Complaints about 2007 models!!!

[j_marshall23]

So do you have any complaints about your new bike? If so what are they and are they fixable? My complaint is the key switch. I hate the fact that the key will pull out in the ACC position. :cloudmad Why is it like this? I have done this twice and come back to a dead battery both times. Other than that I love it. What are your complaints?

http://www.xlforum.net/vbportal/forums/showthread.php?threadid=50844

[Rascal]

I have an 02 model, I'd say the key comes out in ACC position so you can leave the flashers running without having the key left in the ignition. Enjoy that new bike, ride safe.

[whittlebeast]

The shocks on all of the Low style bikes (11.75" shocks) have to be changed. As delivered from Harley it is almost undrivable. By far the cheapest fix is to get off Ebay a set of new takeoff R shocks (13.25") and install the Low springs. I even have 2 pr of the $300/ea 1200S shocks and I prefer the Hybrid setup. Once you do this, all is good to go.

AW

[toe]

The shocks on all of the Low style bikes (11.75" shocks) have to be changed. As delivered from Harley it is almost undrivable. By far the cheapest fix is to get off Ebay a set of new takeoff R shocks (13.25") and install the Low springs. I even have 2 pr of the $300/ea 1200S shocks and I prefer the Hybrid setup. Once you do this, all is good to go.

AW


Don't get the low model to begin with................

:laugh

[whittlebeast]

My wife can't reach the ground on the R and she needed the mid controls. Now the dealers claim they won't even be built them this year in the R version. I must of missed the Warning sticker regarding the suspension travel on the low versions.

AW

[bmcdonau]

My wife can't reach the ground on the R and she needed the mid controls. Now the dealers claim they won't even be built them this year in the R version. I must of missed the Warning sticker regarding the suspension travel on the low versions.

AW

Are you saying the dealer told you the Roadster will have forwards?

[Screw Loose Dan]

I didn't care for the weenie sounding stock exhaust...easy fix with Cycle Shack slipons.
Didn't care for the stock seat (883L model)...easy fix with Mustang Solo Wide
Didn't care for the lack of a tachometer...easy fix - pay dealer to install tach kit.
The Low model is a little too low (883L model)...Scraped all the freakin time. I bought it, my own dumb fault (I know, I know). Put longer rear shocks one and haven't scraped once since. Still like the look of the low shocks better though.


I think that's about it. Other then that, I've loved every second of it. Just needed to spend a little more money to make it mine.

I didn't even know pulling the key out in the ACC position was possible until reading about it the other day in another thread. I tried it and sure enough, it does come out. Apparently I haven't done it by accident yet.

[07sporty]

My only complaint is that every once and awhile my brakes have a nice squeal and un needed noise, about that key comin out in accessory pos. the dealer warned me about it when i bought it, i did it once but realized it before i walked away. Just keep an eye on the speedo after you take it out

[whittlebeast]

What can I say... At the time there was no 2007 R in town but she liked the chrome and seating of the Low. "What ever moma wants, moma gets". At the time we were looking the streets were full of snow and salt and we did not have a motorcycle license. I found out about the suspension issues within a mile or two. Within about 150 miles I had a garage full of parts for testing. Now at 300 miles the Hayabusa front calipers are in the mail. Once I figure out how to get one of these to stop I quit.... Oops, also the Megasquirt is coming. The lean surge bugs me. We will get it.

I have been a little supprised how much you have to rev these things to get good smooth power delivery. Like 3200-4200 most of the time. Below that speed I feel too much of the wobble fire Harley motor. In the tight 40 MPH twisties that are common around here I find the bike in 2ed in all but the down hill sections. I shift out of first on most strong accelerations at 40 MPH or 5200 RPM. Who wuold of thunk that, but it feels good.

AW

[obiwan]

I have been a little supprised how much you have to rev these things to get good smooth power delivery. Like 3500-4200 most of the time. Below that speed I feel too much of the wobble fire Harley motor. In the tight 40 MPH twisties that are common around here I find the bike in 2ed in all but the down hill sections. I shift out of first on most strong accelerations at 40 MPH or 5200 RPM. Who wuold of thunk that, but it feels good.
AW

Jeeeezuss !! Your fuel economy must be woeful! :doh

[whittlebeast]

With 5 street cars, a ski boat, 3 jet skis, a race 125 shifter kart and two motorcycles....who cares about stinking gas mileage :) I just want my wife to go along on her own toy.

[obiwan]

With 5 street cars, a ski boat, 3 jet skis, a race 125 shifter kart and two motorcycles....who cares about stinking gas mileage :) I just want my wife to go along on her own toy.
:laugh LOL ... well I guess not! ... you don't also happen to own an oil well do you? :smoke

[dracolich]

My complaint is the key switch. I hate the fact that the key will pull out in the ACC position. :cloudmad

At least you can get your key out! mine gets stuck most of the time and I stand there yanking on it for a few minuets.


The shocks on all of the Low style bikes (11.75" shocks) have to be changed. As delivered from Harley it is almost undrivable.

Nearing 10,000 miles on mine and im just fine with the stock shocks, they dont have to be changed. :dunno

[Crusin_w00kie]

*Stock pipes = too quiet (SE50 state legal was a nice fix)
*Mid controls hurt my knees (fwds installed)
*Stock seat SUUUCCCKKKS (corbin hollywood=comfy)
Stock suspension...meh, good for now I guess.

