Rumor: 2012 Harley’s to be Liquid Cooled

Among the many different rumors and speculations about the new line of Harley Davidson motorcycles is a prominent rumor that 2012 Harley’s will be Liquid Cooled. With each new line up of motorcycles by the popular Harley Davidson brand, there are bound to be rumors and speculations from fans and customers. These come along with the minor changes and alterations that are made to each of the different motorcycles for the new model year. While the company typically doesn’t make major changes to its motorcycles, there are nonetheless conversations among fans and customers that major changes may come about.

Origin of the Liquid Cooled Rumor

Harley Davidson motorcycles have traditionally had air cooled engines for the entire life of the company. This unique method of cooling the engine helps to give it a distinctive sound and feel while you’re riding. Liquid cooled engines are more common for newer models of other motorcycles and cars, though Harley Davidson has previously stood behind its air cooled methods.

The rumor that 2012 models of Harley Davidson motorcycles will be switched to liquid cooled engines began with a set of documents that were released by the California Air Resources Board and EPA. These documents consisted of certification requests and filings from the company that were filed with the government.

Potential Reasons for Liquid Cooling

Harley Davidson fans and customers have speculated as to why the company may choose to abandon its tradition in favor of a liquid cooled engine. There are a number of potential reasons why the company may do this. First, current regulations for emissions and engine functioning require certain minimum emissions standards, and liquid cooled engines are better able to meet those standards than air cooled engines. It could, therefore, simply be that the company needs to alter its vehicles in order to comport with the current legal rulings in place for all motorcycles.

Another potential reason for liquid cooling has to do with the performance of the motorcycle. Some fans have quoted representatives from the company to say that liquid cooled engines could operate at up to 35 percent higher horsepower than their air cooled predecessors, and that the engines themselves would run considerably cooler. This would mean that the likelihood of the engine overheating and being damaged would be greatly reduced.

Ramifications of the Change

While it remains to be seen whether Harley Davidson will really make the changes that are rumored to be taking place for the engines in its bikes, fans have nonetheless thought of the ramifications. Opinions are split, with many fans encouraging the progressive changes to the engine design and structure. Other fans, however, are concerned that the look, feel and sound of the Harley Davidson motorcycle will be changed irreparably. If the rumor comes to pass, it is likely that older engines from previous model bikes will make a resurgence on the aftermarket, and these parts will become more expensive as traditional fans search them out for their bikes.