with the transition from 4th to 5th gears? I have a 2008 Softail Heritage. When shifting from 4th to 5th gear - (I feel like I need to do so at 50 mph), 5th gear seems to lug. In fact i need to get to OVER 55 mph in 4th to prevent lugging in 5th. The HD dealer says it is not a problem but it is for me...as when I feel the need to shift (no Tach on my bike) out of 4th, it usually is too early. Anyone else have this issue?

Lou

 

I usually get into 5th between 50 and 55 with 6th at 60-65, only lugs if I don't pay attention slowing down to about 45 in 5th and not downshifting. But that's once in a while and as soon as I notice, I'll kick it down.

 

Over time, I found that I never shift into 5th below a minumum of 50 mph. Usually 55 or more. I feels and works better there. Just the way these things are geared. Go with the feeling and give it what it likes.
Ron

 

ditto what rbabos said. you can kinda just "feel" when it is ready to go to 5th.

 

Same here, 08 Heritage. I shift into 5th between 55 and 60.

 

The manual's rec of 45mph works fine for my 08 Heritage. You bike may not be pulling as hard as you want but I doubt it's lugging. No harm in shifting later if that's what you prefer.

 

I have an 09 and just had it in for that low rpm 5th gear strangeness. They said they found nothing wrong with it, although 6th handles 45-55 just fine. I was told that 5th is not the same kind of gear as 2-4 and 6.