5-Speed vs. 6-Speed
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Road Master
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 901
Likes: 5
From: Springfield, MO
5-Speed vs. 6-Speed
Got a couple of "bonus days" here in southwest Missouri -- 60 degrees in January! Rode two days in a row and it felt incredible! Anyway, compared my '06 FLHX with my buddy's '11 FLHX at 70 MPH. Does 2,550 RPM vs. 2,800 RPM sound about right for the 6-speed compared to the 5-speed? I think those tach readings are close, but neither of us had our reading glasses on. 
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 5,173
Likes: 177
From: East Coast
It depends on the trans...some 5 speeds had 5th as an overdrive ratio while others did not. Having said that, I like the thought of the 7 speed trans that is available, since I occasionally will reach for that elusive 7th that is not really there, as the green 6th gear indicator is shining brightly too!
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Road Master
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 901
Likes: 5
From: Springfield, MO
Well coming off a Yamaha V Star 1100, I LOVE the Harley gearing. The Yammy was really buzzing at 70 -- no tach so not sure of RPM. But even the 5-speed Harley trans is a joy.
Road Captain
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 699
Likes: 52
From: Clarington, Ontario
Agreed, have had a lot of bikes in the last 35 years, the HD 5 speed in mine is geared very well for what I do.
I like riding the secondary highways and country roads, no need for 6 speeds.
Friend has an 07 Ultra and is careful to not lug it in 6th, spends most of his time in 5th.
I like riding the secondary highways and country roads, no need for 6 speeds.
Friend has an 07 Ultra and is careful to not lug it in 6th, spends most of his time in 5th.
Road Warrior
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 1,396
Likes: 146
From:
In my experience the 5 speed in my '02 was 70 m.p.h 3000 r.p.m. My '07 which is gearded tall with a six speed is 70 m.p.h 2500 r.p.m. 80 m.p.h. 3000 rpm. 500 r.p.m. drop at cruising speed. Or 10 m.p.h. at same engine speed. I love the six speed but I do a lot of highway riding.
Road Master
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 1,096
Likes: 107
From: Joplin, MO
Hey RPS1981, don't know about your tranny question, but we must be neighbors. You are describing the weather here in Joplin. I too took advantage of the weather also. Enjoy!
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Road Captain
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 507
Likes: 1
From: Torrance, CA.
I had a s/e 6 speed in my 2004 R/K. You're right, save your money. The 5 speed is geared near perfect.
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Road Warrior
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 1,328
Likes: 154
From: Lake City, Florida
I've had 4 speeds, 5 speeds, and now a 6 speed gear boxes. I actually liked the 4 speeds with a kick starter best. Now when I ride I have to mentally count gears as I go up and down em. My old '48 1200FL 4 speed Panhead would hammer down the freeways at 75-90mph just fine. and I always knew what gear I was in.