I've got around 200 miles on the clock with a Breakout I bought that shipped from HD and I received it from the dealer last Wednesday (meaning no one has been on it but me).

For the life of me, I cannot figure out how the oil tank has spots where it's turned to matte as if something is rubbing it a lot. I do not recall the oil tank having this when I bought it, so, something must be causing it but I've checked getting on an off the bike, I've checked while riding, while stopped, it seems nothing touches the areas that are in question.

Is this common? I admit I am new to HD.

 

Seeing how it's still under warranty, take it back to the Dealer.

 

You might get some oil leaking out of the dipstick. I learned the hard way that the oil applied should be less than they say in the manual. Possible that how much was in there stock was overfilled.

 

No reason except bad paint job or chemicals on the paint. I don't think the heat from the oil would change the finish. Zillions of HD's with black oil tanks that haven't had this problem.

Welcome to HD!

 

Looks like your pants are rubbing the oil bag.

 

That was my first thought, but, I've got a solid 2" between my pants and the oil bag while riding, standing, getting on and on...anything I can think to check on that regard.

 

Just went on a 125 mile solo ride; checked and checked, checked again, the only way my jeans could possibly be rubbing the oil bag is if I am scraping pegs on the left while hanging off the right side, while my back leg is on the passenger peg.

While I didn't exactly try that move to confirm, everything else I could possibly do to cause it I verified at least 3 times.

So, I'm assuming it's painted and not powder-coated; if it WAS a wear thing; then it seems that powder coating it might be the best solution long-term?

My first goal is to get the issue resolved by the dealership (probably get them to replace the oil tank); the second goal is that if it happens again, then I'll make a change to prevent it a 3rd time.

 

Thats not wear, I have a brand new 17 BO with 600mi on it, still looks perfect. Thats chemicals or something went wrong during the paint process. Bring it back.

 

They are not going to replace it. You got gas on it somehow. I know you are going to say that you didn't. But that is what it is.

 

Considering I put gas only in the gas tank, and, have done so only twice since owning it, and I know where I've had a bit splash out on the gas tank, and, that finish is completely unmarred by comparison; I have to say you're absolutely wrong.