What happens if I switch rotor spin direction in the middle of a spin?

Once the rotor is spinning at a sufficient pace, it comes under the effect of what’s known as gyroscopic precession where it effectively becomes suspended inside the sphere, allowing it switch between clockwise and anticlockwise rotation with just a flick of your wrist.

Does this cause damage to the internal mechanism? Well, if the transition is made smoothly, at a moderate speed and by someone using proper spin technique then no… but, like trying to change gears in your car without pushing the clutch down properly, some small wear will likely occur over time if you attempt to change direction at too high a spin speed and too often so always try to perform nice, fluid clockwise – anticlockwise transitions as you spin and everything will be just fine.