So I recently bought a 2004 rx8 last week, i read through the manual and all and it recommended shifting at about 15 mph 1-2 gear and 22mph 2-3. I usually follow this and shift gears at 3000 rpm. For some reason the 1st and 2nd gears just dont seem right. It just feels kinda bumpy, but although 3, 4 , 5, 6 seem to shift smoothly. I am also kinda new to this manual shifting so I might be doing something wrong there. I know the rx8 is a high revving car and all but what am I doing wrong? Am I shifting too early or too late? Not enough rpm? Btw, i have a powertrain warranty till 2011.

 

no the book is all wrong your sposed to shift 1st to 2nd at 300 to 500 rpms and thats pushing it!

lol jk jk i had the same problem when i first got my rx8. i usually shift 4500-6500 1st gear but after a while it will be like slicing through soft butter lol

you and your car will find a nice common ground for when to shift her!

 

I shift at about 4500. But I agree usually it just takes a little time to get use to your car and you will get the hang of it.

Oh yeah but make sure to open her up every once in a while