 |
When choosing a location for the Kliktronic unit, it has to be borne
in mind that the unit should not impede the riders foot.
Also a hanging fit is preferred since the weight of the unit is freely suspended in the mounting bracket, minimising
any possible friction.
It is easier to attach the unit to the existing selector pedal if possible, although it is sometimes necessary
to modify the lever - see our
gallery
section
|
 |
The majority of selector pedals are made of aluminium, whilst easily
drilled and tapped to accept fixings they are less easily modified or extended, unless you have access to TIG welding
facilities.It is therefore best to utilise the lever in it's existing form if possible.
The measurement taken here ensures that the full stroke of the Kliktronic
is taken up. Because of the way the system operates, it is important for optimum performance that the maximum power
of the unit is made available by choosing the correct stroke.
|
 |
Having found the point along the lever where the 25mm stroke operates
the gearchange this is then checked using the spring balance. This ensures that the effort required is within the
range of the Kliktronic system. In practice the unit will comfortably cope with even the heaviest of boxes such
as Harley Davidson.
There are two distinct measurements to take, the effort required to overcome the return spring, and the somewhat
heavier loading required to rotate the selector to the next gear. The range of operation for the Kliktronic is
approximately 12 lbs at the start of the stroke and close to 40 lbs at the end.
|
 |
In order to produce the maximum force in both directions the connecting
rod to the Kliktronic actuator must be attached as near as possible at 90 degrees to the lever. It can be seen
from this photograph that the lever needs altering to achieve this requirement.
Sometimes where the lever connects directly to the spigot on the
gearbox, it is a simple matter of repositioning the lever on the shaft. However in this instance an extension piece
will be made for the lever to raise the connection point accordingly
|
|
|
 |
The switch assembly is usually located so as to fall under the thumb
of the clutch hand. In this instance the existing switch array was moved along the bar to accommodate the Kliktronic
switch.
The majority of bars are 7/8'' diameter, occasionally you will find 1'' bars. Our unit is available in either size.
The final position of the buttons is down to personal choice and the position of existing buttons.
|
 |
Here the control box is mounted under the seat, in this instance we are fortunate that the tray
is just the right size to accommodate the box. Whilst the box is reasonably watertight it is always best to choose
a sheltered spot for it.
The connections to be made are battery positive & negative plus an ignition switched supply, this was picked
up from the back of the fuse box which was easily accessible.
Both actuator and switch connections are of the locking DIN connector type, one is 3 pin, the other 4 - so that
they cannot be confused.
|
 |
While the electrical connections were finished and neatly tie wrapped
the actuator was installed with the new clamp and adjusted.
It can be seen that the standard fixing plate has been bent slightly. This is because the frame member to which
the clamp is attached is not parallel to the pedal, this would have resulted in the connecting rod running out at an angle.
The slight twist ensures that the rod runs vertically in line with the rise and fall of the pedal.
|
 |
The finished installation, the rider of this machine has had a left
foot amputation, but
thanks to the Kliktronic unit will still be able to use the machine for track days. In fact the machine was raced
the following day, the owner's comments as follows: -
"Thanks
for all your help fitting the Kliktronic. We had a good day at Donington despite the weather doing it's best to
dampen our spirits. I'm pleased to report that the gear changer worked perfectly throughout the day never missing
a gear."
|
 |
All told this installation took 5 1/2 hours, obviously since this was the first 748
we had done, the job will be easier next time. Anyone looking at this article will also have the benefit of clear
guidelines for any future Ducati 748's.
There are a wide selection of photographs in our gallery section. However if you have a machine, are thinking of
installing a Kliktronic and would like some guidance. Then simply send us a photograph and we will endeavour to
offer suggestions on the best method of fitting.
|