Weird noises and rattles I'm not used too, part of the HD Sportster charm I guess. :D

[Screw Loose Dan]

At least you can get your key out! mine gets stuck most of the time and I stand there yanking on it for a few minuets.
<insert whitty comment about yanking on it...>

Seriously, it's interesting that your having a problem with this. Mine just started this a week or two ago. I presumed it was from riding around on salty roads.

[rjg883c]

Two of my complaints have already been mentioned. 1. There is not much ground clearance, but that is part of being a 'low' I guess. 2. the suspension is also kind of harsh, also part of being a 'low'. Could fix both with a shock change probably.

My other complaint actually is rather insignificant, but a complaint anyway. Those stupid 'feelers' on the bottom of the footpegs catch the loops in my shoelaces or bottom of my pant legs unless I am careful and have my feet placed far enough out when I stop.

I don't plan on playing 'roadracer' and have no need for the 'feelers'. But when I have an opportunity to remove the feelers, I don't think of it or other things take priority. Most of my 'racer' type riding took place over 30 years ago. And most of that was in the desert on a Suzuki.

[blown99z28]

no complaints really........but the tach would be nice.

[dynamos2000]

No complaints.

[Rascal]

With 5 street cars, a ski boat, 3 jet skis, a race 125 shifter kart and two motorcycles....who cares about stinking gas mileage :) I just want my wife to go along on her own toy.

Wish wife did more things with me also. Unfortunately most of "her" toys take "C" size batteries. :roflblack

(Chill....I was just kidding)

[williard952]

My complaint is that damn diagnostic connector...

Now I've got two diagnostic tools on the ways. (17 yr. old son
goaded me into building the 2nd. one to make room for a display
so-s he could use it on his car). Have to get 2nd. model on
the web page...

http://n952.dyndns.ws/obdii/index.html

-Willy

[brucelee]

My complaint is that I am getting no work done, just riding.

I am going to lose my job!

[doxbike]

My other complaint actually is rather insignificant, but a complaint anyway. Those stupid 'feelers' on the bottom of the footpegs catch the loops in my shoelaces or bottom of my pant legs unless I am careful and have my feet placed far enough out when I stop.

I don't plan on playing 'roadracer' and have no need for the 'feelers'. But when I have an opportunity to remove the feelers, I don't think of it or other things take priority. Most of my 'racer' type riding took place over 30 years ago. And most of that was in the desert on a Suzuki.

No feelers on my R. Damn good thing, 'cuz I wore a flat spot on the bottom outside edge of my right foot peg during the St. Paddy's SoCal ride. Even with the stock 13.25" shocks. I guess I don't lean as hard going left-maybe 'cuz that's on the center line with cagers coming at me.:doh

[Screw Loose Dan]

No feelers on my R. Damn good thing, 'cuz I wore a flat spot on the bottom outside edge of my right foot peg during the St. Paddy's SoCal ride. Even with the stock 13.25" shocks. I guess I don't lean as hard going left-maybe 'cuz that's on the center line with cagers coming at me.:doh

On my 883L, I was always scraping those things. Now that I've switched to the 1200R shocks I went to remove them. The left one was broken off!!:shhhh I guess I was leaning a little hard along the way. The one on the right that I removed is significantly shorter then when it began life.

[Gone]

Still can't understand why H-D does not provide a freaking $.50 spanner wrench so a person can adjust their shocks. I guess they expect a person to take it to the dealer for a $25 adjustment every time they need to go up or down :frownthre . I still want a peanut tank that is at least 1" lower to further hide wiring on the frame backbone and 1" wider on each side. Same basic shape, just a gallon+ more capacity. Oh, I crawled over a gas station speed bump today (I've gone over it with my low-belly sportbikes for years) and crunched the chassis underside. That's unacceptable ground clearance, as the speed bump is about average height. Those are the only nit-picks I have. Took it up to Mt. St. Helens today and it ran sweet. The broken pavement is a challenge for the budget shocks and forks, but it handled like a rail on the smooth turns. The 56-58 mpg was a good bonus now that we have hit $3/gallon gas.

[jl13]

Bought a nightster a week ago and cant get used to the suspension, its HORRIBLE! I also cant believe they didnt include the tach, oh yeah and they want you to keep your rpms at 4k, how will i know if i dont have a stupid tach! I guess i can buy one but still, after paying 10k you expect at tach.

[Hot Rod Sporty]

At least they put a low fuel indicator on the '07's. I'm using the hell out of the reserve! No Tach doesn't bother me. Just use the factory specs re: speed for shifting during breakin.

[bell883c]

At least they put a low fuel indicator on the '07's. I'm using the hell out of the reserve! No Tach doesn't bother me. Just use the factory specs re: speed for shifting during breakin.

My only complaint is that my low fuel light goes on and off all the time. Not really a problem because I only go off of mileage anyways, but I wish I could just turn it off.

[Hot Rod Sporty]

My only complaint is that my low fuel light goes on and off all the time. Not really a problem because I only go off of mileage anyways, but I wish I could just turn it off.



Does it go on when braking ie: gas shifts to front of tank, or what?

[LilHog59]

My only complaint is the weather is not cooperating with warmth and dryness so I can ride................:D

[bell883c]

Does it go on when braking ie: gas shifts to front of tank, or what?

