[SpudRider]

Originally Posted by woodlandsprite

Thanks Weld

So....what does it mean to lug the engine? Is it basically making sure the engine isn't in too high of a gear for the speed at which I am trying to travel? I have very little experience with manual transmission vehicles. I rarely drive our truck, and then only on dirt roads...

And winding it out is when it's got its RPMs too high - so in too low a gear for the speed at which I'm traveling (uh...how does this work with engine braking??)

Is there a way to find out what the optimal RPMs is for a given engine? This is clearly another skill i'm going to have to pick up and learn...

Our RX3 bikes have optimal power and fuel mileage when the engine is turning about 5,000-7000 rpms.

You are correct regarding lugging, and winding out the engine. You can hear the engine winding up to higher rpms. This sound is your signal to shift; don't look at the tachometer. Listen to the engine. When the rpms reach about 5,000-6,000 rpms, it is time to shift from a lower gear.