Losing speed
Thread Starter
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Stage I
Joined: Oct 2019
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
From: Yukon, Ok
Losing speed
I own a 2008 softail deluxe. This is my first bike so if this is a dumb question I apologize. As I am riding my bike, and let’s say I’m going 55 mph....I will look down at my speed and it has dropped 5 mph. I will have to give it more throttle. This will continue over time until eventually at some point my throttle is all the way turned. What is causing this? Does it have something to do with the cruise or am I way off. Thanks for the help.
Road Master
Joined: Jun 2019
Posts: 952
Likes: 528
From: Richmond TX
Are you saying that you need full throttle to hold 55 mph? Or, does this only happen when you're on cruise control? It's not clear to me.
I know that the first 'throttle by wire' bikes were 2008 for the touring models, not sure about softails. Does your bike have throttle cables?
If you truly need progressively more throttle up to full throttle to hold a speed like 55, it suggests that your bike may be slowly building up an oil level in the crankcase which could lead to serious damage if not addressed. The next time this happens see if you can pull over and check the oil level in your tank. If the tank level slowly builds while idling then it's time to look further into your oil pump.
I know that the first 'throttle by wire' bikes were 2008 for the touring models, not sure about softails. Does your bike have throttle cables?
If you truly need progressively more throttle up to full throttle to hold a speed like 55, it suggests that your bike may be slowly building up an oil level in the crankcase which could lead to serious damage if not addressed. The next time this happens see if you can pull over and check the oil level in your tank. If the tank level slowly builds while idling then it's time to look further into your oil pump.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 13,040
Likes: 12,955
From: Texas, USA
Are you saying that you need full throttle to hold 55 mph? Or, does this only happen when you're on cruise control? It's not clear to me.
I know that the first 'throttle by wire' bikes were 2008 for the touring models, not sure about softails. Does your bike have throttle cables... .
I know that the first 'throttle by wire' bikes were 2008 for the touring models, not sure about softails. Does your bike have throttle cables... .
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 11,068
Likes: 1,471
From: Texas! Ya mean there's someplace else?
Knowing you don't have a tach on that model, you should still be able to discern your approximate engine rpm by the sound/feel. When this problem happens is your engine rpm much greater, or does it stay where you expect to be for the speed and gear? Does the engine sound like it is really working hard, or does the sound stay about normal?
Road Master
Joined: Jun 2019
Posts: 952
Likes: 528
From: Richmond TX
Wet sumping in a twin cam is rare but not unknown. A guy here posted about his problems a few months ago with this after a recent rebuild. They overlooked an oil pump gasket if I recall.
-Did this just start happening? Mileage on the bike? How many miles have you put on it? Any performance engine work that might lead to the clutch slipping? Have you checked your clutch cable adjustment? Checked oil level in primary? Have you pulled over and checked oil tank level when this is happening?
-Did this just start happening? Mileage on the bike? How many miles have you put on it? Any performance engine work that might lead to the clutch slipping? Have you checked your clutch cable adjustment? Checked oil level in primary? Have you pulled over and checked oil tank level when this is happening?
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Road Master
Joined: Nov 2013
Posts: 852
Likes: 54
From: Dallas tx
What you may be describing is bogging. If your fuel pressure regulator housing has pushed off and losing fuel pressure, it can cause a similar effect. Have your fuel pressure checked. Easy to do and will eliminate that possibility.
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Road Captain
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 653
Likes: 116
From: Texas
I remember when I bought my 2008 Classic there was a particular choppiness with the throttle; while subtle nonetheless it was there. A lot of folks complained and it seems there was a reflash that the MOCO came up with as a solution that yielded a more linear roll with the twist grip. As such there is a significant difference in throttle response and feel between MY 2008 (first year FBW) and MY 2009 FBW.
You may have a twofold issue; the physical Twist Grip and firmware. Check with a dealer to see if the Digital Technician library has a file available for you issue.
You may have a twofold issue; the physical Twist Grip and firmware. Check with a dealer to see if the Digital Technician library has a file available for you issue.
