According to one embodiment, an apparatus for controlling operation of an internal combustion engine includes a conditions module that is configured to determine an out-of-gear condition of the internal combustion engine. The apparatus also includes a permission module that is configured to allow a speed of the internal combustion engine to exceed a maximum engine speed limit if the determined out-of-gear condition meets a threshold, and prevent the speed of the internal combustion engine from exceeding the maximum engine speed limit if the determined out-of-gear condition does not meet the threshold.