2012 Sportster lagging under 2000RPM
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1st Gear
Joined: May 2022
Posts: 5
Likes: 2
From: MA
2012 Sportster lagging under 2000RPM
I'm not sure if it's me or the bike. I've got a 2012 Sportster with 8000 miles on it, Just got it a couple of years ago. I used to ride a 2004. Anyway, My issue is this. When i'm riding around town if the RPMS are not above 2000 the bike kinda bucks back upon maintaining speed.
If I want to accelerate I have to downshift to get the RPM above 2000 or the bike Hates it! The question is, is there an issue with the bike or do I HAVE to keep the rpms above 2000?
Alan
If I want to accelerate I have to downshift to get the RPM above 2000 or the bike Hates it! The question is, is there an issue with the bike or do I HAVE to keep the rpms above 2000?
Alan
Road Warrior
Joined: Jul 2013
Posts: 1,649
Likes: 443
From: Indianapolis
Sportster engines like the rpms at 2500-3500 rpms.
Harley's shifting recommendation for the Sportster engine does keep the RPMs above about 2000 rpms.
Downshift from 5th to 4th at 40 mph
Fourth to third at 30 mph
third to second at 20 mph
second to first at 10 mph.
At these speeds you will get the bucking at anything but a very light application of throttle.
This HD suggestion may be a little on the slow side, many people will add 5-10 mph to the downshift speed,
Harley's shifting recommendation for the Sportster engine does keep the RPMs above about 2000 rpms.
Downshift from 5th to 4th at 40 mph
Fourth to third at 30 mph
third to second at 20 mph
second to first at 10 mph.
At these speeds you will get the bucking at anything but a very light application of throttle.
This HD suggestion may be a little on the slow side, many people will add 5-10 mph to the downshift speed,
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 3,254
Likes: 521
From: USA
I'd ask is this a new issue?
Just maybe throttle cable adjustment (too tight) with your hand "jiggling' the throttle from steady state?
Tune-up time, air filter, throttle body oil buildup, rear wheel belt drive tension, and all?
Is there a tuner on it?
Intake leak, just guessing?
Good luck wished.
Just maybe throttle cable adjustment (too tight) with your hand "jiggling' the throttle from steady state?
Tune-up time, air filter, throttle body oil buildup, rear wheel belt drive tension, and all?
Is there a tuner on it?
Intake leak, just guessing?
Good luck wished.
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Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 5,275
Likes: 2,367
From: Florida
Mine would do the same if I fell below 2,000 rpm. I keep it well over 2,000 rpm in every gear.
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