I just bought my dream bike, a VFR '07 brand new. I am blown away at how fast it is and how different a "v" engine is as opposed to a an inline four. Quite frankly, though I have been riding a long time, I am not sure about what gear to be in on freeways that post 55 mph speed limit. I am concerned about lugging it - Maybe I am just overcautious I find myself riding in 5th gear for many miles. I mean the beast purrs so much better at 5000 rpm than at below 4000 rpm. I know I sound like a real novice - your input would help.
I pretty much don't get it into 6th until I am at 75, which is about 5000 rpm. At 55 I'm in 5th, but I would drop it to 4th if I needed to accelerate or thought 55 would be the top speed for the conditions. I definitely like to keep it over 4000 and close to 5000 for most riding.
It won't hurt it. I often cruise at 80 in 5th depending on my mood. 6th is so tall on these bikes it seems like they'd go 200 if given enough road...
You'll be fine in 5th or 6th. If you're wanting gas milage use 6th. For more power run in 5th. These motors pull best above 4000 rpm.
