acceleration

So I am busy looking for chains and sprockets for my bike. My question would apply to mods and upgrades as it involves changing sizes of parts. So I read going down in size of front sprocket speeds you up and up in the back makes it more faster. This is not he part I was wondering about...

When do you people shift up say during a gentle drive in city traffic. I switch gears up at no less than 3000 rpm when there's no particular need for quick acceleration. Afterwards cruise at just above 3000 rpm, usually > 3100 rpm.

As title, there is often a few clicky sounds under hard acceleration from a stop light. I didn't find out about it until I changed my chain recently, as there was other noise from the worn chain (apparently) that was masking it. I did not change the sprockets, because they actually still look...

Finally got my bike taken care of in regards to safety, some minor shop work (new front tire, front pads, and plate lights), and insurance (which tripled due to policy changes - thanks, Onterrible. :thumbdown: ) Took it out for a spin around some country roads north of my house, and it's been a...