Good points all. I think how much you ride can make a big difference in the decision. Me, I ride an average of about 20k per year so the miles pile up pretty fast. In my case the ESP is a must and has saved me $,$$$ on the four bikes I've kept long enough to get out of factory warranty. Except for my 2012 I've always waited until just before the factory warranty expired to purchase the ESP. But on the 2012 I wanted to add the wheel and tire coverage so I'd have that even during the time the factory warranty was in effect. Good thing too since I damaged a wheel and it paid for the wheel and tire - oh yeah, and two more tires that picked up nails. And the ESP is a bit cheaper ($150 when I bought it I think) if you buy it within the first 90 days of ownership I think it is.
Jerry,
I have to agree with your post all around. Here is my experience.
Most of the mods on my bike were made by my dealer. My bike is 4 yrs old with 59k miles. I have had to use the ESP coverage at least 4 times on this bike. My return on investment in the ESP is at least 100% over that 4 years.
1. I had a clutch bearing go on me and got the whole clutch pack assembly replaced and they also discovered the door cover bearing was worn out and replaced it.
2. Then is was leaking gasket at the heads.
3. And a cracked oil pan.
They covered the rental car in case #1 for 5 days. I probably could have gotten my room reimbursed but it was my destination and I already have the room booked. If you are going to breakdown, nice to breakdown once you arrive at your destination.
In all cases, the dealer never asked about modifications and it's in the best interest of the dealer to not even bring it up as long as they are getting paid for their work/parts. Also, the ESP agents have never asked about mods either. The only mod I know of that will kill a warranty automatically is putting a trailer hitch on your bike.
Regarding pricing on ESP, I have been shopping a new bike (FLTRUSE) and got the following quotes so far. I believe this pricing will vary by model though the majority are likely looking at a touring bike.
Dealer 2+3 ESP 2+5 ESP
#1 $1900 $2700
#2 $2100 $2700
#3 $1644 $2399
#3 offered to work up a better deal on the price of the ESP.
I have heard of others doing even better on ESP pricing with recent purchases but I will leave it to them to share their information.
For me, it's just a matter of deciding to go for +3 or +5yrs. Given that you can't extend once you hit 75k miles, it might be a good strategy to do a +3 and then re-up for an additional +5yrs if that is even allowed per the HD/Insurance rules.
More than $0.02
DH