20 Causes of Short and Heavy Motorcycle Breathing & How to Overcome Them
31.Oct.2023vinalc.com/blog – Many motorcyclists complain that their motorbike's breath feels short and heavy. This problem can be caused by various factors that need to be addressed immediately so that the motorbike's performance can recover to its original state. To find out the causes of short and heavy motorbike breathing, please see the following article.
Short and heavy motorbike breathing can interfere with comfort when driving. When this happens, the motorbike will feel breathless and less powerful when accelerating on the highway. Some people may panic because they are worried that serious damage will occur that could harm the motorbike engine.
For those who experience this, there is no need to worry, because we will provide information about the causes of short and heavy motorbike breathing, so that you can make repairs according to the cause. However, keep in mind that the causes for each motorbike may be different because there are various factors that cause this problem.
To overcome the problem of short and heavy motor breathing, the first step that must be taken is to identify the cause of the problem. Once the cause is identified, then repairs can be made. For those who are curious to know what the causes are, please see the vinalc.com/blog information below.
Many motorcyclists complain
The problem of short and heavy motorbike breathing can occur on all types of motorbikes. This problem generally occurs on motorbikes that rarely receive regular routine maintenance or service, so it can cause problems with engine components that make the motorbike's breathing feel short and heavy.
For friends who experience this, we suggest checking the following engine components which are most likely the main cause of short and heavy motorbike breathing.
1. Clogged Air Filter
A dirty or clogged air filter is often the main cause of breathing problems in the motor system. When the air filter is polluted by dust, dirt, fine powder, or other particles, air flow to the engine will be restricted. This results in an imbalance in the air-fuel mixture required for optimal combustion.
Under normal conditions, clean air will be sucked in by the air filter and entered into the combustion chamber to mix with the fuel before combustion occurs. However, if the air filter is dirty, air flow to the engine will be limited. As a result, the air-fuel mixture becomes unbalanced, with less air than it should. This can cause incomplete combustion.
Incomplete combustion can have a negative impact on engine performance. The occurrence of inefficient combustion means that not all fuel energy can be used optimally to produce power. This can result in reduced engine power, reduced acceleration, and lower fuel efficiency.
It is important to regularly clean or replace the air filter according to the manufacturer's instructions. The recommended timeframe for cleaning or replacing an air filter may vary depending on usage and environmental conditions. However, generally, air filters should be checked at least once a year or at certain intervals specified by the manufacturer.
Cleaning an air filter involves cleaning or replacing a contaminated filter element with a new one. This ensures that the air flow entering the engine remains optimal, thereby maintaining good engine performance and increasing combustion efficiency. Proper maintenance of the air filter will help maintain good engine response, improve fuel economy, and extend overall engine life.
2. Carburetor that is not functioning properly
The carburetor is an important device found in the fuel system of conventional motorbikes. Its function is to regulate the mixture of air and fuel that enters the engine's combustion chamber so that it can burn efficiently. If the carburetor is not functioning properly, this can have a negative impact on the motorbike's breathing becoming short and heavy.
There are several factors that can affect carburetor performance. First, a stuck float needle can cause instability in the fuel level in the carburetor. The float needle functions to regulate the amount of fuel entering the carburetor. If the float needle is stuck or blocked by dirt, the performance of the carburetor can be disrupted.
Second, a clogged carburetor jet can also affect carburetor performance. The carburetor jet is a small hole that functions to regulate the flow of fuel into the carburetor. If the carburetor jets are clogged with dirt or deposits, fuel flow becomes restricted, and this can disrupt the proper air and fuel mixture.
In addition, an imbalance in the air and fuel mixture can also affect the performance of the carburetor. An improper air and fuel mixture can cause the engine to become unstable or difficult to start. The carburetor must be adjusted in such a way that the air and fuel mixture reaches the right level to support optimal combustion.
To overcome these problems, you must check the carburetor regularly and clean it if necessary. In addition, we recommend resetting the carburetor to achieve the optimal air and fuel mixture.
3. The spark plug is damaged
Spark plugs, or also known as spark plugs, are an important component in the ignition system in internal combustion engines. Its function is to produce an electric spark that can ignite and burn the air-fuel mixture in the engine combustion chamber.
