When to shift to 5th
Banned
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 267
Likes: 8
I have a 99 Softail Classic. I do not have a tac, and am not sure when I should shift to 5th. I am generally at about 55 when I do, but some times I get down to about 50. I don't want to lug the engine, and it doesn't seem to complain at all, but just wondering what you guys do. I think they changed ratios on some of the different model years so some might be different. Thanks for the replys. Jim
Road Warrior
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 1,952
Likes: 15
From: Senoia, Ga., by way of Miami, Fl..
I can honestly say I have no idea... Never even gave it a thought, even in a truck.. I'll just run it up to a particular tone, then shift. If that new gear wont pull with a little throttle, I'll re-tune my ear to the RPM. If you lugg it, you'll feel the hammer action, it should rev realtively smooth..
Another way to find that tone would be to get it out on the highway. Listen to its tone in 5th at 70mph or so. Thats where I think the engine would be happy to see another gear. Mine loves to run 80 or so, but its rpm is up there in the peppy range..
Another way to find that tone would be to get it out on the highway. Listen to its tone in 5th at 70mph or so. Thats where I think the engine would be happy to see another gear. Mine loves to run 80 or so, but its rpm is up there in the peppy range..
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Stellar HDF Member
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 2,856
Likes: 127
From: Middle of Kansas
It's my post and I'll shift when I want to. LOL. I shift to 2nd 3rd and 4th about any time. I sometimes idle through the park in 3rd at 18 mph. I cruise down the boulevard at about 30 to 35 in 4th. I guess it is like most of you say, when it feels right, shift. Makes a difference if you are going up hill or down hill, and if you want to accelerate quickly. My EVO is so torquey compared to my old 84 iron sportster, it just made me wonder what the rest of you do. Thanks for all the replys; Jim