The transmission is provided to keep the engine operating smoothly in its normal operating speed range. The gear ratios have been carefully chosen to meet the characteristics of the engine. The rider should always select the most suitable gear for the prevailing conditions. Never slip the clutch to control road speed, but rather downshift to allow the engine to run within its normal operational range. The table below shows the approximate speed range for each gear.
Shifting up schedule

Shifting down schedule

Disengage the clutch when the motorcycle speed drops below 12 miles/h (20 km/h).
Warning
Reduce speed before downshifting. |
Warning
Reduce your speed and downshift before entering the corner. |
|
Caution Revving the engine into the red zone can cause severe engine damage. Never allow the engine to rev into the red zone in any gear. |
Starting off
Riding on hillsStarter clutch inspection
Refer to “starter clutch removal and installation” .
Starter clutch
Install the starter driven gear onto the starter clutch.
Turn the starter driven gear by hand to inspect the
starter clutch for a smooth movement. The gear
turns in one direction only. If a large resistance is felt
...
Conrod and crankshaft inspection
Refer to “engine bottom side disassembly” (page 1d-
49).
Refer to “engine bottom side assembly” .
Conrod small end I.D.
Measure the conrod small end inside diameter using the
small bore gauge.
If the conrod small end inside diameter exceeds the
service limit, replace the conrod.
Special ...
Front brake master cylinder parts inspection
Refer to “front brake master cylinder / brake lever disassembly and assembly”
.
Master cylinder
Inspect the master cylinder bore for any scratches or
other damage
Piston / rubber parts
Inspect the piston surface for any scratches or other
damage.
Inspect the primary cup, secondary cup ...