The engines on a Harley Davidson just boasts the beast of such a popular motorcycle. You can find specs and overviews, along with guides, tips and tricks to get that engine running to its optimal performance level.

Instead of spending your money at the mechanic or the dealer, save some money and do the simple repairs and maintenance procedures at home! We've compiled several articles ranging across different topics to help you out with the How-To's and DIYs.

How your Harley bike rides is a result of what it has on its two legs. The tires give you balance and sustainability, while the wheels give you personality and style. So take a look at the articles we've got here just for you.

Illustration by Hector Cademartoriby Karl Borum (Kbore)Harley-Davidson introduced Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) as a feature for Softail models in 2001. Obviously that proved successful, because the MoCo slowly rolled out EFI to all models. Today, almost all factory Harleys built in the US are fuel injected. So you ought to know a thing or two about EFI.EFI has both pros and cons, but for street riders, EFI has mostly pros:-Unlike carbureted models, EFI automatically adjusts

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by Karl Borum (Kbore)Ape hanger handle bars are one of those subjective things: either you love 'em or you hate 'em.  Apes just require a certain attitude. If you love the look and attitude, but are unsure of the performance aspects, turn your attention to the study by the Head of the Human Factors Department, Highway Safety Research Institute at the University of Michigan. Okay fine, this study was done with bicycles, not motorcycles, but

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by Jason GiacchinoPlaying Secret Santa for the Harley Davidson enthusiast on your shopping list can be quite an adventure, but let's be honest: there's only so many black t-shirts a person needs.  Thankfully your ever-clever editors have been snooping around dealerships, expos and Santa's North Pole workshop in an effort to bring you five gift ideas sure to dazzle the H-D devotee in your life, be they naughty or nice.Harley Gift Idea #1 >>>>

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by Brian Zerkel(schumacher)Who doesn't like to customize their Harley to make it their own? Be it with chrome, grips, saddlebags or whatever else you can name, people have been doing it since the beginning of time (AH: After Harley).A big problem nowadays is the lack of funds to dress your bike up the way you want. Your local dealership will have most of what you are looking for, but the prices on those items just

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by Jason GiacchinoHDForumsLet's face it, until some real life Doc Brown invents a flux capacitor and mounts it into a DeLorean, the closest most of us are going to get to reliving the past is limited to our memories. For a select few, that ain't cutting it. As a result, we have cruise nights, retro-inspired vehicles, restorations and projects in the barn we'll get to one day. In keeping with the power of nostalgia,

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The Process of Customization can Begin on Any Budget by Jason GiacchinoThe situation:  You pick up your new (perhaps just new to you) V-Twin and are enamored with your purchase.  Trouble is, you want this machine to be yours, unique to you, something to set it apart from the masses.  Let's face it, when starting from scratch, there are almost too many areas to target with your limited customization cash.  Don't let yourself get overwhelmed!We'll

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Power adders can be added to your Harley to make it exceed factory expectations, and push itself to the maximum. Some power adders may increase power 100 percent of the time, while others may only provide power for a short period of time. There are a several types of power adders available to increase your engine power without causing problems.SuperchargersA supercharger, normally referred to as a blower, is one of the three major groups of

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Photographs courtesy of the Harley-Davidson Motor Company ArchivesIncreasing Harley performance is a topic that has seen much discussion in the form of books and other media. There are some major points to understand when approaching this subject. It is important to understand what kind of power your Harley needs and how to go about getting that power.PerformanceIt is difficult to define performance, because everyone has their own opinion of what it means. You may just

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What it DoesThe exhaust involves a series of pressure waves that travel out of the main pipe. There is a positive wave and a negative wave which work together to import combustion gases from the chamber. As the positive wave goes out, the negative is moving back in toward the valves. The key to performance is making sure these waves are timed correctly with the right pipe length. If you want lower rpm performance, leave

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What makes Harley-Davidson motorcycles unique? Some say the look of the machine. Others say the mystique. Still others say it's the history of this special American manufacturer. All, however, can probably agree on one attribute above all others - the sound. Many have attempted to describe the sound of a Harley-Davidson motorcycle (some say it sounds like, "potato, potato," - not sure how many would agree with this!), and there have been many attempts by

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So -- you would like to upgrade your exhaust. You want a custom sound and a sleek look. Well, here's an easy way to do these things - purchase an exhaust from one of many quality manufacturers who specialize in Harley-Davidson exhaust upgrades. Exhausts for Harley-Davidson vehicles come in a number of styles, shapes, and forms. Words like "straight cut," "slash up," and "slash down" perhaps give you a descriptive idea of the form Harley-Davison

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H-D Hog BankPiggy banks never go out of style, especially in a recession. And a black ceramic hog bank designed to look like a motorcycle's gas tank is all the more stylish.  In fact the popularity of this ceramic bank is legendary. Black glazed bank features a two-tone tank decal. Measures approximately 11" long x 7" high for the large bank, and 6 1/4" long x 4" high for the small model. $25.00 - $45.00

