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CVO Social => Pictures => Topic started by: Buy early on September 18, 2008, 12:23:51 PM

Title: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on September 18, 2008, 12:23:51 PM
Have done a few mods and added a few things since I purchased my bike in July.

http://www.cvoharley.com/smf/index.php?topic=26287.msg426247#msg426247 (http://www.cvoharley.com/smf/index.php?topic=26287.msg426247#msg426247)


Posting some photos to show what I've done. Always interested in feedback. The goal here is to personalize and dress up the bike as well as to make it more functional. Chrome being one the things that does both - it obviously dresses up the bike and makes it so much more functional as each chrome tidbit creates another mirror-like surface for you to see your reflection in! Another opportunity on this particular bike is adding gold items. Trying to stop short of "Pimp my ride" status, may have failed already.

We'll start with the footpeg additions. Added 3 sets of Kuryakyn flamin pegs (two pair are the flamin switchblades). Actually came out better than planned. I now have a virtual floorbaord from the lower portion of the swingout section to the top of the highway peg yet can close the swingarm and go back to a more standard look. The set I put on the passenger peg position keeps the passengers heel off the pipes, greatly reducing (almost eliminating) the molten shoe sole problem.


Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on September 18, 2008, 12:26:17 PM
Switchblade peg closed
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on September 18, 2008, 12:27:38 PM
Here's a shot of the passenger peg open
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on September 18, 2008, 12:32:29 PM
My first gold mod was adding a pair of Kuryakyn flamin grips. Prior to mounting, I removed the rubber isogrip portion and took them to a detail shop and had the chrome removed and gold applied. Not sure how durable the gold will be but they turned out pretty cool. Near as I can tell they added about 2 HP per grip, torque figures did not change. Also added a Kuryakyn helmet lock end to the grip. Pay no attention to the fat guy in the mirror!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on September 18, 2008, 12:36:51 PM
Next gold mod was purchasing a pair of HD flame rear turn signals and making another trip to the detail shop for a slightly more delicate operation. Mr. Gold man stripped the chrome off just the raised flame portion of each signal and golded the flame. Photo is a bit blurry bit I think you get the idea.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on September 18, 2008, 12:39:24 PM
another shot of one of the turn signals. Was not thrilled with the way the post installation came out. Didn't realize the nut would be showing and that it wouldn't be a cleaner look. Part of it has to do with the turn signal relocation kit required because of the saddle bag mounting hardware and the luggage rack.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on September 18, 2008, 12:47:27 PM
While out at bike week in August (rode both ways) I ordered a new Corbin dual tour saddle. Had the flame stitch pattern added and purchased one backrest. This mod was for my wife. The original passenger seat pillion isn't made for humans. She has her own bike so not sure how much use the back seat will see but I wanted the option. Turned out OK. Will be ordering another backrest pad but will mount in on an HD sissy bar for a cleaner look. Don't like the black back of the backrest, wish it were chrome or covered with leather. Something to work on over the winter.

A couple other mods here include the HD gold flames derby and inspection covers and front fender extension.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on September 18, 2008, 12:48:54 PM
Another shot of the seat
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on September 18, 2008, 12:51:01 PM
I like the way the flame stitching turned out although I wish it were thicker. Original medium height sissy bar and pad do not go with this seat (they look fine with the stock one however).
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on September 18, 2008, 12:54:44 PM
Throttle side controls show chrome tidbits added by second owner (cover, integrated turn signal mirrors, switch housing & pistol grips) and by me (clock, trim rings, throttle boss, chrome switch covers, and grips). Love the details!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Hugh Janis on September 18, 2008, 12:57:36 PM
everything goes very well together and is well thought out.  I love those new pegs, bad as hell!  :2vrolijk_21: :pepper:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on September 18, 2008, 01:01:17 PM
The second owner replaced the stock bars with mid sized ape hangers. Didn't like the look myself so I switched to Kuryakyn Big'uns T bars. Pleased with the change. Second owner also added the windshield. Mod required to do so included cutting off lower portion of plexiglass to fit over sport fairing. My add to this was finding a flaming plexiglass piece on e-bay for $75 and replacing the stock plexi with this. Got to do the surgery myself on the second shield. I had seen this windshield in the HD catalog but not offered for Wide Glides. Pleased with the result - although would have been nice if the flames had been gold!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on September 18, 2008, 01:08:14 PM
Front shot of the windshield and the new headlamp recently installed. Much brighter at night! Wanted to go with HID system but from what I read, they can be finnicky. Will wait until more folks have experience with them. One disappointment was the black lamp cover. Many of the ones I have seen are chrome. Not a big deal but jeez, why not chrome??? Have actually thought of disassembling the headlamp and taking the lamp cover to Mr, Gold man! We'll see.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on September 18, 2008, 01:12:52 PM
The original owner swapped out the stock speedo for this electronic speedo/tach combination. He also added the fuel filler flames cover (nice touch). I added the air temp guage mounted to the headbolt. Gotta love those flamin pegs, they stick out just far enough. When I did lay my bike down the peg rub nub took most of the beating.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on September 18, 2008, 01:20:17 PM
I benefitted greatly from both previous owners of this putt. Owner #1 upgraded the original 88 CI motor to a Screamin' Eagle 95. He put $5K in the motor alone. Owner #2, a great guy from Illinois, shared my love of chrome. He upgraded the original wheels to the HD fully polished Thunderstar wheels and upgraded the stock brake calipers to the full chrome models. Thanks Tony! My only add was the HD flame brake caliper inserts and a few chrome bolt covers. A thing of beauty even if it does constantly beg to be polished.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on September 18, 2008, 01:28:10 PM
Business side of bike shows the new (although discontinued) V&H Q series pipes. While at rally week, I stopped by the V&H exhibit and asked the rep if they would be making flame tips for this exhaust. He informed me that was unlikely because they had been discontinued due to lack of interest. He said, "nobody wants quieter pipes on their Harley!" Well, sad to say, I am one of those guys. The engine mods from owner # 1 made the bike too loud for my neighborhood so I set out to quiet it down a bit. I am very pleased with the sound and the look (although I would like flame tips). I would wager that it is still louder than stock but no longer wakes the dead. Cuthbertss out in Colorado was kind enough to relieve me of the V&H straight shots that came off. Interestingly enough, they are now on his FXDWG2 so they remain a CVO upgrade.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on September 18, 2008, 01:34:34 PM
Did ya catch that HD valve stem cover upgrade!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on September 18, 2008, 01:36:39 PM
OCD in full bloom!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: GregKhougaz on September 18, 2008, 01:41:57 PM
Very nice detail work, Buyearly!!   :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: naitram on September 18, 2008, 01:42:48 PM
looks good, hard to tell from the photo, but is the windshield touching the paint?
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on September 18, 2008, 01:54:09 PM
Naitram- - the windshield clears the paint by about 1/4 inch all around. The chrome trim piece is also pretty soft plastic. I don't believe fork travel impacts the shield moving towards the fairing. This is a mod greatly detailed here

http://www.cvoharley.com/smf/index.php?topic=719.0;all (http://www.cvoharley.com/smf/index.php?topic=719.0;all)

This wasn't a Super Sport windshield but the theory is the same. Thinking of getting one of the Super Sport models and having a good painter put gold flames on it. More winter projects!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on September 18, 2008, 05:55:44 PM
NOW I know why the price of gold has been going up so much lately.   ::) Nice mods and I love the efforts you're going to on the 'details'.  Keep giveing us the pics on the mods.  :) spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: MikeD on September 19, 2008, 08:19:59 AM
Looks good, the only thing I would have added would have been the matching brake rotors.  Just my .02...
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: FLYNDYNA on September 19, 2008, 08:57:52 AM
Awesome pics and a really cool bike Buy early...I am slightly green with envy! I must now alert my wife to the possibility that I will need to work a third job so I can get one...
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on September 19, 2008, 10:43:42 AM
Looks good, the only thing I would have added would have been the matching brake rotors.  Just my .02...

Thanks for the input Mike. Added them to my wishlist. Will get them on the next time the wheels come off.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: ice6900 on September 19, 2008, 10:55:57 AM
its a work of art, but i^m not a fan of tan seats, nice bike!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on October 05, 2008, 10:31:10 AM
Latest upgrade - finally got the vanity plates on.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on October 23, 2008, 09:40:48 AM
Just got in the Kuryakyn flame shifter peg. Nice piece of work. Completes the left side controls. Waiting for the flame brake pad due out soon.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on October 23, 2008, 09:41:58 AM
Got the Kuryakyn flame shift linkage and took it to Mr. Gold Man. turned out great, can't wait to see it on the bike!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Tommy2Tall on October 23, 2008, 09:34:43 PM
Very nice mods to a very nice bike,  you have put a lot of thought and effort into the bike.  That was actually the first CVO I thought of buying but after taking it out on a test drive found out it just didn't fit me.  I finally traded my 07 CVO Springer in for a 07 nonCVO Ultra.  The bike isn't the same eye catcher as my springer but goodness its comfy, going to do a 500 Mile ride this weekend with the wife aboard.  Anyway great looking bike.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: FLYNDYNA on October 24, 2008, 09:05:56 AM
Buy early...I can't wait to see the latest pics after installation!!! By far, one of the bikes I would like to have...but you have far exceeded the "best in show"...fantastic additions to an awesome scoot!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: bikerman101 on October 24, 2008, 03:05:30 PM
His wallet will be in real bad shape now that we are moving into winter.lol No riding..only time for upgrades and mods.lol Nice looking scoot Buy!!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on October 24, 2008, 11:37:32 PM
Bikerman knows what he's talking about. Another week or two of riding up here and it's either spring for heated clothing, ship the bike to AZ or tuck it in for the winter. All three are options at this time. It's a tough decision.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on November 01, 2008, 05:48:02 PM
Finally got the proper Corbin back rest and HD sissy bar. Satisfied with the look for 2 up riding. Probalby won't be used much because my wife is into riding her own bike but wanted the option.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on November 01, 2008, 05:49:36 PM
View from the back. Still want to change the back of the rider backrest. Thinking of getting the Corbin chrome oval and putting some red leather in the center or having tan leather glued to the back of the black piece. Always looking for input and options.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on November 01, 2008, 05:50:43 PM
View of the bike with the Corbin. I think the back of the bike looks too heavy and prefer the stock seat with the mini sissybar and backrest.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: amigo Jorge on November 01, 2008, 08:03:27 PM
View of the bike with the Corbin. I think the back of the bike looks too heavy and prefer the stock seat with the mini sissybar and backrest.

I think that you are right mi amigo.... :confused5:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on November 03, 2008, 07:31:50 PM
I think that you are right mi amigo.... :confused5:
I 2nd that!  :huepfenlol2: har!  spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: planenut on November 04, 2008, 10:30:44 PM
very cool nicely done    :2vrolijk_21:  :2vrolijk_21:   
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on November 17, 2008, 04:46:54 PM
Finally got my bike back today after 10K service, winterization and a few upgrades. At MikeD's suggestion, I got the matching Thunderstar rotors installed. Nice finishing touch for the wheels.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on November 17, 2008, 04:47:59 PM
Also had the chrome transmission interface installed. Just can't get enough chrome!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on November 17, 2008, 04:49:45 PM
Also had them install a chrome high output starter as my stock one was failing and figured I might as well upgrade as long as they needed to go in there.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on November 17, 2008, 04:50:59 PM
Got the chrome inner primary I have been wanting since purchasing the bike. Looks great and does an awesome job reflecting the new flame shift linkage that I had gold treated prior to install. Also found some very nice gold spark plug wires that go with the theme.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on November 17, 2008, 04:52:15 PM
Close-up of the shift linkage. Turned out better than I had imagined.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on November 17, 2008, 04:59:01 PM
But the little details trip my trigger the most and upgrading the headlight reflector is something I have wanted to do ever since I saw the black one that came with the lamp. Pretty incredible story as they don't sell the reflector as a part and I didn't want to take the bike out of service to remove the one inside.

I was at the dealership preparing to purchase a whole new headlamp just to get the reflector out and my service manager (a great guy and new friend) had searched the parts system for 45 minutes trying to find an exploded view of the lamp and a part number for the reflector.

He finally got so frustrated he went back into the service area to check with a few technicians on the situation and came out 10 minutes later holding a chrome reflector in his hand. One of the mechanics had just removed a broken headlamp and went into his garbage bin and retrieved it. He popped out the reflector and said "is this what you are looking for?" Total cost - $0. Now I had to decide if I wanted to replace the black one with this new chrome number or upgrade it to gold. That took about 20 minutes of mind wrestling and off to Mr. Gold man I went. $26 later - gold reflector!

I would be surprised if there are any more of these out there because it is such a pain in the ask to get one. I am most thrilled by this upgrade because it comes with a great story!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: SBB on November 17, 2008, 05:10:45 PM


B/E

That is a fine looking bike!
I like the details on the bike.
Be careful around dOOd, he likes a chrome starter.
Your headlight looks great.
You should be proud of that machine!

SBB
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Fired00d on November 17, 2008, 06:05:44 PM
B/E,
Bike looks awesome. :2vrolijk_21: Great mods tastefully done. Don't pay any attention to S/B about the starter I do want one, but I'll get mine like you did yours.... when it goes bad. ;D

 :pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
 :fireman:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on November 17, 2008, 07:22:15 PM
Keep posting your 'upgrades'........they're looking great!  :2vrolijk_21: har!  spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Gettinold on November 17, 2008, 07:40:55 PM
Lookin good  :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: bikerman101 on November 20, 2008, 01:33:53 PM
Can I hold your wallet?? :huepfenlol2:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on November 20, 2008, 03:19:23 PM
Can I hold your wallet?? :huepfenlol2:

Shouldn't be a problem, it's much lighter now!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on November 26, 2008, 07:11:13 PM
Had been trying to sharpen up the clutch cable area for several months. Stock routing attachment was 2 pieces of black plastic. Not worthy of serious CVO OCD! Finally saw the solution on the new CVO Fat Bob. Because the WG2 frame is thicker on top and narrower on bottom, HD did not make a chrome cable guide until this year. Got the one for the Fat Bob and it fits perfect on the thicker upper portion of the WG2. Looks WAY nicer! Yes, those are chrome zip ties.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on November 26, 2008, 07:14:56 PM
Kuryakyn FINALLY came out with the last piece of the controls puzzle - the Flamin' Brake pad. Got one of the first ones and now the transformation is complete. I think these look way nicer than the HD flame peg series and the Flamin' Switchblade pegs create a virtual floorboard. Several riding positions are possible and I just love this setup from both a functionality and looks perspective. Competition is a good thing!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on November 26, 2008, 07:16:58 PM
Shift side
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Fired00d on November 26, 2008, 07:23:43 PM
Looking good. :bigok:
 
 :pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
 :fireman:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on November 26, 2008, 07:24:14 PM
Sideview - very pleased with the results. Gold cables go well. Got a chrome coil cover I'm going to try. Also thinking about painting a gold or chrome strip down the indented part of the red coil cover. Input always appreciated.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on November 26, 2008, 07:28:31 PM
Have always been bothered by the black plastic patch behind the battery box. Didn't know what it was until I started looking at other bikes.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on November 26, 2008, 07:32:12 PM
It's the ignition key location for some other Dyna's. Coincidentally, I have been looking for the optimal place to locate a power socket for heated clothing, accessories and the battery charger port.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on November 26, 2008, 07:33:00 PM
Picked up a Gerbing socket/plug assembly, did some Dremel work on the threads and a chrome washer (soon to be gold) and viola, great improvement in looks and functionality. Also took a red ink pen to the silver Corbin stitched logo to bring it into line with the bike.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buffy on November 26, 2008, 07:33:42 PM
Holy Cow Buy Early!  I must bow my head to the new leader of the "King of Switchblades"!

