Well the 2011 Lacey mpg challenge is over for this year, what did I learn?
1 I use 1 gallon to drive 82.7 miles through the countryside at an average speed around 40mph, 82.7mpg.
2 Driving mostly on the Interstate at 70mph +, on a 1594 mile trip I use 23.3 gallons of fuel, 68.4mpg.
3 The gearing is a little to low for the speed range I use most and I will be replacing the 33T rear spocket with a 35T rear sprocket so that the rpm are 240rpm higher. The bike engine does not respond well when the rpm drop below 3000rpm under load which is in the 50 - 70 mph useful speed range in 6th gear.
4 The top of the tapered cargo box is too shallow and has been changed to the 1:6 taper that is closer to the ideal. I may also make the front 2" narrower for better aero.
5 I will inclose a section below the tapered cargo box and move the tail lights to the rear of the bike. this should help reduce drag.
6 I will redo the side boxes for better aero.
7 Without making a few mistakes not much progress is made.
