Is there a way to make engine smoother (less lumpy) at low RPM?

I've a 99 VFR800. I tend to spend a lot of time 'cruising' in high gear with low revs - around 2500-3000 RPM. I know this isn't the best band for the VFR, but it seems quite happy down there, although it's a bit 'lumpy' (especially if it drops below 2500 RPM). Is there a way to make it smoother at low RPM, but which isn't too complex/expensive? Sorry if this is a stupid question - I'm braced for replies of "it's not a V-twin, what did you expect?!"...

 

Tuning would probably help, and synching the FI throttle plates is one place to start after you inspect the plugs.

 

Whoa 2500rpm? What are you in like 6th gear doing 40mph? Mine spends most of its time around 4500-5500 range

 

sit around 3000 RPM in 5th sometimes (yep around 40mph!) on dull roads with speed restrictions. I don't try to accel hard at that RPM though! Sounds like I'm best not keeping it that low, but would be nice if it were possible to make it a tad smoother down there

 

4th and near 4k would be smoother.

 

^^^^ this

These bikes are much happier at 4k and above, they weren't designed to "lug".

 

thanks guys. I'll adjust my riding style to stay nearer 4k min

 

Not much you can do about the VFR's lumpy low speed running. It has almost no flywheel in order to rev quickly, and there is a big gap between cylinders in the firing order. It fires all four cylinders fairly close together then waits 3/4 turn of the crank before firing again. This gives it a unique sound and some of the power character of a "big bang" racing engine, said to allow the rear tire to hook up again between power pulses.

The Magna V-4 has a different crank and firing order, and will pull happily from 2000 RPM at light throttle.

 

What they said, and what you said. Easier and cheaper to adjust your riding habits instead of re-designing the engine.