This manual has been prepared to acquaint you with the
operation, care and maintenance of your motorcycle. It also
provides important safety information. F ollow these instructions
carefully for maximum motorcycle performance and for your
personal motorcycling safety and pleasure.
Your owner's manual contains instructions for operation and
minor maintenance. Major repairs are covered in the HarleyDavidson service manual. Major repairs require the attention
of a skilled technician and the use of special tools and equipment. Your Harley-Davidson dealer has the facilities, experience and Genuine Harley-Davidson parts necessary to render
this valuable service.We recommend that any emission system
maintenance be performed by an authorized Harley-Davidson
dealer.
Harley-Davidson reserves the right to change specifications,
equipment or designs at any time without notice and without
incurring obligation.
This owner's manual should be considered a permanent part
of the motorcycle and should remain with the motorcycle if it
is resold.
CUSTOMER SERVICE ASSISTANCE
Most sales or service issues are resolved at the dealership.
1.Discuss your problem with the appropriate personnel at
the dealership in the Sales, Service or Parts area. If that
proves unsuccessful, speak to the owner of the dealership
or the general manager.
2.If you cannot resolve the issue with the dealership , contact
the Harley-Davidson Customer Support Center.
Harley-Davidson Motor Company
Attention: Harley-Davidson Customer Support Center
P.O. Box 653
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201
1-800-258-2464 (U.S. only)
1-414-343-4056
For customers outside the US, contact your local Harle y-Davidson market office, call 1-414-343-4056 or visit harley-davidson.com.
INTRODUCTION
1
Date of Purchase:
x
Table 1. Vehicle and Personal Data
DEALER INFORMATIONPERSONAL INFORMATION
Name:Name:
x x
Address:Address:
x x
Address:Address:
x x
Sales Contact:Vehicle Identification Number:
x x
Service Contact:Key Number:
x x
2 Introduction
SAFETY DEFINITIONS
Statements in this manual preceded by the following words
are of special significance:
WARNING indicates a potentially hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious
injury. (00119a)
CAUTION indicates a potentially hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate
injury. (00139a)
NOTICE indicates a potentially hazar dous situation which,
if not avoided, may result in property damage. (00140b)
NOTE
Refers to important information and is placed in italic type. It
is recommended that you take special notice of these items.
RULES OF THE ROAD
•Always sound your horn, use your turn signals and exercise caution when passing other vehicles going in the
same direction. Never pass going in the same direction
at street intersections, on curves or when going up or down
a hill.
•At street intersections, give the right-of-way. Do not presume you have the right-of-way, as the other driver may
not know that it is your turn.
•Always signal when preparing to stop, turn or pass.
•Promptly obey all traffic signs, including those signs used
for the control of traffic at intersections. Alw ays obe y traffic
signs near schools and at railroad crossings.
•When intending to turn, signal at least 30.5 m (100 ft)
before reaching the turning point. If turning across an
intersection, move over to the centerline of the street
(unless local rules require otherwise). Slow down when
entering the intersection and turn carefully.
•Never anticipate a traffic light.When a change is indicated
from GO to STOP (or STOP to GO), slow down and wait
SAFETY FIRST
3
for the light to change. Never run through a yellow or red
traffic light.
•While turning, watch for pedestrians, animals, as well as
vehicles.
•Do not leave the curb or parking area without signaling.
Make sure that your way is clear to enter moving traffic.
A moving line of traffic always has the right-of-way.
•Make sure that your license plate is installed in the position
specified by law. Make sure that your license plate is
always clearly visible. Keep the license plate clean.
•Ride at a safe speed that is consistent with the type of
highway you are on. Pay strict attention to whether the
road is dry, oily, icy or wet.
•Watch for debris such as leaves or loose gravel.
•Weather and traffic conditions on the highway dictate
adjusting your speed and driving habits accordingly.
SAFETY: OPERATING RULES
Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Are for On-Road
Use Only
This motorcycle is not equipped with a spark arrester. This
motorcycle is designed to be used only on the road. Operation
or off-road usage in some areas may be illegal. Obey local
laws and regulations.
General
Consult a Harley-Davidson dealer regarding any questions
or problems that occur in the operation of your motor cycle.
Failure to do so can aggravate an initial problem, cause
costly repairs, cause an accident and could result in death
or serious injury. (00020a)
•Make sure all equipment required by federal, state and
local law is installed and in good operating condition.
•Know and respect the rules of the road. Read the safety
information that is provided by your state or regional traffic
authority.
•In the United States, read the RIDING TIPS booklet that
is provided with this owner's manual. Read the MOTORCYCLE HANDBOOK which is made available by your
state or regional traffic authority.
•Protect your motorcycle against theft. Lock the front fork.
Remove the key when parking your motorcycle.
4 Safety First
Do not add sidecar to this motorcycle. Operating motorcycle with sidecar can cause loss of vehicle control, which
could result in death or serious injury. (00590d)
Operation
Before operating your new motorcycle, it is your responsibility
to read and follow the operating and maintenance instructions
in this manual and follow these rules for your personal safety.
Motorcycles are different from other vehicles. They
operate, steer, handle and brake differently. Unskilled or
improper use could result in loss of control, death or serious injury. (00556c)
•Take a rider training course.
•Read all the owner's manual before riding, adding
accessories or servicing.
