Well now I did it. I finally replaced the clutch lever since the PO bent the one that's on there. I accidentally broke the little plastic part on the nib that engages the clutch safety switch when pulling the old lever out. My bf helped me solder the 2 copper contacts together so the switch is completing the circuit without the nib. So it starts now and will start in any gear, so I have to use my brain and remember to not hop the bike when I start it up. I have ridden old bikes so it's no biggy, but now I want to pull all the safeties off. I don't like the idea of a little plastic nib on the kick stand, or any other part. What if I'm in a turn and some safety switch accidentally becomes disengaged because a dinky plastic piece fell off? That seems even more dangerous to me. Anyone ever take all of their safeties off?
QuoteI don't like the idea of a little plastic nib on the kick stand, or any other part. What if I'm in a turn and some safety switch accidentally becomes disengaged because a dinky plastic piece fell off?
then you're coasting, can straighten out the bike, and come to a safe stop.
now, what if you're in the middle of a turn, the kickstand is down, and pogo sticks your bike, causing a highside???
I have a different bike, but it doesn't have the clutch switch or kickstand switch. I always make certain the bike is in neutral when it starts anyway- but I still squeeze the clutch and front brake lever out of habit. As far as the kickstand goes.......that's just another habit.
Bikes have been running safely for decades without the safety switches. So they aren't exacty necessary.
I think, as a beginner, it is better for me to have them than purposely not have them. I like having a reminder when I occasionally forget to put the sidestand up. I don't need any surprises.