I'm a new HD owner. Bought me a used 2002 HD Sportster XL883. I love it so far, but getting it started and going first thing in the morning has been a chore (and learning experience). The bike only has 6,700 miles, but has to be choked to start up. I live in Arkansas where it's routinely 100+ degrees and I'm still having to choke it to get it going. I'll let it idle for a few minutes and then I'm usually good to go. I sometimes have to ride it a little with the choke pulled out some to prevent stalling. There's no problems once it's warm. Runs like a dream. I've talked to a few people and read a few posts and this just seems to be the "nature of the beast." I've heard all Harley's are cold natured and take a while to warm up. I'm just wanting some experienced opinions on here. I was thinking there may be something wrong with the bike. Sure hope not. I appreciate anyones help.

 

I have a 2010 1200 48 and it is much happier when I let it warmup for at least 5-10 minutes.

 

that's too much foreplay aaron.

 

That is the nature of the beast! You should let your bike warm up until the rear cylinder is warm to the touch at the very least. I try to let mine go until the rear cylinder is almost hot through my glove. I have blown a head gasket by getting hard into a cold(not properly warmed up) engine.

not to nit pick but on the Harley, they are referred to as the enricher ****. The black plastic, knurled ring at the rear of it is a tension adjustment. A properly adjusted enricher **** should go in as the motor warms up without touching it.
Good luck and congratulation on your purchase.
John

 

Yup, cold blooded. Full choke for 45-60 seconds on the engines first start of the day. Half choke for a minute or two after that. Gives me time to get "suited up". Then I ride for a few blocks before pushing the choke all the way in.

 

Even in 100 degree heat an engine that has been sitting for several hours will need the choke to start. 100 degrees ambient seems hot to us, but to an engine where combustion chamber temperatures are above 1,500 degrees and the exhaust headers will run around 300 degrees at idle, that 100 degree ambient temperature is pretty chilly. Ride the bike and enjoy it, everything's fine.

 

Sounds normal, and the OP is doing the correct thing.

 

What part of Arkansas?

 

The more the better.

 

I too have a 2002 883 XLH. She too needs to be choked when first started. The way I have learned to do mine is: 1. Make sure it is in neuatral. 2. Turn on the key.3. Pull the choke out fully. 4. Give two quick twists of the throttle.5. Start. 6. Push choke in about half way or so, and let idle for a bit before riding. 7. Before riding, I push the choke in till she idles just above normal, then while i'm riding at about mile 2 or so, I push it all the way in and shes good to go.