have a 08 street bob
the noise never happens the first time i start it in the day,
but if it runs, then it's off for a few minutes when i start it back up (holding in clutch, tranny in neutral, holding the start switch) there is a grinding metallic noise
thought it was the starter at first but noticing today it sounds like it's in the primary....

today for the first time it did it about 3 times before starting(never let off button or let out clutch) after riding about 150miles and cutting it off for a few minutes

sounds like it's gonna start then it's a metallic grinding noise but like something is sticking, usually turns over after

 

Well the starter engages the ring gear which resides in your primary.

 

This is from an old post but I have the same problem with my 08 streetbob did you ever find out what was wrong.

 

Sounds to me from your description as though your starter drive is failing. Does the engine ever kick back on a hot start?

 

Iam sorry do you mean does it turn on after I try and start it again. It does start after I hear The grinding.

 

When I say kick back, I mean does or did it ever it ever start to turn, then stop turning and kick back in the other direction. It's a pretty distinct event, although you can't see it happening, the sound is unmistakeable. It is usually caused by a hot spot in the cylinder (happens on a hot restart soon after shutting it down) or incorrect ignition timing, whether from incorrect setting or a malfunction. Most electronic ignition systems for electric start that I am familiar with do not send fire to the plugs until the engine rotates three times, to build momentum, but if the engine doesn't start on the first attempt, will fire on the next compression stroke unless you turn off the switch between tries.
That said, I am not familiar with Harley's newer electronics. The Evo is as modern as I get.

There are other possibilities for your problem, such as low voltage, either at the battery or at the starter, a weak solenoid, damaged ring gear or pinion gear, bad starter shaft bushings in the inner or outer primary ... I'm assuming the starter drive setup on a twin cam is essentially the same as an Evo.
Have you changed the primary fluid lately? Was there much metal on the magnetic drain plug?

 

I am going to take it in to Harley I still have a warrenty Thank you for all the Help.

 

The starter clutch is failing.

 

Bet you $100 that the Compensator has grenaded....... I hope I win!

 

I believe a bad compensator would show up at other times than starting.
I'd still bet on the starter drive (clutch). I went through several on an aftermarket high torque starter before switching from an S&S 561 cam to the S&S 585V, which has lower cranking pressure, and an aftermarket 84/9 tooth ring and pinion.