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I notice the same thing all the time. I think it's between the rider's ears. Human senses and perceptions are very subjective. My bike is much smoother, quieter, faster, on days when I'm well rested and feeling good. If I'm feeling bad, she runs like a three legged washing machine on spin cycle.
Well, Mine does that at times. I think it depends on the barametric pressure, humidity, and temperature. Some times mine is very smooth, and sometimes I think the motor mounts must be loose. I thinks it is just the nature of the beast.
Mine is like that. Sometimes better then other times. Always figured it was the FI because it runs better with a full tank and when there is cooler air.
My "91 Glide has a nice thumpy vibration to it that smooths as the "R"s go up. When I turn it off the vibration stops abruptly. Make sure the engine is "on" is what I would suggest. ;-)
Air cooled engines. As posted: Subtle changes in climate have different effects on their performance. Toss in the many variations of human perception on any given day, you get the entire Harley Experience.
If you feel the 'need' to check something: The ignition plate may be moving behind the nose cone, changing the timing. And causing vibes and then lack of vibes...
Mine is always pretty smooth, but I do notice that the rapoff is different on some days than others. Some days I can really hear the valves in the pipes when slowing down, and other times it's mostly rapoff, especially when shifting - and my pipes are baffled.
I think it's a combination of temp and humidity and possible barometric pressure.
My ears work fine.
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