No, I ride about 30 minutes on a straight flat section of interstate to get to work everyday. It just turns on for about a minute then goes off for no apparent reason. I've been told it may have to do with impurities in the fuel, but I'm not sure.

[Screw Loose Dan]

I've been told it may have to do with impurities in the fuel, but I'm not sure.

Did the dealer tell you that? I'm not an expert on fuel (well, actually I'm not an expert at anything), but I can't believe that your bike would run on gas that the float would have a hard time "floating" in. But, eh what do I know??

I have experienced the gas light maybe two times in the 7000 miles I've put on my 07. Both times I had let the gas get low (to the point the light was on for it's intended purpose), then when I refilled the light kept coming on/going off as you describe. Let the bike sit for the night with a half tank or better and no problems in the morning.

Have you tried changing gas stations to see if that alleviates the problem?

[celtic]

well, the iceberg has mostly melted away and the rains have cleaned most of the salt off the roads, so i got to ride 3 times last week.

finally passed the 500 mile break in period, so i opened er up.

all i can say is this sumbitch is BUZZY over 90. after hitting a ton-up a couple times i thought my hands were gonna go numb.

luck for me i'm not planning on going that fast too much.

[Moved On / My Own Choice]

Ok, maybe I've just been around Harleys (and motorcycles) too long, but I don't get some of your complaints. Well, I do understand some of them, but I'm not sure why you'd have expected otherwise.

Examples:

Bought a nightster a week ago and cant get used to the suspension, its HORRIBLE! I also cant believe they didnt include the tach, oh yeah and they want you to keep your rpms at 4k, how will i know if i dont have a stupid tach! I guess i can buy one but still, after paying 10k you expect at tach.

Suspension? You don't buy the LOWEST slammed model and expect a good suspension, that's not how it works. Life is a trade-off form vs. function.

And speaking of, WHY in God's name would they put a TACH on a "bobber" model. I mean, heck, they only PUT a tach on the damn Rs in the first place.

Ya know how the rest of the Harleys and the motorcycling world deals with that (especially with break in).

A - they ADD a tach (which Harley has to love cause it means more $$)

or

B - they read their owner's manual and base it on gear vs. speed.


At least they put a low fuel indicator on the '07's. I'm using the hell out of the reserve!

Again, another Duh, RESERVE is a mechanical low fuel indicator, that's what bikes have been using for uhhh decades, lots of decades.

And for what it is worth, I prefer a mechanical reserve to a low fuel indicator. I mean I know in my head it's essentially the same thing and the fuel lights (and gauge on the BMW) I've had on my last few bikes were dead consistent, but still, there is something reassuring of knowing for certain by the bucking of the motor that you've hit reserve. I guess I'm a traditionalist in that sense.

Two of my complaints have already been mentioned. 1. There is not much ground clearance, but that is part of being a 'low' I guess. 2. the suspension is also kind of harsh, also part of being a 'low'. Could fix both with a shock change probably.



Well, at least you realized it, you buy a low for looks OR for small stature, either way you have to understand the ground clearance (and ride quality) is the price you pay.

Sure you CAN improve the ride quality with better shocks, but I've also seen people with Ducatis and BMWs change out their suspension for "better" shocks too. And when those guys uprage they spend like $1-1.5k on a SINGLE better shock, so we shouldn't be bitching about $200 progressives right... ;)

[bospider01]

My only complaint is that my low fuel light goes on and off all the time. Not really a problem because I only go off of mileage anyways, but I wish I could just turn it off.

i have been looking for anyone else with this problem... sadly youre going through it as well. none of the dealers here can figure it out. ill fill up the tank and within 5 miles, the light comes on, WTF? they have replaced the fuel sensor and checked all wiring, cant fix the issue. im having to use my mileage as well.

[Gone]

Bought a nightster a week ago and cant get used to the suspension, its HORRIBLE! I also cant believe they didnt include the tach, oh yeah and they want you to keep your rpms at 4k, how will i know if i dont have a stupid tach! I guess i can buy one but still, after paying 10k you expect at tach.

Your manual says to keep the revs at 4,000?

[bospider01]

Does it go on when braking ie: gas shifts to front of tank, or what?

mine does it intermittenly, long rides on flat land, ill watch it come and go. usually stays on for bout 9/10s of a mile then goes away. might go another 5-40 miles before ill see it again. random

[bospider01]

Did the dealer tell you that? I'm not an expert on fuel (well, actually I'm not an expert at anything), but I can't believe that your bike would run on gas that the float would have a hard time "floating" in. But, eh what do I know??

I have experienced the gas light maybe two times in the 7000 miles I've put on my 07. Both times I had let the gas get low (to the point the light was on for it's intended purpose), then when I refilled the light kept coming on/going off as you describe. Let the bike sit for the night with a half tank or better and no problems in the morning.

Have you tried changing gas stations to see if that alleviates the problem?

there isnt a float in the 07's, its a fuel sensor (trust me, they just changed mine out to see if it fixed the problem).

[Moved On / My Own Choice]

there isnt a float in the 07's, its a fuel sensor (trust me, they just changed mine out to see if it fixed the problem).

?????????????

Fuel Sensor?

How does it work, turns on light when it "senses" air?

[CT1200]

The fuel Sensor... could it be the sulfur content issue that has been eating fuel pumps and sensors in cars and trucks the past few years? Just a thought?

