What is the purpose of gear shifting on a motorcycle?

The purpose of gear shifting on a motorcycle is primarily to match engine power to road conditions and speed. When a rider shifts gears, they are effectively selecting the right range of engine power to optimize performance based on various factors such as acceleration, terrain, and the current speed of the motorcycle. Each gear provides a different torque output, which allows the motorcycle to effectively navigate through different driving conditions, from starting from a stop to climbing hills or navigating through traffic.

Additionally, adjusting gears helps in achieving better fuel efficiency, as it allows the rider to maintain an optimal engine RPM, consequently consuming fuel more effectively. While shifting gears does contribute to rider comfort by providing smoother acceleration and deceleration, the core function remains aligned with controlling engine power based on the dynamic requirements of the road and the vehicle's speed.