Hello all
I'm Serghei, I usually float around between Westchester (home) & Plattsburgh NY(college), been riding about a year now, and just bought my first Harley ('08 Nightster). I started out on a VN750, & based on word of mouth/internet browsing got the vibe that Japanese bikes were always the most reliable/least maintenance. However, I did find the Vulcan unpleasant to perform repairs on, and once my motor gave in (at a nice ripe 10,000 miles), I decided to get another bike. I've always heard mixed reviews about Harleys, but noticed that the parts market is near infinite & most of them appear very easy to fix (I do most work myself), not to mention, a larger community of knowledgeable individuals.
I'm probably not gonna have much time to ride in the next few weeks, but in this time, what should I watch out/prepare for on the 1200 Evo? I've heard they're nearly bulletproof, but something about rocker boxes & the clutch spring plate being a problem, if someone can fill me in?
Anyways, well, this is my first actually nice bike so, let's see where it goes....

 

I like to fix things till they break.
So , I am of little help there, but most importantly....
Welcome Aboard, ride often and ride some more when the weather co-operates.
Rob

 

And Hi from the UK! You ask about rocker boxes and clutch springs, but I suggest you ignore such things and enjoy the ride. Spend a little time in here and read more about them, to get a better impression - as they are not issues to worry about IMHO. The internet is infamous for raising anxiety about things of no great consequence!

 

 

Thanks for the welcome all, unfortunately I only got a few minutes to ride today before parking it till the next time I see it. Still have to get used to it, but I'm feeling pretty comfortable on the Sporty. Almost had a heart attack & cracked up like a madman getting on the highway, so I think I'm gonna have fun with this thing.

 

Welcome to the forums, nice bike!
I frequented Plattsburgh quite often while I was stationed at Fort Drum. I've always wanted to go back and ride through the Adirondacks! Your Nightster should rip through those roads with ease. ENJOY!

 

No major worries with that bike ... welcome and enjoy.

 

 

'actually nice bike' Yes! A very nice bike. I like the laced wheel look. I've had good luck with the Sportster, you should experience the same: skinny frame, big jugs bla bla. Have fun!

 

Congrats on your first Harley! Nice looking ride.

What you heard about the rocker boxes is that the rocker cover gaskets are prone to seeping. Nothing to worry about. If you see them seeping, and want to, replace the gaskets. Quick easy job.

What you heard about the clutch is that the rivets in the plate are prone to letting loose. This typically happens at the low end around 10k miles, and more often around 25-35K miles. All depends on luck of the draw AND how aggressively you ride.

I would not let that go too long, if they let go it could be expensive, and replacing the clutch pack with one that does not have rivets is much less expensive.

Have fun on your new ride!!!