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From some recent posts by guys with '07's who have installed the HD oil temp gauge, their temps seem to be ~30 degrees hotter than '06 and earlier basically stock bikes. Time will tell what, if any, effects those higher temps have on the engines.
Also,although few folks have infrared thermometers for measuring cylinder head temps (at the base of the spark plugs), large temperature (30+degrees)differences between front and rear cylinders are not uncommon. With good tuning, the rear cylinder temp can be reduced to the point where it is only ~10 degrees warmer than the front cylinder.
If you are happy with a bone stock powertrain, great. And, like all of us here, we can spend or not spend on what we like for these bikes.
Why bother? Well, for me, it's because I just can't seem to be able to leave things alone lol. Riding is a blast! But wrenching is also. Tuning, tweaking, and wrenching on ANY vehicle that I have is something I love. Bought a Grand Cherokee (used) and drove it like I stole it.....then needed more...4.5" of lift, 33" Interco's, steel bumpers, chip, exhaust (first in my area with a GC lifted). To some (like me), it's almost an addiction (or is it affliction?)...aquire something then start tinkering. Bought the Ultra, HATED the sewing machine sound of it stock. Bought used SuperTrapps, liked them but knew there was more to be found. Well, after putting on the SE aircleaner, PCIII, V&H True Duals, Hogtunes speakers (sad that I can't even leave the stereo alone) and adding various chrome goodies (even though while playing with the Jeep I oftened heard the adage that "chrome don't get ya home")....all I can think about is "whats next". I totally respect any rider here and respect the differences between us. I, for one, will never be done with my bike. Even if HD actually got it right (not too lean, not too hot, not too quiet), I still would be tinkering with it. Guess that must be step #1 for me....admitting I have a problem
I agree with you TruBlu I cant seem to leave things alone either and I do have a problem, just ask my wife. But seriously it is a bit of a performance boost as well as helping the heat issue. last year I road the rockies with my bike stock. Thought I was on a moped at times. Went to the Rockies again this year after doing the mods and it was much better
Very true, FLHT. I guess I left out a most important effect of my tinkering....better performance (which equals increasedsatisfaction and SPG's.....Smiles Per Gallon).
I go along with the possible heat related problems crowd, maybe it would have been fine and maybe not. Want to get the same mileage out of my '07 as I did out of my '87 Evo, this is my way of buying an extended warranty. If I can cool it down, make it go and sound better at the same time, works for me. Besides, whenever I order something, it's like Christmas every time I see a package on my doorstep! To each their own, right?
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