Break in question

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Nov 13, 2013 | 10:12 AM

#21

'05Train

Ultimate HDF Member

Joined: May 2008

Posts: 7,439

Likes: 884

From: 'Noke, VA

Quote:

Originally Posted by bwana1

Where do peeps get the idea that motors are broken in/heat cycles at the factory before it is placed in the frame. Total BS. Don't think they beat em up on the tread mill after they come off the assembly line either.

Well then, you'd be incorrect. Every bike that comes off the line is put directly into a dyno booth and run up to 100+ mph with no break-in or warm-up.

Do a tour at the York plant and see for yourself.

Nov 13, 2013 | 10:25 AM

#22

OldPhat

Elite HDF Member

Joined: Dec 2007

Posts: 3,617

Likes: 165

From: Sparks Nevada

I spun my bike to 4000 RPM after the first 50 miles, it just happen, I held it to 3500 RPM's to 500 Miles.
After 500 miles I have been riding it hard, 70-75-80 MPH, it is open on the back roads here in Nevada.

Nov 13, 2013 | 10:35 AM

#23

Geoff

Seasoned HDF Member

Joined: Oct 2007

Posts: 10,946

Likes: 814

From: Nevada

The folks who designed your motor know best, so follow the owner's manual. Break-in by committee is not a good idea.

Nov 13, 2013 | 10:40 AM

#24

SafetyMan

Ultimate HDF Member

Joined: Jun 2007

Posts: 7,970

Likes: 85

From: San Antone

Quote:

Originally Posted by bwana1

Have you ever been to the factory?

I have.

Seen it first hand.

Nov 13, 2013 | 10:53 AM

#25

texaswiz

Banned

Joined: Jul 2008

Posts: 1,036

Likes: 67

Don't overthink this too much. If the manufacturer's book says hold it down for awhile. Then hold it down for awhile. Just don't do anything stupid.
Is this your first Harley?

Nov 13, 2013 | 11:48 AM

#26

roadking2014

Road Warrior

Joined: Oct 2007

Posts: 1,468

Likes: 4

From: South Carolina

Quote:

Originally Posted by Geoff

The folks who designed your motor know best, so follow the owner's manual. Break-in by committee is not a good idea.

so True.
I like reading some of these post.
Really love the one's that start with, the manual says to do this or that but I dont want to.
guess thats what keeps repair shops and the parts counter in business.

Nov 13, 2013 | 12:20 PM

#27

candave650

Cruiser

Joined: Apr 2011

Posts: 107

Likes: 1

From: Ontario,Canada

I broke in my first Harley according to HD break in rules and it was the worst running HD I have ever had.
Since then I have used the Motoman method and have been very happy. Good compression and no oil consumption.
Vary the RPM ,use the gearbox so you don't lug the engine and ride normally.

Nov 13, 2013 | 12:34 PM

#28

fatboy slim

Road Master

Joined: Jul 2012

Posts: 863

Likes: 2

From: spain and uk

Quote:

Originally Posted by grbrown

Too many contradicting theories on this subject, so stick a pin in your preferred approach and enjoy the ride.

Lots of theories yes, but one hard fact, keeping your revs down and lugging the engine is the worst thing ever for a new engine.
Rev it and enjoy it.
If it were mine I would ride it hard and give it an early oil change.