Break-in speed
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Intermediate
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 40
Likes: 0
Break-in speed
My new 2008 fatboy is only acouple weeks oldwith about 200 miles on.
The dealer insisted that I don't go above 50mph for the first 500 miles, but the manual contradicts that. Of course I rather go by the manual, 50mph on the interstate is suicide. However I can't help but hear the little voice that says "Listen to the dealer, there is a reason he said to stay below 50 mph, don'tf#&k up your new bike".
I have been gentle on the machine, but I admit I often goover 55 as needed.
What do you guys say?
The dealer insisted that I don't go above 50mph for the first 500 miles, but the manual contradicts that. Of course I rather go by the manual, 50mph on the interstate is suicide. However I can't help but hear the little voice that says "Listen to the dealer, there is a reason he said to stay below 50 mph, don'tf#&k up your new bike".
I have been gentle on the machine, but I admit I often goover 55 as needed.
What do you guys say?
Intermediate
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 29
Likes: 0
RE: Break-in speed
i've read interviews with engineers who design motorcycles. the one i recall from a Motorcyclist magazine article years back said that the break-in stuff is overdone. his main warning was to not rev it real high real fast as sudden intense heat is what can damage a motor during break-in. my conclusion was to just take it easy on the throttle, no hard starts and no high revs.
i used to race a ducati superbike and when i had engines built, the builder told me to take it on for a few heat cycles (up to operating temperature and then cool to the touch) and a total of maybe 50 miles, and the let her rip after that.
Road Captain
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 603
Likes: 0
From:
RE: Break-in speed
I went by the owners manual on my break-in. Don't ride it like you stole it until the engine and rings have been broken in unless you plan to trade your bike before the warranty runs out or you have a lot of money and don't care to damage the engine.
Road Master
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 921
Likes: 22
From: Houston, TX
RE: Break-in speed
My dealer said to take it fairly easy for the 1st 200 miles or so.. Said not to cruise for long periods at a set speed... Told me to drive it like I stole it after that.. And I have.. 
Cruiser
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 201
Likes: 1
From:
RE: Break-in speed
I varied the speed for the first 500 miles. Typically on the freeway I bounced between 5th and 6th every couple of miles. I pretty much pampered it during this time. I did not do any special oil changes during the break in and waited for 1K service where I switched to Amsoil 20/50 for everything. There are about as much opinions on thisas there are members here, but this is the way I have broken in all my bikes and have never had an issue.
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Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 3,432
Likes: 0
From: SW Ohio
RE: Break-in speed
main thing. Never bog it down. Keep rpm up. change oil at 500 miles . oh yes. do drag racing yet, but do not baby it !!! good luck,,,, please post pics holmes. thanks
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Tourer
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 442
Likes: 0
From: High Desert of So Cal
RE: Break-in speed
With 200 hundred miles on it, you are safe to go freeway speeds. However, try to vary your speed every couple miles. Don't beat on it but don't baby it either. After 500 miles have a ball. This has worked for me.
