Actually I like to keep the revs up around the 7-8k range on the street in heavy traffic just in case I need to squirt away. I also feel that if I'm audible then it gives me a little more of a safety margin. But you will get the revs up as you progress.

I'm surpised that no one has yet asked this question:
Have you taken the MSF course? Highly endorsed.
And ALWAYS wear your gear. ALL OF IT. ALL THE TIME.
Welcome to the forum.

 

Thank god, I have an '06 and I thought my bike was messing up on me. I am not totally used to sport bike sounds coming from a cruiser before.

 

im a noob myself but you might have aftermarket sprockets.. that will also cause your bike to run in the higher rpm range therefore not feeling as smooth.. correct me if im wrong anyone?

 

myroncuz that is correct, however it shouldnt be tooo much of a difference with any mild re-gear.

+1 on taking the MSF course. lots of good info to learn, plus you dont have to worry about dropping your own bike.

+1000 on gear. not sure on what you have and dont have, but you need a helmet at MINIMUM. after that, any body parts that you want to keep if you get in an accident should have gear on them too.

as far as going over 5k rpms, as long as you not riding on the freeway in 1st pegging the rev limiter you dont have to worry about hurting your bike. like others said, take it easy until you get use to it and then just bring up the rpms as you feel more comfortable. last thing anyone wants here is for another new rider to get hurt, so i would follow everyones safety advice that gives it to you. have fun out there!

 

Hitting the rev limiter doesn't hurt the bike though. Just don't overdo it.

 

I feel you should drive your bike how you seem fit. if you want a blast of acceleration then crack the throttle open and shift at higher rpms. If you're not comfortable with that than take it easy like you have been. Over time when you are more comfortable with the bike and its tendencys you will start to open than nice machine up. Like the other members said be safe. The most dangerous part of driving a motorcyle are the cars on the road that dont pay attention. Keep your eyes open and react fast.