One of the selling point to me was the 6.5 fps with Canon 40D, and I just got it. Somehow, no matter what setting I use I get about 3 fps, same as my 5D. On the 40D I use a vertical grip with two fully charged batteries. I tried the Live View settings:
- Live view off
- Silent mode 1, 2 or disable (made no difference)
- 16GB Sandisk III (shot with or without the CF card)
I fired 40D side by side with the 5D. Just can't get it over 3 fps.
anyone know how I can get 6.5 fps? Thanks!

According to the review at dpreview.com, they couldn't get 6.5fps either, and they only got up around 6 when the shutter speed was very fast. IIRC they needed 1/4000 sec to get above 6 fps. Not particularly useful when shooting, say, indoor basketball.

(Disclosure: I have a 40d on order, but haven't shot one yet. I won't be using it for sports photography. That's why I have 1-D2 bodies.)

If you are only getting 3fps, make sure you are in the right drive mode. There is a continuous mode and a continuous High mode. Make sure yours has the (H).

set continuous shooting mode to H. got 6.x fps. thank you both!