New to the EVO world, got this bike late last year.
First things first, I have a loud clicking at idle that goes away at speed. Seems like it has gotten louder since I did new points and plugs and opened the air cleaner a bit.
The bike is also REALLY hard to start in the cold...like won't start at all sometimes and I have to charge up the battery and try again. It was like this before I put the new points in but they may be a little off at this point too.

Maybe the clicking is just part of the top end noise that I am not used to but I would like to hear your feedback. Also, if anyone can outline a good starting sequence I would appreciate that too.

Digging my EVO, many thanks in advance for the replies.

 

Points didn't come stock with that bike, did it? Whatever, get e.i. and then start timing the bike. That is my response to you, some people are more comfy with points but electronic ignition and disc brakes are needed on a road worthy motorcycle imho.
Good luck,
Tom

 

You do realize that the bike originally came with an electronic ignition system?

If it were my bike, I would toss the points ignition into the scrap bin, first thing.

Clean all electrical contacts, make sure the battery is fully charged and in good working condition.

There is no ritual needed to start an Evo engine. Pull choke, push start button...

It wouldn`t hurt to disassemble the carb and clean it. Is it an OEM carb?

 

It came with points ignition when I bought is so that is what I am working with. lol
This model has kick and electric start so I am not certain whether or not it came with electronic ignition.

I need to clean the carb, yes it is stock and I have a new K&N air filter on the way.

Thanks for the replies so far.

 

That is part of your problem right there.
The Kehin butterfly carb is junk.
Get a Kehin CV carb and things will be much better.
Get an S&S or Mikuni carb for even better results.

No matter how you got your bike it did come with electronic ignition from the factory.

As for your ticking if this is your first Harley it is probably just the way it sounds.
It put me off a little at first too.

 

Do you know it has good oil pressure? 12-15#hot idle, 40# cold start ," approx".
I agree to get rid of the points,and add a mikuni carb.

 

Yes, I have heard many similar comments about the butterfly carb. I have my eyes peeled for a good used CV. I have had an '89 Sportster, an '08 Nightster, an '02 Superglide and a '76 Shovel. I am used to some noise (especially my '89, sounded like a sewing machine) but this just seemed more pronounced. Good to know I shouldn't worry.

Oil pressure is good (if the light is any indication). Just came in from letting the bike run a bit. The high today is in the 40's. That is Alabama for you, 60's yesterday and only 40 today. I guess she just hates the cold and might take a little more coaxing when the temps drop.

Thanks for the replies.

 

Mine is the same way.

Just a thought do you have a rocker box leak?
I seem to remember my ticking was louder when I had a rocker box leak.

 

Looks like a little coming from the bolts but nothing drastic.

 

Mine wasn't drastic either.
I guess I should have called it a seep instead of a leak.