Nice touches, all of them!
 :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on November 26, 2008, 07:36:23 PM
Found this pin on ebay. Hope to customize it to fit over the black plastic cover of the outlet. Couldn't believe the luck in color combo with the red and the gold. Will post photo when I get the mod done.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on November 26, 2008, 07:40:27 PM
Also found this sweet mod on ebay. Guy takes the stock Air Wing horn cover and adds the Flames collection gas cap cover. Looks great and goes with my other flames collection mods. Got it today and you'd think it was a stock part! Planning to mod the inner wings with red paint. Should loook good.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on November 26, 2008, 07:43:32 PM
A work in progress........neat ideas.   :) har.  :drink: spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on November 26, 2008, 09:59:29 PM
One last shot for the night. Another piece of bling I have been eyeing for a while. The billet storage tube - just the thing for the OCD rider who wants to carry a map, some shades and have a cool place for insurance and registration papers.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on December 01, 2008, 10:10:38 PM
Just got my upgraded battery box back from krazy kolors (www.krazykolors.net/ (http://www.krazykolors.net/) ) today. Lenni did an outstanding job of gold leaf and pinstriping and the wrap around the side looks great! I have always felt that the blank battery box cried out for flame and this confirms the thought.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on December 01, 2008, 10:12:39 PM
Seeing the quality of his work has now made me want to do the same to the front spoiler.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buffy on December 02, 2008, 07:31:42 AM
Dang!  That battery box flame looks perfect!

Nice job!
BUFFY
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: RedFXR2 on December 02, 2008, 07:37:45 AM
Buy Early, I'm getting a big kick out of watching your refinements to the WG.  Between you and Buffy, I've seen some great stuff.  My compliments. :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on December 02, 2008, 04:06:56 PM
Picked this up on ebay last night. Less than $20. The eagle is just screamin' to be golded!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buffy on December 02, 2008, 04:21:39 PM
OK, OK Buy Early......  It must really be cold up there in the northern tundra!  You have way too much time on your hands looking for improvements!  LOL!  :drink:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on December 02, 2008, 06:14:42 PM
Bikerman101 said it best a few weeks ago. All winter with no riding and nothing to do but surf the web and mod!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: JR on December 02, 2008, 07:25:08 PM
Wow! Great job! Enjoyed seeing the upgrades! Scooter looks great! :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Jock on December 02, 2008, 08:35:40 PM
I should not review these type of threads!

 :speechless:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buffy on December 02, 2008, 09:26:01 PM
I should not review these type of threads!

 :speechless:

Habit forming, huh?  :soapbox:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Jock on December 03, 2008, 08:44:57 PM
Habit forming, huh?  :soapbox:

U bet!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on December 09, 2008, 11:55:58 AM
Finally got my heated clothing socket golded and installed. Turned out better than planned. This is the standard BMW socket purchased with the Gerbing accessory plug kit:

http://www.grandprixmotorsports.com/eshopprod_cat_2299-26140_product_346521.Accessory_Plug_Kit.htm (http://www.grandprixmotorsports.com/eshopprod_cat_2299-26140_product_346521.Accessory_Plug_Kit.htm)

Can anyone tell me if you can run the battery charger through this plug? Was wondering if it would blow the fuse or create some other issue. I have the dongle for the battery tender already installed. was wondering if I could use this socket for both.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on December 09, 2008, 11:58:46 AM
Found a nice metal hot topper knockoff with flame imprint (flames for heated clothing socket, get it) and dremeled off the sides and curved out the underside so it could be attached with doublestick. Had it golded along with the washer. Like the effect.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on December 16, 2008, 03:04:04 PM
When I purchased the silver flame windshield plexiglass on ebay, that freed up the original piece of all clear plexi. Thought I would give Leni at krazy kolors
( www.krazykolors.net/ (http://www.krazykolors.net/) ) a shot at some gold leaf work to see if it would be something I would like (like there were doubts). Extremely pleased with the outcome!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on December 16, 2008, 03:05:51 PM
Found some gold edge trim on ebay to replace the chrome edge trim and everything looks great. Considering golding the front side of the hardware. The chrome looks good and too much gold can be a bad thing. We'll see. The lower front spoiler is having some gold flame work done to it now. Should look great when all this comes together.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Hoist! on December 16, 2008, 03:17:39 PM
That W/S came out F'in awesome mb! :2vrolijk_21:

Hoist! 8)
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Fired00d on December 16, 2008, 03:43:57 PM
Looks good. :2vrolijk_21: Now what about the hardware.... gold/bronze.... something other then chrome. :nixweiss: ;D

 :pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
 :fireman:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: SBB on December 16, 2008, 03:46:46 PM
Looks good. :2vrolijk_21: Now what about the hardware.... gold/bronze.... something other then chrome. :nixweiss: ;D

 :pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
 :fireman:

Now that's strange.
dOOd asking for something other than chrome!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Fired00d on December 16, 2008, 03:48:55 PM
Now that's strange.
dOOd asking for something other than chrome!

Strange, huh. :shocked2:

 :pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
 :fireman:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on December 16, 2008, 04:16:30 PM
Found some gold edge trim on ebay to replace the chrome edge trim and everything looks great. Considering golding the front side of the hardware. The chrome looks good and too much gold can be a bad thing. We'll see. The lower front spoiler is having some gold flame work done to it now. Should look great when all this comes together.
I think it looks great just the way you've got it.  Of course, I don't know what it would look like w/ more gold, either.  Might be too much as you opined......just would be hard to know w/o seeing it done.  Don't listen to D00d, he's trying to divert the attention away from his stock hinges.  :-[ har!  spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Fired00d on December 16, 2008, 04:24:39 PM
I think it looks great just the way you've got it.  Of course, I don't know what it would look like w/ more gold, either.  Might be too much as you opined......just would be hard to know w/o seeing it done.  Don't listen to D00d, he's trying to divert the attention away from his stock hinges.  :-[ har!  spyder
Not even I'm proud of my stock hinges. :orange: :mango: :bananarock: :carrot: :huepfenlol2: :huepfenlol2:

/me has set of the billet ones if he really wanted them on his TP that sits and is hardly ever used. ;D

 :pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
 :fireman:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: arcticdude on December 16, 2008, 05:03:12 PM
BR,
Great improvements on your WG2.  I've always looked at ours and wondered why they didn't put the chrome inner primary on it from the factory.  It really adds to the bike.  You can run the charger through the heated clothing socket, but the charger fuse is like 3 amp and the clothing fuse is like 7 or 10 amp.  You can run the 3 amp, if you don't add to much clothing.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buffy on December 16, 2008, 05:49:02 PM
OK, you have officially won the "KING OF GOLD FLAMES" Award for 2008!   :2vrolijk_21:

Looks great and I'm sure that with all of the snow up there, that you can think of a few more "improvements"  :bananarock:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on December 16, 2008, 06:17:44 PM
Hey Buffy, you don't have as many red bikes as TwoLane at the moment, do ya?  Waz with you guys and the red bikes anyway?  :apple: :cherry: :pepper:  har!  spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buffy on December 16, 2008, 06:29:24 PM
Hey Buffy, you don't have as many red bikes as TwoLane at the moment, do ya?  Waz with you guys and the red bikes anyway?  :apple: :cherry: :pepper:  har!  spyder


Naw, nobody will beat him! 

Why red? 
I could say they're the fastest......... Probably not.
Prettiest?  Hmmm, maybe?
Practical?  (Re-sale red)

The answer.......  I just love that color!

Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on December 16, 2008, 06:37:11 PM

Naw, nobody will beat him! 

Why red? 
I could say they're the fastest......... Probably not.
Prettiest?  Hmmm, maybe?
Practical?  (Re-sale red)

The answer.......  I just love that color!


Goes very well with Chrome!  :coolblue: har!  spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on December 16, 2008, 07:00:24 PM
Red also goes so nicely with gold!

Buffy, I will say again that it was years staring at your bike and the improvements you made to your WG2 that have been my inspiration as I work on mine. You now have 2 scoots to divide your attention (and wallet) between. I will remain focused on one for the time being. Eventually I think there will be a second Harley but it will be my wife's ride. She already wants to upgrade from her Suzuki S50 to an S83 but after that, I believe there is a HD in her future. I will enjoy tweaking that as well!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buffy on December 16, 2008, 09:13:02 PM
Red also goes so nicely with gold!

Buffy, I will say again that it was years staring at your bike and the improvements you made to your WG2 that have been my inspiration as I work on mine. You now have 2 scoots to divide your attention (and wallet) between. I will remain focused on one for the time being. Eventually I think there will be a second Harley but it will be my wife's ride. She already wants to upgrade from her Suzuki S50 to an S83 but after that, I believe there is a HD in her future. I will enjoy tweaking that as well!

Thanks for the kind words, but your bike has far surpassed anything that I have done.  You have the vision to see what would make a SUPER-looking bike even better.  :2vrolijk_21:

But now with all of your improvements, you really have to update your avatar!
   :coolblue:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on December 19, 2008, 10:37:43 PM
Got the new bags in. Boss bags purchased a lot of similar tan leather back in 2001 and made a bunch (I believe over 100 sets) of bags for the WG2. They still have stock left! Even made the little front and back detachable pouches but no windshield bag (still lookin'). They look good but I have a few mods to put them through before I'm done with them. Very, very sturdy with a lot of heavy duty formed plastic support.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on December 19, 2008, 10:40:05 PM
Tried the windshield on and it looks awesome. Looking straight on it looks like the flames jump off the mini fairing onto the windshield. Still thinking about golding the front WS hardware. Leaning away from it as I think it would be too much.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on December 19, 2008, 10:46:34 PM
Took a few parts in to Lenni like this fork cover to highlight the bar & shield with matching color paint. Turned out very well. Have several more items that will get this treatment. Looking for a custom decal maker that can print me a page of gold FXDWG2 decals that will fit inside the various sized bars on the logos. Think this would look cool.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on December 19, 2008, 10:48:38 PM
Photo of the bike up on a Sears jack (as read about in other threads). Lighting is poor but you have to remember it's 14 degrees out and not a whole lot warmer in the garage!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buffy on December 20, 2008, 08:56:55 AM
Tried the windshield on and it looks awesome. Looking straight on it looks like the flames jump off the mini fairing onto the windshield. Still thinking about golding the front WS hardware. Leaning away from it as I think it would be too much.

I agree with leaving the WS hardware chrome.  You need something to tie the WS with the chrome on the bike.

BTW, nice bags too!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on December 30, 2008, 11:56:59 AM
Got the front spoiler back from Leni at Krazy Kolors yesterday and, once again, he has done an outstanding job! Am psyched to see this on the bike!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on December 30, 2008, 11:58:08 AM
Another shot of the spoiler. Started with a painted replacement part from HD and Leni did the gold leaf work and pinstriping.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on December 30, 2008, 11:58:52 AM
Also got back the new horn cover. Leni did the red wing tips. Should look cool! Yes, I use a red camera - they're faster!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Fired00d on December 30, 2008, 12:00:54 PM
Also got back the new horn cover. Leni did the red wing tips. Should look cool! Yes, I use a red camera - they're faster!
And I thought I had it bad w/my O/B obsession. :huepfenlol2: :huepfenlol2:

 :pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
 :fireman:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Fired00d on December 30, 2008, 12:02:23 PM
Nice job on the new mods, you've definitely carried out the theme well. :2vrolijk_21:

 :pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
 :fireman:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Admiral on December 30, 2008, 12:23:19 PM
King of mods..  very well done.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: amigo Jorge on December 30, 2008, 02:41:45 PM
OCD........another Gary's student  :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: AZSSE on December 31, 2008, 05:09:52 PM
I want to tell you that you have turned your bike into one of the nicest looking motorcycles I have ever seen. This is absolutely fantastic looking!! Congratulations, you've really got a knack for making things fit together and look super.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on January 01, 2009, 02:03:54 PM
Thanks Azsse! Would prefer to be riding the snot out of it but since the snow and cold prevents that for a few more months, mods will have to see me through.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: SPIDERMAN on January 01, 2009, 02:10:38 PM
Also got back the new horn cover. Leni did the red wing tips. Should look cool! Yes, I use a red camera - they're faster!

I like that and I've got all of the flame accessories on LD. Tell you what, I'll trade you my Screamin Eagle Horn Cover for it

B B
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on January 15, 2009, 07:41:36 PM
Alright, it's been a few weeks since I've posted anything but that doesn't mean I'm asleep at the handlebars. It's colder than crap up here (-22 this morning) and I've had two weeks off for the holidays and lots of time indoors to plot and scheme. Had an incredible stroke of luck a few weeks ago when I walked into a local leather store and met a guy who is an absolute artist with tooled leather. We chatted for a while and I showed him a few ideas. He took what I had and amped it up a bit and the next few photos show the result. If you remember from earlier posts, the black plastic back of the Corbin driver backrest wasn't gonna do it for me so I set out to try to find something worthy of gracing the wide glide. I am extremely pleased with the result!

Let me know what you think.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on January 15, 2009, 07:42:13 PM
Here's a pic of the artwork in its new frame.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on January 15, 2009, 07:45:42 PM
A closeup of the artwork. The detail this artisan got on leather is amazing! This is a high def photo so you can download it and see the great detail.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: naitram on January 15, 2009, 07:46:04 PM
WOW!!!!!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on January 15, 2009, 07:48:53 PM
Hey BuyEarly......I'll say you haven't been asleep at the handlebars!  That's very nice.  I've got to see that in person.....looks like the detail is unbelieveable.  Get a shot of it on the scooter when you can.  What a find....this guy's a 'artist' with leather.  ;)  spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Mrs Rooster on January 15, 2009, 07:59:01 PM
 That is real nice, my 1st thought was WOW.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Fired00d on January 15, 2009, 08:07:44 PM
You truly have taken it over the top w/that piece. You now have a true "Custom" Vehicle. That is totally awesome!!! :bigok:

 :pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
 :fireman:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on January 16, 2009, 09:36:07 AM
You should see what this guy has planned for the tops of my saddlebags!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: RedFXR2 on January 16, 2009, 10:08:45 AM
Buy Early, I am amazed at what you've done to one of the already best looking bikes HD ever produced.  You make the designers at the CVO look like.....well.....amateurs at best.  Really, those guys need to take lessons from you on how to really single something out from the production models.  But I suppose the end product would cost an arm and two legs if they did that.

And I also get a kick out of someone else who obviously still fusses over one of the earlier CVO bikes. :2vrolijk_21:

I really like the matching (and I mean really matching :2vrolijk_21:) gold flames on the otherwise blank body parts, and the tan leather to match the seat is another really unique and good looking mod.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: naitram on January 16, 2009, 10:09:00 AM
cant wait
 :worthless:

Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buffy on January 17, 2009, 08:34:59 AM
Hey BuyEarly,

Outstanding additions! (You ought to contact Corbin with your ideas!)   :apple:

Like RedFXR2 said, the matching flames on some of your scooters body parts should be a lesson to Willie G. and his team!

