What is Rev-Match | The Complete Rev-Matching Tutorial

Rev matching is a technique used in motorcycle riding to synchronize the engine speed (RPM) with the current gear while downshifting. It involves manually blipping the throttle to match the engine speed to the wheel speed, enabling a smoother transition between gears. This practice is commonly employed by experienced riders and can significantly enhance riding comfort, stability, and overall control of the motorcycle.

Understanding Rev-Matching:

When downshifting gears on a motorcycle, especially during deceleration or while approaching a corner, the engine’s RPM needs to match the wheel speed for a seamless gear engagement. Without rev matching, a sudden drop in RPM can lead to engine braking, causing instability and potentially unsettling the motorcycle’s balance.

Rev matching essentially involves a quick blip of the throttle while simultaneously engaging the clutch and shifting to a lower gear. This throttle blip raises the engine speed to match the wheel speed, making the downshift smoother and eliminating the abrupt lurch that can occur without this technique.

How to Rev Match:

1. Approach the Downshift: While slowing down and approaching a lower gear, pull in the clutch lever to disengage the engine from the transmission.

2. Blip the Throttle: Use your hand to quickly and precisely rev the engine by giving it a slight twist of the throttle. This action raises the RPM momentarily.

3. Shift Down: While maintaining the blip of the throttle, smoothly engage the lower gear by shifting down with your foot, simultaneously releasing the clutch lever to re-engage the transmission.

4. Smooth Release: Gradually release the clutch lever while maintaining throttle control to ensure a seamless transition between gears.

Why Rev-Matching?

1. Smooth Gear Transitions: Rev matching allows for smoother downshifts, reducing the jerky movement or lurching that can unsettle the motorcycle and rider.

2. Preservation of Components: It minimizes stress on the transmission components by synchronizing engine and wheel speeds, potentially extending the life of the gearbox and clutch.

3. Improved Control: By maintaining smoother transitions between gears, riders can better manage the motorcycle’s stability and control, especially in challenging riding conditions or during spirited riding.

When to Use Rev-Matching:

Rev matching is most beneficial during downshifting, especially when approaching corners, slowing down, or when needing quick acceleration after deceleration. It’s particularly crucial in high-performance riding scenarios, such as track riding or riding on winding roads with frequent gear changes.

However, it’s essential to note that rev matching requires practice and finesse to master. Novice riders might find it challenging initially, but with practice, it becomes an intuitive part of smooth riding technique.

In conclusion, rev matching is a valuable skill for motorcycle riders seeking smoother gear transitions, increased control, and improved overall riding experience. With practice and patience, integrating this technique into your riding repertoire can elevate your confidence and riding proficiency on two wheels.

What is Auto Blip:

The Auto blip technology on motorcycles is a sophisticated system designed to automate the rev matching process during downshifts. It utilizes sensors, an electronic control unit (ECU), and throttle-by-wire technology to seamlessly synchronize engine speed with wheel speed when shifting to lower gears.

Ducati Panigale V4 Superleggera equipped with Up and down quickshifter + Auto blipper

How Auto blip Works:

1. Sensors and ECU: The system incorporates various sensors that monitor the motorcycle’s speed, gear position, throttle position, and engine RPM. These sensors feed data to the ECU, which calculates the necessary adjustments for a smooth downshift.

2. Throttle-by-Wire Technology: Auto blip systems use throttle-by-wire, eliminating direct cable connections between the throttle and the engine. This allows precise control of the throttle by the ECU.

3. Automated Rev Matching: When the rider initiates a downshift, the ECU analyzes the data from sensors and intervenes by electronically adjusting the throttle position. It blips the throttle to raise the engine speed, matching it with the wheel speed for the upcoming lower gear.

4. Seamless Downshifts: The system performs this automated throttle blip within milliseconds, ensuring a seamless transition between gears without the need for the rider to manually blip the throttle or control the clutch.

Advantages of Auto blip Technology:

1. Ease of Use: Auto blip technology simplifies downshifting, making it accessible to riders of various skill levels. Novice riders or those new to manual rev matching can benefit from this system.

2. Smooth Transitions: It provides consistently smooth gear shifts, enhancing riding comfort and stability, especially during aggressive riding or when navigating challenging terrains.

3. Reduced Rider Fatigue: By eliminating the need for manual throttle blipping, riders can focus more on other aspects of riding, reducing physical and mental fatigue during long rides or in demanding riding conditions.

4. Enhanced Safety: Auto blip systems contribute to smoother gear changes, potentially reducing the risk of losing control due to sudden jerks or unexpected instability during downshifts.

Motorcycles Equipped with Auto blippers:

Several motorcycle manufacturers have incorporated this technology into their models, especially in high-performance bikes or those aimed at sport-oriented riding. Models from brands like Ducati, Kawasaki, Suzuki, and Yamaha offer electronic assisted rev matching as part of their rider assistance packages or in specific performance-focused variants.

Conclusion:

Auto blip technology is a remarkable advancement in motorcycle engineering, offering riders a smoother and more accessible way to handle downshifts. While some purists prefer the manual control of rev matching, this automated system has undoubtedly enhanced the riding experience for many by simplifying gear changes and improving overall ride quality.