Saving 5th gear
 

I have a 1988 XT600 (kick start only.) I got the bike a year ago and have put 2000 (mainly road) miles on it. The bike now reads 11000 on the odometer. In trying to find out why I could only turn 5000 rpm in 5th gear, I've read about the 5th gear issues. I'd like to get an idea of how to best preserve / protect 5th gear from failing in the future.

To add to the complications, the XT came to me with 16/40 sprockets. I have new chain and sprockets (15/45), but haven't put them on yet.

Sorry I can't actually help with this at all - clicked on the link because it looked like the TV Programme 5th Gear needed saving! :clap:

Firstly it looks as if your final gear ratio of 40 / 16 is way to long. Makes the bike sluggish.

There is only two ways to preserve your fifth gear:
Don't use it or replace it.

well.. Kinder changes will help too and not putting too much torque on the gear.

Only change into 5th when you are at a speed which really needs it. Pulling from low speeds in torque will shag it. Also clutchless changes will harm it.

Personally, I would just ride the bike as normal and replace it when/if it fails.