Forgot to add: OE tires at rec. pressure.

 

My 06 Ultra literally screamed for a sixth gear. But in 07 they not only added 6th but re geared the trans in 1 through 5. In my opinion the gear changes 1-5 were enough, but I think that they got so much flack about not having a 6th they threw it in anyway. Most bikes don't have a 6th and don't need it. My BMW pictured below does just fine anywhere over 100MPH mark with only 5.

 

I tend to use 6th gear at lower speeds, like 60 on a straight, flat, open road. After reading this thread, particularly the part about fuel economy, I think I'll try staying out of 6th unless I'm running over 70 on a straight, flat, open road.

 

My owners manual says to shift from 5th to sixth at some 85 km's which is like 55 mph . I may shift at anywere from the 85 [55 mph] up to 100 km's [62.5 mph] rather then the 85 km's. If on level road and see no need to pass and only one up etc., then I will shift then. Keeps the revs down and fuel mileage up. Depends if I see some reason that I may need to get on it then will stay in 5th other wise I run in sixth gear. Now if I were hot rodding, then say 130 km,s plus before 6th.

 

Around 60 mph. I have an FXDI. I am sure if I had a passenger or a heavier bike, the speed would be greater.

 

I have ridden the mountain highways in sixth gear no lugging. The speed limit was 70, and the flow of traffic was 70 plus mph. I have made some trips where nothing was slower than 85. ( Go with the flow or get ran over. Look out for big rigs on the downslope.)

 

Only above 65 when actually on the throttle... Any less and the engine just sounds like it hates life.

 

I've done the same. I think it really works very well if you can keep the speed 70 and above.

 

No problem on the flats @60 on up.... hills @65.. also no problem...