GR YARIS: Insights from Quick Shifter(Part1)

This time, in July 2021, I asked GR Garage Kitaikebukuro to install a quick shifter (and clutch stopper) as shown in the photos.

For details about the quick shifter, click “here.” It’s manufactured by CAE Racing in Germany. Click “here” for their website.

When requesting the installation, I considered the possibility that, since this quick shifter is not a genuine Toyota part, it might be impossible to install in the worst-case scenario.

Therefore, I requested that I would bear all costs, including the parts cost and labor to return it to its original state, if necessary.

The result so far, having driven only a few kilometers after installation, is hard to determine, but as of January 20, 2023, there have been no issues.

If any problems arise in the future, Toyota’s manufacturer warranty probably won’t apply to the repair.

For anyone considering a similar request to GR Garage, I would like you to understand and accept all risks and be prepared to bear the costs of parts and labor for recovery.

It’s important to recognize that installing aftermarket parts and the consequences are at your own risk.

Exercising freedom comes with costs and responsibility for the results.

By the way, the cost, including parts and labor, was approximately ¥180,000. Since Rikutsu-Kone Taro’s GR Yaris has a bucket seat for the driver, the labor cost may differ from a vehicle with standard seats.

Estimates are just predictions, and there could be unexpected complications during the actual installation process.

For GR Garage, installing aftermarket parts may be a risky endeavor. Please understand this point well before making a request.

I am grateful to GR Garage Kitaikebukuro for willingly accepting my request this time.

Now, let’s talk about the operating feel.

It’s incredibly amazing.

Firstly, with the clutch stopper installed, I was impressed by the shortened pedal stroke. The clutch pedal doesn’t stroke beyond a bit behind the bite point, so lifting the left foot just slightly initiates smooth movement of the vehicle. Fantastic.

And simply shifting from neutral to 1st gear, the difference in stroke and feel is exhilarating.

When both the clutch and shift strokes are shortened, the sensation of driving changes so much! It’s quite different.

I plan to experiment with various driving scenarios on my usual winding roads soon.

The improvement in the rear view that I was concerned about is also perfect. (Click “here” for the “Worries (Rear View)” page on this site.)

With the full bucket seat, quick shifter, and clutch stopper, it seems like the optimization of the driving position is well on its way.

The transformation of “Rikutsu-Kone Taro’s” dream car into reality in such a short period from purchase is, I believe, thanks to Toyota, a world-renowned company that created an incredibly high-performance car, attracting the attention of the market and encouraging many third-party manufacturers to produce a variety of aftermarket parts.

I am truly thankful.

That’s all for this time.