Sportster Models 883, 883 Custom, 1200 Custom, 883L, 1200L, 1200S, 1200 Roadster, XR1200, and the Nightster.
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Old Apr 6, 2020 | 10:32 PM
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Default Got a few questions

They are not related to each other either. But didn't want to start a bunch of new threads.

First, has anyone noticed a drop in their mileage after using power vision tune? I have gone through several tanks, and where I was getting 45-50 on freeway, with my Vieds, I am now getting a solid 40. Before you say I was running lean, I had the Vieds adjusted to where the plugs were a nice light brown color. Plus I could adjust each cylinder individually.


Second, my bike 2007, XL1200L from the factory, manual says I can use 87 and higher gas. Most other models, min of 91. Has anyone used 87 in their bike? I ask because living rural, I keep about 10 gallons of 87 octane for when things get low. Mowers, power tools and car. To have one be 91 cuts down available amount of gas to store. In case you wonder, it get turned over and used up frequently before storage becomes an issue.


Third, I am trying to come up with a quick and convenient method for locking up my full face helmet to the bike. I have a couple ideas but they look goofy when the helmet is not lock on them, so they are a no-go. If you just hang yours on the handlebar, without locking, please refrain from commenting, because I will not consider that, for many reasons. What I was trying to do was have essentially a built in helmet lock that stayed on the bike and I did not have to dig through the saddlebag like I do now, to find the cable. I prefer NOT to lock it using the D rings.
What do you guys use, and or suggestions?

Thanks
 
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Old Apr 7, 2020 | 03:14 AM
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For locking my FF crash helmet I have a cable rope lock that I pass through the hole and through the sissy bar. The crash helmet either sits on the saddlebag or on the sissy bar itself. Room to lock two crash helmets.
 
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Old Apr 7, 2020 | 03:58 AM
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I currently use a similar setup, but it seems sometimes, it takes longer to lock up my stuff than the ride to get there. Was hoping to figure something out thats a little quicker.

Kinda wondering about Lidlox. Pricey, but look pretty nifty.
 
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Old Apr 7, 2020 | 04:31 AM
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A top box or tour pack is probably the slickest solution but then you have to leave room in it.
 
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Old Apr 7, 2020 | 04:39 AM
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You need to get on with buying that Electra Glide - then all your storage problems will be history!
 
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Old Apr 7, 2020 | 05:05 AM
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The online 2007 Owner's manual shows 91 octane for all models.
Prior to 2007 the 883s were listed as 87 octane, maybe the printed Owner's manual didn't get updated.
The 883s switched to the "W" cams in 2007 same as the 1200s had from 2004 on.
The 883s compression ratio was still listed as 8.9 to 1 where the 1200s were 9.7 to 1

2007 SPORTSTER MODELS OWNER'S MANUAL
 
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Old Apr 7, 2020 | 07:17 AM
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I don't hang my helmet on the handlebars, but I do put it on the ground under the bike (between front tire and down rails) when parked. I know I'm taking a small risk, but I figure someone who wants to steal another's used helmet is a scumbag anyway. Seems creepy (and disgusting) to me using someone else's helmet, with all that sweat, hair oil, and God knows what else (lice?) could be in there. My buddy offered me his spare dirt bike helmet the other day, and I told him "no thanks" I'd rather just buy new. Ewwww. Like using someone else's used shoes or underwear. Not for me.

I have not found a way to lock the helmet to my bike that was satisfactory after all these years. Knock wood, I've not had an issue. Good luck, I'd be interested in seeing what you come up with. I have not run into anyone who's actually had their helmet stolen, at least in my experience. I'm sure it happens, just very rarely, let's hope. That should give you a bit of confidence about leaving it unlocked if necessary.

John
 

Last edited by John Harper; Apr 7, 2020 at 07:25 AM.
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Old Apr 7, 2020 | 08:22 AM
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Short cable and lock to wrap around the chin section of a FF helmet could be easy to carry and very secure.
Single lock or clamp to the D ring of a FF chin strap is easy to carry, but strap can be cut easily for theft.
I use a U-Shaped sold lock through the chin section to the fork tube.

More fuel from tuner programing...yes less mileage...seems normal, yet you should verify you are not running to rich at all RPMs and idle.

87 v 91. If you don't ping 87 should cause no damage and be okay. Rapid acceleration or uphills under load would answer that ping question.


Good luck with your decisions.
 

Last edited by Kenny94945; Apr 7, 2020 at 08:26 AM.
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Old Apr 7, 2020 | 08:42 AM
  #9  
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i will chime in on all three concerns,
1. yes i saw a drop in mileage i get the same mileage as i did with both my stage 1 v rod 1130cc and my stage 1 warrior 1670cc. 33-35mpg

2. i use 87 octane since i get gas every other day and the amount is 3.5 gals. i figure that the first 2 gallons will be left from who ever used the pump last so why pay for it if i am not going to get it.

NOTE : i do ride at an average speed of 80mph 40 miles daily on the i-10

3. i do not wear a helmat unless i am in a state the requires it, But iso grips have a helmet lock on the end (at n extra cost) i have had it in the past and they work great.
 
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Old Apr 7, 2020 | 09:09 AM
  #10  
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Originally Posted by mkayx
i figure that the first 2 gallons will be left from who ever used the pump last.
The American Petroleum Institute disagrees. Their data shows about 1/3 gallon, at most. Where does your 2 gallon figure come from?

John
 
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