noob shifting : Kawasaki ZX Forums: Kawasaki Ninja Forum

rodneyc · 03-07-2008, 10:56 AM

I just started riding last year and am still trying to figure out which gear i should be in when doing hiway speeds (55-70mph)

Seems like it doesnt make a whole lot of difference between 3rd and 6th to me.... or is there something wrong with my bike?... or me?.. haha.

i dont think ive ever got the revs up past 7000 for any decent length of time... so maybe this has something to do with it?

Saint_Matthew · 03-07-2008, 11:19 AM

These bikes are geared so you can do 150+ in 6th. Kinda retarded for public use. I'd try 4th for cruising highways just to save some gas.

ajtmex · 03-07-2008, 04:47 PM

When going a constant speed i always use the same gear as the first number. For instance, 30mph in 3rd, 40mph in 4th and so on, and 6th for everything after 60mph.

gammac · 03-07-2008, 05:17 PM

6th
gammac

Jester · 03-10-2008, 05:30 AM

these bikes are way over powered to think that they are geared for hwy cruising.(if it wasnt for my gear indicator I would not have a clue what gear I am in half the time

)

I always use 6th if I am maintaining a speed on the hwy (just like a cruise gear in a tin top). 6th has the economical ability plus has enough power on tap to overtake if needed.

Vertigo117 · 03-10-2008, 04:24 PM

actually, unless im being an idiot and trying to speed, i shift into 6th ASAP... the liter pulls like a 600 in 3rd in 6th gear, and u get the best gas mileage in 6th... least torque, most speed, lowest revs...

rodneyc · 03-10-2008, 04:45 PM

good to know... thanks for the help.

ajtmex · 03-10-2008, 10:28 PM

Yea, 6th for highway, mainly maintaining speed, but honestly, if it's around town, I just listen to the bike for when to shift.

Ochoa039R · 03-11-2008, 10:01 AM

I usually run in 6th while on the freeway/highway to get the best gas mileage. You will still have passing power and 4th gear is only a quick shift away.