New Bike Break-in
Thread Starter
|
Road Captain
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 643
Likes: 9
From: Georgia
New Bike Break-in
This may sound like a stupid question but what does Harley recommend doing for the break-in period on a new Street Glide Special or any touring for that matter? I have a new one coming next week. I tried the search but didn't have any luck. I have a long ride coming shortly after I get it and I would like to have any break-in done before I go. Every bike I have owned has been slightly used so a break-in is new to me. Thanks.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 2,710
Likes: 6
From: Spokane, WA.
I used this break in on my 2011 FLHRKC
http://mototuneusa.com/break_in_secrets.htm
I changed my oil & filter at 25 miles, after the initial moto tune process- then, at 500 miles, and 1000 miles.
I also use the scavenger oil change method- used it on both bikes. On my FLSTF, i was using the scavenger and had a 103 build done
with Redshift cams, roller rockers, Baisley heads, Feuling etc., my Indy noticed how clean the oil was when I brought the bike in and that was with 3K on the oil.
http://mototuneusa.com/break_in_secrets.htm
I changed my oil & filter at 25 miles, after the initial moto tune process- then, at 500 miles, and 1000 miles.
I also use the scavenger oil change method- used it on both bikes. On my FLSTF, i was using the scavenger and had a 103 build done
with Redshift cams, roller rockers, Baisley heads, Feuling etc., my Indy noticed how clean the oil was when I brought the bike in and that was with 3K on the oil.
Last edited by mgmmgm; Apr 6, 2014 at 11:05 AM. Reason: 2 cents worth
Intermediate
Joined: Jan 2013
Posts: 41
Likes: 0
From: Gilbert, Arizona
On my 13 FLHTK I followed the advice of a respected mechanic at the dealer. For the first 500 I kept it mostly under 70, stayed away from 6th gear, and didn't lug the motor. Had the thousand mile service done and been riding it hard for 15,000 miles and still runs like a champ.
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 14,744
Likes: 402
From: Phoenix '53, '88, '09 Big Twins
I break in conservatively.
i keep my stuff a long time, so getting out at racing the motor isn't in my plans.
vary the rpms between 2500 and 4000 for the first 500 miles.
change oil to syn and ride as normal.
avoid persistent high rpm operation.
closing the throttle quickly when at speed will cause a brief high motor vacuum, this will increase oiling to the top end.
mike
i keep my stuff a long time, so getting out at racing the motor isn't in my plans.
vary the rpms between 2500 and 4000 for the first 500 miles.
change oil to syn and ride as normal.
avoid persistent high rpm operation.
closing the throttle quickly when at speed will cause a brief high motor vacuum, this will increase oiling to the top end.
mike
I used this way also http://mototuneusa.com/break_in_secrets.htm
Changed my oil and filter after a thousand miles.
Changed my oil and filter after a thousand miles.
Tourer
Joined: Nov 2013
Posts: 375
Likes: 8
From: Arizona
According to the "Owners Manual", keep the RPM's below 3000 for the first 50 miles, then up to 3500 RPM for the first 500 miles, varying your speed and avoid lugging the engine. After that your good to go till your first service at 1000 miles.
Trending Topics
Road Master
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 1,161
Likes: 2
From: Walnut Creek, CA
first 500 miles RPMs below 3K, then next 500 below 3500. Oil change at 1000. Im going through the process right now.
HD Forum Stories
The Best of Harley-Davidson for Lifelong Riders
7 Surprising Harley-Davidson Products that Are Not Motorcycles
Verdad Gallardo
8 Best Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
10 Worst Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
Killer Custom's Jail Break Is The Breakout That Refused to Blend In
Verdad Gallardo
Crazy Bunderbike Build Looks Amazing, But Is It Impossible to Ride?
Verdad Gallardo
Harley-Davidson Reveals Super Cool Cafe Racer Concept
Verdad Gallardo
Engraved Rebellion: Inside Bundnerbike's Glam Rock II
Verdad Gallardo
10 Motorcycles You Should Never Buy
Joe Kucinski
10 Things Harley-Davidson Needs to Fix in 2026
Verdad Gallardo
Road Master
Joined: Mar 2014
Posts: 780
Likes: 4
From: Utah
X2 The salesman will go over this when you take delivery of the bike, or at least he should. Varying your speed and not lugging the engine are the real keys to this. In other words, don't jump on the freeway and drive 500 miles at 70MPH.