99 Cruising Speed

Over the years, my ideas of a good cruising speed have been revised. In the days of my youth, 85 or sometimes more seemed like a good idea. No it wasn't. With a bit of maturity, 70-75 seemed to suit it rather better. But nowadays, sticking to National speed limits seems like the best idea.

It should trundle along at 70 but you may be happier and kinder to keep to the mid-60s ensuring a long and easy life for the engine. With the odd blast just for the fun of it.

I, reluctantly, tend to agree with Gordon. In the 50?s there were no motorways, and few long stretches of dual carriageway. I used to thrash my poor 88, changing down when it would not hold 70 in top gear. However there was not the opportunity to hold top speed, for more than a few miles, so the engine had "rest periods". I still have a (nearly original) 88, but try to keep off motorways, and, cruise in the mid 60?s.I may be a boring old f**t, but I cannot see the point in owning a bike capable of exceeding 100, for road use ( give me a modern "Superbike", and, I would want to see how fast it would go, and, probably kill myself!).

I have only got 384 miles on my 1960 99 and so a bit early to talk about speed but I did give it a quick burst up 70mph with no issues at all. However, I'm not on standard gearing, using a 21T engine sprocket and a 20T gearbox sprocket. A very smooth and relaxed motor.

Your 99 does seem a bit over-geared Neil. You'll find yours is faster in 3rd than top.

Apologies for the duplicate entry.

Thanks Gordon, I might get it out for a ride in the next day or two, before the ex hurricane arrives.

I can tell you that it needs a few revs to get going and even more if trying that in 2nd.

I too agrees with Gordon. Once upon a time, when there was no speed limits and we rode on the left side of the road, I clocked my -60 Domi 99 at 115 mph for a 50 miles trip on a straight motorway. Yes, it was much lightened and tuned. Not a happy cruising speed.

Mike

My 99 is the same 65 is a comfy speed. My 88 although down on "grunt" used to waft along smoothly on half throttle at an indicated 80-85, so in my book was a faster bike effectively. On the run to North Wales (Dragon Rallies) only Vincent 1000's would overtake and then stay in front.I don't think all 88's were that fast.Must have been a Monday bike!.