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All Yamaha NewsFormer professional enduro and X-country racer
I recently had the chance to test out the GYTR Hydraulic Clutch Kit on my 2024 YZ450FX race bike—a perfect opportunity to put it through its paces and see how it performs in real-world conditions and find out if a Yamaha GYTR® Hydraulic Clutch Kit is worth it.
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First, why should anyone choose a hydraulic clutch over a cable actuated unit?
A hydraulic clutch is ideal in cross-country riding situations. Technical sections are easier to navigate with more precise clutch control. The hydraulic clutch also helps prevent the engine from “flaming out” and stalling because of the predictable engagement point.
A hydraulic clutch is much more suitable for racers who don’t “feather” the clutch. The engagement range is very short, and a small movement of the lever is all that’s required for optimal clutch control. The notable advantage over the cable system is this precise, repeatable engagement point. Often a cable clutch requires adjustment after hard use. This is one of the main advantages of the hydraulic system.
After two GNCC races and half a season of motocross, the GYTR® Hydraulic Clutch Kit required no adjustments, and was working as reliably as the day installed even after the 40 hours of racing I put it through.
Another benefit I enjoyed was the easily adjustable clutch lever to suit my preferred position. I could dial in the lever position so I wasn’t always “reaching” for it as it was in a more natural position.
A perk of the GYTR® Hydraulic Clutch Kit I didn’t anticipate was the elimination of “cable drag”. By eliminating cable drag you’ll find a noticeable difference in the reduction of hand fatigue. Riding all day on technical terrain was much more enjoyable.
One of the differences I did notice was when I switched from enduro riding to motocross and how it impacted my starts when the gate dropped. When racing motocross, the hydraulic clutch has a smaller engagement window leading to more aggressive starts that I had to ensure I kept my front wheel down on.
As an enduro racer I found the GYTR Hydraulic clutch kit to be a solid addition to my YZ450FX. The consistency in performance and reduction of fatigue offered by this upgrade makes it much easier to focus on race pace, picking the right line and other aspects of the ride, especially on those longer days in the woods.