It's pretty common for this part to fall off. Just do a search and you would be surprised. Whatever happens when you get a new one a lot of people put a small zip tie though the hole in the top of the cover and around the frame. It won't fall off again.

 

Thanks for the info. I will definitely zip tie it down when I get a new one. Anything else that comes off often?

 

just put the bike and seat back together as is was when u walked off the dealer and tell them you want a replacement

 

When I took my bike to the dealership, my battery cover opened while riding. Service guy said it is a common problem. If I recall correctly they said there are new tabs that hold the cover more securely. It was probably because I have additional cables running off my battery for various things and it was tight to get the cover on without any outward pressure.
Doesn't hurt to ask, but I would wait to put on the seat to eliminate any question that you caused it to come loose. I had a fork lock that didn't work...long story short, in lieu of fixing the lock, they installed a HD smart alarm with smart siren for free.

 

Did they replace the cover as well? Or were you able to find yours? I'm going to the dealer tomorrow morning right when they open. Hopefully all goes well.

 

Mine ALMOST fell off before I did my 1k as well. I caught it very loose on a freeway exit when I stopped. I mentioned it to my dealer, and he re-did the clasps on top. But I still had the original. It wasn't quite gripping the little nubbins all the way. I'd mention it to the dealer. It seems to be a weak point if improperly installed at the factory.

 

No I did not lose my cover. It just opened while I was riding. They removed a cable that I installed to use as a jumper connection for the anitgravity charger/jumper in case the bike did not start. That gave the cover more space to close securely.

 

Well it turns out that the warranty will cover it and I will be getting a new one so I am pretty happy. I will definitely make sure it is secured better now.

 

Great news! Sounds like you've got a stand-up dealer you're working with. The local dealer here isn't quite so amicable, glad it worked out for you... and yea, zip ties

 

I do agree that an inspection of the bike should be performed before each ride but having some experience with the side cover popping off I doubt highly it would have been noticed.

I replaced my battery and made sure everything was buttoned up then took a ride when I stopped at a light some 40 miles later I noticed my side cover open, if it wasn't for the hook at the bottom I would have lost it. After re securing it I'm happy to say it hasn't opened back up. but one would think Harley could have came up with a better way of securing it than the way it is.

Some guys use a plastic zip tie at the bottom so they won't lose it, thinking about it now it's not a bad idea..