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 hillsConrod crank pin bearing inspection and
selection
Refer to “engine bottom side disassembly” (page 1d-
49).
Refer to “engine bottom side assembly” .
Inspection
Inspect the bearing surfaces for any signs of fusion,
pitting, burn or flaws. If any, replace them with a
specified set of bearings.
Place the plastigauge axially along ...
Water hose removal and installation
Removal
Remove the side cowlings. Refer to “exterior parts
removal and installation” in section 9d (page 9d-
6).
Drain engine coolant. Refer to “cooling system inspection” in section
0b .
Lift and support the fuel tank. Refer to “fuel tank
removal and installation” in se ...
Troubleshooting
This troubleshooting guide is provided
to help you find the cause of
some common complaints.
Caution
Failure to troubleshoot a problem
correctly can damage your
motorcycle. Improper repairs
or adjustments may damage
the motorcycle instead of fixing
it. Such damage may ...