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Roland Sands Design Clarity Bits Ever wanted to see what your motor is doing behind those covers?  With the RSD Clarity line, your motorcycles inner workings are on display while sealed tightly behind articulately machined billet aluminum and transparent polycarbonate. Designed and machined with the form of the true working components in mind, the Clarity line adds that extra level of detail, clearly showing what is usually hidden.  The line, available at www.rolandsands.com/categories/rsd-clarity-line, includes the

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SaddlebagSecureSaddlebagSecure prevents saddlebag thefts and "fly-offs" on Harley Baggers, Victory Cross Bikes, and Yamaha Stratoliners and Roadstars.  SaddlebagSecure is designed for hard, fiberglass and hard leather saddlebags - actually any saddlebag with the Quick Release System, such as is used with Corbin Saddlebags. It completely replaces the quick release system, which has been standard for years. Utilizing all stainless steel and automotive-finished spring steel components with tamper-proof security screws and a security tool, the saddlebags

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LA ChockThe LA Chock (and the smaller footprint LA Trailer Chock) is an innovative and secure parking stand that can be adjusted to fit any size motorcycle tire. The patented stand clamps onto the front tire and securely holds the motorcycle upright, allowing you to get off the bike and more easily perform cleaning or maintenance tasks.  Mount the LA Chock or the LA Trailer Chock in a trailer and your towing worries are over.

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Electra-Glo Light Pod KitLight up the night with these compact LED Light Pods which radiate a neon-like glow to accent almost any part of your motorcycle. Featuring a solid-state circuit board sealed against the weather, these self-adhesive lights can be placed under the tank, behind the air cleaner, or almost anywhere your imagination takes you. Electra-Glo LED lighting draws minimal amperage, allowing lights to be left on for hours when parked. Light Pods connect directly

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A Harley Davidson engine is a delicate part of your motorcycle's design, and it requires adequate protection while you're riding in order to ensure that it maintains its quality over the months and years. It's easy for an engine to become damaged if left unprotected, so take the time early on in the life of your bike to purchase the necessary covers and guards to help keep your engine in top quality. Read on

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Probably nothing accents the style and appeal of a Harley-Davidson motorcycle like chrome parts and accessories. Today, as in the past, one of the first steps toward customization of your Harley is chrome. Many Harley parts are available in chrome versions, including Engine Parts, Front Fork/Front End Parts, Wheels and Sprockets, Exhaust Pipes and Mufflers, and numerous accessories. Along with being a relatively inexpensive method of customizing your Harley-Davidson motorcycle, chrome parts give you

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If you're looking for a perfect gift for the Harley Davidson rider who already has all of the accessories for his bike, consider finding one of many popular books on the subject instead. Some of the most popular Harley Davidson collections feature photos and technical history of the Harley Davidson line and products. Others incorporate fictional stories that feature Harley Davidson motorcycles prominently. Whichever your preference, the following are some of the most popular Harley

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If you own a Harley Davidson or are thinking about getting one, perhaps you've wondered what kind of options are out there for the seat. Any number of manufacturers produce aftermarket seats for Harleys, but the first place to look is at genuine Harley Davidson seats. They've got options for you.   Solo or Two-Up

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Untitled Document Whether your bike is a Harley Davidson or a different brand of motorcycle, riding can be exhilarating and fun, but also dangerous - so keep safety in mind. Injuries or worse can be the result of ignoring safety. No one ever intends to be in an accident - so it could happen to you. Consider taking a motorcycle riding course. If you took one a long time ago, take one again to

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If you've got a Harley Davidson you probably have some chrome that adds to the look of your bike. Chrome styling is definitely one of the things that can define a motorcycle. You might have wondered about your chrome, though - and specifically about chrome maintenance on your Harley Davidson. What Is Chrome? The word "chrome" refers to chromium. Chromium is one of the basic elements and has the atomic number 24. It is a

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If you've been considering buying a used Harley Davidson there are some things you will want to consider first. Getting a used Harley is a great way to save some money over buying one new. If you aren't careful, though, it could be your ticket into Harley Hell if you find yourself with a two-wheeled money pit. Proper research and preparation will help to keep you from that trap.Know What Harley is Best for YouNot

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If you are looking for Harley Davidson accessories to protect your bike (and yourself) in extreme weather, there are some great options for you. Mother Nature can present a threat to your bike and to your personal well-being, but with the proper preparation and accessories you can keep her best efforts at bay. Motorcycle Cover This is the original "must have" accessory if your Harley Davidson has to sit out in the elements. Choose a

