the shift shaft is a little soft and likes to bend and it has no bushing or bearing either as i understand.

--- also the crank balancer puts alot of stress on the gears during instant rpm changes caused by traction from the rear wheels. i.e spinning out then suddenly full traction and bogging down the rpm.


 does the honda have one? i know the 86 rm250 did not.

My shifter shaft is slightly bent.  Funny you should mention that. 

If titanium isn't ideal, what metal would you choose?