[xbuzzardx]

And speaking of, WHY in God's name would they put a TACH on a "bobber" model. I mean, heck, they only PUT a tach on the damn Rs in the first place
In my humble opinion, anything you buy with a manual transmission, should have a tach as standard equipment. And a "bobber" should have a tach incorporated into the speedo. Although, since I was aware of this when I bought my bike, I can't really complain.

[whispanic]

I just want my wife to go along on her own toy.

Ummmmmm

Are we talkin about motorcycles?

Either way "Enjoy the ride"!

[Mean Gene]

I can't believe no one's mentioned that fugly ECM stuck in the rear fender. What if I want a "classic" solo saddle or a spring seat? And why in the world did they do away with progressive fork springs on 883L and Nightster?

[The_clownboy]

my only complaint is the battery cover is junk. They should at least put one bolt in it. Had my new sportie out riding, and went over 100 miles. no problems. Headed to work that night and "BAM" side cover flew off and was gone. Still looking for it after buying the chrome repalcement. And does anyone know why a Chrome side cover is $95 and a black painted replacement is $105? I thought paint was cheaper than chrome. What was I thinking? Other then that I love my 1200c even with the shocks set as stiff as they go. Just have to get used to the new sportie rattles and sounds.

[citified]

the stupid seat on the 1200L. I think they design the seats so you have to buy a new one.

[007]

yea battery covers r crap,those clips r rubbish

[idahopilot]

I love my bike (2007 1200R), but the turn signal switch on the right hand doesn't make much sense. Both Left and Right should be on the left side. At speed I hate rolling off of the throttle so I can hit the right turn signal switch.

[rolnlow]

?????????????

Fuel Sensor?

How does it work, turns on light when it "senses" air?

I'm pretty sure its a float, I'll look today

[rolnlow]

there isnt a float in the 07's, its a fuel sensor (trust me, they just changed mine out to see if it fixed the problem).

do you have an 07?

[Urrell]

So do you have any complaints about your new bike? If so what are they and are they fixable? My complaint is the key switch. I hate the fact that the key will pull out in the ACC position. :cloudmad Why is it like this? I have done this twice and come back to a dead battery both times. Other than that I love it. What are your complaints?


The accessory position on the key is for visibility lights only - I have a 2005 model and that's the same. You could use no lights or leave your key in with lights on - Not a good idea for either!!!:doh

[Notabiker]

I love my bike (2007 1200R), but the turn signal switch on the right hand doesn't make much sense. Both Left and Right should be on the left side. At speed I hate rolling off of the throttle so I can hit the right turn signal switch.

I can't seem to put my signal on in time for the right turns. I thought it was because I was use to them both on the left side (Yamaha), but you are right I lose throttle doing it:frownone

Oh, the seat totally sucks, but I can live with it (my built in cushion helps).
I wanted a tach but, wanted to ride it and couldn't wait for them to install one. It will have to wait.

Ordering the Progressive's...

Man, I have lots of complaints about a bike I absolutely ADORE. HMMM...my poor husband!

[Moved On / My Own Choice]

I can't seem to put my signal on in time for the right turns. I thought it was because I was use to them both on the left side (Yamaha), but you are right I lose throttle doing it:frownone

Move your grip closer to the switch...

Either that or you have exceedingly small hands.

K

[mroy05]

About the key getting jammed that you have to yank it.. have the dealer install a new one. I had the same problem with my 04 and it progressively got worse. It was always a little rough until one day that I couldn't turn the key to the off position for about 40 minutes. The dealer changed it out under warranty.

[Notabiker]

Move your grip closer to the switch...

Either that or you have exceedingly small hands.

K

Yes, small hands (size 4 wedding band and it twirls), short arms too, but long on heart:D

[Moved On / My Own Choice]

Yes, small hands (size 4 wedding band and it twirls), short arms too, but long on heart:D


I know Jenn has said the same thing to me sometimes about how she can't turn the signal off when she's in the throttle....

Try sliding that throttle hand all the way up to the inner end of the grip when you need to signal...

if that doesn't work you MIGHT be able to fashion an attachment to the signal switch button so that it extends toward your finger more.

[Notabiker]

I
Try sliding that throttle hand all the way up to the inner end of the grip when you need to signal...

Thanks, I will try that, probably get some getting used to, but better than what I am doin' now.
Thanks, Kev.

[Screw Loose Dan]

I can't seem to put my signal on in time for the right turns. I thought it was because I was use to them both on the left side (Yamaha), but you are right I lose throttle doing it:frownone


Have you seen these turn signal extensions (http://www.jpcycles.com/ProductDetail.aspx?PID=501-530&cs=All) at JP Cycles? I have no idea how they work, just a thought.

http://img.jpcycles.com/zoom/a0fb7873-2e15-4de9-ac93-39f7d56444c1.jpeg

[Moved On / My Own Choice]

Have you seen these turn signal extensions (http://www.jpcycles.com/ProductDetail.aspx?PID=501-530&cs=All) at JP Cycles? I have no idea how they work, just a thought.

http://img.jpcycles.com/zoom/a0fb7873-2e15-4de9-ac93-39f7d56444c1.jpeg

Not the most attractive, but VERY COOL functionally. I'll show em to Jenn and ask if she wants me to get them for her!

Gracias,

Kev

[doxbike]

I love my bike (2007 1200R), but the turn signal switch on the right hand doesn't make much sense. Both Left and Right should be on the left side. At speed I hate rolling off of the throttle so I can hit the right turn signal switch.

