Just got a new Street Glide and need some info regarding the rpms and shifting. Searched the owner's manual and can't find what I need. Need to get a service manual asap. I have never had a tach before and want to know:

1. At what rpm should I up-shift?
2. What rpm should I down-shift?
3. What should the rpm be when at highway speed
to keep from lugging engine?

Any information will be greatly appreciated.

 

Most of the guys I ride with seem to agree with shifting right around 3000 rpm. It keeps you from lugging the motor and it is really when the bike starts to pull. I prefer to be around 2500 rpm when I downshift. When you're cruising on the highway, I would stay in 5th until you reach at least 60 mph. Any slower and you will feel the bike chugging. I have actually cruised at 75 mph in 5th and the bike didn't feel like it was winding out at all, so that shows how tall the 6th gear is on the new bikes.

 

Thanks. That's kind of the area I was thinking. I normally don't shift to 6th. until at least 65.

 

I run mine in the 2500 to 3200 rpm range

 

Thanks. That's about where I've been keeping mine.