I'm getting tired of saying this, but I'm a little jealous!  :drink:

DAMN, you've got a "one in a million" FXDWG2! :2vrolijk_21:

Keep it up!

Your Switchblade brother,
BUFFY
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on January 29, 2009, 01:14:03 PM
Having a custom windshield bag and trunk bag made using tan leather. Want the SE logo on both if possible. Did some research, met some talented folks and came up with a workable solution. Trial results below. Should look outstanding on the trunk bag!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on January 29, 2009, 01:18:01 PM
In working with the embroiderer on the SE work, I found I could do some other creative things. had acquired a cover bag on ebay since the original owner didn't have it and added the bike designation. Turned out nice!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on January 29, 2009, 01:19:43 PM
Also wanted some clothing to match up with the theme. Ended up looking great as well. These aren't improvements to the bike but having the scoot causes me to branch out into other areas. Helmet should be done in a few weeks. Just wait!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on January 29, 2009, 01:32:09 PM
Also wanted some clothing to match up with the theme. Ended up looking great as well. These aren't improvements to the bike but having the scoot causes me to branch out into other areas. Helmet should be done in a few weeks. Just wait!
Hey Buy Early....as one of the fast food jingles says: I'm lovin' it!  :-* har!  :drink:spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on February 03, 2009, 11:26:49 AM
Have been cogitating on how best to mount the CVO coin to my bike for a few months now and think I have finally arrived at a solution. Looked all over the bike for a place I could mount it and be able to see both sides since it is such an outstanding piece and finally came to the front portion of the frame (see photo):
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on February 03, 2009, 11:27:33 AM
Gathered up the parts I think will be necessary and began fabrication of the mount.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on February 03, 2009, 11:31:18 AM
The HD pin will go above the coin and the brass cross piece will cover the red frame cross piece with the hole in the middle. The coin will be drilled top and bottom and the 2 pieces of brass dowel inserted and epoxy'd. The dowels will go into the brass sleeves attached to the HD pin and brass cross frame piece. The cross frame sleeve has a piece of dowel epoxy'd to the bottom and two small ball bearings inserted from the top to allow the dowel to rotate freely.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on February 03, 2009, 11:32:36 AM
Here's the cross piece and pin with the tubing epoxy'd in place. The pin and brass cross piece will be attached to the frame with the strong double stick tape 3M sells. The coin should be able to rotate freely in the opening of the frame. That's the plan. I'm 1/2 way through fabrication and it's looking good. Have to use my neighbor's drill press to accurately drill the coin. The brass cross piece will be polished and I am considering what if anything I want engraved, painted or pasted to the top of that piece. Thinking about having my painter script "Switchblade" on it. Input always welcome.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buffy on February 03, 2009, 02:28:08 PM
Can't wait to see how that turns out........   :bananarock:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on February 11, 2009, 11:09:22 AM
Finished the coin mount. Turned out well. Still thinking about engraving, painting, or sticking something on to the brass cross piece. Input welcome.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on February 11, 2009, 11:10:16 AM
The coin rotates pretty freely but isn't frictionless. I didn't want it spinning in the wind.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on February 11, 2009, 11:11:11 AM
It really fits in the opening well. The one distraction for me is the hole partially covered by the HD pin. I'll work on that.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on February 11, 2009, 11:13:42 AM
Many thanks again to Sean for doing all the work on the coin. Since the coin looks so fantastic, I wanted to devise a mount worthy of the quality of the coin while still matching my bike. Wanted to be able to display both sides and come up with something unique. Pleased with the results.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: hogasm on February 11, 2009, 12:28:08 PM
How about....Custom built for......
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on February 11, 2009, 11:10:31 PM
Finished the coin mount. Turned out well. Still thinking about engraving, painting, or sticking something on to the brass cross piece. Input welcome.
If you have decided on a special 'name' to call your red & gold masterpiece, that's the perfect place to display the scooter's name. :)  spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on February 12, 2009, 09:41:21 PM
I've asked Leni at Krazy Kolors to come up with a logo around the Switch Blade HD designation for this bike. If it comes out well, I will probably have him paint it in red on the brass cross piece. Think that would look cool.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on February 21, 2009, 10:43:44 PM
Finally figured out what I wanted to do with the windshield hardware. Felt that golding the vertical and horizontal pieces would be a bit much but didn't like all the chrome with the gold flames. Had purchased the HD bar/shield bolts for my license plate holder and thought they might fit the windshield as well. Turned out to be a fit. Had them golded and I think they add a nice finishing touch to the windshield.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on February 21, 2009, 10:44:29 PM
Shot of the whole windshield. Pleased with the result.

Question for the forum - should I locktite blue the acorn nuts on the back or is that overkill?
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on February 22, 2009, 08:37:41 AM
You might want to do that since you can not tighten them very much or you'll cause stress cracks in the windscreen starting at ea. fastener point.  Do not over-tighten.  Don't ask me how I know this.  :-[  spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on February 22, 2009, 02:29:48 PM
spydglide -  thanks for the experience-based advice! Do you know what the torque figure for the bolts should be?
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on February 22, 2009, 03:26:58 PM
spydglide -  thatns for the experience-based advice! Do you know what the torque figure for the bolts should be?
I'm sure it's in the service manual......wouldn't help me though since I don't have a inch/lb. torque wrench......just snug 'em up to be safe.  :2vrolijk_21: spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: 07street on February 23, 2009, 10:15:19 PM
you  have a great eye and talent!     that is one hell of a ride you have

thanks for sharing your masterpiece
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: wreckman 42 on February 24, 2009, 01:42:17 PM
Great bike. Well done!
I own a bone stock Switchblade with 44 miles on it. Not sure if I will ride it or keep it as a collectors bike.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on February 24, 2009, 01:59:38 PM
Ride it. Life' too short to save it. Har!  Spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Twolanerider on February 24, 2009, 02:17:29 PM
Great bike. Well done!
I own a bone stock Switchblade with 44 miles on it. Not sure if I will ride it or keep it as a collectors bike.

Buy it new and never use it?  Or get it from someone who kept it that way?
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: d o g o l s on February 24, 2009, 04:15:15 PM
Shot of the whole windshield. Pleased with the result.

Question for the forum - should I locktite blue the acorn nuts on the back or is that overkill?

looks great  :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: arcticdude on February 24, 2009, 04:19:30 PM
We have a 95 FXDS-Conv with the same windshield.  It went to Alaska and back without any loc-tite.  You can do it, and I would certainly consider it, but this bike never had it.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: wreckman 42 on February 24, 2009, 04:28:11 PM
Bought it in Oct. last year from a dealer collection. Never titled. Always liked the switchblade.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on February 24, 2009, 04:33:42 PM
Bought it in Oct. last year from a dealer collection. Never titled. Always liked the switchblade.
Yep.....me too.  Is it black or red? spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: wreckman 42 on February 24, 2009, 04:39:22 PM
Red. I had to have it!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on February 24, 2009, 10:31:08 PM
Wreckman - I still watch the switchblade market like a hawk and see 01 WG2's with under 1K miles come up every month or so. I know the dealers tried to sell these as collectors items but even the low mile bone stock bikes seem to go down about $1K/year in value. They may be reaching bottom but I have a hard time believing they will ever be worth anywhere near retail again. I bought mine with 4K miles on it and purchased it to ride the snot out of it. This winter is killing me, as I have to walk by the bike every time I go in and out of the garage. Can't wait to get it back on the road again. The only distraction over the winter months has been tweaking the bike as it sits there. Should be about how I want it come April/May.

See you on the road.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on March 14, 2009, 09:01:52 PM
Finally got the parts for he new plate mount figured out. Had to grind off quite a bit of the black plastic mounting bracket but it looks much better (primarily because it is smaller and doesn't have that big HD reflector) and goes with the bike theme. The gold eagle looks great and the eagle bolts and HD bar/shield bolts turned out good. Light is poor in the garage but you'll get the idea. Anxious to get the bike off the lift and outside even if it's just for pictures.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on March 14, 2009, 09:02:43 PM
Another angle with different light
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on March 16, 2009, 07:18:49 PM
Got back the windshield bag from Leather Connexion. They worked with me on design as the mini fairing cuts down on the room for a traditionally mounted bag. Had the SE stitched in prior to construction and it turned out great!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on March 16, 2009, 07:19:16 PM
Different view
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on March 16, 2009, 07:48:54 PM
Looks great!  :2vrolijk_21: spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Trapperdog on March 16, 2009, 08:04:20 PM
Great job on the bag!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Fired00d on March 16, 2009, 08:35:08 PM
Good job, that looks outstanding. :2vrolijk_21:

 :pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
 :fireman:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: SCRM-R on March 17, 2009, 08:27:20 AM
Buy Early,

Have you seen these gold brake rotors by www.rayguntechnology.com  (http://www.rayguntechnology.com) ?  Another opportunity for you to put some GOLD on your bike!  It's looking fantastic...keep up the good design work.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on March 17, 2009, 08:46:35 AM
SCRM-R- Thanks for the tip on the gold rotors! They look like a cool product. If it's one thing I can always count on it's help from the members on this forum finding ways to spend more $ on the scoot.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on March 17, 2009, 02:08:06 PM
Got another little project completed the other day. Trying to highlight some of the bar/shield details on the bike. Had the fork covers done and got the back of the mini sissy bar plate done as well. The paint match is spot on and it looks nice. Just something else to set the bike apart. Have several other locations on the bike I am looking to detail in this fashion. The back of the luggage rack and the lower portion of the belt guard have Harley Davidson in a script. Planning to paint the script in red. There are bar/shields on one spoke on each side of the wheels, same for them. There is a bar/shield on the choke knob and one on the tank console. Same plans for them. Just the little details I obsess over.

Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on March 17, 2009, 02:17:16 PM
The other project Leather Connexions (www.leatherconnexion.com (http://www.leatherconnexion.com)) completed for me was a trunk bag. They don't normally do brown leather but both Diane Kaib and John Cress were more than helpful in finding the leather, using ostrich (fake but pretty real looking), buckles and tan velcro I found, sending me the preproduction leather so I could take it to my embroiderer and have the SE logo stitched on and completing final assembly.

Result is better than I hoped for.

Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on March 17, 2009, 02:18:01 PM
Found the ostrich leather and buckles at Tandy Leather. Had the buckles golded and then painted on the red.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on March 17, 2009, 02:22:31 PM
Looks great on the bike. Just waiting for a decent weather day so I can get the bike into the sun for some photos. Until then, these will have to do.

Have had a few PM's on contacts and pricing.

Diane Kaib at Leather Connexion can be reached at 800-634-2453 or diane@leatherconnexion.com

Windshield bag was under $100
Trunk Bag was under $375 by the time all the extras were added.

I do not work for Leather Connexion and this was my first project with them. Would highly recommend them to anyone looking for some custom work. They are very willing to work with you to get you what you want.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: LETS_ROLL on March 19, 2009, 10:49:13 PM
Nice work on all the improvements.  Took the files you sent me and had my friend work the on her machine.  She got them to work now it's time to play.  Thanks, Let's Roll
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on March 20, 2009, 08:44:21 AM
Gabe -Sweet! It's great seeing an investment leveraged by others. Love the upgrade! If any of you other SE freaks out there would like the software file to take to an embroiderer, send me a PM and I will forward it on. You can use whatever colors you want so it can be customized to the color scheme of your bike!

Let's Roll!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on March 31, 2009, 10:51:45 PM
Took off the mini fairing and changed the black rubber interior headlight surround to gold material. Same as that used on the windshield lower surround. Looks much better.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on March 31, 2009, 10:52:46 PM
Picture of former black rubber surround.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on March 31, 2009, 10:54:10 PM
Also got the front spoiler with the recently added flames installed. This looks great! Leni from Krazy Kolors did another spot on job. Don't know how the CVO designers missed this one.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on March 31, 2009, 10:56:38 PM
Got the storage tube remounted as well. Found some nice metallic gold decal material and put gold inserts on the vertical indentations. Can't see it too well in the photo because the light is poor but it's a nice improvement and adds that gold touch to a really nice chrome piece.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on March 31, 2009, 10:58:26 PM
The front A-frame section back together with the new flames on the chin spoiler, storage tube and mounted CVO coin. Pleased with the mods. Can't wait to get it out and ride.

Time for a few more additions.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on April 07, 2009, 08:37:23 PM
Picked up one of these side stands at a closeout sale. Have read they work well on stock bikes but may not work on lowered bikes. The WG2 was factory lowered so am not sure it will work. Will have it golded if it does. Should look cool. Anyone out there have any experience with these? Made by Image Castings.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: arcticdude on April 08, 2009, 09:55:14 PM
All you have to do is bend it a little more so a lowered bike has a safe lean to it.  Since you're going to have it done in gold, you might as well take a torch to it, bend it to where you want it and then get it "golded"!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on April 08, 2009, 10:23:26 PM
Thanks for the tip arcticdude. I'll try to find someone with some metalworking skills if it doesn't work out of the box. It looks too cool to leave off.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: arcticdude on April 09, 2009, 10:50:02 AM
It does take some experimenting to get the angles right, so when the stand is up, it doesn't just beat the frame or primary up.  You have to bend at the 90 that's there already and it usually doesn't take much.  You can pull the original off to compare to.  Might help.  I agree with the direction you've gone, it will look great if you can make it work.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on April 09, 2009, 08:41:45 PM
Finally got the new horn cover mounted. Turned out great. A few more details and we're ready to roll for the summer. It's been a good distraction during the winter months to have several projects going. Everything is due to be done before leaving for Eureka Springs. Just hope the bike runs reliably!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on April 09, 2009, 08:42:14 PM
Wider view. Also put a chrome accent line down the center of the coil cover. Got an all chrome one I may try but thought I would see how this plays first.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on April 16, 2009, 09:22:07 PM
Got the bike out for the third time this week. This time I took a day off and went into western Wisconsin with some buddies. Six of us left St. Paul at 10:30 and rode for about 150 miles. Temp got up to 71 degrees! Just outstanding. Bike performed great. Finally getting some pictures outside! Here it is in Taylors Falls.

Stopped by the leather craftsmans shop and the bags are due to be done before we go to Eureka Springs. That's the last big piece of the puzzle, although there are several more minor projects in the works. I'll get more photos up when it's sunny and I'm not riding!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Black Diamond on April 16, 2009, 09:28:55 PM
Man you have really made her a one of a kind! Great job!

JW





edit: Just had to add WOW after looking it over again.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: SBB on April 16, 2009, 09:44:24 PM


BE

It's a beautiful bike.
I like looking at the details.
Great job!

SBB
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buffy on April 17, 2009, 09:13:22 AM
Man, this is the first time we've seen the whole bike and I must admit, it looks stunning!
Nice touches and it's your vision that has made this "dream" of yours come true.

