Being in the Army and working on a military base we have some pretty low speed limits on most roads. I've noticed the speeds that end in 5 (25, 35, 45) are all borderline shift speeds, which just happen to be most speed limits. I can be in 2nd or 3rd at 25, 3rd or 4th at 35, and 4th or 5th at 45, really doesn't make much difference.

So if I'm going to be spending a lot of time riding at those speeds, I figure I might as well pick which one has the better gas mileage since every little bit adds up over time whether I'm revving high or chugging along. So which is better for gas mileage? Revving the engine high or making it chug along in low?

 

I suspect there is not an easy answer to this! While rolling along when the engine is not having to do much work, low rpm is fine, but when you need it to roll up a hill or accelerate then higher rpms are better. So I think you still need to flip between gears!

 

At least with boats, gas engines get the best mileage at either idle speed or peak torque rpm, according to the test results I've read.

 

My experience with my Sporty is that it does best at peak torque. That don't always equate to peak mileage. As Den said the enginge itself is just running in a range. It doesn't know the gear. Hope that helps.

 

hi there same problems here all speed limits around here are at the shift points so i usually go +5 and shift to the higher gear i like having the engine running at the higher rpm , and not lugging plus i have the rest of the gear range to go if i need to hit the throttle

 

Run higher. No lugging that way. Lugging = Bad for the Evo engine. If you are so worried about MPG, then maybe a scooter is in store for you.

 

There is a good deal of ground between lugging are bouncing it the rev limiter. As in most things the answer is in the middle. A lower RPM while just cruising under a light load will give the best mileage ( no I did not say to run so low you lug). GRBROWN has it right, if trying to get the best mileage cruise in the lower RPM range as long as you are not straining the engine and shift down if working the engine harder rapid acceleration uphill, heavy load ect.
The man is a soldier and they are not over paid so it is not unreasonable for him to watch his money. Doubt you would spout off with the scooter comment if you were having this conversation in person.

RAL

 

The Sporty likes higher RPM's. There's absolutely NO reason for you to be in 5th at 45 mph even if you're just putting/cruising along. I typically don't shift to 2nd until I'm at 25mph. Sounds like you need to add at least 5mph's to your shift points.

 

It seems to me that I usually get better milage running higher RPM. Usually when I am hitting the twisties I run it a gear lower than normal crusing and somehow get the best milage that way.

 

riding around most streets 45-50, i dont even touch 4th or 5th gear