A throttle rocker solved my same problem. The heel of your hand keeps the throttle in play. @ $9.95 at any cycle shop or on-line store

[Green_fox]

Ive had the problem with the Dang low fuel light too. I just bought an '07 883C which is my sixth bike but first Harley and overall it's great. I have had it 2 months and already has visted the dealer twice. It has 2,500 and since around 500miles the low fuel light has NEVER gone off. The first time they said they did something that will make the light reset next few times I ride it. It never went off and now I have to wait 10 days for them to get multiple parts to replace in my 883C. O well at least I don't have to pay anything lol, I wish that light was never there though, It just gets annoying

[Notabiker]

Have you seen these turn signal extensions (http://www.jpcycles.com/ProductDetail.aspx?PID=501-530&cs=All) at JP Cycles? I have no idea how they work, just a thought.

http://img.jpcycles.com/zoom/a0fb7873-2e15-4de9-ac93-39f7d56444c1.jpeg

$13.99 I think I will order 'em too. Thanks, I'll let you know how they turn out.

Kev, Agree, not the greatest looking things, sometimes function does win out over form.

[Moved On / My Own Choice]

Kev, Agree, not the greatest looking things, sometimes function does win out over form.

Agreed... it's about 50/50 for me...

[wakeup]

Complaints about a stock harley? of course not...

Really though, all of my complaints have been touched hear. Some of the ones that bothered me the most were the curb feelers and the acc/key issue.

I didn't realize that people were having that many issues with the fuel light. I pretty much go by milage, but depending on the throttle use mine can vary quite a bit.

[celtic]

realize that people were having that many issues with the fuel light. I pretty much go by milage, but depending on the throttle use mine can vary quite a bit.


same here. i didn't have a fuel light on my other bike, so i didn't get used to relying on it.

[Mean Gene]

Complaints about a stock harley? of course not...

Really though, all of my complaints have been touched hear. Some of the ones that bothered me the most were the curb feelers and the acc/key issue.

I didn't realize that people were having that many issues with the fuel light. I pretty much go by milage, but depending on the throttle use mine can vary quite a bit.

Road rash? On you or the bike? Do you have any pics? The bike, I mean. I'm setting mine up similarly and would like to see a Nightster that's been modified. So far, I haven't seen any.

Fuel light? What's that? Mine on my Heritage hasn't worked for months. The damn thing just stays on full. Don't really care to fix it cuz I friend of mine said he had to fix his three times already. I just do it the old-fashioned way...look in the tank...or shake the bike from side to side to hear it sloshing around.
.

[toe]

Really though, all of my complaints have been touched hear. Some of the ones that bothered me the most were the curb feelers and the acc/key issue.




The acc/key removal is a feature. It allows you to run the emergency flashers and to have the key in your pocket...............

[wakeup]

Road rash? On you or the bike? Do you have any pics? The bike, I mean. I'm setting mine up similarly and would like to see a Nightster that's been modified. So far, I haven't seen any.

The road rash was me and the bike, theres a thread I started about it somewhere. Me and the bike are fine now. I don't have any posted pics yet, but I keep telling myself that I'm going to post some.

[Serious]

The only complaint I have is the range. The bike gets good mileage, but it seems like I am constantly puting gas in it. Maybe I am riding to much :smoke

lol

[Darkcityscape]

I had problems with the locks very early on. I squirted WD40 at it and the problem stopped.

[Darkcityscape]

...and the seat on my 1200C is numbing! Was considering getting a new seat. Any recommendations?

[JimmyJammer]

Just picked up an 07 xl883 for a commuter bike. I work in the ghetto and am paranoid about parking my 06 flhrci out there unattended for a second.

ok, my beefs about this bike?

I'm 6 feet tall and weight 240 pounds with broad shoulders..

--mid controls immediately swapped for fwd controls.

--handlebars are too narrow and not too comfy, cant see anything in the mirrors except my chest...thinking hard about swapping for some big wide apes.

--stock seat is a p.o.s. .. swapped out for a corbin classic solo..not really cushy but it was an ebay bargain.

performance wise? well, the "tax" still needs to be paid..leaning towards CS slipons and still undecided about ac..maybe the heavy breather?

the fuel light and the security light came on for me..kicker is i have no security system installed. it only happened once so far so lets see how it works out.

[071200custom]

only complaint so far is the spedo stoped working sunday for a few minutes, other than that perfect

[wannabeebobber]

i dont own a 07 but i do have a 06 the last of the carb models my onlycomplaint with my bike is the hd doesnt offer the factory cast mags on the xl the doen't offer the front in a 21 inch in a natural finish if they made one i'd damn sure buy it

[ClineDesign]

There are times when I turn the key to the on position and nothing happens. I move the key around a bit and it works. Sometimes when the key is inserted and turned on the turn signals and brake lights won't work, when I move the key a little bit they come on. Yesterday the engine shut off while I was riding, I moved the key a little bit and was able to start it and rode 30 miles home without a problem. It's due for it's 1,000 mile check up in a couple of hundred miles, I'll be sure to mention it to the dealer.

[Goshawk]

Oil leaking from both rocker boxes. Oil leaking from center of bike. Tires slide around corners, tire pressure correct. One quart of the oil stays in the crankcase when draining. Thats not an oil change. The forks hammer me on concrete freeway joints. My pants catch on fire.

