highway rpm's

[pudgyhd]

I have an 84 gl1200 aspencade and in OD at 70 MPH the rpm's is 3600. Is this good. Never owned a wing so making sure.

[Old Fogey]

Not sure what you're asking? Do you think you have a problem? The revs sound about right to me.

[pudgyhd]

I was wondering if that 3600 rpm was right for doing 70. Never had a wing before. Runs good at that speed just sounds like I could shift again.

[Old Fogey]

Earlier Wings will be doing 4000rpm at that speed! Look at your rev counter; you're cruising at less than half of it's rev range.
My guess is you've come from a V-twin which is all bottom end torque. I run my 1000 at 80-90 regularly on the motorways, 4500-5000 for lengthy periods. These engines thrive on revs.

[pudgyhd]

Yes I did come from v-twins. That's ghost to know. Thanks for your help old fogey. I really like riding this bike. Won't go back to Harley again!!

[rrmiller73]

For you young guys the speed limit was 55 mph in the 80s. Most 80s road vehicles including the GWs were designed for cruising at 55-60 mph(2500-2700) . Thats why 3600 is normal for 70. Newer bikes have an extra gear(6) and run lower revs at 70. My son-inlaw rebuilt an old 80s Toyota Celica and he was suprised by the high 70 mph rpm as well. I think a GW will run forever at 3600 so not a problem other than a little buzzy compared to 55 mph.

[pudgyhd]

I am just getting used to the 4 cylinder motor since I have mostly had newer v twins and they are louder anyway. Run good at 70-75 without a hickup so just learning my ride. Thanks for your help.

[24.4ZOOM]

Well as it so happens, we took off on a day trip Friday last and for a change of pace took the slab for about 90 miles. Kept pace with traffic at an indicated 80 mph and revs seldom exceeded 4200, well below redline. Mileage dropped to about 39.5 vice the usual 42-44 mpg .This is 2 up with rather well fed folks. Shoot, she didn't even break a sweat, this soon to be antique bike that we have had for just over a year. So, like the others said, keep the revs up, and the shiny side up.

Patrick

[WingAdmin]

Yup, the mileage will drop off precipitously above 55.

[pudgyhd]

Thanks for everyone's input on this. I feel a little better knowing as much as I can. I have been experimenting on the shifting and it seems to like more revs than what the book calls out for. I have owned brand new Harley in 02 but got into a wreck and I'll tell, this 26 year old wing rides better than it did. Very impressed and look forward to upping to a 1500 or 1800 Within a couple years.