How tough is Pikes Peak on a Harley
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Joined: Dec 2006
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From: Altoona, Pa.
How tough is Pikes Peak on a Harley
Thinking of making Pikes Peak one of my destinations for this summer. Wondering just how hot a HD does get going up the mountain. Sure would like to drive that but heat comes to my mind. Have a PC V on my bike and wonder if it will adj things at all to account for the thinner air.
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Joined: Apr 2009
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From: Long Island, NY
I haven't ridden Pikes Peak, but a few years ago there were 16 of us and we rode a bunch of the other high elevation mountains in the Rockies and none of us had any issues. I would think your bike would be fine.
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Joined: Nov 2010
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From: Simi Valley, CA
The ECM with it's slew of sensor input compensates for altitude and temperature changes. This will occur without respect to the PCV so no worries there.
I've never done the ride you're talking of so this is only speculation on my part but you'll probably be under moderate to high loads at somewhat low speeds for a good portion of the trip up so the engine may see some higher than normal temperatures. I seem to remember you as having some kind of cooling fan (LeNale?). Am I correct? If you do I'd probably have it on for a good portion of the ride up.
Have fun.
I've never done the ride you're talking of so this is only speculation on my part but you'll probably be under moderate to high loads at somewhat low speeds for a good portion of the trip up so the engine may see some higher than normal temperatures. I seem to remember you as having some kind of cooling fan (LeNale?). Am I correct? If you do I'd probably have it on for a good portion of the ride up.
Have fun.
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Joined: Jan 2007
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From: Twin Cities, MN
I have ridden several high altitude Colorado mountain passes in the summer. And my experience is it cooler the higher you get. I don't think it will be an issue.
But what do I know. I'm a flat lander.
But what do I know. I'm a flat lander.
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Joined: Apr 2012
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From: Michigan
I've only done Pike's Peak once, back when it wasn't paved all the way to the top. I hear now that is is entirely paved so that would make it a much easier ride.
My bike then was a 2000 Ultra and no issues at all.
I've done Mt Evans twice, once on a carbed Heritage, and later on the Ultra and also had no issues as far as heat, fuel, or ignition issues.
My only concern would be going on a day when the weather was dry and clear.
My bike then was a 2000 Ultra and no issues at all.
I've done Mt Evans twice, once on a carbed Heritage, and later on the Ultra and also had no issues as far as heat, fuel, or ignition issues.
My only concern would be going on a day when the weather was dry and clear.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2010
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piece of cake these days...it is paved all the way to the top. you will have no trouble with your harley(first time i went up in '73 it was gravel most of the way). before you grab the first parking spot in the crowded lot, try right in front of the gift shop--there is a designated parking area for bikes. on the road out from colorado springs(hwy.24, i think) there is a rudy's b-b-q. good texas style eats.
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Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2009
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From: along the Front Range in Colorado
....... great ride !
........ heat's a non-issue
........ heat's a non-issue
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From: Nonya, BS
When I was stationed at Ft. Carson I made that climb many times. Its a fun ride and hell of a view. Ride garden of the gods while there as well. Colorado was my favorite place to ride when it wasn't snowing. When it snowed riding wasn't as fun but the view was still good.