Suzuki GSX-R 1000 Owners Manual: Using the transmission

Suzuki GSX-R 1000 Owners Manual / Riding tips / Using the transmission

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

Suzuki GSX-R. Shifting up schedule

Shifting down schedule

Suzuki GSX-R. Shifting down schedule

Disengage the clutch when the motorcycle speed drops below 12 miles/h (20 km/h).

Warning

Downshifting when engine speed is too high can;

cause the rear wheel to skid and lose traction due to increased engine braking, resulting in an accident; or
force the engine to overview in the lower gear, resulting in engine damage.

Reduce speed before downshifting.

Warning

Downshifting while the motorcycle is leaned over in a corner may cause rear wheel skid and loss of control.

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

Warning Riding this motorcycle at excessive speed increases your chances of losing control of the motorcycle. This may result in an accident. Always ride within the limits of ...

Riding on hills

When climbing steep hills, the motorcycle may begin to slow down and show lack of power. At this point you should shift to a lower gear so that the engine will again be operating in its ...

Other materials:

Steering components
Steering stem head nut Steering stem upper bracket Steering stem lock-nut Washer Steering stem nut Dust seal cover Dust seal Steering stem upper bearing Steering stem lower bearing Lower seal Steering stem lower bracket Steering stem lo ...

Starter motor runs but does not crank the engine
The starter motor runs when the transmission is in neutral, but does not run when the transmission is in any position other than neutral, with the side-stand up. Step Action Yes No 1 Check the side-stand switch. Refer to “side-stand / ignition inte ...

Washing the motorcycle
When washing the motorcycle, follow the instructions below: Remove dirt and mud from the motorcycle with running water. You may use a soft sponge or brush. Do not use hard materials which can scratch the paint. Wash the entire motorcycle with a mild detergent or car ...