Hi everyone! I'm new to the Forums here, looks like a great place for the exchange of info. I have a problem with my Heritage and thought I'd post my question here.

Last month, my switch housing died and had to be replaced (under warranty). Just a couple weeks after that, I noticed that my bike doesn't want to start in gear with the clutch pulled in. However, it fires right up on the first try when it's in neutral.

Is this a common problem with a bike so new? It just seems that I've had more problems with this, being a brand new bike and all, than most people have during the whole time they own their bikes!

Thanks...

 

This is not a common problem at all. 2011 Softail models was the first year that Harley implemented the conversion over to the new CANBUS electrical system. It could be a number of things causing this issue. Something as simple as a pinched wire to something harder to correct such as electrical noise interference. Study up on the new electrical system just to give yourself a better idea of how it functions. In the mean time I would take the bike to the dealer so that they can trace the problem.

 

I had the same problem when I replaced the bars on my bike.. went nuts trying to figure out what went wrong..

BUT...as per the service manual. "when replacing the switch, clamp the clutch assy. first to the bars, do not tighten, just snug, then install the switch housing to the bars"..

BIG NOTE PER MANUAL: "Always tighten the lower switch housing bolt first so that any gap between the upper and lower housing is at the front of the switch."
then tighten the the clutch housing screws..

there is no over travel in the switch. it is set just so than when the clutch handle is pulled back to the rubber grip it just makes contact.
easy to check out before going to the dealer....
Ed

 

Thanks for the quick reply, ghostrider! I'll do that - both study up and take it to the local dealer. They couldn't replicate the issue last week when I tried describing it to them, and it was only yesterday that my riding partner and I realized what it might be. This helps a lot! Thanks!

 

Thanks, Ed!