A reasonably simple workaround for now is to edit a line in the
gpl_ai.ini file - right near the top:-
base_gearshift_hiatus = N.00000
The higher N is then the longer the AI takes to change gear. They'll
still be quick through the turns but, if set high enough, you can get
'em while they fumble around for gears on the straights.
--
Peter Ives