If you fail to downshift when stopping on a motorcycle, a few things may happen:
Stalling: Motorcycles typically have a clutch that disengages the engine from the transmission. If you do not downshift and release the clutch while coming to a stop, the engine may stall. This happens because the engine's revolutions per minute (RPM) drop too low to maintain idle speed.
Difficulty restarting: If the engine stalls due to not downshifting, you may face challenges restarting it, especially if the motorcycle has a kick-start mechanism. In such cases, you would need to bring the motorcycle to a complete stop, shift into neutral, and start the engine again.
Increased wear and tear: When you downshift while decelerating, it allows the engine to match its speed with the lower gear, which helps slow down the motorcycle smoothly. If you skip downshifting, the transmission and clutch components may experience increased stress. This can lead to premature wear and tear on these components over time.
Limited control: Downshifting through the gears as you slow down provides better control over the motorcycle. It allows you to utilize engine braking, where the resistance from the engine helps slow down the bike while maintaining stability. Without downshifting, you rely solely on the brakes for deceleration, potentially reducing your ability to control the motorcycle effectively.
In summary, failing to downshift when stopping on a motorcycle can result in stalling, difficulties restarting, increased wear and tear on components, and reduced control during the deceleration process. It is generally recommended to downshift through the gears while coming to a stop to ensure a smooth and controlled halt.