[Turbota]

For all you folks that complain about the suspension on these bikes .... all you need to do is get a set of quality rear shocks that are at least 13" in length and install a set of Progressive fork springs with some Bel-Ray 15w fork oil .... and all your suspension problems will be a thing of the past.

You will never have a suspension that works for you if you limit yourself to these short 11" - 11.5" rear shocks. There is just no travel in them.

And the stock front fork springs are so poor that they compress horribly when you get on the brakes hard. (front-suspension dive) .... Stock, these Sportys handle just about like an old 70s Buick with real bad shocks!

Fix the suspension and you will be very happy. The Sporty was never intended to be a 'low-rider'

[whittlebeast]

An added oz or 2 of fork oil to each side of the front forks with the stock springs does wonders. Otherwise what Turbota said :) Once you get the bike to stop, you realy notice the front spring thing.

I had an earlier post that came down hard on the EFI but I think the may have a self learn mode. At 800 miles now, it appears to be bettter now. Some day I need to hang a wide band on this thing and see how it's doing :)

Everything I said about the suspension and brakes still applies. Both have been fixed now. See posts on other threads for lots more info.

AW

[Mr.Hick]

My only complaints lie at the DMV.

[doxbike]

For all you folks that complain about the suspension on these bikes .... all you need to do is get a set of quality rear shocks that are at least 13" in length and install a set of Progressive fork springs with some Bel-Ray 15w fork oil .... and all your suspension problems will be a thing of the past.

You will never have a suspension that works for you if you limit yourself to these short 11" - 11.5" rear shocks. There is just no travel in them.

And the stock front fork springs are so poor that they compress horribly when you get on the brakes hard. (front-suspension dive) .... Stock, these Sportys handle just about like an old 70s Buick with real bad shocks!

Fix the suspension and you will be very happy. The Sporty was never intended to be a 'low-rider'


All of the progressive spring I've seen are labeled as "lowering" I don't want to lower my 1200R. Where do you find them?

[binksy]

The reason you can pull the key out in acc position is so when you park on the street at night to go into a shop for instance, your lights stay on so that it doesnt get knocked over by a car. This is what they told me when i bought it, like it or not.

[Turbota]

All of the progressive spring I've seen are labeled as "lowering" I don't want to lower my 1200R. Where do you find them?

Progressive Fork Springs for 04-06 Sportster:
P/N: 11-1527

These are not lowering springs

Sold just about everywhere that sells HD parts

[Goshawk]

I took my bike to the dealership and asked the mechanic if he could just retorque the rocker box bolts, that it would only take a few minutes and I would not have to leave the bike. He says it will not work because once oil finds a path past the gaskets retorquing the bolts will not stop the oil leak. They kept my bike for a week. When I picked it up and asked him what he did he says, "I retorqued the bolts, lets just see what happens." What a retard.

[XL 50]

No complaints.

[Johnzee1]

hi,

(sound of cracking knuckles)

complaints...

1. the !@#@ crap under the seat. how the in the h are you gonna put a sprung seat on with that ...? my seat is great on my "R"....but i planned on a solo and luggage rack.

2. Fork lock.... the grease oil thingi. its already rusted from riding in rain. why not a REAL grease zert?? or at least two piece stainless insert. cause the frame aint stainless.

3. Why not a disc brake lock instead of fork lock? it would take same amount of material but be lower to ground.

4. Front fender skinnier then tire.... 1/4 inch more is all i ask

5. Odometer button on back of speedo. works with key out. why do i have a clock on my bike?

6. They didnt tell us enough about the acc position for key. ? and the slot is a rain catcher. why not have it tilted down 10 degrees?

7. headlight not bright in right places.... should have a visor on it from factory so it dont light up front fender and riders face.

8. front running lights make reflections and blind spots when driving.

9. baffles arent removeable from pipes. or pipe ends

10. O2 sensors are a joke. why not real efi? why just make it expensive for aftermarket pipes and AC and no real improvement over carb?

11. oil dipstick rubs on seat.....why not a standard oil cooler?

12. too much exposed and unnessacery wiring along frame.

13. mirrors suck

14. locking gas cap.... should be standard

15. no tool kit. at least a spanner with a spark plug wrench on other end

dont get me wrong. i like my bike but some of this stuff is just common sense. why cant harley get it right?

I felt robbed when i took off the seat and saw all them wires and crap.

i only had bike a month . give me time.

thanks
John

[u8mymeat]

Not having one to complain about......................

[Darkcityscape]

9. baffles arent removeable from pipes. or pipe ends

10. O2 sensors are a joke. why not real efi? why just make it expensive for aftermarket pipes and AC and no real improvement over carb?

11. oil dipstick rubs on seat.....why not a standard oil cooler?

14. locking gas cap.... should be standard

15. no tool kit. at least a spanner with a spark plug wrench on other end

dont get me wrong. i like my bike but some of this stuff is just common sense. why cant harley get it right?

I felt robbed when i took off the seat and saw all them wires and crap.


What you point out is very true and I did wonder for a while if Harley were a substandard make. But then as I started buying new bits for my bike, the extra expense implied by each of these is enormous. Plus, for the 07, 1200C model you can't get a locking fuel cap!
Like you I really like my bike, but these details are important and the feeling of being ripped off not pleasant.

