We have a new 2007 FLHTCU. I'm used to riding a 1975 GL1000 (i.e. 4 cyl). I'm wondering what RPM is typically used in cruise (regardless of speed). I've been trying to stay around 2200. I'm not sure if I sense lugging around 2000 or if it's just me.

 

my 5 speed runs at 2800/2900 at 70mph. I like to keep it between 2500 and 3000. I think it sounds like its in the "sweet spot" right around that range.
I don't think 2200 is too low when cruising. I would want more RPM while going up a hill, or any other riding act that will put more load on the engine.

 

Ours is a 6-speed and on the highway at 120 km/h (75 mph), it's at or around 2500 - and that's OK. At lower speeds, 2500 is certainly fine but I just wonder if 2000 is just a little low on level ground. I find myself shifting back and forth to keep the RPM up just a bit more. I'm still wondering if I'm over-reacting.

 

six speed, five speed, cruising speed, doesn't matter..... 2000 rpm is 2000 rpm.

On flat level ground (or heading down the grade), maintaining a constant speed, I don't think 2000 is too low. If you were to accellerate to pass, start going up a hill, etc, I would downshift.

 

Thanx for this. I certainly downshift if I have to climb or pass and I'm already at 2000. It's nice to know that 2000 for cruise"ain't so bad". Looks like I can get into higher gears sooner, and save a bit of gas. I guess I'm too used to riding a 4 cyl for most of my life. However, that's about to change...

 

not a problem. I was out yesterday and was paying closer attention to my rpm's when i am just cruz'n... I'm gonna stand by my "2000 is OK"

Of course, with my 5 speed, 65/70 i am between 2500 and 2800 and to be honest, the bike just hums along. I think it really loves that range. I can take it up to 80 and its at about 3100, which isn't too bad either... only thing is I don't like going 80 cuz all the wind

 

Excellent. Can't wait to get home from vacation and try it out. This is my first big twin and it's gonna take some time to get used to where things ought to be.