How many people warm up bike before taking off??
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 17,625
Likes: 1,665
From: Blairsville GA
When Harleys used single weight oil and had dissimilar case, head and barrel materials warming an engine up was a necessity. I let my Pan warm up until it's not comfortable for me to put my hand on the back side cooling fins of the head. I doubt that's necessary with the similar metals and multi-weight oils used today. I wouldn't park a bike for a month on an ice flow and start it and ride away, but I don't think (in the interests of emissions) manufacturers recommend an extended warm-up anymore.
I also agree that a decimal was slipped when the expansion of the metal in an engine was stated. However, if the metal on both sides of the gasket was the same, would gasket clench be compromised even with that degree of expansion?
I also agree that a decimal was slipped when the expansion of the metal in an engine was stated. However, if the metal on both sides of the gasket was the same, would gasket clench be compromised even with that degree of expansion?
Cruiser
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 226
Likes: 1
From: Austin, TX
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Stellar HDF Member
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 2,856
Likes: 127
From: Middle of Kansas
My carbed EVO will take right off if I want to after changing jets, but I usually let it warm up for a few minutes before I ride out the 1/2 mile to the end of the lane. By that time the rocker covers are starting to get warm. I try to take it easy for the first couple of miles when I get on the hiway. So far no leaks anywhere at 28,000 miles.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 6,095
Likes: 348
From: Ione, CA
Out of consideration for my next-door neighbors and their baby, I walk my bikes up the driveway and to the corner of my property before firing them up. That's when I go to work at 5:30 am, otherwise I fire it up and ride as quietly as possible to the street. Having a Thunderheader will make you do that...
Last edited by bjewell; May 14, 2011 at 12:04 PM.