Gear Selection

Sub Skill 5 of 6

Why it matters

Right gear = traction + clutch health. Lower gear gives control; higher gear smooths torque.

Zero → Max progression

• Zero: pre‑select 1st/2nd before features
• Base: choose 2nd for creeps with clutch control
• Applied: upshift to 3rd for smoothness on choppy trail
• Advanced: pre‑select gears before hills; commit without mid‑slope shifts

Principles

Predict the need; avoid shifting in the fall line. Use clutch to bridge gaps.

Drills

• Laps using only 2nd gear with clutch control
• Hill repeats pre‑selecting the same gear each time

Errors

Mid‑feature shifts, revving in too‑low gear, lugging to stall.

Safety

If you must shift mid‑hill, plan a micro‑plateau or abort safely.