3000 is ok, unless you're going up a hill. then you're gonna lug it. these motors like to revved, that's just the way they are. don't be afraid to wind it up if you need some power. one of my buddies pointed out that you have to let the engine get to it's peak efficiency. at the time i was shifting at 2500 cuz i was broke. i started shifting at 3500 or 4000 instead, and my gas mileage improved. go figure, i guess he was right.