some folks with real large feet and heavy boots MIGHt have a slight issue
if that is the case, and you want to STAY with a foot shift they sell an adapter, that is like a handle and you shift with your hand then, working the shifter up and down
but very few folsk I know have issue's with foot shifts and boots
all the nutty mud/swap riding guys prefer them too, and there in waders most of the time in goooy mud
as for bending a shifter, anything is possible, but they do sell upgraded floor boards, and I have never known anyone that has has issue's there either, my foot shift is 21 yrs old now
thousands of MX off road riders have them and , IF one was to get damaged, its a LOW odds deal IMO
its a LONG time proven design
but again, a LOT comes down to what your using the atv for
for work the honda's rule
for trail riding, I think there are better atyv's out there, better ride quality, more features and just as reliable more or less! and better priced packaged set ups
old saying there is NO one TOOL does it all GREAT
have to buy what you plan to do MOST with the tool and then suck up its flaws else where, or buy more tools LOL