It just doesn’t seem to make much sense being in 5th instead of 6th unless you’re passing someone. Even if it’s a .5 mpg difference there’s zero negative effect of being out of your power range when you are planning on passing anyone
Probably comes from the fact I ride a motorcycle more than I drive anything else, but I don't like being on the back side of the power band. If the motor has to be in constant boost just to maintain a cruise speed on a flat road, that's not where I want to be. I'd rather be a couple rpms higher and have enough motor to maintain my speed without having to rely on boost.
I'm not saying you need to drive the way I do. I'm just saying what I prefer. If I've got decent HP and torque available, I'd rather use it than save it.
Most people drive a 4cyl at too low RPMs and complain about power and response. As much as I'd rather have a V8, I have adapted to 4 cylinders and the need for RPMs.
Come to think of it, I don't use 6th gear on either of my motorcycles either. Maybe I just hate 6th gears. Or can't count that high.
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