Do You Need to Press the Accelerator When Shifting from First to Second Gear?
2 Answers
Shifting from first to second gear does not require pressing the accelerator. Here are some key points to note when shifting gears: When upshifting, remember the principle of accelerating before shifting. Before upshifting, press the accelerator to increase the speed first. Follow the sequence of pressing the clutch, shifting to neutral, pressing the clutch again, and then engaging the higher gear. Quickly pressing the clutch pedal twice allows for smooth gear shifting. When downshifting, adhere to the principle of decelerating before shifting. Before downshifting, release the accelerator to reduce the speed. Follow the sequence of pressing the clutch, shifting to neutral, releasing the clutch, lightly pressing the accelerator, pressing the clutch again, and then engaging the lower gear. Press the clutch pedal twice, with a light press on the accelerator after the first clutch press, then press the clutch pedal a second time while simultaneously shifting the gear lever to the lower gear.
When I was learning to drive, my instructor taught me that shifting from first to second gear does require pressing the accelerator. The specific operation is: first press the clutch to engage second gear, then gradually release the clutch while gently pressing the accelerator. This helps match the engine speed with the vehicle speed, otherwise the car will shake violently, as if it's about to stall. A common mistake beginners make is forgetting to add throttle after shifting, causing the car to jerk. It's recommended to practice shifting rhythm on flat ground, feeling the clutch reach the semi-engaged position while the right foot follows up with the accelerator for smooth gear changes. Driving a manual transmission is all about practice; after a few tries, muscle memory will develop.