Nice job!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on April 19, 2009, 11:29:13 PM
Thanks Buffy! It's great to be able to get it off the jack and out on the streets! Looking forward to Eureka Springs in a few weeks.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on April 23, 2009, 11:37:56 PM
Visited Jason the leather artist today for review of the saddlebag tops in progress. Chose colors and marveled at his talent. Will post some photos. Tops will be identical but reversed so the eagle beak faces the front. Flames will be gold, eagle will be natural color like the eagle on the Corbin driver backrest. Fill color between eagle and flames will be red like the bike. Should look extremely cool when done. Jason made some suggestions today that will amp up the bags even more. Project should be complete by Eureka Springs so they'll see immediate use!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on April 23, 2009, 11:38:34 PM
There is a lot of dimension to these things. The side view shows some of that.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on April 23, 2009, 11:39:44 PM
The eagle should end up looking much like this.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on April 23, 2009, 11:40:47 PM
Here is the top of the second bag. Jason has just begun the tooling. It was so cool to see the work in progress!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on April 23, 2009, 11:41:35 PM
Close-up of the eagle's head.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on April 24, 2009, 10:27:01 PM
Got some of the items I want painted done today. The Harley Davidson script items turned out great. One is on the lower belt guard and the other on the back of the bobtail rack. Can't believe how a little bit of red paint makes something jump!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on April 24, 2009, 10:27:51 PM
Rack
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Decano on April 25, 2009, 02:56:01 PM
That is one first-class bike. I am also amazed by the leather work. That guy is an artist.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on April 26, 2009, 09:21:08 PM
Got a few more details done. Took someone else's advice on detailing the Screamin' Eagle text on the cylinders and added a gold box to highlight the script. Like the way it turned out.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on April 26, 2009, 09:22:11 PM
Also had the 4 bar/shields on the wheels done in red. Adds a little rolling detail.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on April 28, 2009, 10:44:27 PM
Custom red details on the shift side include the bar/shield on the choke knob, the red line on the fuel petcock, the red wings on the horn and the red bar/shields on the spark plug bridges. The little touches are coming together! The gold flame shift linkage turned out well and of course, the chrome inner primary reflects nicely. Can't really see it but got the braided stainless fuel crossover line put on as well. And as Spydglide pointed out - the gold braided spark plug wires were an add as well.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: SBB on April 28, 2009, 10:56:06 PM



B/E

I always look forward to your post.
A man that pays attention to details is good!
Looking good!

   :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Twolanerider on April 28, 2009, 11:10:30 PM
I hate this thread.  Can't stand this bike.  And the bike's owner is a menace to my frugal nature.



I don't need a Switchblade.  I don't need a Switchblade.  I don't need a Switchblade.  I don't need a Switchblade.  I don't need a Switchblade.  Don, really; you don't need a Switchblade.   I don't need a Switchblade.  I don't need a Switchblade.  I don't need a Switchblade.  I don't need a Switchblade.  I don't need a Switchblade.  I don't need a Switchblade. I don't need a Switchblade.  I don't need a Switchblade.  I don't need a Switchblade.  I don't need a Switchblade.  I don't need a Switchblade.  I really frakking want a Switchblade.  I don't need a Switchblade.  I don't need a Switchblade.  I don't need a Switchblade.  I don't need a Switchblade.  I don't need a Switchblade.  Don, really, dumbass; you don't need a Switchblade.   I don't need a Switchblade.  I don't need a Switchblade.  I don't need a Switchblade.  I don't need a Switchblade.  I don't need a Switchblade.  I don't need a Switchblade. I don't need a Switchblade.  I don't need a Switchblade.  I don't need a Switchblade.  I don't need a Switchblade.  I don't need a Switchblade.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on April 28, 2009, 11:21:39 PM
While TwoLane is having a 'break-down', I'll get back to the nicely done engine details.........are those plug wires gold or is that a reflection on them from all the other gold/red touches.  Nicely done, as always.  :2vrolijk_21: har!  spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on April 28, 2009, 11:34:49 PM
Finally got a few shots of the roll bag on the bike. Back side - SE patch was sewn in prior to assembly. Buckles were originally silver. Had them golded and then painted the flames myself. Have several more for the saddlebags and front bag.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on April 28, 2009, 11:40:00 PM
Purchased some faux ostrich skin for the sides. Turned out well.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on April 28, 2009, 11:40:53 PM
Spydglide - Yes, they are gold ignition wires by magnum. They also come in silver, red, black and blue!

http://www.magnumshielding.com/store/ignition_wires.php (http://www.magnumshielding.com/store/ignition_wires.php)
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on April 28, 2009, 11:43:30 PM
Twolane - I don't need a Switchblade either but, after lusting after one for 8 years my wife finally said 'uncle' and now it is my mission in life to get it just so.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Twolanerider on April 28, 2009, 11:45:01 PM
Twolane - I don't need a Switchblade either but, after lusting after one for 8 years my wife finally said 'uncle' and now it is my mission in life to get it just so.


It's gorgeous BE.  Really is.  This is one of the few models I lust after.  So it's a dangerous thing when new activity is seen in this thread.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on April 28, 2009, 11:47:28 PM
Twolane - you going to Eureka Springs? Looking forward to meeting some of the folks from this forum there.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Twolanerider on April 29, 2009, 12:37:18 AM
Twolane - you going to Eureka Springs? Looking forward to meeting some of the folks from this forum there.

Yes.  Arriving sometime Saturday middle of the day Saturday.  Looks like we'll be a decent crowd.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on April 30, 2009, 11:01:00 AM
Started a separate post on this but thought I would include one photo and the link here. Technically not an improvement to the bike, but certainly an outgrowth of the Switchblade.

http://www.cvoharley.com/smf/index.php?topic=36404.msg576490#msg576490 (http://www.cvoharley.com/smf/index.php?topic=36404.msg576490#msg576490)



Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 01, 2009, 11:45:41 PM
Stopped by the leather shop today and the tops of the saddlebags are done. Photo below of both tops. Each top is about 20" wide by 10 tall.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 01, 2009, 11:46:22 PM
Side angle showing some of the depth of the work. Simply outstanding!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 01, 2009, 11:48:45 PM
Photo of Jason Pate the artist! He's gonna have to scramble but he says the bags will be done by Thursday morning. Just in time to pack em up for Eureka Springs.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on May 02, 2009, 08:36:35 AM
Side angle showing some of the depth of the work. Simply outstanding!
You said it!  I know they look even better in person.  :2vrolijk_21: har!  spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: SCRM-R on May 02, 2009, 11:06:14 AM
...Jason Pate the artist!

He is a superbly gifted artist and craftsman.  You don't find that combination every day.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: lilbear on May 02, 2009, 08:17:38 PM
Buy Early,

Just saw this thread and all I can say is WOW!  Outstanding attention to details there!  Can't wait to see the finished project (OK, that's a joke, I know you'll never be finished).  Keep the pictures coming.  I absolutely love what you're doing with the blade!

Craig
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 03, 2009, 11:34:57 PM
Buffy turned me on to the HD bar/shield coins with the adhesive on the back and I amped it up adding the red paint on the bar/shield. Have found several spots where they add just that bit of detail I am looking for. Got a set of the fluted front and rear axle covers and they had a perfect blank spot to add the coin. Front first.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 03, 2009, 11:36:00 PM
Rear axle cover with coin. These turned out nicer than planned and add some visual detail. The little brushed aluminum arrangement above the chrome swingarm is the lower rub guard for the saddle bags. Found that a chrome rocker box bolt cover fit nice on the nut on the rear end of the assembly. Gives it that finished look.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 03, 2009, 11:38:02 PM
Upgraded the rear axle adjuster plates to chrome from the plain Jane version and found a hot topper to cover the adjuster bolts. This left a nice blank spot for the coins but it wasn't quite big enough so I had to trim the coins down a bit to fit. Turned out great. You can just barely see the left side. Poor photo skills. The red really makes 'em pop!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 03, 2009, 11:40:27 PM
Actually liked the chrome with the brushed look better than the golded cover for the accessory outlet cover so I slapped one on there as well. Since it was slightly smaller than the gold coin I originally put on, you get this trick gold surround going. Unintended upgrade!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 03, 2009, 11:41:08 PM
Flat spot on the chrome starter was calling out for a coin as well.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 03, 2009, 11:43:54 PM
Wanted some additional detail on the dash so painted the bar/shield red and the surrounding ring gold. Looks great. Still trying to find out how I can get one of the ignition flip covers with the CVO logo on it. Saw it on a 2008 SE Dyna and immediately started lusting after it.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 04, 2009, 03:31:20 PM
SCRM-R - You're right on on the rare combination of artist and craftsman. I visited the shop again today and the tops were cut out, the ostrich sides were cut out and he was getting ready to stitch them together. I think they will be done this week and am very anxious to see (and post) the result!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buffy on May 04, 2009, 09:40:13 PM
B.E.,

I am still amazed at your vision to make a near perfect motorcycle even better. :cherry:

The stick-on "coins" really POP with the red trim!  Nice job!    :2vrolijk_21:

(Now where do I put that paint brush.........)
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 04, 2009, 10:50:55 PM
Thanks Buffy, the coin idea was yours. Thanks for the tip!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 04, 2009, 10:52:22 PM
Windshield bag I had made mounted on the bike. Cool how the flames from the fairing reflect in the windshield cross member. Had the SE stitched on the leather before Leather Connexion assembled together the bag. They helped by custom designing a bag that is quite a bit smaller than normal windshield bags. Has to be because of the limited clearance between the fairing and the windshield.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 04, 2009, 10:55:40 PM
Front of the windshield shows off the gold flames, gold bar/shield bolts on the metal windshield members, gold moulding around the headlight and of course, my favorite, the gold headlamp reflector - HD part number BUYEAR-LY.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on May 04, 2009, 11:04:32 PM
Front of the windshield shows off the gold flames, gold bar/shield bolts on the metal windshield members, gold moulding around the headlight and of course, my favorite, the gold headlamp reflector - HD part number BUYEAR-LY.
you must  have the windshield bag loose in this pic, 'cause it looks 'off-center'......(or maybe I need to call it a night).  :nervous: har!  :drink: spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 04, 2009, 11:31:22 PM
spydglide - you're seeing the roll bag on the back and it looks like it's part of the windshield bag. Click the photo and look at the enlargement. Photographic trickery!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on May 05, 2009, 07:49:13 AM
spydglide - you're seeing the roll bag on the back and it looks like it's part of the windshield bag. Click the photo and look at the enlargement. Photographic trickery!
Boy, you had me going there......not like you to have something a 'hair off'.  :P har!  :huepfenlol2: spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Decano on May 06, 2009, 10:16:35 PM
Glad I don't have a Switchblade cause I could never keep up with that many upgrades and details.  It has to be the best looking Blade out there. :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 07, 2009, 10:57:56 PM
Got the bags back assembled just in time to pack 'em up. We leave tomorrow For Eureka Springs. It was close but worth the wait and effort.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 07, 2009, 10:58:49 PM
Jason did an outstanding job with the design, tooling, coloring and stitching! A real craftsman!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 07, 2009, 11:00:02 PM
The faux ostrich was a great touch, tying the bags and seat together.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 07, 2009, 11:01:27 PM
Bike locked and loaded for 700 mile trip to Arkansas. Time for some serious miles!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on May 07, 2009, 11:11:02 PM
Bike locked and loaded for 700 mile trip to Arkansas. Time for some serious miles!
Enjoy the ride, but be very careful how you treat that work of art........you've got to enter it into some bike shows now with all that custom work.  I can see a trophy cabinet in your future.  8) har!  spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 14, 2009, 11:00:08 PM
Here's the blade parked next to LarryB's gorgeous scoot at the Eureka Springs CVO rally last Saturday. Hard to believe we're already back. 1,600 miles sure goes by quick.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 14, 2009, 11:03:15 PM
Think this may be the first picture in this long thread of me on the bike. Taken by Ditch in downtown Eureka Springs. Yes, I bought it to ride. Have ridden almost 6K miles since I purchased it last year and it sat in the garage for nearly 6 months waiting out the winter.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on May 14, 2009, 11:03:17 PM
Here's the blade parked next to LarryB's gorgeous scoot at the Eureka Springs CVO rally last Saturday. Hard to believe we're already back. 1,600 miles sure goes by quick.
How'd the new bags do on the trip?  :) spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 14, 2009, 11:06:08 PM
Spydglide, they held everything I needed and even expanded a bit as we hit HD dealers on the way down and back (11 in all). We hit a few hours of rain just south of Minneapolis on the way down and they got soaked. Was afraid they might stain but they dried out well. They got a lot of attention. Money well spent. They really make the bike a one off.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on May 14, 2009, 11:08:53 PM
Spydglide, they held everything I needed and even expanded a bit as we hit HD dealers on the way down and back (11 in all). We hit a few hours of rain just south of Minneapolis on the way down and they got soaked. Was afraid they might stain but they dried out well. They got a lot of attention. Money well spent. They really make the bike a one off.
That's great.  I love it when something works out the way you hope.. :2vrolijk_21:...har!  spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buffy on May 15, 2009, 07:52:38 AM
Spydglide, they held everything I needed and even expanded a bit as we hit HD dealers on the way down and back (11 in all). We hit a few hours of rain just south of Minneapolis on the way down and they got soaked. Was afraid they might stain but they dried out well. They got a lot of attention. Money well spent. They really make the bike a one off.

BE,

First of all we are all impressed at what you've done to your "dream Switchblade", but now that I've learned that you actually RODE the 1,600 miles, I'm even more impressed!  Good for you!

I must confess, the first CVO gathering that I went to in Maggie Valley, my "Blade" was in a covered trailer.  Since then I added the bags and tour pak and I now ride it everywhere!

Take care of your baby. Now ride safe and ride often!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 15, 2009, 10:25:14 AM
Buffy, thanks for the comments! I have been dreaming of owning this bike for 8 years and my dream was always to buy it to ride it. I am always dismayed when I see one of these fine machines for sale with under a few thousand miles. The owners never got to experience the real joy of owning such a fine ride, taking it out on the road for an extended trip. I was one of the few street bikes at Eureka Springs and, although I love the touring bikes, I just can't see myself riding anything other than the blade, at least for a few years. Sure you felt the same when you got yours.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Black Diamond on May 15, 2009, 12:19:05 PM
BE

It was great to meet you in E.S.  And I finally got to gawk at you machine. She is definitely one off. I could see how much you loved putting her together just the way you wanted her. Now you get to enjoy your labor of love.

JW
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 15, 2009, 05:56:19 PM
BD - great to meet you and your future wife (now that she caught the bouquet) as well. A great group of folks sharing a common passion in an ideal location. Doesn't get much better than that! See you down the road!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 16, 2009, 03:31:48 PM
On the trip to and from Eureka Springs, I got more comments on the frame mounted storage tube than any other item on the bike. Nobody seemed to know what it was. In reality, it is a large piece of chrome that holds an incredibly small amount of stuff for what it costs but it sure is a conversation starter!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 27, 2009, 10:11:48 AM
Got my flame fuel cap and LED fuel gauge back from Mr. Goldman.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 27, 2009, 10:13:08 AM
The LED fuel gauge isn't supposed to work on the 01 WG but I found a service manager at Sun HD in Denver who says he knows how to make it work. Plan is to conference him on with my local service manager and let them work it out. Should look sharp on the bike when finished.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: MontSE103 on June 05, 2009, 04:10:19 PM
Bike locked and loaded for 700 mile trip to Arkansas. Time for some serious miles!


