Does anybody have any experience with converting to six speed transmissions in a late model Sportster?

Just wondering if you all had recommendations for kits, or input on whether or not it's worth it.

TD

 

If you got a 5 speed with a trapdoor then the SportGear and a sprocket change is the way to go money wise.

 

I'd like to keep my torque down-low, just add an extra gear for "overdrive" cruising. A sprocket change would affect that, wouldn't it?

 

If you really love the bike and plan on keeping it a long long time, might be worth the expense .. Otherwise I wouldn't bother ..

 

To be more specific, I'm working with a 2005 XL1200C. I took a look at the Baker Transmission website and it seems like the conversion kit they sell only works with up to a 2003.

 

I don't know of any other brand than Baker. Might be worth emailing or phoning them about later models. They may have something in the pipeline.

I have to say I am not a fan of overdrive or tall gearing and have actually lowered the gearing on two of my bikes in recent years, to spice them up! If you go to an OD sixth, performance in top gear will suffer and I am sceptical about claims for improved economy. The reason recent big twins have 6-speed boxes is to help them meet noise regulations, not to make them nicer bikes!

 

Thats because 04 and up have to split the case to do the job up to 2003 could use the trapdoor ..

 

IMO 5 - 6 speed is not a huge difference, the new 6th gear ratio is just a little bit difference from the stock 5th gear, but I suppose if you do a ton of highway maybe its worth it...

 

One other issue not mentioned here is that the Baker and the gearset sold by J&P each have a taller 1st gear than stock. I think my 1st gear is already too tall.

 

My problem is that all non-interstate roads in Montana are all 70 mph, unless they're a curvy windy county road (usually dirt). Interstates run at 75 mph.

Yes there is a speed limit in Montana, no its not fun to ride a bike that fast with 40-50mph cross winds over in the eastern side of the state!!

Anyways I try to keep to the back highways as much as I can, but even then I'm doing 70-80mph trying to keep up with traffic. I constantly find myself reaching for another gear. Just was hoping to find a solution to dealing with that.

I do know my new bike will be a six speed, no question.