Using The Transmission - Suzuki VL800 Manual

USING THE TRANSMISSION

The transmission is provided to
keep the engine
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 approxi-
mate speed range for each gear.
Shifting up schedule
Gear position
1st  2nd
2nd  3rd
3rd  4th
4th  Top
Shifting down schedule
Gear position
Top  4th
Disengage the clutch when the
motorcycle speed drops below 12
mph (20 km/h).
operating
mph km/h
12 20
19 30
25 40
31 50
mph km/h
19 30
 WARNING
Downshifting
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 overrev in
the lower gear, resulting in
engine damage.
Reduce speed before down-
shifting.
 WARNING
Downshifting while the motor-
cycle is leaned over in a corner
may cause rear wheel skid and
loss of control.
Reduce your speed and down-
shift before entering a corner.
NOTICE
Improper gearshift lever opera-
tion can damage the transmis-
sion.
• Do not rest your foot on the
gearshift lever.
• Do not use force to shift
gears.
5-5
when engine