Bike looks GREAT.

Nice touch with the bags..Great Colors.....

Ride Safe.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on June 09, 2009, 12:13:49 PM
Thanks Mont. Pinged you on the 04 Deuce you posted. Time for the next project, wife wants a SE Deuce!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on June 18, 2009, 10:16:41 PM
A few shots of the bike in the configuration I like best. It's nice having bags mounted as I always seem to run into something I need to carry or want to pick up along the way.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on June 18, 2009, 10:17:40 PM
Other side
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on June 18, 2009, 10:18:38 PM
The WG2 now has a new stable-mate. Got a Deuce for my better half. Started a new thread here for this scoot.

http://www.cvoharley.com/smf/index.php?topic=38084.0 (http://www.cvoharley.com/smf/index.php?topic=38084.0)
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on July 05, 2009, 12:34:07 PM
Finnally stopped riding long enough to get some shots with the two up seat and backrest. 1st shot is of full two-up touring mode. Not my favorite look for the bike but it is the most comfortable for both parties.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on July 05, 2009, 12:35:09 PM
shot of the passenger compartment
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on July 05, 2009, 12:36:41 PM
Shot of the customized backrest. Ordered the full backrest (not the oval) because I wanted the flame stitch pattern but didn't like the black plastic back. Got the chrome oval back and had Jason do the SE logo on tooled leather. Turned out great.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on July 05, 2009, 12:37:37 PM
shot of seat & rests
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on July 05, 2009, 12:44:04 PM
Great inspiration.  :2vrolijk_21: 8) har!  spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: dirtyoldman on August 15, 2009, 04:27:12 AM
what's the quote,,  "God is in the Details,,"   simply Masterful, ok, where can i steal a switch,,,
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on August 15, 2009, 10:40:33 AM
Been spending most of my time riding (I've put 10K miles on the bike now) but ran into a vendor out at the Rapid City convention center that had such a great product I had to let him mod my bike.

The product is called Motorcycle Armor (http://www.motorcycle-armor.com/ (http://www.motorcycle-armor.com/)). It is a film made of clear coat material that goes on places likely to get chipped by road crap. I have a 3M invisible bra product on the front of my Acura to fight road chips and was thinking of having some put on the scoot. The windshield bag has scuffed up the clear coat on the little headlight fairing and I wanted to put a stop to that. When I saw this product and heard how superior it is to the 3M film, I had them put it on the fairing, the chin spoiler and the tip of the front fender. They have a kit for saddlebags that I will be getting for the Deuce hard bags.

Motorcycle Armor is a family business out of Denver and I spent some time talking with the father and sons who run the business. Great guys. All you touring bike guys with hard bags should definitely check them out. The film is removable, actually planned that way so that when it wears it can be replaced. Compared to the cost of repainting bags, fairings or other painted parts it is relatively inexpensive. They spent a lot of time doing bags and fairings out in Rapid. They travel to various motorcycle events so keep your eyes out for them. They are also training dealers to apply the film (not that tricky but over my head).

It's worth noting that the film not only protects clean surfaces but makes scratched surfaces look new again. They say it is because the film is made of the same stuff the clear coat is made from. I can attest to the fact that the scuffs my windshield bag put on the fairing have all but disappeared.

Photos to follow:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on August 15, 2009, 10:44:24 AM
You can see the film edge a bit better in this photo:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on August 15, 2009, 10:45:28 AM
Film installed on the front surface of the spoiler. Have about 1,000 miles on the product so far and it is much easier to clean and I can see how it will lessen the likelihood of rock chips on these surfaces. Highly recommended product  :2vrolijk_21: :2vrolijk_21:

Disclaimer - I do not work for Motorcycle Armor or receive any compensation for referrals (not that I wouldn't like to).
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on August 15, 2009, 10:53:12 AM
Also finally found a decoration I like for mounting on the brass plate under the CVO coin. Have been through several options and still will probably go with having Leni at Krazy Kolors script on 'Switchblade' but this will work for a while. Painted the flames red prior to mounting. Have to give it that custom touch.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on August 15, 2009, 10:53:53 AM
A little easier to tell it's an eagle. Used that great 3M doublestick tape so the badge (actually a HD pin) floats on the brass plate. Looks cool. Looks like I have a bit of cleaning to do on this part of the bike!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Gettinold on August 17, 2009, 07:18:29 AM
Thought it was a bottle cap and opener at first.  :confused5:   ;D
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on August 17, 2009, 10:15:38 PM
That's a great idea! I'll take a bottle of Dos Equis out there and see if it'll work.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: joeymaq on August 28, 2009, 09:08:42 AM
Nice Scooter! :drink:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Poser on October 07, 2009, 01:27:07 PM
The second owner replaced the stock bars with mid sized ape hangers. Didn't like the look myself so I switched to Kuryakyn Big'uns T bars. Pleased with the change. Second owner also added the windshield. Mod required to do so included cutting off lower portion of plexiglass to fit over sport fairing. My add to this was finding a flaming plexiglass piece on e-bay for $75 and replacing the stock plexi with this. Got to do the surgery myself on the second shield. I had seen this windshield in the HD catalog but not offered for Wide Glides. Pleased with the result - although would have been nice if the flames had been gold!
(http://)

1st timer here.  Just bought FXDWG2 yesterday.  Hope photo attached.  Don't know how to do this posting/reply stuff yet.
Windshield question:  FIRST mod cause I'm used to my Ultra.  You have any idea where it came from?  I can modify it, if can only find bracket.
Any suggestions would be helpful, as I want to keep the little fairing in place.  Cute...  You guys help the newbies so much with this incredible amount of information.  Thanks from a poser.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Fired00d on October 07, 2009, 03:45:51 PM
(http://)

1st timer here.  Just bought FXDWG2 yesterday.  Hope photo attached.  Don't know how to do this posting/reply stuff yet.
Windshield question:  FIRST mod cause I'm used to my Ultra.  You have any idea where it came from?  I can modify it, if can only find bracket.
Any suggestions would be helpful, as I want to keep the little fairing in place.  Cute...  You guys help the newbies so much with this incredible amount of information.  Thanks from a poser.
Poser,
First off welcome to the site when you get a chance you should go to this board - New Member Introduction (http://www.cvoharley.com/smf/index.php/board,30.0.html) and start a thread to introduce yourself.

In regards to the windshield/fairing that is pictured on your bike I don't see a windshield only the fairing that came stock w/that bike. Others that know more about that model may have some ideas in regards to adding something to that fairing, but I don't think I've ever seen anything added to it. I believe what you are going to have to do is replace it w/a windshield all together.

 :pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
 :fireman:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on October 07, 2009, 04:42:01 PM
Poser,
First off welcome to the site when you get a chance you should go to this board - New Member Introduction (http://www.cvoharley.com/smf/index.php/board,30.0.html) and start a thread to introduce yourself.

In regards to the windshield/fairing that is pictured on your bike I don't see a windshield only the fairing that came stock w/that bike. Others that know more about that model may have some ideas in regards to adding something to that fairing, but I don't think I've ever seen anything added to it. I believe what you are going to have to do is replace it w/a windshield all together.

 :pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
 :fireman:
:nervous: :nervous: :nervous: :nervous:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Hoist! on October 07, 2009, 04:45:29 PM
Poser,
First off welcome to the site when you get a chance you should go to this board - New Member Introduction (http://www.cvoharley.com/smf/index.php/board,30.0.html) and start a thread to introduce yourself.

In regards to the windshield/fairing that is pictured on your bike I don't see a windshield only the fairing that came stock w/that bike. Others that know more about that model may have some ideas in regards to adding something to that fairing, but I don't think I've ever seen anything added to it. I believe what you are going to have to do is replace it w/a windshield all together.

 :pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
 :fireman:

 Welcome aboard! No way to the above! Check out the pic. It's Member's Buy early 's bike. Contact him. He's knows ALL about these bikes!!! :2vrolijk_21:

Buy early (http://www.cvoharley.com/smf/index.php?action=profile;u=6420)

Hoist! :coolblue:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Fired00d on October 07, 2009, 05:50:10 PM
Welcome aboard! No way to the above! Check out the pic. It's Member's Buy early 's bike. Contact him. He's knows ALL about these bikes!!! :2vrolijk_21:

Buy early (http://www.cvoharley.com/smf/index.php?action=profile;u=6420)

Hoist! :coolblue:
I stand corrected..... See it's not hard admitting. ;) :D :D

 :pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
 :fireman:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Hoist! on October 07, 2009, 05:54:36 PM
I stand corrected..... See it's not hard admitting. ;) :D :D

 :pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
 :fireman:

HeHe!!! But that was a no-brainer d00d! Mark's a regular and keeps that CVO FXDWG Board alive!!! It was easier for me to remember though. I rode that bike a few months ago! ;)

Hoist! :coolblue:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on October 07, 2009, 07:55:51 PM
It was easier for me to remember though. I rode that bike a few months ago! ;)

Hoist! :coolblue:
......and?  :nixweiss:  har!  spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on October 07, 2009, 10:57:09 PM
Poser - Welcome aboard and congratulations on your purchase of the best and fastest CVO ever! Don't let statistics fool you, the Switchblade is the best and red is the fastest!

Give this post a thorough read and let me know if you have any questions.

http://www.cvoharley.com/smf/index.php?topic=719.0;all (http://www.cvoharley.com/smf/index.php?topic=719.0;all)

There are a few windshield choices for the WG2 but any of them require you to do a little trimming so it fits around the sport fairing. It's not to difficult, I know because I did it myself and I'm not that mechanically minded. I learned most of what I know about Switchblades from guys on this board. Especially a dude named Buffy! Go through all the threads in the FXDWG2 section and you'll come up to speed quickly. But only do that when it's not nice enough to be out riding!

If you don't mind my askin', where did you find the scoot?
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Ironman57 on October 08, 2009, 09:53:01 AM
 :pepper: Sweet
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: SE66 on October 08, 2009, 12:59:00 PM
Hey BuyEarly,

I was curious to know what type of sound do you get from those Screamin Eagle pipes.  I have a set on an 06 Heritage and they sound kind of gutted.  I even put the vance and hines quiet baffles in them and still don't like the sound.  What kind of sound do you get out of yours.  The sound is just not deep kinda loud and gutted.  I have even tried wrapping the baffles with fiberglass packin and still doesn't sound right.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: smkymtnboy on October 08, 2009, 01:05:04 PM
  my thoughts! very nice bike :2vrolijk_21: :2vrolijk_21: :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on October 08, 2009, 01:31:29 PM
Hey BuyEarly,

I was curious to know what type of sound do you get from those Screamin Eagle pipes.  I have a set on an 06 Heritage and they sound kind of gutted.  I even put the vance and hines quiet baffles in them and still don't like the sound.  What kind of sound do you get out of yours.  The sound is just not deep kinda loud and gutted.  I have even tried wrapping the baffles with fiberglass packin and still doesn't sound right.

Actually, the pipes on it now are V&H Q series pipes not SE's. When I purchased the bike, it had V&H short shots on it and they were way to loud for me (I know, I know...). The bike had gone through a SE motor upgrade from the stock 88CI to the SE 95. First owner also put in a fairly radical cam so it had that nice po ta toe sound but you could hear it blocks away. Went looking for something that wouldn't generate a revolt in my neighborhood. These were the only ones where I liked the look and the sound. They don't sound obnoxiously loud but they hold their own. It works for me but I realize the exhaust note is an extremely personal thing. My wife's SE Deuce with stock pipes in actually just a bit louder. We had the db meter out earlier this year to measure the bikes and I was a bit surprised.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on October 10, 2009, 10:51:42 AM
......and?  :nixweiss:  har!  spyder

Spyd - You can read Hoist's review of my scoot accross the street in Reply 10 of this post:

http://cvogarage.com/index.php?topic=1966.0;all (http://cvogarage.com/index.php?topic=1966.0;all)
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on October 10, 2009, 11:25:26 AM
Spyd - You can read Hoist's review of my scoot accross the street in Reply 10 of this post:

http://cvogarage.com/index.php?topic=1966.0;all (http://cvogarage.com/index.php?topic=1966.0;all)
thanks.  :2vrolijk_21: har. spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on October 22, 2009, 11:57:34 PM
Was just flippin' through photos of last spring when I got the Switchblade and found one of the bike in it's original config (not stock, but the way owner #2 had it set up).  16 months, a few $'s and 13,000 miles later, it's time to put it away for the winter again. I'm major bummed but it's been a great project and a lot of fun miles. 2 trips to Bike Week and a third out to the Hills with my wife a few weeks ago, trip down to Eureka Springs to meet many of the great folks on this forum, numerous trips over to Wisconsin and that pilgrimage to the Spam Museum this summer. Would loved to have taken even more time for extended journeys but there's more to come next spring. Not sure what projects will keep me occupied this winter, have a few finishing touches to put on the new bags and have to get the flame fuel gauge installed yet but other than that, the bike is about where I want it. Will work on the suspension at some point but that's a fairly large $ project so it'll probably be a next year thing. Every mile has been a gas and meeting fellow riders is always a highlight!

enjoy the ride!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on October 23, 2009, 12:00:42 AM
Bike as it looks 16 months later. Rides as good as it looks (from 0-100).
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on October 23, 2009, 08:21:59 AM
Looking good......even the doors on the house match.  :cherry: :apple: har!  spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buffy on October 23, 2009, 09:40:36 PM
Hey B.E. !!

This was made for you!  :pepper:


http://www.zazzle.com/2001_harley_davidson_fxdwg2_switchblade_tie-151907254905488387 (http://www.zazzle.com/2001_harley_davidson_fxdwg2_switchblade_tie-151907254905488387)
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on October 25, 2009, 02:22:47 PM
Thanks Buffy, maybe a mug but I don't wear ties anymore. Still got your WG2 I see.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buffy on October 27, 2009, 01:23:48 PM
Yeah, I've decided to keep it for now.  Don't need to sell it, just loving the ride of the Road Glide.

For now, it's the Red Rocket for short trips, and the Road Glide for everything else. 

