Hi,

I live in the Houston area and when the floods came a couple weeks ago the water came almost to the top of the primary cover. I got about 3/4 inch in the trunk also. Insurance came out today and wants to total the bike. The water level drained in about 2-3 hours so it wasn't sitting in the water for too long. I just don't think the bike is damaged that much, but I'm not an expert so I wanted to get some of your opinions.

I talked to a local bike shop and he agrees with me and he thinks I can have back in shape for $1200-$1400.. Its a 2014 with 11,000 miles.

What do you think?

Thanks

 

It depends on how much the'll give you for it....Also did the bike shop take in to account that where the reverse motor sits , That will be something to worry about down the road...

 

What extent flooded? Salt water flooded? Any water into wiring?

 

Let the ins. co total it, then buy it back from them for penny's on the dollar. That way you will have more than enough to have it repaired, and go on a vacation. My friend had his '02 Dyna get flooded just over the trans vent tube. The ins co. totaled it and gave him $4800.00. He then offered them $1000.00 to let him keep it. They said OK, and he changed the tranny oil,and all the other oils, and went on a 2 week vacation on it.

 

change the fluids and then change them again. and then one more time. maybe time to install new wheel bearings too. besides that you i wouldn't think it would have gotten into the engine. should be good to go.

 

Checker's asked a very good question.
Fresh water or salt water flooded?

If any electrical components/wire connections, etc were in salt water you will have problems in the future.

If the insurance is fair and you can replace the trike for the amount they are offering, seriously consider the offer.

 

Take off any options you put on that you can. Settle with insurance the best you can and walk away. If you buy back, it will be a salvage title so overall the trike will be worthless to resale. Hard decisions are to be made. Hope all are safe and recovery process on other stuff is as painless as possible.

 

I haven't dealt with flooded bikes, but on cars that have been flooded, besides the electrical issies they can have, the interiors mold really quick. If you keep it, be sure to get that trunk cleaned really well and let it fully dry. Maybe throw some DryZair or whatever they make now days in the trunk or leave it cracked open for awhile.

Agree salt vs fresh is a big factor. Salt water will leave behind deposits and will corrode, think wiring, chrome, electrical connections etc.

Best of luck whatever you decide and I hope you have a speedy and good insurance experience.

 

Thanks for the feedback. It was freshwater that flooded it. I'm not sure about any of the wiring, but I do know the fuse box is okay. I came home from work yesterday and wanted to shed a tear or two when I saw her in the garage. I think when the numbers come in from the insurance company, the wife and I will weigh our options. This stinks because I got a great deal on this bike last year.

 

IDK...it's one thing to ride in rain & another when bike's submerged (even for few hours) in water. Also, when you say fresh water, remember this isn't your normal river overflow...there are contaminants as well (e.g. petro, sewage, sludge, etc.) so...keep that in mind as well.

If it was me, I pay insurance for a reason...your bike/your call.