5-3
OPERATION AND IMPORTANT RIDING POINTS
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2
3
4
5
6
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8
9
5
4
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N
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6
1
EAU00423
Shifting
Shifting gears lets you control the
amount of engine power available for
starting off, accelerating, climbing
hills, etc.
The gear positions are shown in the
illustration.
NOTE:
To shift the transmission into the neu-
tral position, press the shift pedal
down repeatedly until it reaches the
end of its travel, and then slightly
raise it.
1.
Shift pedal
N. Neutral
EC000048
c
C
8
Even with the transmission in
the neutral position, do not
coast for long periods of time
with the engine off, and do not
tow the motorcycle for long
distances. The transmission is
properly lubricated only when
the engine is running.
Inadequate lubrication may
damage the transmission.
8
Always use the clutch while
changing gears to avoid dam-
aging the engine, transmis-
sion, and drive train, which are
not designed to withstand the
shock of forced shifting.
EAU00424
Tips for reducing fuel
consumption
Fuel consumption depends largely on
your riding style. Consider the follow-
ing tips to reduce fuel consumption:
8
Thoroughly warm up the engine.
8
Turn the starter (choke) off as
soon as possible.
8
Shift up swiftly, and avoid high
engine speeds during accelera-
tion.
8
Do not rev the engine while shift-
ing down, and avoid high engine
speeds with no load on the
engine.
8
Turn the engine off instead of let-
ting it idle for an extended length
of time (e.g., in traffic jams, at
traffic lights or at railroad cross-
ings).
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