One positive thing, the Switchblade sure stays a LOT cleaner when it stays "home"!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: catahoula58 on October 28, 2009, 09:22:14 PM
 :orange:  Got a question?  Any room for more improvements?  That rocket looks pretty complete and beautiful to me!  Nice looking ride you got there!  :orange:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on October 29, 2009, 10:28:06 PM
:orange:  Got a question?  Any room for more improvements?  That rocket looks pretty complete and beautiful to me!  Nice looking ride you got there!  :orange:

Thanks cat! It's been a fun project. Have a few details on the bags to work out over the winter. Working on some covers for the bag mounts and a few other little details but the majority of the visible additions are done. Still thinking about the Traxxion Dynamics suspension upgrades. Hoist says they are the bees knees. Just got the bike back from the dealer today all winterized and ready to go up on the jack for the long 5 months ahead. Kind of a depressing time. Got a buddy with a home in Phoenix so there is the slim chance we could trailer our bikes out there to ride a few times during the winter months. Have to keep a positive thought.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on November 01, 2009, 05:47:49 PM
Finally got the dealer to take the time necessary to get the LED Flame fuel gauge mounted. The manual says it won't work but found a few people who had made the mod and convinced my dealer that it was just a matter of experimentation. Turned out great. Problem was, in the significant amount of time it took to get this done, I dropped and broke the matching gas cap. Not too bad as the gas cap is cheaper than the LED fuel gauge but having the flames golded doubled the cost so having to do another one ramped up the total cost on this mod to something approaching absurd. Like the look and glad it is finally complete but some things just don't go as planned.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on November 01, 2009, 05:48:20 PM
View from the drivers seat.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on November 11, 2009, 09:46:19 AM
Fortunately, I could use the broken gas cap on another project.

http://www.cvoharley.com/smf/index.php?topic=29337.0 (http://www.cvoharley.com/smf/index.php?topic=29337.0)
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on December 09, 2009, 05:44:21 PM
Thinking of adding these to my pipes. Thoughts anyone? Have you used Kewl products before? Quality good?
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on December 09, 2009, 06:36:20 PM
Thinking of adding these to my pipes. Thoughts anyone? Have you used Kewl products before? Quality good?
I have no experience with them.  They look cool, but might make cleaning a hassle.  :-\ spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: naitram on December 09, 2009, 06:46:52 PM
with a bit of the gold treatment on them?
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on December 09, 2009, 11:41:38 PM
Thought about the gold treatment but don't think I would like chrome pipes with gold tips. Would probably stick with chrome. Question is would they likely blue or discolor?
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: RedDevil on December 11, 2009, 08:55:23 PM
Thought about the gold treatment but don't think I would like chrome pipes with gold tips. Would probably stick with chrome. Question is would they likely blue or discolor?

Depending on how good quality they are, hopefully, they'll just get the typical black on the inside of them, but that will probably "bleed" to in between the cut outs, and like Spyd said will probably be a beotch to clean and keep clean looking.  They're probably something I'd put on a show bike that doesn't get driven much.  :nixweiss:

:devil:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on December 15, 2009, 04:30:09 PM
Thanks for the feedback guys. Unfortunately, they don't fit on the V&H Q series pipes (now discontinued of course - no one wanted quieter pipes).
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: knuck45 on December 16, 2009, 09:10:24 AM
Flame on
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on December 20, 2009, 03:34:54 PM
Flame on

All right, another Fantastic Four fan!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on February 13, 2010, 05:30:54 PM
Trying to find a set of flame themed mirrors that have turn signal lighting built in. Anyone ever seen a set? Like these but hate to loose the signal feature.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on April 10, 2010, 09:05:50 AM
Finally got the hardware on the fork bag switched out to match the hardware on the saddlebags and trunk bag. Had to switch leather straps and they don't quite match but wasn't gonna have a whole new bag made so this will have to do for now.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on April 10, 2010, 09:06:16 AM
Old look
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on April 10, 2010, 09:06:49 AM
New look
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: bandit on April 11, 2010, 10:58:28 AM
with an outstanding work from LarryB,
everything arrived save at my home!

 :orange: :bananarock: :apple: :carrot: :jalapeno:

thanks a lot, bandit
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: bandit on April 11, 2010, 10:59:01 AM
 :orange: :huepfenjump3:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: bandit on April 11, 2010, 10:59:33 AM
 :orange: :bananarock: :pineapple:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: bandit on April 11, 2010, 11:00:30 AM
 :huepfenlol2: :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: bandit on April 11, 2010, 11:02:41 AM
it was the TP, which was added to my bike;
my wife and my sister-in-law already took
a seat and it will be hard, to get them on
their own bikes back!!  :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: smkymtnboy on April 11, 2010, 12:08:38 PM
thanks for sharing the pics. I have seen other photos of LarryB work. he be the man :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: bandit on April 11, 2010, 12:59:39 PM
Also changed the suspension at the back,
with the support of hd-dude!  :2vrolijk_21:

thanks, Bandit
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: bandit on April 11, 2010, 01:00:25 PM
but have to try out the right settings for me and BSR.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on April 11, 2010, 10:03:09 PM
You hijackin my thread Bandit? :jack:


Nice mods by the way and you're right, Larryb is the man for mods!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: bandit on April 12, 2010, 03:33:36 AM
 ???, feel nearly dead  :pumpkin:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: kraut on April 12, 2010, 03:48:53 AM
Hmmmm, Bandit, when looking at your licence-plate I'm thinking about emigrating to Switzerland   :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on April 20, 2010, 09:34:11 AM
Got out for the second long ride of the year. We've picked up an extra month of riding with the weather being so nice in April. Rode through the St. Croix river valley. Trees are starting to green up. Happy days ahead!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on July 02, 2010, 09:45:20 PM
Haven't done much on the Beast this year because pretty much everything has been done BUT when I had it in for the 20K service and pre-Sturgis inspection, I had the HD fork brace and Racetek Gold Valves installed with the intent of firming up the front end a bit. When Hoist rode the bike last summer he indicated that the front end got a bit shaky at higher speeds (higher than I am likely to drive). When I picked up the bike I could notice quite a difference over bumps and around turns. Bike definitely doesn't dive as much and seems to track through corners better. Pleased with the results both performance and looks wise. A functional piece of chrome is tough to beat.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on July 02, 2010, 09:50:28 PM
Fitment is tight but previous posters on this site have put the brace on DWG1's and DWG2's even though HD says the brace won't fit the CVO Wide Glides so I printed the photos and gave them to my service tech (this site rocks).
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on July 02, 2010, 09:52:07 PM
When taking the photos I noticed that the fork brace completed a nice chrome frame effect for the CVO coin mounted on the frame. Looks cool.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on July 02, 2010, 09:53:34 PM
Rare stripped down view of the Blade.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Black Diamond on July 03, 2010, 12:07:24 AM
Rare stripped down view of the Blade.

She is one sweet scooter!

JW
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on July 06, 2010, 01:10:47 PM
Thanks JW! It's great to be out riding again. It was a long winter. Got everything just about ready to go for Bike Week. Looking forward to a week in the saddle.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Gettinold on July 06, 2010, 08:39:44 PM
She is one sweet scooter!

JW

 I'll have to confirm on that. :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on July 10, 2010, 05:22:27 PM
I'll have to confirm on that. :2vrolijk_21:

Thanks! Been out riding all day. Beautiful summer day here, just what we wait for all winter!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on August 14, 2010, 07:00:09 PM
Been looking for the right highlight for the saddle bag accessory pouches. Found these. Started out as keychains. Not sure they are the final solution. May need to be painted gold and red as the bronze doesn't quite do it.

Opinions?
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on August 14, 2010, 07:00:47 PM
There are four pouches, two smaller ones on the front and two larger ones on the back. This is one of the small front ones. Had to curve the medallion and put it on the lid. The larger one had room on the main surface.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Black Diamond on August 15, 2010, 11:07:11 AM
As always, very well done!

JW
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: MY2NDCVO on August 17, 2010, 05:36:40 PM
Great Craftsmanship
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on August 24, 2010, 06:38:29 PM
Took the front fork tool bag off The Beast the other day for a good post Sturgis cleaning and found this staring me in the face.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on August 24, 2010, 06:42:12 PM
Had never really taken the time to notice that huge piece of unchromed real estate on the under side of the triple tree. Went to my wife's Deuce and noticed it had a nice chrome cover under there so thought it would be a no-brainer to get one for the Wide Glide. Not so! HD doesn't make a lower triple tree chrome cover for Dynas. Not being one to take no for an answer, I did some measuring and figured that a properly altered Softail cover (66053-01) should be an improvement so I acquired one of these.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on August 24, 2010, 06:42:57 PM
45 minutes of work with the Dremel cutter and grinder got me half way there.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on August 24, 2010, 06:44:50 PM
Had to use my neighbors large vise to put a bend on the leading edge as the way it was, there was a 1/4" gap between the bottom and the top chrome covers, not acceptable. I was lucky the bend wasn't so radical that the chrome plating was damaged.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on August 24, 2010, 06:46:12 PM
Another 30 minutes with the Dremel (second half of projects always go faster) and we had our customized piece of bling.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on August 24, 2010, 06:49:36 PM
you'll have to re-chrome it anyway since it's gonna rust where you cut it thru the chroming.  It'll be worth the time & money when it's gleaming under there tho.  :coolblue: Looks great right now  :2vrolijk_21: :2vrolijk_21: har.  :drink: spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on August 24, 2010, 06:58:21 PM
The wings don't extend quite far enough to cover the whole area but it is a vast improvement over all that cast metal. Finished it off with a custom flamed bolt head cover and we're good to go! Too bad that once the fork tool bag goes back on, this little project will return to anonymity. Always enjoy the little touches, especially when I get to put my own ideas into the mix.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on August 24, 2010, 07:00:53 PM
you'll have to re-chrome it anyway since it's gonna rust where you cut it thru the chroming.  It'll be worth the time & money when it's gleaming under there tho.  :coolblue: Looks great right now  :2vrolijk_21: :2vrolijk_21: har.  :drink: spyder

The Beast never stays wet or dirty for long enough for rust to set in.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on September 02, 2010, 10:19:12 PM
You know I love the details. Had found a HD pin that was the same double flame pattern as the primary, inspection, timer, and horn covers on my bike and found a use for it on the project I undertook to mount the CVOHarley challenge coin to my frame but it eventually got replaced when I found another piece I liked better. Always did like this pin though, just hadn't found the right place for it. Well, it came to me the other day when I was cleaning the windshield so I ordered up a new one from ebay - the world's largest continuously operating garage sale - and went to work customizing.

Photo of pin.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on September 02, 2010, 10:20:40 PM
Picked up a stainless bolt and ground off 90% of the head, ground the pins off the back of the pin itself, mixed up a bit of epoxy and ended up here:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on September 02, 2010, 10:21:03 PM
Another view:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on September 02, 2010, 10:21:57 PM
Removed one of the custom golded bar/shield windshield bolts and viola!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on September 02, 2010, 10:22:42 PM
Figure eventually I'll replace, chrome, cover, or alter every bolt on the bike. Just a matter of time.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: CK on September 02, 2010, 10:49:37 PM
That's perfect.  It looks like it was meant to be there.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on September 28, 2010, 09:11:10 AM
Went for a ride yesterday with a buddy and, after enjoying a nice lunch, came out and the bike would not start. Starter just made that whirring sound, no engagement. Thank God for AAA, had the bike trailered 50 miles to my HD shop. Mechanic said that because of the SE upgrade when the bike was new (TC 88 to 95), I should have compression release installed as the compression is too high and burning out the starter. I put a new high compression starter on in November of 08 (a chrome one, even) so the thing has only had two summers of use. Is that an average life for a starter or is there something else going on here?
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on October 12, 2010, 09:37:07 PM
Well, the problems turned out to be numerous, serious and rather pricey. Starting with a bad starter clutch assembly and moving on to shattered cam tensioners requiring a new hydraulic cam plate and oil pump. From there, they found that the original SE 95 upgrade kit had been poorly done with pushrods installed improperly so we added a new pushrod kit. The service manager said that the old chain cam tensioner was a frequent failure for that year and motor and that the new hydraulic model was a vast improvement. He said had the bike started and been driven another 50 miles, a catastrophic failure in the cam tensioners would have destroyed the whole motor so I guess I was lucky.

While the bike was in, I had them put on a new HD LED tail light as the Kuryakyn one was going haywire and also installed some new mirrors and front LED turn signals. Photos to follow.

Got the bike out 24 hours before leaving for a 4 day trip around Lake Superior and it ran very well the entire 1,500 miles. These are the first serious service issues I have had on the bike. I've put on 20,000 miles in 3 riding seasons and this little service episode added $.15 per mile driven to the cost of ownership.

It was good to enjoy a beautiful, trouble free trip right after shelling out some $'s on repairs!

Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on October 19, 2010, 09:46:42 PM
Finally found some mirrors I liked. Trouble was, they didn't have built in turn signals like the old Kuryakyn ones so I had to find a turn signal solution. Don't really like the stock front signals so went looking for something that would be as small as possible and yet provide safe visibility for oncoming traffic. Found an LED solution from Badlands called Flame Throwers - even fits the theme of the bike. Technically, they are not a legal turn signal because they don't have enough amber surface area but they are plenty bright so I will risk a ticket.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on October 19, 2010, 09:47:24 PM
From the back you can't even tell the signals are there.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on October 19, 2010, 09:48:03 PM
The mirrors are sweet because they already have golded flames! Had to do some minor mods on both the mirrors and the chrome brake housing. Had to add some additional adjustability into the mirrors as they wouldn't angle up enough and the front opening in the chrome housing had to be expanded a bit so that the flame stalk would clear the chrome. More Dremel work. Everything turned out well tho.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on October 19, 2010, 09:49:06 PM
Shot with the signal on. They start out with just one lit LED and ramp up to all lit within about a second.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on October 19, 2010, 09:50:11 PM
Side view.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: naitram on October 20, 2010, 08:14:41 AM
just when we start thinking you couldnt find anything else to do......  :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Black Diamond on October 20, 2010, 08:45:51 AM
As I posted before, you and JCZ are on a different level. Looks great, as always.

JW
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on January 29, 2011, 11:16:41 PM
Picked up one of these on ebay. Should look nice on the dash.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: dcigar on January 30, 2011, 03:01:13 AM
just read all 23 pages, i thought when i bought my cvo , what else could i possibly want.......... thanks for all the ideas, a fantastic everyday ride :pepper:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on February 04, 2011, 02:07:03 PM
Thanks dcigar! One of the best things about this site is the sharing of knowledge and ideas. The knowledge of people on this forum has saved me tons of money while, at the same time, provided me with ideas that cost me even more! Would love to come down and ride around your countryside sometime!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: darth davidson on February 04, 2011, 04:29:14 PM
Side view.

Awesome ride , man . Enjoy!!!!!!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on February 11, 2011, 02:49:44 PM
Awesome ride , man . Enjoy!!!!!!

Thanks Darth! Hope you saw this. One of the funniest things I've seen in while!

http://www.youtube.com/vw (http://www.youtube.com/vw)
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: darth davidson on February 11, 2011, 03:18:11 PM
Thanks Darth! Hope you saw this. One of the funniest things I've seen in while!

http://www.youtube.com/vw (http://www.youtube.com/vw)

Favorite superbowl commercial ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 15, 2011, 09:48:08 PM
Turned this:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 15, 2011, 09:48:33 PM
Into this:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 15, 2011, 09:49:02 PM
And put it here:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 15, 2011, 09:49:47 PM
So it looks like this:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: SEURG on May 15, 2011, 10:38:01 PM
Buy Early.....  What can I say but WOW!  Just went through the entire post and was amazed.  The bike looks great.  Liked in MN for 35 years, just north of Mpls.  To bad you have to park that bad boy for the winter!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 18, 2011, 03:10:11 PM
Got one of these (http://www.eglidegoodies.com/id191.html (http://www.eglidegoodies.com/id191.html)) a few years ago and have been very happy with it. Have used it on several longer trips. Big enough to hold my small video camera, a few iPods, phone, batteries, cables, glasses, sunscreen pen, etc.

