Temps this morning started in the low 50's. Was a good time to test the heated grips on my new 2013 Ultra Limited. When I rented an Ultra Limited last year, I remember the grips getting literally hot, even wearing gloves. While my hands didn't freeze, the grips never felt very warm (wore gloves today). How hot should they get?

 

I never raise mine past 4 and they're warm enough. Could be your gloves providing some insulation. Could be your grip where your palms are warmer than your fingers because your fingers aren't wrapped as close to the bars. Try them on high with no gloves to make sure they're doing what they're supposed to do.

 

New "Bike" will get heated grips at first service at 1000 miles, used run hot grips on dirt
bikes 30 years ago. Before I retired I had some on my old LowRider, also had some on
07 RK Custom, they come in handy when riding to work in Mornings. They always did worked.
On real cold days it took longer to heat up, like mornings when it's 28 to 35 degrees out.
Mornings in the Nevada's high desert can get cold at 5:30 AM whrnI departed for work.

 

On my '12 FLHTK I never run over #2 on the grips. That's down to freezing temps in Alaska. Gloves will insulate as noted. Vibration will cause the hands to loose circulation, like when running a chainsaw. Try thinner gloves and see if it helps.

I've run hot grips down to -55 F on snow machines. They really only work then if a cover gauntlet is installed over the handlebars and grip area, and cotton gloves are worn to evaporate moisture. Leather is cold.

 

Same here on a 13 FLHTK, never over 2.

 

Not sure if this applies to your situation, but the first time I went to use the heated grips on my 2012 Limited, they didn't work.

Removed the outer fairing and noticed that the wiring harness for the grips wasn't connected.

Something to check.

 

Good point on the non-working deal. You can turn on the key and should feel heat from both grips within a minute or two at most with them WFO.

 

Heated grips and heat seat have the advantage of always being there and not at home, but I love my Gerbings heated gear...if you take you hand off the heated grips, they get cold...with heated gloves your hands are always warm...but like I stated first, ya got to remember to bring them with you...
I use the Gerbings gloves, and union ridge over suit in the cold. Been very pleased with the setup.

 

Mine get HOT. Never been over 2 except by accident and you know it quick.

 

Your gloves will play a role in how high you need to turn them up. For me, No gloves - 2, unlined leather - 3, heavy lined leather - 4 or 5.