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A strong battery is the heart of a healthy Harley-Davidson electrical system. Your starter, lights, and accessories depend on it. Therefore it is wise to keep your battery in good shape. But how do you know if your battery is down or not functioning properly? There are a number of indications. If your bike starts slowly, you may have battery problems. Dim lights are another indication as are unusually slow turn signals. Of course if

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The choices of touring accessories for you and your Harley-Davidson motorcycle are varied and exciting. It used to be touring accessories consisted of a sleeping bag strapped to a sissy bar. Or clothes stuffed inside a pair of saddlebags. Not anymore. Choices are much more sophisticated. The different touring accessories allow you to bring a lot of your stuff for an extended tour, just enough for a day trip, or all the items you require

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Getting more speed out of your Harley-Davidson motorcycle is really a matter of better performance. This means getting more energy out of every drop of fuel, making every part perform the best that it can, and making sure your Harley-Davidson is operating at peak efficiency. Some improvements you can do yourself; others are better left to a Harley-Davidson professional.Peak efficiency includes making sure your Harley is tuned up at the required intervals. At tune-up time,

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Safety when riding your Harley-Davidson motorcycle must be the number-one priority. The reasons are many and obvious. Riders often travel at high speed and yet they do not have the protection of an automobile or truck body around them. Exposed to Nature's elements and to the potential of an accident, Harley-Davidson owners require safety gear, which car and truck owners can afford to ignore.Most obvious, and sometimes most controversial, are helmets. The motorcycle helmet was

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Harley Davidson motorcycles are among the least likely to be stolen, according to the latest insurance reports. (The most-likely-to-be-stolen motorcycles are small displacement "crotch rocket"-type motorcycles preferred by a younger group of riders. In addition to being owned by more mature riders, the larger, heavier Harley-Davidsons are simply more difficult to steal because of their sheer weight and bulk.) However, this does not mean that someone will not be tempted to heist your ride.It is

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Storage options for a Harley Motorcycle are much more diverse and easy-to-manage than many might think.  Long rides out through the mountains or desert can easily mean the need to have a little more room for food or personal items.  Don't get caught out in the middle of nowhere because you didn't have enough room to pack the essentials.Saddle Bags "Soft" saddlebags are detachable and are often made of soft leather or leather-like material. They

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Repairing a dent in a Harley-Davidson motorcycle gas tank is different from using PDR techniques to repair a dent on a metal car body. Firstly, the metal is heavier and thicker. This makes the dent more difficult to manipulate. Also there is a large amount of pressure going to the outside of the tank. This is due to the thickness of the metal and the shape of the metal with which you are working. Tools

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When you are considering being a passenger on a Harley-Davidson motorcycle, there are many things to consider. Number one is safety. You deserve to know about the driver's knowledge and experience. (For convenience, this article will address the driver as male.) It is your right to know who is doing the driving. He should be familiar with the functionality of the vehicle.  Ask him about his experience: the driver should have at least a year's

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Installing a Harley Davidson Security system at the factory when you buy a new bike is important. The cost of replacing a Harley Davidson motorcycle that has been stolen is considerable if the motorcycle is never found or brought back in pieces.  Prevention is the best way to circumvent the costs, and with an investment in security equipment to protect your motorcycle, you will have a greater chance to deter thieves or retrieve your motorcycle if it's stolen.

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Probably what inspires most people to customize their Harley-Davidson motorcycle is what prompted them to purchase their ride to begin with: individuality. Customization is a large subject. It could entail something as simple as repainting your gas tank or adding a backrest - or something as involved as building a complete motorcycle from the ground up. Most riders' goals lie somewhere in between.

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Saddle bags for a Harley Davidson motorcycle are available in a number of different looks suitable for all models, including fringed, plain, basket weave, full dress, studded, and concho--coming in black, brown, birch white, or black chopper finish. Saddle bags can be made resistant to ultra violet rays and water using cowhide, kangaroo, crocodile, distressed leather, and synthetic materials in a slanted, throw-over, bolt-on or straight saddle bag style. 

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The job of an oil cooler is to dissipate engine heat. If your present oil cooler is not working well, it will not dissipate heat as it should. Heat puts stain on an engine. By dissipating extra engine-generated heat, a new oil cooler can help reduce strain on the motor and give it extra life and power.

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Oil needs to be kept constantly between a certain temperature ranges for it to lubricate the engine of a Harley Davidson motorcycle best. Oil that becomes too cold will thicken and lose its ability to lubricate, while oil that becomes too hot will begin to break down and cause the same problem.  An oil cooler is a head exchange device that controls the air currents that cool the oil and keeps it within the correct

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Electronic Fuel Injection is a fuel delivery system operated and controlled by an artificial intelligence module programmed to deliver the correct amount of fuel to the engine under all conditions using collected input from the various systems of the motorcycle. An EFI uses these inputs to calculate the right amount of fuel mixture for optimum performance and change the fuel mixture to meet these demands.

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