Twin Cam Motor Problems
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Road Captain
Joined: Sep 2011
Posts: 725
Likes: 3
From: Hagerstown, MD
Twin Cam Motor Problems
so I'm looking at trading my 2006 sporty1200c for a Dyna low rider, looking at 2007 & newer so either a 96 CI or 103 CI, since the 2006 & older bike's spec don't justify trading up..
It seems everyone on the sportster board says twin cam motors have had problems. I've put a lot of work into my sportster making it reliable and I really drive it hard as I would a Dyna, so I would hate to spend money to upgrade and trade a reliable bike for one with engine problems..
so what kind of problems are common with these motors? are there are years I should avoid?
I generally like to buy new because of that feeling that you get the latest, best, most reliable thing out there, so is that a good idea in this case? should I get the 2014 low rider or look for a 2008 for less money?
I have to say though the sportster is an awesome bike, plently fast, light weight,, handles great,, great mileage, low maintenance,, comfortable, I've already doen a lot of cool things with it but I could do a lot more instead of upgrading..
But dyna would be a lot more power & a better ride.. deeper sound, extra gear, longer range, better comfort, better for 2-up, etc.
It seems everyone on the sportster board says twin cam motors have had problems. I've put a lot of work into my sportster making it reliable and I really drive it hard as I would a Dyna, so I would hate to spend money to upgrade and trade a reliable bike for one with engine problems..
so what kind of problems are common with these motors? are there are years I should avoid?
I generally like to buy new because of that feeling that you get the latest, best, most reliable thing out there, so is that a good idea in this case? should I get the 2014 low rider or look for a 2008 for less money?
I have to say though the sportster is an awesome bike, plently fast, light weight,, handles great,, great mileage, low maintenance,, comfortable, I've already doen a lot of cool things with it but I could do a lot more instead of upgrading..
But dyna would be a lot more power & a better ride.. deeper sound, extra gear, longer range, better comfort, better for 2-up, etc.
Last edited by 06Sporty75; Jul 1, 2014 at 08:25 PM.
Road Master
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 859
Likes: 14
From: Millsboro Delaware
I have an 07 LR and the only problem I have had in the last 4 years was a bad starter clutch. I replaced that and no more problems. Other than that just regular maintenance. Before that I had an 08 SB and the only problem I had was the front master cylinder gasket went bad and was replaced under warranty. The only year I would stay away from was the 06. Some of them had issues with the IPB failing. If you could swing it the new LR has gotten some pretty solid reviews here on the forum and is a great looking ride imo.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 5,477
Likes: 5
From: New Braunfels, Texas
If you need a lowrider, get the new one. It will be just as rekiable as the sporty and just as nimble in the twisties. It's a more solid ride at higher speeds. The low rider is set up pretty nicely as far as new harleys go. Go test ride one and you will never look back.
What do you think all us dyna riders use to ride?
What do you think all us dyna riders use to ride?
'03 Wide Glide and the only issues have been ones I have injected myself. Superficial issues, nothing major. The only unreliable item is the gas gauge...
The only year that I would avoid is the '06 due to IPB. Research it, it can be overcome and I know '06 owners that love their bikes.
The only year that I would avoid is the '06 due to IPB. Research it, it can be overcome and I know '06 owners that love their bikes.
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Elite HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 4,440
Likes: 148
From: Northwest
'08 FXDC.. 54K miles... zero issues. V&H Big Radius 2-1, "Archer Intake" and TTS MasterTune.
I am however going to be changing my cam tensioner pads very soon... but probably not till this winter.
I am however going to be changing my cam tensioner pads very soon... but probably not till this winter.
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2010 Streetbob.
I had a puncture once
Curious to hear what you had to do to your sportster to make it "Reliable"
I keep my maintenance up and ride mine every day. I don't flog it & it rewards me with every mile.
I had a puncture once
Curious to hear what you had to do to your sportster to make it "Reliable"
I keep my maintenance up and ride mine every day. I don't flog it & it rewards me with every mile.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 2,419
Likes: 1
From: Ashland Ore.
I'll speak for the 06 owners....mine just turned over to 40,000 mi....the 2 inherent problems are the IPB and the 2 piece rotor. Also the earlier 06s had 8* injectors instead of 25* injectors.With that being said, I fixed the issues myself (baker IBP...$30.00 and I had my rotor tack welded ..$0.00) plus gaskets and have never looked back. I'll get another 40,000 out of it no problem.
