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2011 XL1200C problems

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Old Jul 6, 2011 | 08:11 PM
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TCS
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Stage IV
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From: Lake Charles, LA
Default 2011 XL1200C problems

Bought a new 2011 1200C on 5-14-11. Took it home in the truck and unloaded it. Rode to Houston which is about 160 miles. Noticed a squeak coming from the lower right rear side. Got back to Lake Charles, La and checked the rear wheel alignment. It was out about 1/8". Adjusted that and most of the noise stopped. A week later I took it back the dealer in Beaumont for the 1000 mile checkup and was given the "we didn't hear a noise" routine. Also told them about a vibration between 60 and 70 in 5th gear. Was told it was one of the smoothest Sportsters the mechanic had ever ridden. The noise has gotten progressively worse and at 5400 miles took to the dealer in Lafayette, La. They kept it one and a half weeks and told me it was fixed. Went to get it and rode it first. Squeak still there, vibration still there. Service Mgr. Erica said she rode the bike and heard a faint squeal at slow speed but that was all. Got a mechanic to ride beside me and he heard the noise loud and clear at 40 to 50. Got back and another mechanic took it out for a ride came back and took a new 1200c off the showroom floor rode it and came back. He told the S.M. that the new one had a slight noise but that mine was far louder and he said perhaps tight bearings. I had previously bought a can of belt dressing and used it twice. The noise goes away completely for about 15 to 20 minutes/miles and returns. Also the vibration diminishes quite a bit after the application of dressing. They seem to have forgotten that conversation. Now I am being told that they cannot replace parts without proving to HD that they are defective. My question is does anyone out there know what HD's "procedure" for testing a belt to see if it is defective, as this sounds rather stupid to me. Am in the process of filling out the paperwork for the Texas Lemon Law and sending it in. Any other suggestions as to how to get HD/HD dealers to honor the warranty and fix my bike.

Thanks in advance for any help
 
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