I've always used automatic gear shifts in driving games but I've decided I want to get a real challenge out of this game, so I'm attacking it with no driving aids except the corners only driving line.
This, coupled with the fact I'm a steering wheel novice (only got my DFGT a couple of weeks ago) means I spend a lot of time facing the wrong way.
Still, I'm looking forward to the challenge and the hours of practice I'm going to need. It's a nice feeling to get a corner or bend just right, if only I could put them all together on 1 lap.
Best time at Sakhir currently is 2:09. Terrible, but I've only managed to put together a few complete laps so far.