Interesting question. I have an 06 roadster also, 2K miles. The 1-2 shift is harder than the others ( which are actually very smooth). It is difficult to get in to 1st at a stop (going to 2d before going to 1st does seem to help a little) as others have mentioned. And there is NO grinding noise at all.

I have just hoped that the shift would smooth out over time/miles. Anybody with higher mileage that has noticed a difference or found a mechanical problem?