Hello, I have an '08 Rocker-C VTWIN 96" with a dakota digital instrument cluster. It reads the engine temperature from the sensors on the bike and I routinely see engine temperatures at 270F when riding at 55mph in 70F weather. If I get stopped at a light the temperature will rise over 300F. If I see it get near 330F I shut it off unless I can keep rolling and cool it down.
I don't have synthetic oil in it, do you think that would help?
Harley seems unconcerned and when I was at the HQ in Wisconsin four months ago I forgot to ask. Doesn't seem to be any published information. Local dealer's do not seem concerned.
Thank you so much in advance.
That temp is def high. I'd have it verified with a known 'accurate' temp sensor. Synthetic will prob reduce it some.
And a side note...When i did a little searching to see what others are saying, Lookee what site was # 2 on the google search responses...
After reading your post I was getting ready to give the same exact answer as Rex. First I would verify the sensor is correct. Second run Synthetic lube which will definately reduce friction, thus reducing the temp slightly.
That said I have heard others say there bike will get up over 300 when at idle for a period of time. Since it is Air Cooled it does need air to run at its designed average temp.
If you spend lots of time at idle... ie ride a lot in traffic... you might want to think about adding an oil cooler.