it's not that it grinds, it just locks you out. i don't know what it is exactly...my gf just bought a new '03 Civic EX, and it does the same thing...and 1st gear locks you out after you're at a certain speed, unless you either rev high, and then put it into first, or shift 2nd, then up to first; or you come to a complete/near complete stop. I'm sure you guys who use your Type-R as your daily driver know what I'm talking about.