I have extensively studied the correlation between speedo/odos on bikes (and cars) vs. GPSes and bicycle computers for over a decade.
My experience is as follows:
1. Odos are generally very close to actual distance travelled - typically 1% optimistic, with a worst case of 3.5% optimistic.
2. Speedos are on average 10% optimistic - worst case 14% (Bandit 1200) - best case 8% (Suzuki GSX1400).
The question then has to be asked, if the odo is accurate to 1% why is the speedo 10% out if both devices receive the same input feed/signal?
There is no other conclusion to be reached other than that this is a deliberate ploy by manufacturers - i.e it's as simple as the numbers on the speedo dial being painted in the wrong place.
Why do manufacturers do this (and it is all manufacturers, not just the Japanese). I can see only two possible reasons - to boost the rider's ego by making you think your bike is faster than it really is; or as a safety measure to get riders to ride slower than they otherwise would.
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Garry from Oz - powered by Burgman
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