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 hillsSpecifications
Service data
Wheel
unit: mm (in)
Tire
Tightening torque specifications
Note
the specified tightening torque is described in the following.
“Front wheel components” “front wheel assembly construction”
“rear wheel components” “rear wheel assembly c ...
Rear suspension inspection
Inspect rear suspension
every 12 000 km (7 500 miles, 24 months)
Inspect the rear shock absorber for oil leakage and
check that there is no play in the swingarm.
Replace any defective parts, if necessary. Refer to “rear shock absorber removal
and installation” in section 2c , “cushion lever ...
Water hose inspection
Inspect the water hoses in the following procedures:
remove the side cowlings. Refer to “exterior parts
removal and installation” in section 9d (page 9d-
6).
Check the water hoses for crack, damage or engine
coolant leakage. If any defect is found, replace the
water hose wi ...