5-4
USING THE TRANSMISSION
The transmission is provided to keep
the engine operating smoothly in its
normal operating speed range. The
gear ratios have been carefully cho-
sen 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.
(Canada)
The table below shows the approxi-
mate speed range for each gear.
Shifting up schedule
Shifting down schedule
Disengage the clutch when the motor-
cycle speed drops below 20 km/h (12
miles/h).
Gear position km/h miles/h
1st
→ 2nd 20 12
2nd
→ 3rd 30 19
3rd
→ 4th 40 25
4th
→ 5th 50 31
5th
→ 6th 60 37
Gear position km/h miles/h
6th
→ 5th 50 31
5th
→ 4th 40 25
4th
→ 3rd 30 19
WARNING
Downshifting when engine speed
is too high can:
• cause the rear wheel to skid and
lose traction due to increased
engine braking, resulting in an
accident; or
• force the engine to overrev in
the lower gear, resulting in
engine damage.
Reduce speed before downshift-
ing.
WARNING
Downshifting while the motorcycle
is leaned over in a corner may
cause rear wheel skid and loss of
control.
Reduce your speed and down-
shift before entering a corner.