Operation and important riding points
Shifting
6
5
EN
4
3
5
2
2
N
1
1. Shift pedal
2. Neutral position
Shifting gears lets you control the amount of
engine power available for starting off, accele-
rating, climbing hills, etc.
The gear positions are shown in the illustra-
tion.
TIP
To shift the transmission into the neutral po-
sition, press the shift pedal down repeatedly
until it reaches the end of its travel, and then
slightly raise it.
NOTICE
• Even with the transmission in the neu-
tral position, do not coast for long pe-
riods of time with the engine off, and
do not tow the motorcycle for long
distances. The transmission is proper-
ly lubricated only when the engine is
running. Inadequate lubrication may
damage the transmission.
1
• Always use the clutch while changing
gears to avoid damaging the engine,
transmission, and drive train, which
are not designed to withstand the
shock of forced shifting.
TIP
Always lower one gear at a time and at the
correct speed to avoid a high engine speed
and lock the rear wheel.
Tips for reducing fuel consumption
Fuel consumption depends largely on your
riding style. Consider the following tips to re-
duce fuel consumption:
5 - 2
• Shift up swiftly, and avoid high engine-
speeds during acceleration.
• Do not rev the engine while shifting
down, and avoid high engine speeds
with no load on the engine.
• Turn the engine off instead of letting it
idle for an extended length of time (e.g.,
in traffic jams, at traffic lights or at railro-
ad crossings).