Shifting the 2018 SE6 (semi-automatic) Transmission?

[splais]

I can't seem to find it anywhere, Question: when shifting the SE6 transmission do you need, should, should not, roll off the throttle slightly while up shifting? thanks.

[ned64]

No you don't let off on the throttle when you shift.

[canamjhb]

When up-shifting just leave the throttle alone and it will be smooth. If you try to tweek the throttle a little like a manual transmission, you will not have smooth shifts. When down-shifting using the shift paddle, it does help to roll off the throttle when shifting down.

[BLUEKNIGHT911]

No you don't let off on the throttle when you shift.

…….. I've drag raced my 2014 RT with the SE trans. - full throttle shifts - never a glitch or stutter...… imho best semi-auto trans made …… Mike

[trikermutha]

give it gas and shift..

[4 MARIE]

don't overthink it. Go with the experience and you will figure it out.

[PMK]

While initially it may seem improper, yes, you should hold a steady throttle or have an increasing throttle position as you accelerate and upshift.

If you even slightly close the throttle, the computers sense this immediately and consider you are slowing down. The computer then adjusts what needs to be altered, especially in regards to the fuel flow from the fuel injection system by decreasing it. When this happens and you upshift, the bike has a funky feel, almost jerking or lagging.

If you shift with a steady or increasing throttle, as the shift occurs, the computer cuts the engine for an instant to allow less stress on the gearbox and drivetrain, and once sensed into the next gear, restores engine power.

In simple terms, that back off the throttle you have learned for years, the computer is now doing it for you.

[Bob Denman]

The computer handles the throttle during the shifting sequence. Let it do it's thing: you only need to hang on!

[PMK]

The computer handles the throttle during the shifting sequence. Let it do it's thing: you only need to hang on!

As I understand these semi auto paddle shift setups, not only in Spyders but other vehicles too, the throttle is not altered by the computer, but rather to get the instant shift, the ignition is cut for an instant to unload the drivetrain allowing a quick shift. Moving throttle that quickly would take longer. Also, ridden with heart, you get that upshift bang, typical of an ignition cut and refire. One of the coolest things about the Spyder. WWAAAHHHHHH, Bang!, WAAAAAAHHHHHH, Bang!

[Grandpot]

As we say down South, "Just mash the button!"

[Bob Denman]

As I understand these semi auto paddle shift setups, not only in Spyders but other vehicles too, the throttle is not altered by the computer, but rather to get the instant shift, the ignition is cut for an instant to unload the drivetrain allowing a quick shift. Moving throttle that quickly would take longer. Also, ridden with heart, you get that upshift bang, typical of an ignition cut and refire. One of the coolest things about the Spyder. WWAAAHHHHHH, Bang!, WAAAAAAHHHHHH, Bang!

However they do it: it's cool as Hell!

[gerald37]

I have found to shift when it is just running even speed. Don't let off but I don't speed up any just a steady speed. Mind shifts real smooth.

[Ex-Rocket]

Keep the pedal to the medal and all will be well.

[splais]

thanks all, yep works very smooth if I just leave throttle alone and shift away.

[Easy Rider]

I have found to shift when it is just running even speed.

AKA: Neutral throttle.

[Wykoni]

I can’t answer your question, my 2018 started having to hit shift paddle multiple times to get it to shift forward. Called dealer, they said probably didn’t have enough rpms to move to next gear. Excepted that answer, this morning same thing going to gas station. Started back up and started heading home, would only shift into 2nd, got it home, wouldn’t shift at all. Lucky cam am provides free towing. It’s at dealer now. Told them about Burlington on shifting...2018-05 or 005. We will see. Still under warranty so hopefully no cost.

[ottawa-rider]

There is a known problem with the shift paddle on some 2018 and there is a service bulletin about it.

Most had the problem with shifting to reverse or downshifting.

However, some, including mine, had the problem with up shifting.

The fix is to replace the whole left handle control module.


Spyder 2018 Service Bulletin 2018-05.jpg

[2dogs]

Paddle shifting is something new and takes some getting used to. I up shift at 3k or below when taking it easy and driving normally. However, when passing and going up hill with the 1330 under full load I instinctively back off the throttle for a second when shifting. I guess it's just and old school thing. It seems to make the shifting transition both up and down smother and places less load on the drivetrain. I almost can't keep myself from doing it. But, as others have all mentioned here, you don't have to change throttle position when paddle shifting, the machine is built to handle whatever you throw at it. Best not to think about it and simply enjoy the ride.