Being that my 2010 Ultra is my first ever Harley I'm wondering if I should remove the lowers when the weather starts to warm up.

I know that there's a lot of heat that is generated by the bike especially from the cats but my bike has the cats removed. Would the motor be ok with the lowers still on the bike in temps above 80 degrees?

 

Its my experience that removing lowers does cool engine by dispersing heat, so beneficial from that standpoint.

Its also my experience that having the lowers on provides more stability to the bike in windy riding including when an 18 wheeler goes by you.

 

also, in city riding doesn't matter if they're on or off, gets hot either way. and in the city wind stability not so much of an issue.

 

I think my bike runs cooler with the lowers on while I am moving. Seems to deflect the oncoming air right to the motor...

 

Someone here proved that the engine runs a little cooler with the lowers on, due to then channeling more air to the engine.

The only consideration is your comfort. Personally, I just put my feet on the highway pegs.

This is my bike in the Badlands on a 104 degree day. I was a little warm, but the bike performed like a champ.

 

My own testing on a 105º ambient day showed oil temps ( measured at the tank) 25º lower with fairing lowers on.

1/2 mile at 30 MPH
9 miles at 65 MPH
1/4" turnaround
9 miles at 65 MPH
1 miles at 20 to 30 MPH

So mine stay on all year around

mike

 

Great. You guys just eased my concerns. I was hoping I can keep them on. Thanks.

 

I thought it was you.... but I didn't want to put words in your mouth.

 

I removed just the lowers vent flaps. Don't know if it improves things or not, but, it's never cold enough here that I need them anyhow.

 

Leave them on.