I think this is definitely the case because Oda really tries his hardest to differentiate Luffy's previous gears and his awakening as much as possible.
I mean, even Snake Man was pretty outclassed by Kizaru's speed, yet G5 seemed to have no issues with it.
Same when it comes to power. As much as Bound Man is strong, I don't think it'd beat Lucci with 3 hits at best (w/o ACoC). Yes, Luffy's a Yonko but Lucci is also an awakened zoan user and he should take far more hits. Yet, G5 needed 3 hits to knock him down.
So it's understanding that G4 shouldn't restrict Luffy like that because it makes no sense narratively. Why should Luffy choose the far weaker mode which gives him similar drawback issues - whilst draining his Haki - if he can directly use his strongest gear?
I mean, even Snake Man was pretty outclassed by Kizaru's speed, yet G5 seemed to have no issues with it.
Same when it comes to power. As much as Bound Man is strong, I don't think it'd beat Lucci with 3 hits at best (w/o ACoC). Yes, Luffy's a Yonko but Lucci is also an awakened zoan user and he should take far more hits. Yet, G5 needed 3 hits to knock him down.
So it's understanding that G4 shouldn't restrict Luffy like that because it makes no sense narratively. Why should Luffy choose the far weaker mode which gives him similar drawback issues - whilst draining his Haki - if he can directly use his strongest gear?
It seems Oda knows it too.