The six-speed Cruise Drive transmission has larger bearings and gears, and a stiffer housing, which increases the transmission's torque capacity by 28 percent. The engine's external oil lines have been eliminated by providing integral oil passageways within the gearbox.
The new gearbox has a taller top-gear ratio that reduces engine rpm by 6 percent, about 200 rpm at 65 mph. First gear is about the same ratio as last year's, and the remaining intermediate gear ratios, from first through fifth gear, are spaced very evenly, although slightly closer together than the former five-speed's. (chart)
(chart)
GEAR RATIO
Gear 2006 2005
1st 9.878 10.110
2nd 6.846 6.958
3rd 5.085 4.953
4th 4.112 3.862
5th 3.478 3.150
6th 2.96
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American Rider
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All gears except first are helical, which mesh more quietly than straight-cut gears. Lightweight sliding dog rings engage the gears, which reduces shift-lever movement and makes shifting quicker and smoother. The shift forks are plasma coated for improved durability.
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American Rider
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The primary drive, which features new inner and outer covers, has an automatic chain tensioner that never needs adjustment. This retrofits to earlier models. The sprocket sizes and chain are different from prior years, with new a 1.353:1 ratio compared to 1.44:1.
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American Rider
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A redesigned clutch diaphragm spring and ball-and-ramp operating mechanism reduce lever effort by 35 percent. Even the cable has been given a low-friction treatment. All of this retrofits to previous years, and a retro kit will be made available to update older models.
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