Even though the transmission is synchronized, double clutching, and revving the engine near the rpm's you will be at after the shift will produce a much smoother shift. I started driving in the days when transmissions were spur gears and you had to double clutch. It takes some practice, but you will feel much more professional if you can shift smoothly. First gear is not synchronized and it will grind if you don't double clutch or put it in when you are standing still.
Thanks I'll try paying attention to the rpm and shift points next time I take it out - my grandpa, rest his soul, was a commercial truck driver. I remember many hay haulers and other trucks on the farm and watching my grandpa double clutch driving those rigs like it was nothing.
