I have an Ultra Limited. Up until recently starting it up was not an issue. The past two weeks after the bike has sat in my garage for a week or so I had to crank it 4-5 long cranks to get it started. I thought the problem may be moisture in the gas tank, but last week when I turned the bike off after a 15 mile ride and the bike was still warmed up, I had the same problem trying to start it up. Once started the bike runs fine. I have not yet made any modifications to the exhaust or a Stage One. The battery is fine as are all connections.

Do you think the problem might be moisture in the gas tank? The dealer thinks so. I plan on putting in some fuel stabilizer or something that can absorb any moisture in the tank and also putting on HD's platinum plugs.

Any other thoughts on what may be causing this condition other than moisture? Any thoughts on what else I should try?

Thanks in advance.

 

its because its freezing out..the parts get stiff and dont want to move,fuel gets condensation in it from temp changes,..even if you keep it heated all the time the air in winter is denser,and the engine isnt ran as much to keep it cleared out..let it hibernate till spring,then get it out and ride it

 

check the plugs.

 

Plugs are clean. I checked them but forgot to mention it.

 

a tiny bit of heet for removing the water would probably work just fine. it's based on alcohol that homogenizes the water with the fuel so it'll burn and not harm anything. the stuff is cheap and really does remove the water from condensation in your tank and fuel system. i'd sure give heet a try, that's what it's called "heet" comes in a yellow plastic bottle and is under two bucks at walmart. a shot glass or two should do it.

 

Bet that tastes like chit! I'll stick with Budweiser or tequilla...

 

If it is an alcohol based product you might want to be careful. I think H-D only approves of a minimal amount of alcohol in the fuel - it has a tendency to corrode aluminum parts. As another example of additives that will probably void your warranty, the owners manual recommends not to use octane boost - something I wanted to use when I get the crap gas when travelling.

 

What year and how old is the battery. See another post re battery life. An old battery on the way out will impact the ability to start a FI bike

 

Plugs can 'look' good, and still be a problem.
They don't cost much to change.

 

Bike is less than one year old. About 1,500 miles on it and 700 miles after first service.
Plugs and battery appear to be fine.