Why... - David Horn
Why is a gearchange really smooth if the clutch is only depressed about halfway? Does it damage anything to do this? Presumably something is having to take up the strain.

Cheers,

David.
Why... - mjm
It depends upon at what point there is clearance between the friction plate and driven plates. This can happen at 1/2 pedal travel. The rest of the pedal travel just increases the clearance. If you have the revs about right, the synchro is helping as well.