When I got my iPad last year I began to think about having the iPad mounted on the bag so I could utilize it for GPS and music while on the bike and all the other fun reasons to have an iPad while on the road. Unfortunately, the clear plastic map case just wasn't large enough.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 18, 2011, 03:13:15 PM
Then I saw this (http://www.revzilla.com/product/tour-master-tb-12-tank-bag (http://www.revzilla.com/product/tour-master-tb-12-tank-bag)) at Bob's Cycle supply the other day. They happened to sell the clear map section separately for $9 so I picked one up.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 18, 2011, 03:13:48 PM
Took this from the original bag:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 18, 2011, 03:14:30 PM
along with this from the tourmaster bag to my leather shop.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 18, 2011, 03:15:06 PM
He worked his magic and gave me back this:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 18, 2011, 03:15:45 PM
Now I can do this:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 18, 2011, 03:17:28 PM
I really like the Marsee bag because it has very strong magnets and a tunnel on the underside that allows it to fit very securely on the WG2 without straps. The one thing I have yet to do to the bike is put some motorcycle armor on the tank where the bag mounts so it won't scratch the tank if dirt gets between the magnets and the bike.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on May 18, 2011, 03:21:20 PM
neat idea......but, I would find it too distracting (with my lack of self-control to not use while in motion). ???  spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 18, 2011, 03:22:15 PM
As a bonus, I can drive the ipad through the map bag without interference. Finger gestures work unimpeded. Had it on the bike yesterday for a bit over an hour and the music worked just fine.

Have been using the Jabra Bluetooth BT3030 (http://www.amazon.com/Jabra-BT3030-Bluetooth-Stereo-Headset/dp/B000XT3L7W/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1305746407&sr=8-1 (http://www.amazon.com/Jabra-BT3030-Bluetooth-Stereo-Headset/dp/B000XT3L7W/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1305746407&sr=8-1)) dongle to drive my Shure headset. This allows me to connect to my iPhone, iPod or iPad for music, GPS, and phone. Wear the dongle like a wristwatch so I can control volume, track selection on the fly.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 18, 2011, 03:26:06 PM
Currently looking for the best iPad app for GPS with spoken turn by turn driving instructions and downloadable maps (suggestions always welcome). My iPad has full GPS but don't really want to have the screen on all the time as the unit will likely overheat and shut down. Figure I can activate the screen when needed and listen for directions the remainder of the time. The ability to have the iPad stream music is great. The battery life is over 15 hours in music only mode. Also acquired the necessary cables to do on-bike charging if necessary.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Envithyx on May 18, 2011, 05:02:53 PM
Currently looking for the best iPad app for GPS with spoken turn by turn driving instructions and downloadable maps (suggestions always welcome). My iPad has full GPS but don't really want to have the screen on all the time as the unit will likely overheat and shut down. Figure I can activate the screen when needed and listen for directions the remainder of the time. The ability to have the iPad stream music is great. The battery life is over 15 hours in music only mode. Also acquired the necessary cables to do on-bike charging if necessary.

Not sure if it is the best, but I quite like it when using the iPad as a GPS device.

GPS Drive HD (More for navigating in a vehicle) and GPS HD (Resembles functions on a handheld GPS for say water/camping) by MotionX.  I think both are like $2.99.

The only caveate to the one that gives driving instructions, it will cost you $2.99 in any month you wish to use the voice nav, or $19.99 for a year subscription.  The 1st month's purchase is included with the apps initial $2.99 cost.

The justification to the subscription costs is that the data is live and always being updated; however, you can nav without the nav prompts in a pinch.  So you pay as you use.  I've only activated the voice nav twice since I got it almost a year ago.  I tend to use the GPS HD app more, as it does a killer job of recording some of the rides we've been on.

The GPS HD app has more map sources to choose from, and both allow you control your music stream from within the app.  With the updated IOS, that really isn't as useful as it used to be.

If you have seen any of the ride reports JCZ posts that I've been on, good chance I have posted a route map from this program.

Tons of features that may or may not appeal to you.  http://drive.motionx.com/ipad/overview/
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 22, 2011, 05:03:03 PM
Just ordered a set of these Progressive shocks. Plan to have the flames golded prior to install. Should be a nice touch for the back end and who doesn't want a nice touch on their back end!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on May 22, 2011, 10:23:44 PM
Man, you just keep moving the bar higher and higher.  The gold & flames theme is great and you seem to find unique ways to incorporate them tastefully on that red bomb.  :apple: spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on June 02, 2011, 05:23:21 PM
Don't know why it took me so long to get around to this piece of real estate. Went from this:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on June 02, 2011, 05:23:56 PM
To this:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on June 02, 2011, 05:25:38 PM
Serious case of both OCD & OGD (Obsessive Chrome and Gold Disorder)!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: JCZ on June 02, 2011, 06:09:44 PM
To this:

Just get the black in the lettering done in red, to match. :2vrolijk_21:

But it's lookin good!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on June 02, 2011, 07:14:55 PM
Just get the black in the lettering done in red, to match. :2vrolijk_21:

Dang JCZ, it takes a lot of nerve to point out something else that BuyEarly needs to do to that scooter.  :o har.  spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on June 03, 2011, 09:24:38 AM
Just get the black in the lettering done in red, to match. :2vrolijk_21:

But it's lookin good!

When you're right, you're right, and you're right JC.

The theme I have tried to follow on the bike is; flames in gold, lettering and bar/shields in red, leather in tan, and chrome everything else.

The only black on the bike should be the tires and belt. That's been challenging to do at times but that has been the goal. There are some exceptions. The Flamin' Switchblade pegs didn't get golded but your point is well taken and I spent all night trying to figure out a solution. Problem is, I have 4 like items on the bike. The primary and inspection covers and the air cleaner and points covers. I would want to change them all.

According to my theme, the black background would go to chrome and the lettering and bar/shields would be red. If you notice, the Harley Davidson scripting on the back of the luggage rack and the bottom of the chrome belt guard got pinstriped red. Several of the bar/shield logos were filled in red (wheel spokes, choke knob, coin logos on the riser tops and axel covers, etc.). I just haven't figured out how to accomplish this... yet. I thought of filling in the whole section with chrome paint and then scraping off the top surface of the bar/shield and lettering and applying red paint but that would be a royal PITA.

Still cogitating but I do agree with your assessment.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on June 03, 2011, 09:26:41 AM
Same design on the horn cover. Had the wings painted red as a custom touch, golded the flame linkage and even justified the gold spark plug wires because they provide flame, right, but just never thought about the black background.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: RedDevil on June 03, 2011, 09:43:46 AM
Same design on the horn cover. Had the wings painted red as a custom touch, golded the flame linkage and even justified the gold spark plug wires because they provide flame, right, but just never thought about the black background.
Ya gotta figure out how to golden the flames on the derby, points and air cleaner cover to keep with the theme.  I gotta admit, I didn't think there was much more you could do to that beauty, but you keep finding a way.   :2vrolijk_21:

:devil:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: SCRM-R on June 03, 2011, 09:52:36 AM
I think if you just changed the background in the emblem from black to red as spydglide suggested would be a huge improvement and give a custom look.  It also would pretty much keep with your theme and is relatively easy to do with a little paint remover and a tool to fill engraving with paint.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: JCZ on June 03, 2011, 09:57:50 AM
Buy Early.....a good pin striper can paint the black to red for you on all three covers......the black ring on that horn cover too. ???
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on June 03, 2011, 11:04:27 AM
Buy Early.....a good pin striper can paint the black to red for you on all three covers......the black ring on that horn cover too. ???

JC, think you misunderstood, according to my ultimate scheme, the black would be chrome, the bar/shield and Harley Davidson script would be red. It would be at least a 2 step process. Further complicating the issue is some parts (primary cover, timer cover, and inspection cover) experience high heat so simple paint might not work. I work myself into a tizzy over these details.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on June 03, 2011, 11:08:07 AM
Ya gotta figure out how to golden the flames on the derby, points and air cleaner cover to keep with the theme.  I gotta admit, I didn't think there was much more you could do to that beauty, but you keep finding a way.   :2vrolijk_21:

:devil:

Tough to make out in the photos but the flames on the derby cover, inspection cover, air cleaner, and horn cover are gold. HD makes 2 types, chrome only and gold flames. That's one of the things that got me started in making all flames gold. I had the shifter rod, hand grips, rear turn signal flames, flames on the gas cap and LED fuel gauge all golded by a detail shop in trying to keep the theme consistent. It gets crazy after a while.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: JCZ on June 03, 2011, 11:20:50 AM
Dang JCZ, it takes a lot of nerve to point out something else that BuyEarly needs to do to that scooter.  :o har.  spyder

Just trying to help the poor boy out till he finds a program for his OCD. :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: JCZ on June 03, 2011, 11:22:19 AM
JC, think you misunderstood, according to my ultimate scheme, the black would be chrome, the bar/shield and Harley Davidson script would be red. It would be at least a 2 step process. Further complicating the issue is some parts (primary cover, timer cover, and inspection cover) experience high heat so simple paint might not work. I work myself into a tizzy over these details.

Anybody know where there's a 12 step program for this guy? :nixweiss:               :huepfenlol2: :huepfenlol2:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on June 03, 2011, 11:34:41 AM
Anybody know where there's a 12 step program for this guy? :nixweiss:               :huepfenlol2: :huepfenlol2:

Funny you should mention that! My wife has suggested some sort of treatment as well.

I would expect someone like you to understand and be sympathetic to my illness!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: JCZ on June 03, 2011, 12:04:44 PM
Funny you should mention that! My wife has suggested some sort of treatment as well.

I would expect someone like you to understand and be sympathetic to my illness!

Oh, I am.....that's why I was tryin to help you out there. ;D

There is an alternative but you'll have to talk to Miker about that. :nixweiss:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: RedDevil on June 03, 2011, 12:07:32 PM
Tough to make out in the photos but the flames on the derby cover, inspection cover, air cleaner, and horn cover are gold. HD makes 2 types, chrome only and gold flames. That's one of the things that got me started in making all flames gold. I had the shifter rod, hand grips, rear turn signal flames, flames on the gas cap and LED fuel gauge all golded by a detail shop in trying to keep the theme consistent. It gets crazy after a while.

Now that you mentioned it, I can see it in the pics now.  I should have known better.   ;) ;D  You are a sick puppy, but in a very good way.  8)

:devil:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on June 03, 2011, 01:22:48 PM
Funny you should mention that! My wife has suggested some sort of treatment as well.

I would expect someone like you to understand and be sympathetic to my illness!
Well, you'd spend just as much in time & money with the therapy....so what's the gain? :nixweiss: Just keep on enjoying it.......we are!   ;D har.  spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on June 03, 2011, 01:42:08 PM
Well, you'd spend just as much in time & money with the therapy....so what's the gain? :nixweiss: Just keep on enjoying it.......we are!   ;D har.  spyder

As Sam Kinnison said "If you've got $25,000 for a month in rehab, you haven't hit bottom yet!"  :D :D
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on June 03, 2011, 01:43:52 PM
Now that you mentioned it, I can see it in the pics now.  I should have known better.   ;) ;D  You are a sick puppy, but in a very good way.  8)

:devil:

Lotsa "sick puppies" on this site. I guess it's why we like hangin' here. Great minds you know...
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: RedDevil on June 03, 2011, 06:04:02 PM
Lotsa "sick puppies" on this site. I guess it's why we like hangin' here. Great minds you know...
:2vrolijk_21:

:devil:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on July 06, 2011, 11:51:00 PM
Got them in.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on July 06, 2011, 11:51:44 PM
Flame covers golded and awaiting reassembly and installation. Gonna look cool! You could never do this to a BMW!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on July 07, 2011, 07:06:33 AM
Flame covers golded and awaiting reassembly and installation. Gonna look cool! You could never do this to a BMW!
:coolblue: :coolblue: :coolblue: :2vrolijk_21:spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on July 07, 2011, 11:18:31 PM
Spent much of the day Monday going through the Glare treatment on the WG2. All 3 steps (Spider, Micro Finish, & Polish). Can't say I was overwhelmed with the result, perhaps because I keep the bike pretty clean and shiny all the time. It was worth the effort and the tins are now much smoother to the touch, kinda like a baby's bottom. The nicest surprise was how shiny the glare polish made the chrome look. That was the only Glare product I tried on the chrome. Really shined it up.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on July 07, 2011, 11:20:00 PM
Used the Griots Garage foam pads for application. Worked slick. Used the 3" orbital on the larger areas, saved on the elbow grease.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on July 07, 2011, 11:22:14 PM
It's great having the right tools for the job. Have really appreciated the functionality of the Pimp Stix product. Lotsa choices of tips and extenders get you into every spot on the bike. Highly recommended!

http://www.pimpstixxx.com/?gclid=CLSinI7l8KkCFVDCKgodmHbkYA (http://www.pimpstixxx.com/?gclid=CLSinI7l8KkCFVDCKgodmHbkYA)
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on July 07, 2011, 11:22:53 PM
Got the brush tips for them as well, makes it easy to clean out the tight spots.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on July 21, 2011, 11:36:37 PM
Got the bike back from the shop with the new shocks and tire installed. Overall, very pleased. The Progressive shocks seem to be a very high quality product. The gold flames don't show up too well in the photo, have to work on better lighting.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on July 21, 2011, 11:37:46 PM
Had to alter the mounting hardware a bit to allow for the saddle bag roller brackets attached to the bottom bolt of the shock. I'll have the black portion of the saddle bag roller bracket chromed in the off season so you don't see that black piece amongst all that nice chrome.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on July 21, 2011, 11:39:39 PM
The top portion of the shock comes with a bolt cover providing a very nice finish.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on July 21, 2011, 11:44:21 PM
New tire. There may be issues here. The WG2 came stock with a 130. The WG3's came with a 140. I asked the dealer to install a 140 figuring there wouldn't be any issues. They called me this morning to say it would be an extremely tight fit but that they could make it work by filing down a few bolts. Picked up the bike and it surely is a tight fit. Side of tire rubs a bit on the inside edge of the fender when the bike is unloaded. Under load, the fender drops enough to clear. Got it home and looked the tire over more carefully. Sure enough, they installed a 150. Not sure if I should keep it on. The dealer will swap it out without charge as expected but I sure do like the look of the wider tire.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on July 22, 2011, 07:07:43 AM
New tire. There may be issues here. The WG2 came stock with a 130. The WG3's came with a 140. I asked the dealer to install a 140 figuring there wouldn't be any issues. They called me this morning to say it would be an extremely tight fit but that they could make it work by filing down a few bolts. Picked up the bike and it surely is a tight fit. Side of tire rubs a bit on the inside edge of the fender when the bike is unloaded. Under load, the fender drops enough to clear. Got it home and looked the tire over more carefully. Sure enough, they installed a 150. Not sure if I should keep it on. The dealer will swap it out without charge as expected but I sure do like the look of the wider tire.
Mmmmmm, you know I'm all about the 'looks' of your cool scooter, but a rubbing tire, even a little bit would cause me to change it out.  Don't want a bigger problem and mess up all that detail.  spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Twolanerider on July 22, 2011, 10:49:33 AM
Mark, if the tire touches at all you've got to change it.  Your first real notice could too easily be not the tire but the hot spot on the fender where the paint got burned from the friction of the rub.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: fresh oil and pipes on July 22, 2011, 09:05:34 PM
Was thinking about some custom work to mine also this fender shows promise.(http://whitetrashrepairs.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/938.jpg)
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: SBB on July 22, 2011, 09:09:35 PM
Was thinking about some custom work to mine also this fender shows promise.(http://whitetrashrepairs.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/938.jpg)


Cobb

Whatever you do don't show that fender to Simon.
He may think your a redneck.


