5-3
STARTING OFF AND SHIFTING
Make sure that the side stand is in
the fully up position. Squeeze the
clutch lever and pause momen-
tarily. Engage first gear by
depressing the gearshift lever
downward. Turn the throttle grip
toward you and at the same time
release the clutch lever gently and
smoothly. As the clutch engages,
the motorcycle will start moving
forward. To shift to the next higher
gear, accelerate gently, then close
the throttle and squeeze the
clutch lever simultaneously. Lift
the gear shift lever upward to
select the next gear and release
the clutch lever as you open the
throttle again. Select higher gears
in this manner until top gear is
reached.
NOTE: This motorcycle has a side
stand/ignition interlock switch. If
you shift the transmission into
gear when the side stand is down,
the engine will stop running.
WARNING
Riding this motorcycle at
excessive speed increases
your chances of losing control
of the motorcycle. This may
result in an accident.
Always ride within the limits of
your skills, your motorcycle,
and the riding conditions.
WARNING
Removing your hands from the
handlebars or feet from the
footrests during operation can
be hazardous. If you remove
even one hand or foot from the
motorcycle, you can reduce
your ability to control the
motorcycle.
Always keep both hands on the
handlebars and both feet on
the footrests of your motorcy-
cle during operation.
WARNING
Sudden side winds, which can
occur when being passed by
larger vehicles, at tunnel exits
or in hilly areas, can upset your
control.
Reduce your speed and be
alert to side winds.