New to the clutch

[Kdubbb]

Hey I'm just getting back into riding and am pretty young so I've never had a clutch. Anyway I bought a used rm125 recently, and I constantly pop the clutch going from neutral to first and am getting very frustrated.. I can barely even ride! However once I get out of first shifting is no problem. So any tips on how to not let out  the clutch so fast? Any tips are appreciated, thanks!... oh and the bike has vforce reeds and has been jetted if that makes a difference.

[eprovenzano]

1st, I'm going to assume the clutch is working properly.  To get yourself used to using a clutch, start by using a small down hill grade.  The key is to slip the clutch when starting out.  As you've found dumping the cluth is not allowing you to get started.  Slowly give it some gas, while slowly releasing the clutch.  The down hill will help as gravity will allow you to get the knack of slipping the clutch.  Once you get the feel for it, start at the bottom and go up the grade. 

Practice, you'll get it.

[cnrcpla]

It is frustrating, but there is no set way to just learn the clutch. You need to just keep practicing and practicing. Eventually, you will find the "sweet spot" where it actually engages the gear, and as you get better, it will become second nature. After you get really good with it, you will find it odd to ride a semi auto.