SBB
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: fresh oil and pipes on July 22, 2011, 09:41:06 PM

Cobb

Whatever you do don't show that fender to Simon.
He may think your a redneck.


SBB

He prob be right
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: 04se103 on July 22, 2011, 10:01:27 PM
He prob be right

Ya think  :huepfenlol2:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on July 22, 2011, 10:27:10 PM
Was thinking about some custom work to mine also this fender shows promise.(http://whitetrashrepairs.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/938.jpg)

Actually Cobb, you're not far off. Spent some time today poking around the rear fender. A little lateral force, a very mild bend of the fender under the chrome fender struts and the rubbing is gone. Going to try a few shorter rides this weekend and see if anything rubs. This is the tire that came stock on the WG3. i had thought it was a 140 but found a copy of the WG3 brochure and it said it was a 150. I'll pet a 5 or 600  hundred miles on it before the trip out west so should have a pretty good read by then.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on July 22, 2011, 10:46:22 PM
Actually Cobb, you're not far off. Spent some time today poking around the rear fender. A little lateral force, a very mild bend of the fender under the chrome fender struts and the rubbing is gone. Going to try a few shorter rides this weekend and see if anything rubs. This is the tire that came stock on the WG3. i had thought it was a 140 but found a copy of the WG3 brochure and it said it was a 150. I'll pet a 5 or 600  hundred miles on it before the trip out west so should have a pretty good read by then.
Just be careful and remember how much that tire can 'grow' as you ride it.  spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on July 22, 2011, 11:11:16 PM
Just be careful and remember how much that tire can 'grow' as you ride it.  spyder

that's a fair question sypdglide, how much does a tire grow when ridden? How much clearance around the tire would be considered a safe minimum? Any engineers out there?
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on July 22, 2011, 11:30:09 PM
If I remember correctly, it grows more in height towards the fender top than the sides.  Maybe someone that knows about this stuff will chirp in here....I've seen fenders ruined due to tires rubbing and heating up the paint....but, theoretically, it could do worse than ruin your pretty fender..... :nervous:  spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: fresh oil and pipes on July 22, 2011, 11:50:18 PM
I am going to start with a 30 pack and see where it goes
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on August 27, 2011, 08:46:23 PM
Not necessarily an improvement but certainly a milestone for this bike. Just completed a 3,000 mile, 10 day trip to the Rally, Bighorns, Yellowstone, Tetons, Jackson Hole, Steamboat Springs, Rocky Mountain National Park, and home. Fantastic ride! Unbelievable scenery and all from the top of a bar-hopper. Didn't see one other red Switchblade at Sturgis this year. Only saw one other the entire trip, sitting on a dealers' floor in central Iowa. Bike had less than 3K miles on it. It is such a shame that so many of these bikes are sitting in garages not being ridden. They are 10 years old and I still see them on ebay and Chopper Exchange with less than 5K miles. This is probably the bike most frequently sold as a "collectors item" to unsuspecting buyers caught up with the flash of red and gold. Too bad they will never see a return on that investment. Saw one a few weeks ago with less than 3K miles go for $11K.

On the other hand, The Beast has been improved, ridden, improved, and ridden again. He's been to 4 Rally's, one CVO gathering, 14 states, up into Canada, and has provided more smiles per mile that any rig I have ever owned.

Here's to the next 30K!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Fired00d on August 27, 2011, 08:56:53 PM
Congrats!!!! Wishing you many more miles of smiles!!! :2vrolijk_21:

 :pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
 :fireman:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: GregKhougaz on August 27, 2011, 09:00:31 PM
Congratulations! !  Reminds me of Tim McGraw's song, "My Next Thirty Years."
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on August 27, 2011, 09:03:21 PM
One of my favorite shots from the recent trip. This moment came after riding 450 miles from Steamboat Springs through Rocky Mountain National Park, through Estes Park, and all the way to North Platte, NE. Temps were 50 degrees in the morning and topped out at 105 in western NE so it was quite a day. Went from a high of 12,183 feet in RNMP to 2,700 feet in Nebraska. Got good gas mileage on that leg.

We got in to our hotel about 8:30 that night and, as soon as we turned into the parking lot, I spotted the Wiener Mobile. I just started to laugh out loud. It was a bit of a Divine Appointment since I don't believe in coincidences.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: SG Racer on August 27, 2011, 10:09:37 PM
 Very nice.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on December 28, 2011, 12:01:59 AM
Very nice.


Thanks! It's sitting under a cover in the garage for the winter.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: scttgr8 on January 09, 2012, 11:17:18 AM
 :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Glare on February 06, 2012, 04:33:24 PM
*  ;D
Try reflecting your hand off the painted surface. You will see very pore in your skin. Wax cannot do that. Remember Wax melts in the sun. If you look through wax paper not very clear, saran wrap same clearer than wax paper but not as clear as glass. Take that bike in the Sun. 

There is a big difference in a Glared Harley and Waxed or polymered Harley. Also remember do not put wax over the Glare, and make sure that you washed your bike with a degreasing detergent to get off all of wax before applying Glare.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on February 09, 2012, 10:44:59 AM
*  ;D
Try reflecting your hand off the painted surface. You will see very pore in your skin. Wax cannot do that. Remember Wax melts in the sun. If you look through wax paper not very clear, saran wrap same clearer than wax paper but not as clear as glass. Take that bike in the Sun. 

There is a big difference in a Glared Harley and Waxed or polymered Harley. Also remember do not put wax over the Glare, and make sure that you washed your bike with a degreasing detergent to get off all of wax before applying Glare.

Thanks for the tips! I'll do a good clean up and reapply the Glare products when the temp in the garage gets above 50 degrees. Then the Beast will be ready for its first spring ride.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Aussie on February 09, 2012, 04:51:21 PM
:2vrolijk_21:
Can you post a few more pictures, side on, from the top and showing the whole bike from behind.
Cheers
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on February 09, 2012, 11:36:05 PM
Can you post a few more pictures, side on, from the top and showing the whole bike from behind.
Cheers

Aussie, do you want more photos of scttgr8's blue touring bike or my red Switchblade? You quoted scttgr8's post so I'm a bit confused. Plus, there's 28 pages of photos of every nook, crannie, bolt, & cable of my bike in this thread. Always happy post more but wanted to clarify your request so you get what you're lookin' for.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: scttgr8 on February 10, 2012, 08:49:11 PM
I can get more after the weekend it it is mine   :cucumber:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on March 09, 2012, 04:41:45 PM
Was in CA last week. This hangs on the wall at San Diego HD. Thought it was pretty cool. It's about 5 feet wide.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on March 09, 2012, 04:42:41 PM
Also, found something new to add to the bike this spring. Thinking of having them golded.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: spydglide on March 09, 2012, 04:59:10 PM
Also, found something new to add to the bike this spring. Thinking of having them golded.
They look purty (and dangerous).  You could hurt yourself with those while working on the scooter.......put a eye out or something.  :nervous:  spyder
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on April 29, 2012, 05:21:05 PM
Finally got my levers upgrade figured out. Found a set of HD flame levers and had my painter fill in the flame portion with gold leaf and spray with clear coat. We'll see how they wear. Satisfied with the result. Another one of a kind upgrade.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Skillet on April 29, 2012, 05:25:31 PM
Was in CA last week. This hangs on the wall at San Diego HD. Thought it was pretty cool. It's about 5 feet wide.

Really nice eagle. :2vrolijk_21: :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: starcraftdrumz on May 21, 2012, 01:28:08 AM
Hey man THX yeah i already got the SE hvy breather for bike ..guys says it got stage one hooker step tuned pipes and air filter. Hope runs fine w/ SE breather? your thoughts? Hey man those bags on the wife's bike are waaaaay KOOOL :cherry: ..hers my email IF I could get some picz woooHOOO starcraftdrumz@sbcglobal.net   Any idea on the 95 upgrade cost ..mainly the cans correct? thx 4 reply...steve
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on May 23, 2012, 11:52:16 AM
Found a new tool pouch on ebay. The guy had a Switchblade but sold it. Much nicer than the old one. Little upgrades make me smile!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on June 27, 2013, 09:40:01 PM
Been a while since I made any modifications to the Switchblade. Always looking for ways to make it a more competent touring machine. Have wanted GPS on the bars for a while and figured the best way to get that was with an iPad Mini as that would provide tunes, internet access, video and still camera, and a host of other goodies at the same time. RAM took a while but finally came out with a series of mounts for the Mini. Assembled and on the bike:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on June 27, 2013, 09:40:58 PM
Still have to get a good waterproof case for the iPad but we should be ready to go for the trip out west at the end of the month.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: BUCKNUT GREG on June 27, 2013, 10:24:07 PM
Still have to get a good waterproof case for the iPad but we should be ready to go for the trip out west at the end of the month.
Heck Brother, I could even see that... :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: bandit on June 28, 2013, 05:30:15 AM
Really impressive, looks bigger in the pic, than in real i assume!!!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Uncle Fester on June 28, 2013, 07:17:43 AM
Still have to get a good waterproof case for the iPad but we should be ready to go for the trip out west at the end of the month.

Have a look at Liquipel (liquipel.com). They put a water-repellent micro-coating on your iDevice. They advertise it as splash-proof, not water-resistant, but I've heard Consumer Reports (or some similar organization) dropped a treated iPhone in a bucket of water with no ill effects.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: 2001FXDWG2 on June 28, 2013, 11:19:49 AM
a modified otter box would be my first thought.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on June 28, 2013, 03:45:25 PM
Looking at one of these:

http://business.transworld.net/130556/news/lifeproof-announces-water-proof-ipad-mini-case/ (http://business.transworld.net/130556/news/lifeproof-announces-water-proof-ipad-mini-case/)
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: dlaws01 on June 28, 2013, 10:39:10 PM
Is that sometimes distracting from watching the road?  :nixweiss:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on June 28, 2013, 11:05:28 PM
The screen is dark 95% of the time. Primary use is bluetooth tunes to the helmet on long trips. Secondary use is GPS, mainly in cities but spoken turn by turn directions allow you to keep your eyes on the road. Looking at the screen comes in handy if you miss a turn. You can pull over, look at the map and get back on track.

Other uses while stopped include still and video camera, internet access (think restaurant reviews, lodging info, e-mail, Facebook), route planning, sharing photos.

The iPad is with me regardless of where I go so this just makes it more convenient.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Twolanerider on June 28, 2013, 11:22:14 PM
Mark, you think that "waterproof" case defines waterproof as proofed against rain in 70mph winds or just against falling in puddles or the toilet and getting picked right back out?
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Big-Aye on June 29, 2013, 05:34:51 AM
..."waterproof" case defines waterproof as proofed against rain in 70mph winds or just against falling in puddles or the toilet ...

From their specs page:
Water Proof: Fully submergible to 6.6’ / 2 m for 1 hour
Dirt Proof: Sealed from dirt & dust particles – meets or exceeds IP-68 Ingress Protection Rating
Snow Proof: Sealed from snow & ice – meets or exceeds IP-68 Ingress Protection Rating
Shock Proof: Withstands drops from 4’ / 1.2 m – meets or exceeds MIL STD 810F-516

http://www.lifeproof.com/en/ipad-mini/specs
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Twolanerider on June 29, 2013, 09:37:46 AM
From their specs page:
Water Proof: Fully submergible to 6.6’ / 2 m for 1 hour
Dirt Proof: Sealed from dirt & dust particles – meets or exceeds IP-68 Ingress Protection Rating
Snow Proof: Sealed from snow & ice – meets or exceeds IP-68 Ingress Protection Rating
Shock Proof: Withstands drops from 4’ / 1.2 m – meets or exceeds MIL STD 810F-516

http://www.lifeproof.com/en/ipad-mini/specs


6 and 8 are the highest scores on the European IP scale.  So that's a good start.  The 8 suggests safe against water during long term submersion and some pressure and the 6 should mean its proof against any dust intrustion.  Still curious about how it might do with 70 mph pressure in a hard rain.  Then again Mark is too smart to have the Wide Glide out at 70 mph in a hard rain for very long.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on June 29, 2013, 11:27:55 AM

  Then again Mark is too smart to have the Wide Glide out at 70 mph in a hard rain for very long.

You know me too well Twolane! Waterproof case is just to protect the iPad from a sudden shower. Under normal circumstances, about the time we stopped to put on the rain gear, the iPad would go into a saddlebag or other protected luggage. I've ridden more than a few miles on the WG2 in the rain but I try not to be stupid with my gear.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on August 08, 2013, 09:59:47 PM
Couldn't resist. Not an improvement to the bike but certainly the optimal use of it! Hwy 12 in Idaho. If you haven't been, you gotta go!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on August 14, 2013, 10:10:44 PM
Quick fix to the Beast when I busted off the mirror on our recent trip out west. Cheap Chinese parts! Thought the fix was creative and it worked for 7 days on the road. Back to normal now. Wish someone made a high quality set of flame mirrors!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on August 24, 2013, 10:05:49 PM
Always wanted to do this. The fireman was a bit perplexed, but he got it after a bit.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Gettinold on August 25, 2013, 10:26:24 AM
If I remember correctly there has been fire depts that respond by use of motorcycles! Nice picture!  :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: BUCKNUT GREG on August 25, 2013, 03:10:06 PM
Always wanted to do this. The fireman was a bit perplexed, but he got it after a bit.
Dang Mark that is a Beauty... :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on September 09, 2013, 04:52:41 PM
Picked up a relatively inexpensive flame horn cover.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on September 09, 2013, 04:53:48 PM
Painted the black screening gold. Like the look.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on September 09, 2013, 04:55:29 PM
Thinking of replacing this one but not completely sold yet.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Tannehill Kid on September 15, 2013, 09:59:45 PM
 Like the fire truck pic.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on November 10, 2013, 11:30:34 PM
Another one from the fire truck photo shoot.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Honneybeast on January 31, 2014, 04:18:46 PM
I really like the forward controls on that ride, Thanks for the Pics
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on February 14, 2014, 11:04:38 PM
I really like the forward controls on that ride, Thanks for the Pics


The setup provides 5 different foot positions. 2 are like floorboards with support for both toe and heel. They have proven to be comfortable as well as good looking.
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on August 31, 2021, 09:06:08 PM
7 years later and still making improvements!

Mods 101 & 102 to the WG2. First one was a set of Legend Revo-A shocks installed at the factory in Sturgis during the Rally. Amazing difference in ride quality! Like getting a new bike.

They talked me into the 13” model giving me more flexibility for adjustment when it comes to passenger and luggage weight. Love the gold anodized parts, not enthused with the black springs. Will be looking to chrome or powder coat the springs gold or red.

Fantastic upgrade!
Title: Re: Recent improvements
Post by: Buy early on August 31, 2021, 09:07:10 PM
Second upgrade was the domino effect of the shocks. Bike height is up an inch so lean angle on stock kickstand was excessive due to the WG2 being lowered 1” from stock by the CVO team. Fortunately, I had purchased this kickstand years ago and tried to install it but it stood the bike nearly vertical because it was made for the stock stance of the Wide Glide.

Installed it and now it is a perfect fit. Love the look!