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Using On / Off switch

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Old Jul 28, 2007 | 03:37 PM
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EzRyder's Avatar
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Default Using On / Off switch
I have heard on other bikes that one should use the key to turn the bike off. Using the on/off switch will eventually cause it to fail. Is that true to HD's?Is that just overly cautious?
 
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Old Jul 28, 2007 | 03:46 PM
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Default RE: Using On / Off switch
Using anything will cause it to fail over time!!
Just start it the way you feel most comfortable
 
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Old Jul 28, 2007 | 03:52 PM
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Default RE: Using On / Off switch
I doubt if it's an issue either way, personally I prefer to shut if off with the key so I don't leave it on and kill the battery.
 
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Old Jul 28, 2007 | 04:05 PM
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Default RE: Using On / Off switch
I use the switch to turn it off.Then I turn the key off.Inever leave the key in it so it will never run the battery out.
 
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Old Jul 28, 2007 | 04:18 PM
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Default RE: Using On / Off switch
Not that everything they teach is gospel but - the folks running the MSF courses get you to chant "thumb - key - valve" meaning thumb the handlebar switch off first, ignition off by key next, fuel supply valve closed last if you have one.
 
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Old Jul 28, 2007 | 04:53 PM
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Default RE: Using On / Off switch
The proper way is to shift to neutral, off switch, key off.
 
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Old Jul 28, 2007 | 05:03 PM
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Default RE: Using On / Off switch
Got my 19981200C new and have alwasy used the ON/OFF switch. Hasn't failed yet.My 1998 OWNER'S MANUAL said ALWAYS
use the ON/OFF switch.. to turn OFF MOTOR....
Check your OWNER'S MANUAL
 
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Old Jul 28, 2007 | 05:25 PM
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Default RE: Using On / Off switch
ORIGINAL: 98XL1200C

Check your OWNER'S MANUAL
Yes I know, RTFM. However manual's tell it like the company would like it to be, not like it is.

Experience is the best teacher.

 
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Old Jul 28, 2007 | 06:00 PM
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Default RE: Using On / Off switch
Thumb, key valve. That is the MSF saying. I don't have to worry about the valve with my 07 Nightster
 
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Old Jul 28, 2007 | 06:31 PM
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Default RE: Using On / Off switch
I always use the thumb switch. Turn the key off and I always leave it in gear.
 
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