Shifting from 1st to 2nd should not be difficult.  Are you pushing the clutch
in all the way?

You may want to check your trannie fluid.  Many people on this group would
recommend draining your trannie fluid and replacing it with Honda Manual
Transmission fluid.  Its about $7 bucks a liter, and your trannie takes 2
liters.

There is a big difference between nonOEM and OEM fluids, especially where
hondas are concerned.

The reverse problem may also be helped by this, but I also have similar
issues with the reverse on my 98 civic.  I've gotten used to it, but the
effort required is not excessive.

t

I have a 2001 Civic EX and noticed that shifting into reverse is getting
more tricky (didn't noticed this when car was new). For instance, when the
civic is rolling backwards, most times shifting it to reverse, stops the car
rolling abrupt with a "dud" sound.

Secondly, when the car is standing still, shifting it to reverse doesn't
always catch, I have to do it twice.

Is this normal? This is my first civic with a manual tranny so I'm not sure.

Also, after 4 years, I'm still having a tough time (when engine is cold)
shifting from first to second, smoothly. I'm also a motorcycle rider (Honda
CBR600) and I never had a problem doing this with my bike (also manual). I
mentioned this to the dealer, and they're telling me this is fine.

Please give your thoughts.