New Bike break in
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Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 68
Likes: 0
I've done so much research on this subject talking to numerous engine builders and an old buddy who use to own a magnaflux shop and who was also an amateur drag racer. Fact is "break-in" really just comes down to properly seating the piston rings. Only way to seat the piston rings is upward and downward force on the rings in the first couple miles of a newly built engine (i.e. 20-50miles). Easiest way to ensure upward and downward force is warming the bike up at the dealer, locate the nearest long road or parking lot take that baby up to 40-50mph in first gear (i.e., downward force on the rings) and let the engine brake the bike (i.e. upward force on the rings) till you absolutely need to pull the clutch do that 3-4 times you're set, then follow the owners manual for typical break in. It is amazing how much power is lost if the piston rings aren't properly seated, not to mention oil loss between normal oil change intervals.
Some people I have talked with recommend changing the oil after approx 50miles but I always change at 100miles then again at 500miles. I do this break in for all my vehicles, hasn't failed me yet.
Some people I have talked with recommend changing the oil after approx 50miles but I always change at 100miles then again at 500miles. I do this break in for all my vehicles, hasn't failed me yet.
Tourer
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 278
Likes: 0
From: HOUSTON, REPUBLIC OF TEXAS
My dealership had their own break in procedure that was lower rpm's than the manual. I followed what they said. It was hard and seemed like it took forever, almost 2 days. I had my 1k dyno and new pipes the next week. Stick with what the manual says. Theres a lot going on in there and give it time to break in. That why its called break in.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 3,450
Likes: 4
From: El Cajon Ca.
And don't baby it. You need to get on it some and twist the throttle.
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Cruiser
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 141
Likes: 0
From: Superior, WI
When I bought my 09 Flhx, my salesman as well a few others told me to take it easy for the first 50 miles....after that, start riding the way you want to ride it but not over 3500rpm. The key factor to breaking new motors is to keep it in a fairly low gear for a while (2nd or 3rd) bring it up to 3500 or just below and let the motor wind down. The compression on acceleration and the back pressure on decel are key to seating the rings properly and everything else in the motor....I did that with my 09 for about 100 miles after the first 50 and it runs like a bat outta hell. After the 100 miles of hard accel/decel, I started running it on the highway and back roads where I was constantly twisting the throttle for about another 50-70 miles, then I rode it like I stole it. currently it is bone stock except for my V&H ovals mufflers. Good luck
