Though I was possibly one of the luckier '07 Ultra owners that couldn't really complain about the "clatter", I did have to change my riding style to stay away from it. If I operated in the lower rpm ranges, say below 2400 in the upper gears, I could induce the clatter which many claimed was "lugging". So as one that loves riding the mountains vs. the open 4-lanes I found myself consistently changing gears to keep in that 2500-3000 rpm sweet spot. Not really a problem riding this Ultra as a "sport bike" but more of an annoyance compared to all my previous years of settling into the proper gear and having a wider power band to operate in. Of course we have to realize we're now dealing with different ratios viathe new six-speed; and yes, I have the 5th gear whine but it is very tolerable using the Bel-Ray 85W-140 gear oil.

After reading all the IDS posts here and specifically noting the positive responces from iclick, UltraKla$$ic, and many others, I broke down and ordered an IDS from Discountbiker.com in Florida. Total costs was ~$214.00 for everything, and it arrived here in WV 2 days after Discountbiker had it in their hands. And what really shocked me was they installed the bearing at no extra charge without me even asking! Have to say their service was EXCELLENT!!

Installed the IDS Friday night, and Saturday my wife and I had a greatride with some friends covering ~200 miles of 75 mph open 4-lane along with some 25-40 mph backcountry 2-lane while keeping a diligent eye on the deer dotting the roadsides.

I think iclickmentioned that H-D tech support madethe statement that the new IDS was not a "fix" but more an "vehicle enhancement". Well, whatever we want to call it, I totally agree that it's an "enhancement" that I am very glad I installed.

I have no idea why, but the first thing I noticed was running 60-65 mph in 5th. gear, the whine was all but eliminated. I was really shocked as I didn't expect any effect on the 5th. gear noise as I have accepted it as a result of the straight cut gears. So I'm still scratching my head on this one. Had to really listen with the radio off to know it was there. But my biggest praise for this IDS, was while running the backcountry roads and being able to settle in a particular gear and have no noise whatsoever whether I was at 1800 rpm or 2200 rpm. I even took the opportunity to lug her down to 1500 rpm in 4th "and" 5th, and with smooth throttle she just pulled right up without any clatter, chatter, etc; and no I never ride at this low a rpm since I feel it would be in that "lugging" territory that's harmful to our twin-cams.

Sorry for the long rant, but I wanted to share this with all the '07 Touring riders; and especially those that are on the fence as to installing the IDS. And if you are experiencing the "clatter", then I feel confident this will be your fix...........er, "enhancement"!

[sm=icon_cheers.gif]

 

Good post and another opinion this forum can trust. Thanks for posting Ben.

I've gotten mine all buttoned up and hopefully this Labor Day weekend I can put some miles on it. I like the idea of making a good product excellent.

Ride safe![sm=partyparty.gif]

 

So far I've read of those who've done the install themselves, but I've yet to read where the dang thing goes!

Where o where does it go?

 

Darren:

I totally agree, it boils down to "making a good product excellent"! Sure makes for a smoother ride!

I'm also looking forward to a Labor Day weekendthrough the Eastern WVMountains and on over to the Skyline/Blue Grass Parkways. Hope your weekend ride is a safe/great one!

Thanks,

[sm=icon_cheers.gif]

 

07FLHRC:

It replaces the rear sprocket on Touring Models. Good read here:

https://www.hdforums.com/m_2028506/tm.htm

 

My total was $228 at Zanotti's with the bearing press, so it looks like we have another good on-line source for parts. I did get a quote from them, but their site didn't associate them with an HD dealership, which made me suspicious since I hadn't heard of anyone ordering from them. Someone from the area suggested they might be affiliated with Hill HD in Clerview, FL, and mentioned their location was near the dealership. Good enough.

On mine the whine is abated but still there, sometimes more noticeable that others like before, but is nowhere near an objectionable level, IMO. Like you I didn't expect any effect at all on that issue, and to get a little bit of improvement is lagniappe (an unexpected gift or benefit), as we call it in Cajun Country. For one, UltraCla$$ic understands that concept, right Darren? I'm thinking the whine was caused in part by the same forces that induced the clatter, and smoothing out the power pulses affected that too.

This fondly reminds me of my old Evo RK, which could lug around at 1800 all day in 5th without the slightest protest. That effortless feel is back, and a very welcome reunion.

 

Thanks guys, for the info on IDS. I've been waiting to hear more from riders after the install and you have answered a lot of my questions. I guess I'm just a cheap s.o.b and want to get more info before I drop down the $$$. Thanks again!

 

Yep to all above. Will check out discount biker, though Zanotti's does a great job.

 

Yes sir! Lagniappe is exactly what it is!

 

Waitin' on DiscountBiker right now as to shipping costs....they did quote me $ 189.56 for the IDS