yes, less time spent shifting equals more power to the wheels, however, is that really noticeable? and for 100 dollars or whatever it costs for a short shifter you can put that towards cams, cam gears, even a new bottom end which will really increase power.

and i agree with jason...the improvement was most likely due to shitty bushings with his stock shifter. i would say its just like someone going with aftermarket plug wires versus stock honda and claiming they get 2 more hp from them...when the gain was really due to the honda wires being old and not as effective.

i think most people would agree that there is a certain set of steps that need to be taken to have a quick honda...ie low 13's high 12's all motor.

tuning
a good power to weight ratio
displacement
compression
timing
limited slip and final drive

and most importantly, a good driver.