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i just did an experiment on this same subject.I have an 03 eg with 510 ss cams,stage one air cleaner system, otherwise stock. I made 3 200 mile trips in a row to the same location, on the same roads. Its a fact for my bike that the closer to 3000 rpms I ride the worse millage I get. At 70 mph I get around 38 mpg, at 65 mph I get 40-42, and at 60 mph I get 44-46. I even filled up at the same gas stations.
I would say that's more of an effect of wind resistance than rpms. Try riding at 60 mph in a gear that turns 3,000 rpm's at that speed and compare your mileage.
Many Harley riders are lugging their engines, especially in the six speed tranny. Mark your throttle position and see how far you have to turn it in a higher gear/lower rpms, vs a lower gear/ higher rpm's. You may be surprised at how much more throttle you have to give it to maintain speed at a lower rpm in top gear.
I would say that's more of an effect of wind resistance than rpms. Try riding at 60 mph in a gear that turns 3,000 rpm's at that speed and compare your mileage.
Many Harley riders are lugging their engines, especially in the six speed tranny. Mark your throttle position and see how far you have to turn it in a higher gear/lower rpms, vs a lower gear/ higher rpm's. You may be surprised at how much more throttle you have to give it to maintain speed at a lower rpm in top gear.
That's a very good point. I've tested what you've said and it is correct. Up to about 70mph, maybe a bit less, it's better to stay in 5th gear. It has alot to do with throttle position.
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