I have a 2006 FXDBI and while cleaning it, I noticed there is a large 1" to 2" round nut or washer under the fork that is a brown rust color. Nothing else in this area looks rusty. This is where the forks attach to the frame at the point where it swivels. You cannot normally see this area unless you get down and look under the fork. Unfortunately I cannot post a picture because I had my bike towed into the dealer on Saturday with a flat rear tire. They couldn't fixthe tireSaturday because they were too busy andthe service department is closed today.

Could someonbe check their bikein the same place to see if the large nut/washerlooks rusty. My bike is only a little more than a year old and has been kept garaged since new. I am going to call the service department when they open tomorrowto have them check the nut when they fix my tire. I was hoping To see if this is normal before making a big deal about it. Thaks.

 

mine is the same way rusty and its not a nut its the shaft for your trees if you look closer it has a snap ring there also. I dont know why it rusted so easy but I have rode in the rain a few times. you would think they would have made some kind of cover for is so you dont have to see it.

 

Yea, mine is rusted as well. However, HD has the answer. You dealer will "sell" you a can of spray stuff for corrosion. Why are you looking under your bike anyway? I think the manual says that view is only for authorized service personnel.

A small brass brush will remove the oxidation scale (rust) and you can apply a light coat of lubicant to the part. Should take care of the problem.

Ride Safe!!!!

 

It is rusting due to the disimilar metals of the aluminum and steel. Mine was rusted also, so I replaced it with a high grade stainless steel nut. So far no rust.

Edited: I reread your post and realized we are talking about different locations. I was refering to headlight stem nut. But the reason it is rusting should be the same reason

 

You could always clean it up and brush on some ZRC (cold zinc galvanizing compound). Should solve the rust issue and not look too bad.