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Main Area => General GS500 Discussion => Topic started by: Nomad on July 04, 2006, 06:49:13 AM

Title: Noob question...
Post by: Nomad on July 04, 2006, 06:49:13 AM
New to the board, new to riding...just got the bike a week ago.  Lovin' it.   

Quick question:  When you are riding at moderate speed (30 - 45 mph) do you like to have it in a lower gear and rev at 6k or a higher gear with revs at 4-5k?  Is one way or the other better for the bike?  Safer? 

Thanks.  Have a great 4th. 
Title: Re: Noob question...
Post by: Wrecent_Wryder on July 04, 2006, 07:06:35 AM
3c
Title: Re: Noob question...
Post by: fodder650 on July 04, 2006, 07:10:19 AM
I tend to cruise in the 4-5k range mostly. But when I'm hitting any kind of turn or have traffic around me I'll downshift. Somewhere I was taught, might have been MSF even, that have more control if there is any kind of throttle in a corner. Not saying WOT. Im just saying to take at least take the slack off the chain

Title: Re: Noob question...
Post by: Nomad on July 04, 2006, 07:22:11 AM
Thanks for the replies. 

I know what you mean about getting used to the fact that the bike can run higher revs.  I just sounds high to my ears - at least for right now. 

I understand your reasoning on running higher revs for acceleration/deceleration.  Makes sense to me. 
Title: Re: Noob question...
Post by: NiceGuysFinishLast on July 04, 2006, 07:23:14 AM
I keep it in lower gears at higher revs. I like the quicker throttle response. like WW said, it's good to have the immediate engine braking, and the immediate acceleration, should you need it. If I'm cruising on an open street though, moving 50mph, or so, I'll usually keep it right around 5K, as that's roughly where the powerband starts. If I'm in a neighborhood, or somewhere with stop and go traffic, or turning, etc, I'll keep it closer to 6-7K, as that puts me right in the middle of the powerband, with instant acceleration should I need it... or if I just feel like going fast.. :laugh:
Title: Re: Noob question...
Post by: Wrecent_Wryder on July 04, 2006, 08:47:37 AM
[6
Title: Re: Noob question...
Post by: ets_gs500f2004 on July 04, 2006, 09:32:15 AM
i ususally do it at around 4-5 k depending on how i feel...... if i want to push on it or not
Title: Re: Noob question...
Post by: scratch on July 04, 2006, 09:58:57 AM
Welcome!

+1 to keeping the rpm's higher.  So you can snap on some throttle and the bike wont bog (not that it would) on you, and you can get out of the way of whatever.