Is GP Shift Hard To Learn?

Published on October 3, 2023
Duration: 17:23

This guide details the process of converting a motorcycle's gear shift pattern to GP shift, a configuration favored for track riding. The primary modification involves altering the shift linkage, often in conjunction with installing aftermarket rear sets. GP shift reverses the standard pattern, making first gear an upward movement and subsequent gears a downward movement, which can improve shifting during aggressive cornering. The process requires basic mechanical tools and careful adjustment of the linkage for proper function.

Quick Summary

GP Shift, or reverse shift pattern, means first gear is engaged by lifting the shift lever up, and subsequent gears are engaged by pressing down. This is preferred for track riding as it allows for easier upshifts while leaned over in corners, improving rider body position and control during aggressive acceleration. Learning GP Shift has a definite learning curve, with accidental upshifts being a common initial mistake, but it becomes intuitive with practice.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro & Upgrades
  2. 00:12What is GP Shift?
  3. 00:41Rear Set Risers & Protection
  4. 00:52Why Rear Sets?
  5. 01:15R6 Throttle Tube
  6. 01:20Lever Guards
  7. 01:44Domino GP Grips
  8. 01:54First Ride with GP Shift
  9. 02:09Downshifting with GP Shift
  10. 02:25Why Use GP Shift on Track?
  11. 03:19Vibration Issues & Bar Ends
  12. 03:59Downshift Feel & Blip Throttle
  13. 04:12Intuitive Shifting?
  14. 04:48Accidental Upshift Mistake
  15. 05:09Street Practice for GP Shift
  16. 05:29Throttle Tube Review
  17. 05:40Track Day Readiness
  18. 05:45Brake Assessment
  19. 05:55Next Mod: Rear Shock Upgrade
  20. 06:31Why Upgrade Rear Shock?
  21. 06:47Front End Fork Cartridges
  22. 07:13Remembering GP Shift
  23. 07:29Ease of GP Shift Conversion
  24. 07:58ABS & Braking Limits
  25. 08:25Getting Used to GP Shift
  26. 08:45GP Shift Learning Curve
  27. 08:59Handlebar Vibration Impact
  28. 09:25Vibration Source & Grips
  29. 09:51Rear Set Aggression
  30. 10:14Clip-On Height Considerations
  31. 10:27Final Thoughts on GP Shift

Frequently Asked Questions

What is GP Shift and why is it used on motorcycles?

GP Shift, or reverse shift pattern, means first gear is engaged by lifting the shift lever up, and subsequent gears are engaged by pressing down. This is preferred for track riding as it allows for easier upshifts while leaned over in corners, improving rider body position and control during aggressive acceleration.

How difficult is it to learn GP Shift?

Learning GP Shift has a definite learning curve, with accidental upshifts being a common initial mistake. However, many riders find it becomes intuitive with practice, especially when focusing on the specific needs of track riding where body position is critical during gear changes.

What are the benefits of installing GP shift on a motorcycle?

The primary benefit of GP shift is improved ergonomics for track riding. It allows riders to shift up without disrupting their lean angle or body position, making acceleration out of corners smoother and more controlled. It also simplifies downshifting when entering a corner, as it's typically done when the bike is more upright.

What other modifications are discussed for track riding?

Besides GP shift, other discussed modifications include Norton Racing rear set risers for improved ground clearance, R6 throttle tube for quicker response, GB Racing engine covers for protection, Domino GP grips, and potential upgrades like a GSXR 600 rear shock and aftermarket front fork cartridges for enhanced suspension performance.

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