DYI VFR1200F GP Shift Modification

For those that to change their VFR1200F to GP shift here is how I changed mine

My reason for changing it is all my race bikes are GP shift and it messes with my feeble old brain trying to remember the OEM VFR1200 is standard shift.

Parts from Vortex

Vortex Shift Knuckle from CBR1000RR rear set - Part # RS262XK (this comes with the heim Joint and lock nut)
Vortex 7.25" shift rod - part # RS406CK (do not use the 8" rod it is too long)
One 2" long bolt standard thread - stainless steel if you can find it at Lowes or local hardware store
2 nuts to fit bolt - Stainless steel if possible

Measure the distance from the foot shift lever to ground. ( I used a locking tape measure)
write down this measurement - you will need it when you install new parts to get shifter in same position it was before

Cut head off bolt leaving about 1 3/4 " of threaded rod
Dress threads so nut screws on / off easily

Remove OEM shift knuckle fron transmission shift shaft
(use 10mm wrench loosen then completely remove bolt from knuckle)

Loosen lock nut on adjustment rod near the foot shift lever

Remove shift knuckle and unscrew adjustment rod from foot shift lever

Install threaded rod into foot shift lever
install 1st lock nut on threaded rod
install 2nd lock nut on threaded rod

The 5mm allen bolt that holds the heim joint to the shift knuckle is not tight
remove bolt leaving heim joint on bolt, apply blue medium strength Locktite to threads, screw into shift knuckle & tighten with 5mm allen wrench

Install shift knuckle backwards from the OEM position. (see picture)
I had to 'clock' new shift knuckle one spline (or tooth) up to clear the clutch hydraulic hose

install 7.25" adjustment rod to both heim jount threads (reverse threads) and threaded rod on foot shift lever
Ajdust rod until foot shift lever is the same height as OEM (remember the measurement we took 1st?)

Tighten lock nuts - 1 on top if adjustment rod and the 2 on the bottom of adjustment rod )one locked to adjustment rod, the other locked to the foot lever heim joint)




Use the 7.25" rod NOT the 8" rod !

 

Clearance at drive shaft case with no washers between upper heim joint and shift knuckle

 

Adding 2 washers for extra clearance between shift rod and drive shaft case






Gap between shift knuckle and clutch hydraulic hose with foot shifter in full down position - just like when you are shifting gears on the road
Untitled by CNI Dawg, on Flickr