Sportster Models 883, 883 Custom, 1200 Custom, 883L, 1200L, 1200S, 1200 Roadster, XR1200, and the Nightster.
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Old Apr 20, 2008 | 07:18 AM
  #1  
d2dpaint's Avatar
d2dpaint
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Default rev limiter

what is a rev limiter?is it on all bikes or just certain models?
 
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Old Apr 20, 2008 | 07:22 AM
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SportyPig
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Default RE: rev limiter

It's part of the ignition system. It keeps you from running the engine over what would be the "red line". When you hit that level of RPM, the ignition cuts out, I think on one cyclinder. I'mnot totally sure about the electronic workings of the system, but it makes the bike spit and stutter. I'm not sure what year they started the rev limiter, but it is on most models. I know my buddy has a 2002 883 custom, and it has a rev limiter.
 
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Old Apr 20, 2008 | 07:23 AM
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Booey424
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Default RE: rev limiter

It is actually called an Ignition module.You can replace it with a Sceamin Eagle module like I did.I bought a 7500 rpm module off of ebay.It lets you wind out the gears alot more. http://www.harley-davidson.com/gma/g...bmLocale=en_US
 
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Old Apr 20, 2008 | 07:56 AM
  #4  
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Default RE: rev limiter

The stock ignition control module (ICM) controls your "spark". It's primary function is to control ignition timing & advance. In addition, the ICM contains a rev limiter (6200 rpm) to prevent accidental red-lining (over reving) of the engine. Stock engines can be run to 7000 RPM but continiously doing so will have long term wear & tear effects on the motor.

Under no circumstances would it be wise to run your Sporty motor over 7000 RPM unless you have upgraded the valve train assembly. This means different valve springs, lifters, pushrods, etc.
 
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Old Apr 20, 2008 | 09:45 AM
  #5  
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rfranz1952
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Default RE: rev limiter

ORIGINAL: cHarley

The stock ignition control module (ICM) controls your "spark". It's primary function is to control ignition timing & advance. In addition, the ICM contains a rev limiter (6200 rpm) to prevent accidental red-lining (over reving) of the engine. Stock engines can be run to 7000 RPM but continiously doing so will have long term wear & tear effects on the motor.

Under no circumstances would it be wise to run your Sporty motor over 7000 RPM unless you have upgraded the valve train assembly. This means different valve springs, lifters, pushrods, etc.
The specific reve limit varies depending on the year and model of bike. 1200's for 2003 and before had a factory rev limit of perhaps 5600, 2004 to 2006 (carburated rubber mounts) were factory limited to 6,000, most Big Twins are set to 5,400 or so. I don't know what the stock fuel injected (2007 and later) 1200's are set to, and the 883's may also be different.

For the 2004 to 2006 1200's, the limit can be increased relatively safely to about 7,000 without damageing the engine, because the stock heads have a stronger valve train than previous models. (Not that I am recommending that). I have mine set to 6,200, but usually don't get there.

Even with upgrading the valve train, I would suspect that running over 7,000 regularly will shorten the life of the engine.
 
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Old Apr 20, 2008 | 08:22 PM
  #6  
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Default RE: rev limiter

ORIGINAL: cHarley

The stock ignition control module (ICM) controls your "spark". It's primary function is to control ignition timing & advance. In addition, the ICM contains a rev limiter (6200 rpm) to prevent accidental red-lining (over reving) of the engine. Stock engines can be run to 7000 RPM but continiously doing so will have long term wear & tear effects on the motor.

Under no circumstances would it be wise to run your Sporty motor over 7000 RPM unless you have upgraded the valve train assembly. This means different valve springs, lifters, pushrods, etc.
Lighter pistons, too....if it's a 1200, you'll develop slap BIG TIME if you keep pushing it with those heavy bastards.
 
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Old Apr 20, 2008 | 08:42 PM
  #7  
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Booey424
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Default RE: rev limiter

I put the 7500rpm Screamin Eagle module on my ride.I have yet to hit the limit.About the only time I get close is getting on the highway.But I've hit 100mph on the highway and there is plenty more rpm's to go
 
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Old Apr 20, 2008 | 09:21 PM
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xxxflhrci
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Default RE: rev limiter

Rev limters have been around since the beginning of the EVO.

My old Iron's only rev limiter is on the end of your right arm. Heck, it doesn't even have a "red line" on the tach.

[IMG]local://upfiles/17633/866B01F12DCE4AB09A92324E806D00ED.jpg[/IMG]
 
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