How to Adjust the Shift Rod on Your Motorcycle

How to Adjust the Shift Rod on Your Motorcycle

The shift rod connects the Quick Shifter to the transmission, and adjusts the height of the shift lever. Having the correct adjustment can improve shifting and eliminate missed shifts from shifting too low or too high.

The stock shift rod is a long piece of steel that runs from the transmission back to the clutch master cylinder. It has a hex-shaped head on one end and a female thread on the other. Using a hex-headed tool, loosen the nut on the end of the rod and rotate it. This will change where the shift lever sits on the spline of the gear shift shaft. Moving it forward will move the lever up and backward will move the lever down. When you shift you want the lever to be in the position that feels most comfortable to you.

If your shifter feels dodgy when you shift it will be due to an incorrectly adjusted shift rod. Changing where the shift lever is on the spline of the gearshift shaft will also affect the position of the lower shift lever, which controls the height of the upper shifter lever. Depending on your rider position you may have to adjust both the top and lower shifters to get the right feel.

The hex-head on the shift rod can be turned with a hex wrench. However, you must be very careful not to turn it too far or you may damage the rod. You should only be able to turn it about 180* before you begin to risk twisting or breaking the shift shaft. Changing the position of the upper and lower shift shafts may require a new shift cam.

After you have adjusted the shift rod, reinstall it and test for proper operation of the transmission. Be sure to do this with the LU in Neutral, and the shifter at full lock. You should be able to turn the lower shift shaft (using a 9/32" socket on the end of the shift shaft and a ratchet) until you feel resistance then a detent. This indicates that the transmission is in FWD gear.

If you have a Power Commander installed on your motorcycle, we recommend that you use the "Find Power Commander Products" option and select the manufacturer, model and year for your bike. You will be redirected to a page with specific information and products for your particular bike. The Shift Rod Kits must be ordered separately, and are not included with the Quick Shifter. Please call or email with questions.

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