Ask the Editors: Clutch Basket Material
Steel is real.
Dear ATVC: I’m rebuilding my 250R and decided to update the clutch basket to an aftermarket unit. Can you explain to me in the world the steel would be $50 more than the aluminum? Shouldn’t it be the other way around?
You’d think but there is actually a reason the steel basket boasts the higher MSRP over aluminum – and that is longevity. People buy the CNC steel baskets because they are tired of replacing their aluminum ones. While steel is typically cheaper than aluminum in bulk, the nature of longevity is that customers need to buy said component less often. The more sales, the more affordable.
The only real downside to steel is a slight weight gain – which, could theoretically affect the feel at the clutch lever. However, if you’re looking to drop in a clutch basket and not worry about it again any time soon, that may be the better option.
