While you are right that there is no ''VTEC Kick'' on engaging ; there actually is no kick on disengaging as well.
Because , as you know, VTEC in R18 is not solely dependent on engine RPMs and does not work with continuous variation of intake and exhaust valve overlap (No VTC), it engages valve timing and lift control only but does not use throttle butterfly. Instead the 'economy' lobe on the intake valve allows the intake valve to remain open through the 'up-stroke' portion of the cycle to expel the excessive air-fuel mixture back.
So it is only on highway cruising or very slow city driving or downhill driving , that i-VTEC ever engages. And when it does , it does not produce a sound/kick; when it comes out of it , doesn't make a sound either.