Putting a motorcycle in neutral while going downhill is generally not harmful to the motorcycle itself. However, it can be potentially unsafe for the rider and other road users. Let me explain further.
When you put a motorcycle in neutral, you disengage the engine from the drivetrain, meaning the engine's power is not being transmitted to the wheels. In this state, the motorcycle relies solely on its momentum and gravity to move downhill. While coasting in neutral may seem like a convenient way to save fuel or reduce engine braking, it can lead to several safety concerns:
Reduced control: By shifting into neutral, you lose the ability to accelerate or decelerate quickly if necessary. This can be dangerous if you need to respond to a sudden hazard or adjust your speed to match the traffic flow.
Limited engine braking: Engine braking occurs when you release the throttle and downshift, allowing the engine's compression to slow down the motorcycle. It provides additional control and stability, especially when going downhill. By putting the bike in neutral, you lose this engine braking effect, which can make it more challenging to control your speed.
Reduced stability: Motorcycles are designed to maintain stability when power is transmitted to the wheels. By disengaging the engine in neutral, the motorcycle loses some of its stability due to the absence of torque being delivered to the wheels. This can make it harder to maneuver or respond to road irregularities or unexpected situations.
Limited emergency response: In an emergency situation, such as encountering a hazard or needing to accelerate to avoid a collision, being in neutral significantly reduces your ability to react promptly. It takes more time to shift into gear and engage the engine, potentially leading to a dangerous delay in taking necessary action.
Therefore, it is generally recommended to keep the motorcycle in an appropriate gear when descending a hill. It allows you to maintain control, utilize engine braking, and have the ability to respond quickly to changing road conditions or emergencies.