Don, the 18/42 set up stopped me from looking for a 6th gear. It also took a little getting used to the fact that these bikes are meant to run at higher rpms than the v-twins. Someone told me that the 08 models changed the rear to 43 but I haven't been able to confirm 100%. The 43 would slightly lower the gear ratio as 18/43 would be 2.39:1.
If you go to a 19/42 (2.21:1) it will be higher, the gears will get noticeably taller, and you may not like the quickness loss starting off. I like my 18/42 but have considered eventually going to a 43 which would be just a tiny bit lower than where we are. Imagine the orginal Speedmasters that had 16/42 (2.63:1). A lot of people like them, but I'd probably be looking for a 6th and 7th. Two up with a 19 and you'll find yourself riding the clutch a lot starting off.