[sportyerre]

I have an 883R europen version EFI: the bigger limit comes from the suspensions that are ready for a bicycle!
replaced after two weeks with BITUBO (italian product) not i can use it.
The fork will take the same way
But the first trouble went out after two hours of use: a lake of oil came out from the electric starter (gear box oil), the bike was probably produced on friday evening because somebody forgot to mount a sealer!
A quarter of oil (the motor oil this time) consumed in the first 500 miles!
i had two Honda, one Kavasaki one Yamaha and one Beta (Suzuky motor) and i NEVER added oil.
But SPORTY if pure fun!

[jasonious]

?????????????

Fuel Sensor?

How does it work, turns on light when it "senses" air?

It's a float. Look in the service manual. Or open up your tank, like I did :laugh

[whittlebeast]

10. O2 sensors are a joke. why not real efi? why just make it expensive for aftermarket pipes and AC and no real improvement over carb?


What is that based on? Do you have access to the source code to see what Delfi has up their sleeve? What is "real EFI" compared to what we have? Wideband and 100% closed loop? What if the O2's just adjust the long term fuel trims so that the entire map is shifted x% to make up for changes in ambient conditions. Would that be "real EFI" What about O2's that are just used in an effort to detect unauthorized and illegal modifications? Is that "real EFI"?

Just asking :) I have been very involved with coding and trouble shooting "real EFI" for the last several years. I refused to own a Harley untill they offered EFI.

AW

[dr_gille]

2007 1200Low - already ground the tit off the kickstand on a speedbump, drilled it out and tapped for an allen head cap screw to hook the spring on...

Very disappointed in crappy battery cover clips - talk about a dangerous distraction, grab a bump at 60, battery cover flops against leg - "What the F*$!" lean over grab it, pull over, clip it back in. Got home, drill out top of cover, install tie-wrap. One step better than bailing wire... Hmmm.

Certain various washers are starting to rust, so I'm going to basically go through all the hardware that I can easily unscrew, and upgrade, getting rid of the love/to/hate them TORX.. (is it torx, or torx +? yeah its torx + because normal torx bitz woggle around, but its not going to be a problem for long - I actually found a site that has titanium hardware...)

Shocks were hard, but fine for just me, but riding 2up - it became a functional hard-tail, and should come with chiropractor visits. I agonized for a while about what to do, started a thread a couple weeks back, got lots of great advice, most solutions looked ExPen$ive, realized that there isn't a good compromise on a lighter bike like the sporty for 1 vs. 2up, so took the hint off one thread, hit ebay, and bought a set of air shocks for $130.00 - they work great, a whole 'nother bike now, just run 25psi with both of us, and 15 with just me.

Short of that, I'm about ready to begin the customization process, because I of course realized that a Harley is a pre-assembled kit bike, and as soon as you get it, you have to take apart, and put back things like the things you took off, but they have to be slightly different, because only you picked them out.

So now I'm prowling for 2into1 exhaust, and waiting for the various vendors to make the 2007 versions available with o2 sensors, but I also realize you don't just "rejet" fuel injection, so that means going down the computer path too, which adds a bunch more bucks to the scenario, so while you're there, go for the aircleaner mod - but I haven't really found anything super super cool, and am considering designing something myself, because nobody seems to be taking advantage of that old Pontiac concept of Ram Air, and if you've ever seen a Klipsch K-Horn, think horn loaded midrange speaker in reverse -

[Bill2]

So do you have any complaints about your new bike? If so what are they and are they fixable? My complaint is the key switch. I hate the fact that the key will pull out in the ACC position. :cloudmad Why is it like this? I have done this twice and come back to a dead battery both times. Other than that I love it. What are your complaints?

http://www.xlforum.net/vbportal/forums/showthread.php?threadid=50844

How about to use the parking lights without leaving your keys in the ignition?

[ReddTigger]

Now at 300 miles the Hayabusa front calipers are in the mail. Once I figure out how to get one of these to stop I quit....


Do tell, do tell.. Hayabusa front calipers how are ya gonna mount em?

[whittlebeast]

I went with Dyna 4 pots. I ran out of wheel clearance with the Hyabusa stuff. I would of had to take about .100 of the width out of spoke. The bike stops now like a real bike.

see http://www.xlforum.net/vbportal/forums/showthread.php?t=51610&highlight=dyna

AW

[Moved On / My Own Choice]

It's a float. Look in the service manual. Or open up your tank, like I did :laugh

Uh, since I don't have either at this time, that wasn't an option, but thanks, I never would have thought of that on my own :rolleyes: :p ;)

As for Johnz... you made some good observations there with some of the basic stuff, but jeeezzuuss you're one picky mofo (and I thought I was bad like that) and you lost boo-coo (I think it's spelled boucoup or something more like that) points for the EFI comment. Holy sheet man, WTF, do you know of some better way of fine-tuning EFI WITHOUT 02 feedback???? Cause the whole industry would be curious to hear about it.

K

[spurcell]

my biggest complaint has been no standard forward controls on the 07 nightster. It just screams for them. The sportster custom has them and its not nearly as low as the nightster.

[sportsterrific]

Huh? I don't get it. Some of these complaints are about things that should be obvious to the buyer when they look at the bike, before they even sign on the dotted line.

[whittlebeast]

Huh? I don't get it. Some of these complaints are about things that should be obvious to the buyer when they look at the bike, before they even sign on the dotted line.

