Gears and revs – economical driving
Keeping the engine in its efficient working range and shifting cleanly improves economy and comfort.
Principles
- Upshift early when the engine pulls smoothly
- Avoid high revs without a need to accelerate
- Avoid lugging at too low revs; use engine braking downhill
Typical rev ranges
| Situation | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Steady driving, light terrain | Shift around 2000–2500 rpm |
| Acceleration/uphill | Shift around 2500–3000 rpm |
| Downhill | Use engine braking, avoid coasting |
Smooth shifting
- Ease off throttle, press clutch decisively
- Shift quickly and precisely
- Release clutch smoothly with a light throttle
- Don’t rest your foot on the clutch