I'm a fair wrench and in the past performed maintenance on my own MC's, including valve adjustments on my BMW Boxer. I have no reason not to trust my dealer, although when I purchased the bike (new) it was 1/2 quart low on oil. Just concerned that they will change fluids, start it up, ok runs fine, and charge me $300. Can I really be sure that they will do everthing recommended without me standing over them? What would you do?

 

I am a DIY kinda guy but I think the 1K service MAY be better left to the dealer, especially if you are confident in their work. There are alot of things that they should check on a new bike that are learned by looking at new bikes. Typical problems that are not on your service manual. AFter the 1K though, get out your wrench and enjoy. my .02 cents.[&:]

 

Buy the manual and do it yourself. Much more satisfaction when you're doing it youself

 

Do it yourself. You have control over the tlc, thoroughness, and quality of the fluids you put in your ride. The only thing mine goes in for is warranty work. Maybe I'm cheap, but I would rather spend that labor money on some mods, or a day on the road.

 

I've been riding Harleys for 30 years and can do just about anything with the manual but I still would let them do the 1000 mile service. They will look for problems that can pop up early. They will also check for any codes you may have thrown during the first miles. I like to keep the warranty in good standing with HD.

 

Bill,

I agree with the others --- let the dealer do the 1K service.

Then get a service manual and do the rest yourself!

By the way, you said the oil was 1/2 qt low. If you mean the oil was half way up the dipstick rather than at the "full" level, then it was where the service manual recommends. HD wants the oil level below the full mark - its in the manual!

JMHO

 

NO reason why you can't do it yourself. Get to know your bike!

 

I can turn wrenches with the best of them. Built a few stroker Shovelhead motors and many small block Chevy's and Fords. I too have bought the manual ($60.00) for my Road King.
That being said, Iam letting a dealer do my 1000 mile service.

The only question is which dealer

 

What is recommended for the 1K service and do the valves on this bike need to be checked every 8k like my old VTX1800 or are they self adjusting. I really don't know to much about the bike yet.

Steve

 

DYI