I had a similar experience. For me clunky jerky sound was when I went from stopped to moving. It seems to have gotten less harsh? Also its like getting anything new, once you get used to how how it likes to work you learn what makes it do things. (i dont know if that makes sense) I drive lots of different machines here farming and ranching, each one likes to be driven differently. Including the 100K tractor. LOL. One thing is for sure, the Can AM sounds different than all other SxSs. For me, the best way to find things out, is on this forum. I had the same thought at first about the rpms for sure. But again its a different motor. I will check that today at 30 35 40 45 on a semi level paved surface and post it this afternoon for you. As for the noise level, do you have a top, window, or any enclosure? We put a top, full window and sides on our gator. Now you have to practically yell to communicate if you going over 5mph. I now have about 500 miles on my 2012 1000 XT. Every time I drive it I like it more.