Clutch gap is the amount that the clutch shoe moves before it contacts the clutch housing; this affects the WAY that the clutch engages more so than WHEN it engages.

· Larger clutch gap: Causes a harder, more sudden engagement. Better on a wider track or a track with high traction. A larger clutch gap puts excess stress on the clutch components, especially the thrust bearing.
· Smaller clutch gap: Gives a softer engagement, and smoother acceleration. Better on a tighter track or a track with low traction. A smaller clutch gap may result in engine bogging and premature clutch shoe wear.
If you change the clutch gap to a larger or smaller value (by adjusting the shimming), you must compensate by adjusting the tension on the main clutch tension spring.

AFM