The combustion process that occurs in the engine is very dependent on the quality and condition of the spark plug. If the spark plug is worn, dirty, or damaged, its ability to create a strong enough spark will decrease. As a result, combustion of the air-fuel mixture will be incomplete.
Damage to the spark plug can cause problems with engine performance, such as short and heavy motor breathing. When the spark plug is not able to burn the mixture efficiently, the effect will be felt in the engine performance which is less responsive and makes it difficult to reach high speeds. Apart from that, fuel consumption can also increase due to inefficient combustion.
To solve the problem, it is important to check and replace the spark plugs regularly according to the manufacturer's recommendations. These recommendations usually include a recommended time period or number of kilometers before the spark plugs need to be replaced. Regularly checking the condition of the spark plugs is also important to detect early signs of damage, such as worn electrodes or built-up corrosion.
4. Worn Clutch Pad
Apart from the causes mentioned previously, worn clutch linings can also be one of the causes of short and heavy motorbike breathing problems.
Clutch lining is a component that plays a role in connecting and disconnecting power between the engine and motorbike transmission gears. When the clutch lining experiences significant wear, the traction or grip between the clutch lining and the clutch plate becomes less than optimal.
A worn clutch lining will cause the motorbike engine to have difficulty transferring power to the wheels, which ultimately results in the motorbike pulling short and heavy when accelerating or going uphill.
To prevent or overcome this problem, it is very important to check the condition of the clutch lining regularly. If you find signs of significant wear or the clutch lining is damaged, you should replace it immediately.
The compression level in a motorcycle engine is critical for optimal performance. Compression is the ratio between the volume of air in the engine cylinder during compression (combination of air and fuel) to the volume of air after compression before combustion. Improper compression levels, especially significant reductions, can cause short, heavy motor breathing.
5. Improper Compression Level
A decrease in compression levels can be caused by several factors, one of which is compression leaks. This leak can occur in several places, including valves that are damaged or not adjusted properly. A valve that is damaged or too loose can cause air leaks in the combustion chamber, which means compression becomes less efficient.
Additionally, damage to the piston and piston rings can also affect compression levels. A worn piston or damaged piston ring can cause compression pressure leaks and cause incomplete combustion, which in turn can cause the motorbike to feel short and heavy.
6. Problems with the Ignition System
The ignition system is an important component in a motorcycle engine that regulates the moment of combustion of fuel and air in the engine cylinder. This system involves several elements, including the ignition coil, spark plugs, ignition wires, and ignition timing system.
When a disturbance occurs in the ignition system, such as a damaged coil or a malfunctioning spark plug, this can interfere with optimal combustion, which in turn will affect the motor's breathing and overall engine performance.
7. Fuel Line Blockage
Fuel line blockage is one of the common causes of short and heavy engine breathing problems. A clogged or obstructed fuel line will disrupt the flow of fuel needed by the motorbike engine. This can cause inefficient combustion and heavy motor breathing.
Blockages can occur at several points in the fuel system, including:
- Fuel Filter: The fuel filter plays a role in filtering dirt and particles from the fuel before it reaches the carburetor or injection system. If the fuel filter is clogged, fuel flow will be restricted, causing the motor to breathe heavily.
- Fuel Line: The fuel line connecting the fuel tank to the carburetor or injection system can also become clogged. Dust, dirt, or dry fuel residue can block fuel flow.
- Carburetor or Injection System: Components in the carburetor or injection system such as small jets or injectors can become clogged with dirt or dried fuel residue. This can affect the air and fuel mixture supplied to the engine.
8. Corrosion or Damage to the Exhaust
Corrosion or damage to the exhaust is another problem that can affect a motorcycle's performance and cause a short, heavy breather. The muffler is the component responsible for channeling exhaust gas from combustion out of the engine. When the exhaust experiences corrosion (rusting) or physical damage such as cracks, holes, or wear, the exhaust gas flow becomes unstable.
Exhaust corrosion is usually caused by a chemical reaction between exhaust gas containing acidic and hot substances and the exhaust material. Corrosion can cause small holes or dents in the exhaust, allowing exhaust gas to leak before reaching the exhaust tip. This can not only reduce engine efficiency, but also result in a louder exhaust sound.
