add ABS brakes ?
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Cruiser
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 113
Likes: 0
From: So. ILL.
add ABS brakes ?
I know I have read where you can't add ABS brakes, but I would like to know why it can't be done to a 08 or later Ultra. I like my 08 Ultra but would like to have ABS brakes on it instead of trading to a 10.
Tourer
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 392
Likes: 2
From: Southeastern Wisconsin
I asked this question of my dealer and was told HD won't even sell the necessary parts, since "no one" is capable of installing everything necessary to retro fit ABS.
Like you, I'd like to know why as well.
I suspect the cost would be the main issue.
Like you, I'd like to know why as well.
I suspect the cost would be the main issue.
Road Master
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 828
Likes: 2
From: USA
I'm in a similar situation with my 07 SG. I'm thinking of doing what one of the other forum members has done. Installing one of the TCB devices on the rear brake. I'm mostly concerned about locking up the rear wheel during emergency braking and experiencing a high-side. You can read all about how it works at:
http://www.tcbbrakesystems.com/
I know it's not as good as having ABS but I think that anything that might reduce the chances (without compromising stopping /braking distance) of a rear wheel lock-up would also give me some peace of mind.
http://www.tcbbrakesystems.com/
I know it's not as good as having ABS but I think that anything that might reduce the chances (without compromising stopping /braking distance) of a rear wheel lock-up would also give me some peace of mind.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 3,341
Likes: 9
From: Woodinville, WA
I don't think anyone wants the liability of incorrect installation - or being accused of doing it wrong. In absolute terms it could be done - just look at tha parts catalog, find all the ABS components, order them and install. It may be that Harley treats these components as "restricted" in which case you may not be able to purchase without returning defective components etc. but that seems unlikely - they mostly only fart around like that when it's limited edition badges and the like.
Last edited by davessworks; Nov 23, 2009 at 12:49 PM.
Tourer
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 351
Likes: 1
From: Arizona/Colorado
my recollection is that someone on this forum has done this and posted his parts list and process to do this.
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Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 3,341
Likes: 9
From: Woodinville, WA
Here's a rough estimate based on looking up the ABS components you'd need to add/change out for a 2010 Ultra
Main wiring harness ($790), hydraulic lines ABS Electronic controller ($470), Modulator Assy ($353), various brakelines (about $280), misc hardware ($75).
(all prices MSRP - total ~$2000 plus labor). I'd think if Harley wanted to suport this they'd have a work around for replacing the main harness - but regardless I don't see many riders dropping that kind of $$$$ on an upgrade.
Main wiring harness ($790), hydraulic lines ABS Electronic controller ($470), Modulator Assy ($353), various brakelines (about $280), misc hardware ($75).
(all prices MSRP - total ~$2000 plus labor). I'd think if Harley wanted to suport this they'd have a work around for replacing the main harness - but regardless I don't see many riders dropping that kind of $$$$ on an upgrade.
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Road Warrior
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 1,639
Likes: 2
From: Australia
Regardless there is no way that retrofitting ABS makes sense. You are gonna have to trade in.