Printable View
I've been riding this about 5000 miles. Trying to keep my RPM above 4000 rpm on shifts. Ride at 4000 and above. I do this because of something I read here last year. The bike runs just great, no complaints.
So is this idea about the twin engine being happy at higher rpm written down anyplace? I did't see it in my owners manual. Is there a factory spec in writing?
Just asking. No problems.
Thanks,
daz
If you look at the red line....I am doing this from memory....it is about 9000 rpms. At 4000 you are only at one half. Our cruise rpms on the highway and shift points for the 998 are at 5500. We have an SE5 version of the 2011.
We usually don't even use 5th gear until we exceed 55 mph. Hana Hwy in Maui HI....50 miles and mostly 20 mph or less. We were in first gear the whole time.
Try the 5000-5500 range. I think you will like it. You will also find you will get better mileage.
Thank you Akspyderman. Actually I do live above that 4000 rpm mark that I mentioned. And I do not mind running rpm up to near red line every so often. I like the sound of the twin when it's up there.
Just wanted to know if 'the company' put that in black and white. Since I do not recall seeing it.
after a very brief test ride on a 998 ST, I can tell you the "happy spot" is written on the seat of your pants.
It is a high RPM engine and is most happy there. Now most of what you will see is that the Se5 (semi-automatic) clutch does not fully engage if you are under 3,400rpm's so they recommend 4,000. Some have messed up their clutch by ryding like a Harley or other low rpm engines and some have sold the spyder because they did not like being at the best rpms for these engines. The triple 1330 (came out in 2014) is a lower rpm engine and has a 6th gear which has made many happy but I love the twin 998 and ryde between 6-8,000 rpms most of the time....:thumbup: