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abediah
abediah asked in Cars & TransportationMotorcycles · 1 decade ago

What speeds should I be shifting my motorcycle at?

I am an inexperienced rider and a new owner of a 2003 Honda Shadow Spirit. When I get it on the highway I shift up according to what a feel the bike wants to shift at, and yet in fifth(top) gear I can only go about 55-60 mph. Is this the top speed of my bike or am I just doing it wrong?

Update:

Is there a way to check it at home before I have to get it serviced? My bike maintenance allowance is not a high priority next to my wife's 'cosmetic needs'. ha.

Update 2:

So a buddy suggested I feel the exhaust on both cylinders up where they connect right after starting to see if they both get hot and how fast, which I did and they are both hot. I'll check the plugs as soon as I get home, thanks.

Update 3:

Doing some checks and have found fuel in the air cleaner, and the sub-air cleaner element is all but dust. Gonna replace both and then get to the carburetor and see whats going on in there. I have been using this online manual, http://www.martin-house.com/VT750DC_Shop_Manual/, but I would be lying if I said I knew what the CDI is or what it does...?

Update 4:

So, did all the checks, and other than a new air filter, there isn't much wrong with it. Spark plugs are working, and fuel line isn't kinked or blocked anywhere. Only thing I can think is my carb needs cleaning. Ugh.

4 Answers

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  • Jon
    Lv 7
    1 decade ago
    Favorite Answer

    I dont think you have a problem shifting, I think you have a motor problem. The Shadow 750's top speed is well over 100mph. It sounds like your bike may only be running on one cylinder. Take it in for a servicing and diagnostic ASAP.

    EDIT: Pull the plugs and see if they are firing, run a compression test on both cylinders, and check the plugs to see what they look like. You may just need plug replacements, or the problem could be worse, like a bad coil or CDI unit. Do the 2 tests first, and see what you come up with. Those two tests will tell you a whole lot of information. Also buy yourself a service manual for the bike. If you need to test coils etc., it will tell you the specs and test procedures in it. You can get one here:

    http://www.repairmanual.com/motorcycles/2003/27/0/...

    Source(s): Honda & Suzuki Service Technician Graduate of MMI (Motorcycle Mechanics Institute) Phoenix Az. 25+ years riding experience
  • ymmot ton
    Lv 4
    1 decade ago

    Nothing personal, and I'm not being a dickweed, but REALLY, if you own a bike and don't know when to shift it, you should really take the bus.

    No, don't drive a car, just take the Bus.

  • mn
    Lv 7
    1 decade ago

    basic info on all the answers is correct.. change air filter . plugs.. tune up ETC...

    Manual is free download from HONDA site...

    http://hondatech.info/downloads/Moto/VT/

  • Candid Chris
    Lv 7
    1 decade ago

    You should shift closer to the maximum RPM rather than lower.

    Appears you're in need of a tune-up. Replace air filter, spark plugs, engine oil/filter and get back to us.

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