Did you ever play with a sling shot as a kid? At first, you were learning how to use it, slowly stretching the band to make your perfect shot. But your slingshot was generally the most fun to play with when you had been using it for a few days. The rubber band pulled back perfectly with the exact tension you needed for hitting your target. Imagine if that first day you pulled back way too far and the rubber band stretched out too much. Breaking in that slingshot was worth the wait.
The ride you get from properly breaking in your new motorcycle is obviously SO much more "worth the wait". Breaking in your bike properly will ensure the sound design, quality materials, and workmanship that is built into your new Harley-Davidson will give you optimum performance for years to come.
It is suggested: For the first 500 miles (800 km) to wear in critical parts, please observe the simple riding rules below. This will assure future performance and durability.
- Avoid hard braking during the first 200 miles.
- Up to 500 miles (800 km), vary the engine speed and avoid any steady speed for long distances. Engine speed up to 3000 RPM is permissible in any gear. (Varies by engine.)
- Avoid fast starts at wide-open throttle. Drive slowly until the engine warms up.
- Avoid running the engine at extremely low RPM in higher gears.
This will set your bike up for the rest of its life. That is also why the first service on a bike is more than just an oil change. Find out more about the 1,000 mile service in Talking Shop: Your Bike's First Service Explained or you can ask a tech expert your question: HERE
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FAQs
It is suggested: For the first 500 miles (800 km) to wear in critical parts, please observe the simple riding rules below. This will assure future performance and durability. Avoid hard braking during the first 200 miles. Up to 500 miles (800 km), vary the engine speed and avoid any steady speed for long distances.
What is the break-in period for a Harley-Davidson? ›
during motorcycle break-in. Up to 800 km (500 mi), vary the engine speed and avoid operating at any steady engine speed for long periods. Engine speed up to 3500 RPM in any gear is permissible. Drive slowly and avoid fast starts at wide open throttle until the engine has warmed up.
How many miles does it take to break-in a Harley? ›
During the break-in period, which typically spans the first 500 to 1,000 miles, your Harley's engine components undergo a crucial bedding-in process. This allows them to settle into place and ensures smooth operation over the long term.
What is the best way to break-in a new Harley? ›
Break-In Riding Procedure
- During the first 50 miles of riding, keep the engine speed below 3,000 RPM (5,000 RPM for VRSC™) in any gear. ...
- Up to 500 miles, vary the engine speed and avoid operating at any speed for long periods. ...
- Drive slowly and avoid fast starts at wide-open throttle until the engine has warmed up.
New cars and trucks don't need break-in oil. The manufacturer will typically require you to drive under light-to-moderate load for a few hundred miles, then change oil. After that, you're good to go. Racers, competitors or gearheads using a rebuilt or new crate engine, however, should use break-in oil.
How many miles do Harleys usually last? ›
The Harley-Davidson engine can last 60,000 to 250,000 miles with proper maintenance. Some models can last 400,000 to 1,000,000 miles. Whether you choose Softail, Evo, or Twin Cam motorcycle engines, complete the required maintenance.
Is engine braking bad for Harley? ›
With practice, smooth downshifts can result in enhanced engine braking performance and will not damage the motorcycle.
What RPM do you ride a Harley at? ›
The ideal RPM range for riding a motorcycle typically lies between 2,000 and 3,000 RPMs. This 'Goldilocks zone' balances power and fuel efficiency while minimising engine wear.
Why do Harleys run so rough? ›
A weak or improperly timed spark or incorrect amounts of air or fuel will cause the engine to run unevenly, if it runs at all.
Is it bad to bump start a Harley? ›
Bump starting a bike down a slope carries the risk that you'll end up stuck at the bottom but if the bike started recently and you're confident the battery is at fault, go for it.
Motorcycle oil change kits provide you with everything you need to perform an engine oil and filter change. We recommend changing your oil and filter at the first 1,000-mile service interval, and then at every 5,000-mile interval after that.
How long do brake pads last on Harley touring? ›
Typically, your Harley brake pads will last 30,000 miles for both front and rear. Can you installABS to a Harley bike? Unfortunately, you cannot add ABS to a bike the bike has been built by the manufacturer.
Are Harley Street glides fast? ›
The Street Glide accelerated to 170 km/h effortlessly.
How many miles do you have to break in a new motorcycle? ›
Experts say the “break in” period usually lasts from 500 to 1,000 miles, but some makes and models need up to 1,500 miles before they start reaching their full potential. Over time, these parts will start to learn how to work together with less tension and better sealing.
