Need answers in a hurry
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6th Gear
Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 11
Likes: 0
From: Waco, Tx.
Need answers in a hurry
Went to a local shop the other day because my 02 Road King has 47000 on it and was going to have a 50000 service done. Next day bad news. Metal and orange plastic shavings on the magnetic drain plug. I am NOT a mechanic and that is why I pay these guys. So realizing that the orange crap is from the chain tensioners, and being unsure of the metal, he says bearings. I am for sure going with the gear drive, but while it is down for maintenance, I am thinking six speeds. I have run into much mixed advice on this. Some say it has five because it only needs five and will run shitty with the six. Some say it will make my bike a dream machine. What do ya'll say?
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 6,129
Likes: 143
From: Santa Cruz
Nothing wrong with 5 speed! Sure the 6 speed will cruise nicer (if ya have the power to pull it) but I sure wouldn't change out the 5 speed unless it was toast.
As for the metal, good luck!
As for the metal, good luck!
Advanced
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 63
Likes: 1
From: Minnesota
The sixth speed is for interstate cruising. I wouldnt put it in unless your tranny goes out and you have to put the money into it. Your not going to notice anything between 1-5. To me, its not worth it.
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2011
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From: Glendale AZ
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Club Member
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 45,429
Likes: 2,898
From: Bedford UK
Much as I also like the idea of a 6-speed, there really is no need for one. Your motor will happily run at any road speed you want all day. As for the cam drive, the upgraded chain set-up is simplest and most suitable IMHO. You could however change the cams for some wake-up!
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Cruiser
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 117
Likes: 0
From: IL
6 Speed
I have the Baker OD6 in my '01 Ultra.
You will not gain any mileage from the 6 speed.
The RPM's drop about 500 at hiway speeds.
The only good is the engine is not "screaming" cruising down the interstate.
More enjoyable ride but no way is the money well spent.
You will not gain any mileage from the 6 speed.
The RPM's drop about 500 at hiway speeds.
The only good is the engine is not "screaming" cruising down the interstate.
More enjoyable ride but no way is the money well spent.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 17,548
Likes: 7,199
From: Oxford, Nc
Good call on the gear drives btw, I put mine in at 81,000 miles just over 2 years ago and the odometer just passed 125,000 miles. Still can't come up with a reason to pull the cam cover.
With your hot forged crank and the Timken Lefty bearing in 99 - 02 models, your runout will be minimal too, I'll wager.