *Mysteriously different part number, more expensive
21451-31E00 Steel plate T=1.6 *9 pieces ¥800 = ¥5,600 *Inazuma has two T=2.0 pieces.
By the way,
21410-31E00 Hub
21462-31E00 Clutch cover
are already discontinued……
There’s a chance that the Advantage FCC TYPE-D might become unavailable down the road too……
214-S0229-05
The price goes up a bit, but honestly, this configuration at this price is definitely a bargain. Get it while you can (*^-^*)
214-S0201-05
Advantage FCC Traction Control Clutch Kit Type-A Suzuki GSF1200S(’95)
You could go with this option too.
However, the later GSF1200 switched to a diaphragm spring design.
·The plate thickness in this configuration is unclear
·The spring remains diaphragm type (work is a pain)
The difference is only about ¥18,000. Which is the better deal? Ponder away.
Oh man, if only I’d bought it back then…… (；∀；)
When parts become unavailable, no one can help you.
You might also end up having to use used parts of unknown condition or untested overseas parts.
Before you know it, the oil-cooled 1200 series is a proper classic.
It might be a tough time to keep one in good condition and running if the owner’s passion isn’t strong.
