Yes i t is connected and its also a good ground - the rope ground under the bike from the lower frame to the inner primary come loose and can play with your head

I would remove it completely and clean everything and re install with new un rusted bolts < you might even find it loose when removing it

 

I finally got some good weather to get the FXR out with the new ignition and VOES switch. The bike ran fantastic light load and heavy load. Now to get some miles on it this spring!