2011 103 Engine Lugging
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 7,439
Likes: 884
From: 'Noke, VA
Let common sense be your guide of course, but this whole "lugging" thing is just one more case of internet hysteria.
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 3,909
Likes: 6
From: Livingston, Texas
The 2011 touring bikes has a new geared tranny. I really like my 103 in my limited.
Knockin on the door of 10,000 miles.
Best bike I've ever owned.
Keep the rpms close if not on 2000 rpms if yer accelerating very much.
Listen to the motor.
Knockin on the door of 10,000 miles.
Best bike I've ever owned.
Keep the rpms close if not on 2000 rpms if yer accelerating very much.
Listen to the motor.
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 2,560
Likes: 279
From: North Cental Iowa
I've always avoided these questions because everybody seems to be of one thought on the subject, so why bother. I've got a 2000 Glide with a SE forged crank so I don't have to worry about the bottom end, it isn't low compression, about 10.2-1. It has the dreaded MM FI, might even be better because it has individual runners, running 570 lift cams & P&P heads. I can run around all day between 1500 & 2000, I can run through small towns at 30mph or so & 1500 in 4th gear & pull away without downshifting. I agree that you shouldn't try to crack the throttle wide open at 1500 in the top gears, but if you know how to use the throttle there's no reason you can't run below 2000rpm around town.
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 3,909
Likes: 6
From: Livingston, Texas
I'd be shifting between 3000-3500 rpm unless I'm in a hurry
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 12,946
Likes: 32
From: Colorado Springs, CO
One thing that definitely seems to make a difference, is the state of tune. When the bike was stock, she would lug easy, and I had to keep the rev's up at least above 2200 rpm. With my SE 255 cams, ported throttle body, and opened intake and ehaust with autotune, at 1800 RPM, if I crack the throttle she pulls away, at 2200 RPM squats her tail down and RIPS!
Granted, she is far from EPA compliant now, but she runs like she is supposed to.
So...if you're staying stock, don't lay on the power under 2,000 RPM, or you're putting alot of strain on an enigne that frankly is trying to "run down the street breathing through a straw".
Just my .02
~Joe
Granted, she is far from EPA compliant now, but she runs like she is supposed to.
So...if you're staying stock, don't lay on the power under 2,000 RPM, or you're putting alot of strain on an enigne that frankly is trying to "run down the street breathing through a straw".
Just my .02
~Joe
Grand HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 3,520
Likes: 270
From: Wellsboro, PA
4500????!!!!! Yeah, right! Hey Sledhed, I'm no "expert" on much of anything, but I have a 103 also. Mine is fine if I'm at 2000 or more. In 6th on the highway at 75, it's only at 2800. Take a look next time you're doing it. The way mine runs, I have to agree with ONEDOWNAND5UP --- if you try to accelerate & can't do it easily, it's lugging. Just my opinion.
Road Warrior
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 1,788
Likes: 5
From: Tennessee
After reading the "where do you shift?" thread i had my wife keep an eye on the tach during a day long ride. I evidently consistently shift into 2nd and 3rd right around 4grand. Thats just where my build is happy at. Been doing it for 50k miles with no problems.
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Grand HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 3,520
Likes: 270
From: Wellsboro, PA
Maybe 4500's not real high for some bikes. I've had only 2 Harleys --- an 09 EG Classic, and now an 11 103 Ltd Ultra. Both with 6 speed. Just seems like 4000 or 4500's awful high on these newer ones, I guess.
Cruiser
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 123
Likes: 2
From: dual locations: wash. & az.
Bad very BAD..
The worst thing I have Found IS the HD OWNERS GUIDE..
This book spouts off things like where to shift..... I know they are ONLY GUIDE LINES, but ruin Many riders and their Bikes...
THINK and FEEL.. Become "ONE" with your bike as they are ALL Different...
TOSS OUT THE BOOK
Many bikes with MANY different modifications call out for many different Measures.
signed....REDHEAD
This book spouts off things like where to shift..... I know they are ONLY GUIDE LINES, but ruin Many riders and their Bikes...
THINK and FEEL.. Become "ONE" with your bike as they are ALL Different...
TOSS OUT THE BOOK
Many bikes with MANY different modifications call out for many different Measures.
signed....REDHEAD