Heat damage
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Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 32,934
Likes: 36,031
From: Carlsbad, CA
Heat damage
Ok, we are probably all tired of the "Harleys run too hot" threads and statements. But, other than roasting the crotchnuts, is anyone aware of actual engine damage from the engine running too hot, excluding consequences of other issues like low oil?
Grand HDF Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 4,585
Likes: 673
From: Rolla
You bring up a valid point.
As hot as we think these bikes run, they have been designed to last over 100k miles in factory stock condition.
But in reading any internet forum, most are led to believe a stock HD will self destruct within a few thousand miles if major changes are not made.
As hot as we think these bikes run, they have been designed to last over 100k miles in factory stock condition.
But in reading any internet forum, most are led to believe a stock HD will self destruct within a few thousand miles if major changes are not made.
Last edited by RollaMo; Dec 12, 2013 at 12:54 PM.
Tourer
Joined: Sep 2011
Posts: 274
Likes: 2
From: Baltimore, MD
This is one of those topics that will cause people to pop a blood vessel. A very touchy subject. Yes, many engineers for the MOCO have spent thousands of man hours trying to engineer these bikes to last in a stock configuration. that being said, many other engineers/designers have spent just as much time developing add on parts to sell for modifications for those who choose to do so. But the OP has a very valid point. What are the actual "issues" if any of leaving a bike stock and running it that way for the life of the bike? I have to believe that there is no real issue other than a "comfort level" for the rider.
But for what it's worth, I really haven't noticed many people with stock bikes posting problems with their bikes outside of normal wear and tear items like brakes and tires. But I see posts of people with some serious drive train issues with a bunch of mods posted in their signatures. I have to wonder how many of these issues are self induced.
But for what it's worth, I really haven't noticed many people with stock bikes posting problems with their bikes outside of normal wear and tear items like brakes and tires. But I see posts of people with some serious drive train issues with a bunch of mods posted in their signatures. I have to wonder how many of these issues are self induced.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 9,850
Likes: 220
From: Sacramento, CA.
my 2011 FLTRX 103 has a stage 1 A/C. I've been in 106+ plus degrees, with stop & go traffic for over 20 miles. I did split some lanes when I could, but it just pinged. I've had buddies that rode stock bikes through the desert in the summer months at 90+ miles per hour for many a mile. When stopped they sound like a bunch of ball bearing rattling in a can, let them cool down & started all over again. Just my 2 cents.
Road Master
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 1,018
Likes: 1
From: cd. Obregon, Sonora, mx
All the mods I made on my 2011 Ultra with regard to heat issues, dealt with riding comfort. I went with V&H power duals (ceramic coated), monster ovals, and SERT. I had the bike tuned so it runs a little rich. This reduced the heat on my right side quite a bit.
Road Warrior
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 1,290
Likes: 20
From: Salem, Or
I ride my bike in 115 plus temps in all traffic conditions. I just upgraded from a 96 ci to a 103 ci and the pistons and piston bores show very little wear. I was very surprised at the condition for what the bike goes through every summer. Oh and the bike has 30k and climbing.
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Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 10,216
Likes: 224
From: Glendale AZ
HD has a proving ground in Yuma if Im not mistaking where they bake the bejezus out of these engines...still with 20k+ Im paying for my bike it compels me to do what I can for it.
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Road Master
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 1,122
Likes: 23
From: Mishawaka,Indiana
My friend that rides a couple year old kawi stopped buy and mentioned looking at new ones but the only change was some new fan or ducting to try to get heat off of rider. I said what? the world says only Harley's run hot! Turns out any engine between your legs may be hot. Mike