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Operation
Shifting Gears
Tip:
Within the recommended speed ranges (see Recommended Shift Points table), you can downshift
to slow the motorcycle or to increase power. You may want to downshift when climbing a hill or
passing. Downshifting also helps to decrease speed when combined with closing the throttle.
8. To shift to a lower gear (downshift), simultaneously pull the clutch lever toward the han-
dlebar and close the throttle. Move the shift pedal downward until you feel it stop at the
next gear. Simultaneously release the clutch lever while opening the throttle.
WARNING!
Downshifting improperly could cause transmission damage, loss of traction and loss of
control, which could result in serious injury or death.
• Reduce speed before downshifting. Always downshift within the recommended shift points.
• Use extreme caution when downshifting on wet, slippery or other low traction surfaces. Release the
clutch lever very gradually in these conditions.
• Avoid downshifting in a curve. Downshift before entering the curve.
Recommended Shift Points
Accelerating
Accelerate by opening the throttle (rolling the throttle control grip rearward). For even accel-
eration, open the throttle with a smooth, continuous motion. When you reach the recom-
mended speed for upshifting, shift up one gear.
WARNING!
Accelerating abruptly could cause your body to shift rearward suddenly, which could result
in loss of control. Accelerating abruptly could also cause loss of control on low traction surfaces. Loss
of control could result in serious injury or death. Always accelerate gradually, especially on wet,
slippery or other low traction surfaces.
Upshifting (Accelerating)
Downshifting (Decelerating)
Gear Change
Recommended Speed
Gear Change
Recommended Speed
1 to 2
18 MPH (29 km/h)
O/D to 5
50 MPH (80 km/h)
2 to 3
30 MPH (48 km/h)
5 to 4
35 MPH (56 km/h)
3 to 4
40 MPH (64 km/h)
4 to 3
25 MPH (40 km/h)
4 to 5
50 MPH (80 km/h)
3 to 2
15 MPH (24 km/h)
5 to O/D
60 MPH (96 km/h)
2 to 1
10 MPH (16 km/h)
