if you are not racing, you don't have to change gears at higher RPM's. just change around 1500-2000. when you rev harder in 1st gear, what happens is as soon as u get the foot from brake pedal and if you haven't pressed the clutch pedal at full, engine braking will happen.that happens with all gears but 1st gear is the toughest one. so don't rev much and change gears at lower RPM's if you are on flat surfaces.btwn its good for your pocket too.