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 hillsRear shock absorber removal and installation
Removal
Remove the right side cowling and side frame covers. Refer to “exterior
parts removal and installation” in section 9d .
Support the motorcycle with a jack to relieve load on
the rear shock absorber.
Remove the left muffler and muffler chamber heat guard no. 2. Refer ...
Rear shock absorber inspection
Refer to “rear shock absorber removal and installation” .
Shock absorber
Inspect the rear shock absorber for damage and oil
leakage, and absorber bushing for wear and damage. If
any defect is found, replace the rear shock absorber with
a new one.
Caution
do not attempt to disassemble ...
Precautions
Precautions for engine cooling system
You can be injured by boiling fluid or steam if you open the
radiator cap when the engine is hot.
After the engine cools, wrap a thick cloth around cap and carefully
remove the cap by turning it a
quarter turn to allow pr ...