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 hillsOil cooler / oil cooler hose removal and
installation
Refer to “electrical components location” in section 0a .
Removal
Turn the ignition switch off.
Remove the left side cowling. Refer to “exterior parts removal and
installation” in section 9d .
Drain engine oil. Refer to “engine oil and filter replacement” in
section 0b .
...
Inspecting the drive chain
When inspecting the chain, look
for the following:
loose pins
damaged rollers
dry or rusted links
kinked or binding links
excessive wear
improper chain adjustment
If you find anything wrong with the
drive chain condition or adjustment,
correct the pr ...
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 ...