190e cosworth ,NOTHIN ELSE TO SAY
 

Why does everyone press the pedal on upshifts?

Aren't you supposed to?

Love this.

You may, but its certainly not necessary on most cars. Once you have a good feeling for the rhythm of the engine/trans combo, you can shift up without using the clutch. Just slide the shifter out a the right time after letting off the 'go' pedal and gently slide it into the next gear up (if you're really high in rpm just skip a gear.)

Same goes for downshifts, except you must match the rpms to the trans by giving fuel.

I didn't know that. I could hear gears grinding just thinking about it. It would be great to see a video of such driving technique.

This technique is used by truckies to shift gears, you match engine rpm to driveshaft rpm - as everyone did when grampa was a young lad. Synchronizers are a blessing.

I've had experience driving trucks, and when I drive a big rig, I use my clutch only about 30% of the time. Sometimes I do shift my Miata without clutching, both up and down, but it is harder to do, because the rpm range on the Miata is say, 800 rpm to 6000, whereas in the truck, the range is say, 600 rpm to 1900 rpm

Its all about listening to the sound of the engine, and knowing how much or perhaps more importantly, how little pressure to use, just in case you don't have the rpm's matched to the car speed.

Maybe I'll make a video of that....