Here is a link to the troubles I had with my new sportster (2017) if you are inclined to read about it. https://www.hdforums.com/forum/gener...-question.html


From what I now know the clutch has been replaced with SE components and the top end of the engine is going to be replaced. Sounds like it will all be covered under warranty with the possible exception of the clutch. Anyhow, given the bike was brand new when I bought it back in June of this year should I feel secure that the bike will be reliable once all the work is done or should I look to get rid of it and buy another?

 

I'd keep it and enjoy it, you've already paid a price. You'd lose even more if you sold/traded it, especially private party. That paperwork of major repairs would scare a lot of people off.

John

 

since you were plotting on ditching it for a bigger bike...

 

Why have you posted on this subject twice? Whatever, your bike has most value, to either you or the next owner, if it is working correctly. Stick with it until you are happy everything has been sorted out properly. It will then ride as it should and you can consider if you like it well enough to stay with it, or part exchange it, if that is your ultimate plan.

 

Wait and see how you like it before making any decisions. If worst comes to worst then sell it and get something more up your alley.

 

Did you like it before the spill?

 

Yes I did. It fits my needs riding wise. I'm just concerned now that they have opened up the engine and determined the top end needs replacing that the bike won't be reliable. I had thought about a bigger bike, but really the Sportster fills all my needs.

 

Got the bike back from the dealer Saturday. They did a fine job restoring it. I took it out over the weekend for over 200 miles. The bike ran perfect and the new SE clutch is great. I decided to keep the bike. It does everything I need it to do with plenty to spare.

 

Great update. There should be no worries that doing the motor work would jeopardize the reliability. They are meant to be "worked on" and will run forever with maintenance. Enjoy the hell out of it. Nothing else is like a Sporty.

 

Well said.

The factory service manual is a great read and describes every iddy-biddy bit of your bike. It's worth reading, if only to better understand your bike and give you improved confidence in it. Your dealer mechanics are trained to use it when working on your bike. You may even discover you feel able to work on it yourself!