Well the 89 FLHTCU I picked up a couple of months ago is/was ready to roll. This is far from the first bike I've dealt with so I know to expect just about anything, from a bike I don't know the history on.
Well, did lots of small stuff and corrected years of neglect.
Had a few items powder coated - (Fork Lowers)
Rebuilt forks and air system (new parts and seals)
Race tech Emulators
S&S Super E
New rear shocks
Eliminated CB - Stereo
Verified all electrical is correct - terminated unused harnesses
Removed non working cruise control
Adjusted shift linkage and replaced trans Shift lever (Better Lever)
Lots of other stuff.

I always try to check list so I don't forget (very possible) things and when finished I always do test runs, make adjustments, and work out distances until I'm confident all systems are safe and working properly.
Did the first SHAKEDOWN run this afternoon and was pleased with everything EXCEPT. Found oil on tank, pipes, and air cleaner. New (just installed) fork seal leaking.. I've done many seals, specifically fork seals, and can't say I've ever had a fork leak.
Well there's a first time for everything. Dropped the tube and I'll get a new seal Monday and I'll order some front pads too. I think she'll be a keeper.

 

You know the drill, some things you've successfully done dozens of times before, but you missed something this one time, been careless this one time, there was a part defect this one time, Stuff happens this one time.

Minor set back, glad that it's a keeper.

 

A shakedown run should be brief. Then lengthen as confidence increases. Finding things (such as your fork seal leak) are just the things to look for during your shakedown run. The things that rarely go wrong, go wrong! Noticing vehicle operation changes is also a tell tale sign of things to notice.
After you have decided the bike is "fit," then monitor it with T-CLOCS every ride.

 

Always love the first run - whether it an initial build..., or rebuild

Congratulations

Ghost

 

Exactly
This one was 8 miles at varying speeds, with accelerations, braking, hard braking, to the nearest gas station and back.

 

Easiest way to find something missed or undone is to ride the bike a 100 miles from home without a cell phone

 

NO DOUBT

Probably do a 10-20 after I change the seal, then 100 round trip Friday, but I'll definitely have the phone (charged) and a friend or two along for visuals and speed check.

 

Seal changed - waiting for time off to run.
Also put 13" take off adjustable shocks of a new Ultra and will be swapping them for 12" off a new SG later.
13's going on the shelf for the next project.