Apart from that, physical damage such as cracks or holes in the exhaust can also disrupt the flow of exhaust gas. If there is damage to the exhaust, exhaust gases may not flow smoothly, which can affect the motor's breathing and overall engine performance.
How to Overcome Short and Heavy Motorbike Breathing

After knowing all the causes of short and heavy motorbike breathing, now you just have to try to solve this problem. Friends, you can try to solve it yourself by following the steps that we will explain below. However, if you feel unsure or the problem is more complex, coming to the nearest repair shop is a wise choice.
1. Periodic Maintenance
Regular maintenance is the first step in overcoming the problem of short and heavy motor breathing. This involves a number of important actions, one of which is changing the engine oil according to the schedule recommended by the manufacturer. Changing the engine oil regularly will ensure optimal lubrication and reduce friction within the engine.
2. Appropriate Oil Use
In addition to regular maintenance, using engine oil that meets the manufacturer's specifications is very important. Using inappropriate engine oil can result in poor lubrication and increased friction in the engine. Make sure you use the type and viscosity of oil recommended by the motorcycle manufacturer.
3. Check and Replace Spark Plugs
The spark plug is the component responsible for producing a spark in the combustion process. Therefore, it is important to periodically check the condition of the spark plugs and replace them if necessary. Worn or malfunctioning spark plugs can affect proper combustion. By ensuring a good spark plug, we can ensure efficient combustion.
4. Check the Ignition System
As the key to triggering proper fuel combustion, the ignition system needs to be checked regularly. Problems with components such as the ignition coil or ignition timing system can result in improper combustion. Make sure the ignition system is functioning properly and carry out repairs if there are problems.
5. Check and Clean the Air Filter
The air filter is an important component that ensures the supply of clean air to the engine. If the air filter is dirty or clogged, air flow to the engine will be restricted, which can affect the motor's breathing. For this reason, make sure the air filter is in good condition and clean so that the engine can breathe well.
6. Check the Carburetor or Injection System
Checking the carburetor or injection system is also an important part of regular maintenance. If your motorbike uses a carburetor, make sure the carburetor is functioning properly and is free from dirt. If the motorbike uses an injection system, make sure the injectors are functioning properly and atomizing the fuel properly. This check will ensure the fuel system is operating optimally.
7. Exhaust Check
The muffler is a component that channels exhaust gas from the engine. If the exhaust is corroded or damaged, it can disrupt the flow of exhaust gas and affect the motor's breathing. Therefore, check the exhaust regularly and make sure it is in good condition and free from damage.
8. Check the Fuel System
Checking the fuel system involves checking the fuel filter, fuel lines, and carburetor if used. Make sure there are no blockages or other problems in the fuel flow. Smooth fuel flow is essential for optimal combustion.
9. Check the Compression System
The compression system includes a properly functioning valve, piston, and piston rings. Abnormalities in this system can affect motor breathing. Therefore, periodically check the condition of the compression system and carry out repairs if problems are found. By maintaining a good compression system, we can ensure optimal engine performance.
10. Maintain Proper Load
Avoid exceeding the maximum capacity of the motorbike by loading too many goods or passengers. The reason is, excessive load can affect engine performance and motorbike breathing.
11. Change the engine oil regularly
Change the engine oil according to the schedule recommended by the manufacturer. Fresh oil helps maintain optimal lubrication and reduces friction in the engine.
12. Mechanical Consultation
If you are unsure about the repairs needed or cannot solve the problem yourself, consult an experienced mechanic. They can help diagnose the problem and make proper repairs.
By following these steps, you can overcome the problem of short and heavy motorbike breathing and maintain motorbike performance in optimal condition.
Conclusion
Well, several factors are common causes of short and heavy motorbike breathing. Please, friends, check according to the information above. If you have difficulty finding the cause, don't hesitate to come to the nearest repair shop so you can solve this problem more quickly.
That's enough information for automotiveo.com, hopefully the article above can be a reference for those who experience short and heavy motorbike breathing problems. Also check out other articles regarding Beat Rear Shock Sizes and various other interesting articles.