RK Classic overheat?
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 2,380
Likes: 14
From: Atlanta
RE: RK Classic overheat?
I have the HD Stage 1 parts (i.e. all HD parts) and it still runs a little hot, so aftermarket ECM programmers may be a better solution if heat is a problem. As others have said, the Stage 1 Download is still probably a bit on the lean side. Nevertheless, I run my bike around the Atlanta area every day and during the 100 degree days of August I got a little nervous in stop and go traffic or when traffic came to a halt on the interstate during rush hour. What I experienced most was a little different "feel" in the clutch, presumably because the primary oil was getting pretty hot. But a few miles of open road calmed things down again and I think the bike works well as an everyday commuter. Like others have said, I try not to get to paranoid over some of the posts that talk about clatter, gear noise, heat, etc. It's a Harley, and I expect that - it's part of the "charm". Mechanically, the bike is sound and is functioning just like it was designed. But I must admit that I have my eye on one of those IDS kits...
Cruiser
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 155
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RE: RK Classic overheat?
ORIGINAL: dircha
My 07 still has a loud 5th gear whine, so much so that I sometimes find myself riding at non-ideal RPMs in 4th and 6th just to avoid 5th.
If you want strong power at interstate speeds for navigating through traffic, you'll end up wanting to be in 5th a lot, at least to get the most out of your bike.
I don't care what their excuse is about the straight cut 5th gear being more durable. A well built bike should not make this noise. A well built tractor, for that matter, shouldn't make this noise. I've turned a number of folks away from HD on account of this BS too.
I'm overall happy with the bike but I'm still bitter about this.
My 07 still has a loud 5th gear whine, so much so that I sometimes find myself riding at non-ideal RPMs in 4th and 6th just to avoid 5th.
If you want strong power at interstate speeds for navigating through traffic, you'll end up wanting to be in 5th a lot, at least to get the most out of your bike.
I don't care what their excuse is about the straight cut 5th gear being more durable. A well built bike should not make this noise. A well built tractor, for that matter, shouldn't make this noise. I've turned a number of folks away from HD on account of this BS too.
I'm overall happy with the bike but I'm still bitter about this.
Cruiser
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 240
Likes: 0
From: Minneapolis
RE: RK Classic overheat?
My RKC is an '06 with the 88", but does have V&H True Duals (were on there when I bought the bike from a private party). Guess I never thought about the fact that with the crossover gone, the heat would be less. I have had NO heat issues with my bike and the V&H True Duals with the slash pipes sound great...not obnoxious, but definitely a "harley" sound. 
You'll enjoy the RKC...I would opt for an '08 if you want the 96" so you don't have any fifth gear issues. I have ridden both the 88" and 96" and went with the 88" due to price and the fact that the 96" had no WOW factor for me.
Good Luck!
You'll enjoy the RKC...I would opt for an '08 if you want the 96" so you don't have any fifth gear issues. I have ridden both the 88" and 96" and went with the 88" due to price and the fact that the 96" had no WOW factor for me.
Good Luck!
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