Shifting
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6th Gear
Joined: May 2012
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From: Murphysboro, IL
Shifting
So I took my sportster out riding all day today. I am a new rider. I was curious how quickly I should be shifting. I noticed I could ride 2nd gear up to 40 without it sounding too bad. Is that too much, what is the "rule of thumb" when shifting? Is there things I should avoid doing? Any genuine friendly advice and input will be greatly appreciated. Thanks all!
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From: Shamokin, PA
On an 883 I'd hope?
On a 1200 you'd be lugging it at those shift points.
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From: NE Philly
Yeah, I have an 883. When I had a 1200 conversion (pre rubbermount) I think shifted at 15-30-40-55.
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Under moderate acceleration I shift into 5th closer to 65-70 mph.
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From: NE Philly
Isn't 50-55mph @ 2800-3100rpm in 5th?
Yes, you are correct and I worded my post wrong.
I will putt at 50-55 in 5th, but if I want to do any significant acceleration I will drop it down a gear.
In 5th, because of the "leverage" of the higher gearing, you do not get the same benefit of the torque at 3000 rpm that you do if you are in the lower gears at 3000 rpm.
I might not have explained that well...each gear higher than the previous is like a longer lever working against the torque generated, so the torque that translates into strong acceleration in 1st & 2nd at 2800 rpm is virtually un-felt at 2800 rpm in 5th gear.
Higher gears need to be further up the powerband to give the same (or close) kick in the pants as the lower gears.
Hahaha, I might have butchered that...it is clear in my own mind. lol
I will putt at 50-55 in 5th, but if I want to do any significant acceleration I will drop it down a gear.
In 5th, because of the "leverage" of the higher gearing, you do not get the same benefit of the torque at 3000 rpm that you do if you are in the lower gears at 3000 rpm.
I might not have explained that well...each gear higher than the previous is like a longer lever working against the torque generated, so the torque that translates into strong acceleration in 1st & 2nd at 2800 rpm is virtually un-felt at 2800 rpm in 5th gear.
Higher gears need to be further up the powerband to give the same (or close) kick in the pants as the lower gears.
Hahaha, I might have butchered that...it is clear in my own mind. lol