Question:

What should I do every 500 miles?

Engine Idle Speed

Every 500 miles, check that engine idle speed!

Rear Fork Pivot Nut

Check the rear fork pivot nut every 500 miles. Hey, nuts on the loose can cause a lot of problems!

Leaks

Inspect your bike's oil lines and brake system for leaks every 500 miles.

Test Ride

Road test your bike after every 500 mile maintenance session. Take it slow and easy and be sure everything is running the way you want it to be... safely.

Brake Hand Levers, Throttle Cables, Clutch Control Cables

Lubricate your bike's front brake hand lever, throttle control cables and the clutch control cable every 500 miles.

Lubricate...

Lubricate the springer steering head bearings on your bike every 500 miles.

Air suspension

Check the air suspension for correct operation and leakage at 500 miles. Check it every 500 miles, after that, as well.

Brake Fluid

Another check that should take place every 500 miles is your check of the brake fluid reservoir levels and condition.

Links and Mounts

At 500 miles and every 500 miles after that you should check the stabilizer links and the engine mounts.

Air cleaner check

Inspect your bike's air cleaner and service it, as required at 500 miles.

Electrical

Check the operation of your Harley's electrical equipment and switches every 500 miles. This just makes good sense. Don't jury rig something that could cost you your life, and don't skimp on or just plain overlook your electrical equipment.

Cruise Control

Check the cruise control/disengage switch every 500 miles and be sure all systems are functioning. You sure don't want to find out in a clutch that you can't accelerate if you need to, cause you can't shut off your cruise control.

Brake Pads

500 miles? It's time to inspect brake pad linings and discs for wear. This could save your life, so take the time to do it.

500 mile check

Replace your oil filter at 500 miles. Whether you think you need it or not, your bike will appreciate it and run better for it.

Transmission

Change transmission lubricant and clean magnetic drain plug every 500 miles. You'll thank yourself, and your bike will thank you, too.

Primary Chaincase

Check your primary chaincase and lubricate & clean the magnetic drain plug every 500 miles.

Wheel Spoke Tightness

Check the bike's wheel spoke tightness for safety's sake, every 500 miles.

Jiffy Stand

Lubricate the jiffy stand every 500 miles.

Every 500 Miles

Change your oil and oil filters every 500 miles. Check those brake pads and linings for wear. While you're at it, give the bike a thorough once over. If you aren't sure how to do it, go see your Harley Service Department, your fav mechanic, or another reputable wrench monkey. Ask to have a 500 mile maintenance check done on your bike- Don't leave! Arrange to hang out,watch,and learn, as the pro checks out your bike. You can learn a lot from a grease monkey. Just be nice! Monkeys have been known to throw their own...well, you know, at people that aggravate them!

Harley Frequently Asked Questions

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