If this is your first bike and you don't have a motorcycle license, test rides are a little out of the question. Even if I did a test ride I would have no idea what was normal and acceptable. It got very apparent later why Harley has a well deserved reputation.

AW

[bospider01]

do you have an 07?


certainly do. they changed out the sensor on mine and stated that the sensor replaced the float.

[brucelee]

Hey, if you don't like your Sporty, sell it or change it.

That's life, caveat emptor.

[famousperson]

Wow, from all the bitchin' I'm hearing, I shoulda kept my '03!!! No way would I buy an '07 with all of these flaws!!

[MikeOK]

Only 2 complaints, actually one about the bike: the dang auto turn signal off thing, it is very inconsistent, wish it were not even there. I may try to defeat it soon.

Biggest complaint: Harley - release all your bike specs to the wild! Release your 3D drawings! Most of the other bike brands do, besides this is a 50 year old design, not the space shuttle!

[btkicker]

Wow, from all the bitchin' I'm hearing, I shoulda kept my '03!!! No way would I buy an '07 with all of these flaws!!


lawl. 90% of these "issues" YOUR bike shipped with.

[Moved On / My Own Choice]

Wow, from all the bitchin' I'm hearing, I shoulda kept my '03!!! No way would I buy an '07 with all of these flaws!!

Huh? There are only a handful of actual "issues" by my reckoning. And, as BTK pointed out, the MAJORITY of stuff mentioned is the same as it was on your 03.

Only 2 complaints, actually one about the bike: the dang auto turn signal off thing, it is very inconsistent, wish it were not even there. I may try to defeat it soon.


I find that funny, because I USED TO HATE the auto cancel on my 93 and my 96. But ever since they incorporated the lean angle into the equation I find it works GREAT. No complaints at all with that anymore!

[jumpman]

PISS POOR gas milage, Front end feels like its going to shake itself loose, PISS POOR gas milage, Front brakes are spongy, oh and did I mention PISS POOR gas milage ?

[Mean Gene]

PISS POOR gas milage, Front end feels like its going to shake itself loose, PISS POOR gas milage, Front brakes are spongy, oh and did I mention PISS POOR gas milage ?

I installed Gold Valve Emulators, drilled an extra hole in the valves, 10wt fork oil, and a fork brace. I also installed floating rotors.The front end is so stable it's incredible...actually better than my Heritage. It tracks like it's on rails and no sponginess or front-end dive. Gas mileage sucks, but I only have a Race Fueler. As soon as the Race Tuner comes in, I'm putting that on and milage and performance should increase.

[rjg883c]

I find that funny, because I USED TO HATE the auto cancel on my 93 and my 96. But ever since they incorporated the lean angle into the equation I find it works GREAT. No complaints at all with that anymore!


I think the lean angle is the reason for some people's complaint about the self canceling feature being inconsistant. I was feeling the same way, that it wasn't always working, until I paid more attention to those times.

It seems to be a combination of leaning, distance, perhaps even speed. Overall it is a neat feature, the 'lean' part. Bikes have had self canceling signals for many years. Not Harley's perhaps, but other brands had it years ago.

Ron

[MosesJJN]

If you figure out how to defeat the auto turn signals, let me know.

[furry spider]

Oh........where to start?

One month of my dream bike and its :
a) Brutally uncomfortable on these stock shocks.
b) Incapable of holding a steady speed without the EFI "hunting".
c) Unwilling to corner without shedding metal, and its accompanied brown trouser effect,
d) Brakes....don't make me laugh. Technically, this isn't an issue, since it doesn't appear to have any.
e) Apparently, parking this bike anywhere allows complete strangers to come up and talk to me.
f) Getting looked at. Like, all the time, out of car windows at the lights. Big goldfish eyes, through the glass....

I will say this in its favor though : I couldn't ever go back to riding anything else anymore!

:)

[rjg883c]

If you figure out how to defeat the auto turn signals, let me know.

"Defeat" in what manner?

[krono]

What I don't like about the 2008:
- The stock muffler sound, they should come with the new street legal screaming eagle ones from factory.
- the orange reflectors on the sides
- the EFI, I want my carburetor back and the fuel switch and the choke and all
- they should put a wider tire in the back at least 190
- the 21" front laced wheel, it should come with 2 chromed cast wheels
- the license plate holder sucks, like always did

and this really pisses me off
- they KEEP adding holes to the rear fender!! first they had 3 holes for the license plate, then was 4 holes in the 2004, and now they have this huge hole with the damn computer on it... totally sucks

Also, the version of the nighster for non USA markets is totally fugly (check ie euro version, it has a plastic thing on the back, long shocks, more plastic elsewhere, etc)

[Moved On / My Own Choice]

If you figure out how to defeat the auto turn signals, let me know.

We did, months ago :p ;)

[2007Low]

So do you have any complaints about your new bike? If so what are they and are they fixable? My complaint is the key switch. I hate the fact that the key will pull out in the ACC position. :cloudmad Why is it like this? I have done this twice and come back to a dead battery both times. Other than that I love it. What are your complaints?

http://www.xlforum.net/vbportal/forums/showthread.php?threadid=50844

My only complaints so far are the poor gas mileage and the engine stumble on cold startup.

I've seen a vast improvement in gas mileage after having the HD Tech Tip done for the fuel pump pressure regulator and as for the engine stumble I'm going back to the dealer next weekend for round two on this problem. See the thread, "Engine Stumble on Cold Startup".