Hi,

Any advantage to changing the factory shifter linkage to one of the HD upgraded types,
these are thicker and wanted to know if anyone has experienced shifting improvement.
Thinking that the stocker might not be as positive?

Thanks,

Mark

Winter= yuck

 

No improvement other than appearance.

 

No practical reason. Looks only. More bling for the left side of the bike.

 

I have two friends where the stock shifter likage broke. Both touring bikes, and both high mileage. The connections on the HD upgrade look better/stronger, but I'm sure you can go to the hardware store and make one for less money. I like the way the HD upgraded linkage looks so I switched it out.

 

The main advantage is the Heim ends as they are much stronger than the standard ball and socket ends. I have never had a standard one fail but there are lot's of reports of failures reported on this forum. You may notice a slightly more precise feel due the added rigidity.
Another thing to watch for and check is the tightness of the bolts the attach the levers to the shifter shafts. There are reports of the splines getting stripped this probably starts out with loose bolts in the levers. People who are HARD shifters are in my opinion more prone to shifter problems than the average rider.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rod_end_bearing

 

As stated above, Heim Joints are a good investment. Something else to consider if improving shift quality is your goal...fill the tranny with some Redline Shockproof. It will enhance shift quality and also ease finding neutral. Also, you may want to remove the front shift shaft where it passes through the case and lubricate it with some anti-seize or a waterproof grease. You'll be surprised to see how dry and (somewhat) galled it is once you get it apart. After doing these three things, you'll be amazed at how smoothly everything feels with the proper lubrication.

 

Aftermarket linkage with heim joints is the only way to go. Do a search.

 

The factory linkage is a "weak link". Either carry a spare with you or go with the upgraded linkage.

I've had the stock link fail on me TWICE. I went with the upgraded link with a Heim Joint (now it's been about 4 yrs and NO failures) but also carry a spare stock link in case a buddy has one fail i can help him out.

Also a good idea to have a spare Jiffy Stand spring also. I've had these fail twice also. It's a $5 part and a quick fix if you have a spare spring and a Leatherman tool.

 

The shifter linkage isn't the issue, the issue is what's at both ends. Replace the 2 crappy ball joints by 2 heim joints and you won't be stuck in the middle of nowhere unable to shift. My front ball joint broke at 9,500 miles on a Sunday (dealerships closed). Luckily I had 2 plastic ties in my toolkit. I could ride back home.

 

some pretty cool ones here... click on the 'FETCH' tab

http://www.cid4design.com/maddog/