Re: When Shifting? (PimpnGTI)
The correct shifting points depend how much throttle you give her. I think most people would agree that if you're only giving the car 50% throttle, you don't want to redline it!
This is only a guestimate, but try this:
25% throttle: shift at 2500 rpm
50% throttle: shift at 3500 rpm
75% throttle: shift at 4500 rpm
Floored: redline baby
... better make that 5800-6000 rpm
quote:[HR][/HR]Also is when you are say "rolling" in traffic is it ok to start in 2ND gear? [HR][/HR]
Absolutely! First gear is generally only needed from a complete stop, although it can be used from a roll on occasion when driving aggressively (use the "double clutching" method explained below).
Some other newbie tips:
You only need to put the clutch in to downshift and when the car is about to come to a complete stop. When I first learned to drive, I thought the clutch had to be in whenever I used the brakes. Not true! (duh!)
When stopped, don't rock the car back and forth by letting out the clutch. This habit will wear out your clutch very quickly! On a hill, you have to do this a little. My point is keep it to a minimum.
And one last bonus tip: "Double clutching"
When down shifting, give the car a little gas while the clutch is in. This stops the car from abruptly slowing when you let the clutch out. So for example: You're driving in fifth gear and you want to pass someone. Put the clutch in, "goose" the gas pedal (say 50%), then immeadiately down shift, let the clutch out. If you goose the gas pedal too much, the car will jerk forward a little. Conversely, if you don't goose the gas pedal enough, the car will still slow down. You want to get it so that the car stays neutral. That said, practice this when you have the road to yourself. This technique can be used with any gear (except reverse of course
). I never understood why this is called "double clutching" since the original "double clutching" technique is something entirely different.
Good luck and drive safely!
[Modified by graff48, 10:03 AM 12-6-2001]
