carlson_mn
Well-known member
There comes a point where lugging an engine doesn't save gas; the throttle bodies are open so small it creates pumping vacuum that fights the cycle of the engine - and like you said you may have to achieve 85mph, where yes I'm sure 3700rpm could be sufficient as opposed to my guess of about 4500 it is at now.
Adding a 6th gear would create a larger/longer transmission, more parts, weight etc. Not a big deal but my '08 gets 48ish mpg at 70 and I doubt there would be much more to be gained there. Add in the downshifting when you pass, etc and it's understandable where the rpms sit in 5th gear. Already very similar in rpms to the Concours' 6th gear. Add in a passenger and luggage which is common with FJR and I wouldn't want it any lower. I can understand it could be nice though at certain speeds.
Adding a 6th gear would create a larger/longer transmission, more parts, weight etc. Not a big deal but my '08 gets 48ish mpg at 70 and I doubt there would be much more to be gained there. Add in the downshifting when you pass, etc and it's understandable where the rpms sit in 5th gear. Already very similar in rpms to the Concours' 6th gear. Add in a passenger and luggage which is common with FJR and I wouldn't want it any lower. I can understand it could be nice though at certain speeds.