[Slickback_Ben]

When I first bought my Z4MC 3 years ago my 1st to 2nd shifts weren't buttery smooth either and just started driving around starting in 2nd as well. I did find that after a while of owning the car, I figured out that at least for me, in order to get a smooth 1st to 2nd shift, you have to ease into it. Completely different from my old Civic Si where you can just bang it through as fast as you can and you'll be fine. While shifting from 1st to 2nd, try giving it a second or two after you disengage the clutch for smoother shifts. It works for me, hopefully it works for you as well!