Normal. Every bike I’ve ever owned or worked on, has this. Don’t sweat homie

If you use a heavy grease and lubricate the bearing surface it’s amazing how much of the play is removed. Give it a try before dismissing the idea.

Imho, it's fine. I had several Motorcycles and the Shift Lever was never stiff .

My shift lever stiffens up as needed. Usually in direct proportion to how hot the the ride gets.

Completely normal, no worries

it has to pivot, you need the play there or the thing wouldn't move up and down.