So some pending questions that haven't yet been answered (that I can find) would be:
* Is the FEAM map an Eco map across the whole power/throttle/rpm range? Or is it just "lean" for the part of the map that represents cruising (low throttle, low RPM)?
* While FEAM is turned on, does it switch off automatically under certain conditions?
* If so, what are the exact conditions?
* If so, does it turn back on automatically under other conditions?
* If so, does that mean the manual is incorrect?
What part of the manual are you guys saying might be incorrect? I don't see any errors in my 2010 manual...unless I'm missing something?
Yes, there is a completely different set of maps for "FEAM" ECO mode. I can post up the maps for both later on today if you guys would like to compare them? I don't remember if the ignition and STP maps are different for ECO mode...I'll have to check. I will advise.
I think there might be some confusion here between the "ECO Riding Range" and the actual "ECO mode". There are two different "ECO" logos that will show up on the screen. If the ECO riding range logo shows up on your screen, it does not mean that you are in the ECO Mode.
There is only one way to get the bike into the "FEAM" ECO Mode...you have to turn it on with the switch on the LH controls. It does not come back on automatically. It turns off when you shut the bike off, and you have to turn it on again when you start the bike again. So, if you're on a trip or whatever, you will have to re-engage the ECO mode after every fuel stop...or any stop where the bike is turned off.
There is also an ECO riding range...this will pop up on the screen even in normal mode, as long as you're riding the bike in an economical manner (determined by the FI ECU). It will pop on and off depending on RPM and throttle position. I haven't paid too much attention as to when it actually goes on and off...but it does shut off somewhere around 3500 RPM/80 MPH or so? I forget exactly where, but I rarely ever see it as I'm usually riding at 3800-4000 RPM when on the highway, and over 80 MPH.
I've tried the ECO mode on a couple trips and in my experience it made no difference in MPG at all. However, I was probably running at 4000 RPM in 6th gear all day, or for a couple days. I think for it to make any appreciable difference, you would have to be riding at 3500 RPM or less.
Just speculating of course, because I've read reports of other C14 owners seeing significant increases in MPG. I personally have not.
I'll take a look at the ECO mode map later today and see how much difference there is and in what ranges.
Cheers,
Rem