•Wear an approved helmet, clothing and foot gear suited
for motorcycle riding. Br ight or light colors are best for
greater visibility in traffic, especially at night. Avoid loose,
flowing garments and scarves.
•Never tow a trailer.
•Before starting the engine, review the BEFORE RIDING,
Pre-Ride Checklist.
Striking an object, such as a curb or pothole can cause
internal tire damage. If an object is struck, have the tire
inspected immediately inside and out by a Harley-Davidson
dealer. A damaged tire can fail while riding and adversely
affect stability and handling, which could result in death
or serious injury. (00058b)
Travel at speeds appropriate for road and conditions and
never travel faster than posted speed limit. Excessive
speed can cause loss of vehicle control, which could result
in death or serious injury. (00008a)
•Do not exceed the legal speed limit or drive too fast for
existing conditions. Always reduce speed when poor
driving conditions exist. High speed increases the influence
Safety First 5
of any other condition affecting stability and increases the
possibility of loss of control.
•Pay strict attention to road surfaces and wind conditions
and keep both hands on the handlebar grips at all times
when riding the motorcycle. An y two wheeled vehicle ma y
be subject to upsetting forces such as wind blasts from
passing trucks, holes in the pavement, rough road surfaces, rider control error, etc. These forces may influence
the handling characteristics of your motorcycle. If this
happens, reduce speed and guide the motorcycle with a
relaxed grip to a controlled condition. Do not brake abruptly
or force the handlebar. This may aggravate an unstable
condition.
•New riders should gain experience under various conditions while riding at moderate speeds.
•Operate your motorcycle defensively. In an accident, a
motorcycle does not afford the same protection as an
automobile.
•It is the rider's responsibility to instruct passengers on
proper riding procedures.
•Do not allow other individuals to operate the motorcycle
unless they are experienced, licensed riders and are
thoroughly familiar with the operation of the motorcycle.
Front and/or rear guard(s) can provide limited leg and
cosmetic vehicle protection under unique circumstances.
(Fall over while stopped, very slow speed slide .) It is not
made or intended to provide protection fr om bodily injury
in a collision with another vehicle or any other object.
(00022b)
Stability, Steering and Handling
Do not operate vehicle with forks locked. Locking the f orks
restricts the vehicle's turning ability, which could result
in death or serious injury. (00035a)
Regularly inspect shock absorbers and front f orks. Replace
leaking, damaged or worn parts that can adversely affect
stability and handling, which could result in death or serious injury. (00012a)
6 Safety First
Do not operate motorcycle with loose, worn or damaged
steering or suspension systems. Contact a Harley-Davidson dealer for repairs. Loose, worn or damaged steering
or suspension components can adversely affect stability
and handling, which could result in death or serious injury .
(00011a)
Do not open storage compartments while riding. Distractions while riding can lead to loss of control, which could
result in death or serious injury. (00082a)
When riding on wet roads, brake efficiency and traction
are greatly reduced. Failure to use care when braking,
accelerating or turning on wet roads can cause loss of
control, which could result in death or serious injury.
(00041a)
Safety First 7
Cargo and Loading
Do not exceed the motorcycle's Gross Vehicle Weight
Rating (GVWR) or Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR).
Exceeding these weight ratings can lead to component
failure and adversely affect stability , handling and performance, which could result in death or serious injury . (00016f)
•GVWR is the sum of the weight of the motorcycle,
accessories and the maximum weight of the rider, passenger and cargo that can be safely carried.
•The GVWR is shown on the information label, located on
the frame steering head or the frame downtube.
•GAWR is the maximum amount of weight that can be
safely carried on each end of the motorcycle.
•For GVWR and GAWR, front and rear, refer to Table 22
•Keep cargo weight concentrated close to the motorcycle
and as low as possible.
•Distribute weight evenly on both sides of the vehicle.
•Do not load bulky items too far behind the rider or add
weight to the handlebars or front forks.
•Do not exceed maximum specified load in each saddlebag
(if equipped).
•Luggage racks (if equipped) are designed for lightweight
items. Do not overload racks.
•Make sure cargo is secure. Make sure the cargo will not
shift while riding and check the cargo periodically.
Accessories that change the operator's riding position may
increase reaction time and affect handling of the motorcycle.
•Large surfaces such as fairings, windshields, backrests
and luggage racks (if equipped) can adversely affect on
stability and handling.
Tires
Be sure tires are properly inflated, balanced, undama ged,
and have adequate tread. Inspect y our tires regularly and
see a Harley-Davidson dealer for replacements. Riding
with excessively worn, unbalanced, improperly inflated,
overloaded or damaged tires can lead to tire failure and
adversely affect stability and handling, which could result
in death or serious injury. (00014b)
8 Safety First
Replace punctured or damaged tires. In some cases, small
punctures in the tread area may be repaired from within
the removed tire by a Harley-Davidson dealer. Speed
should NOT exceed 50 mph (80 km/h) f or the first 24 hours
after repair, and the repaired tire should NEVER be used
over 80 mph (130 km/h). Failure to follow this warning
could lead to tire failure and result in death or serious
injury. (00015b)
Towing and Trailering
Do not pull a trailer with a motorcycle. Pulling a trailer can
cause tire overload, damage and failure, reduced braking
performance, and adversely affect stability and handling,
which could result in death or serious injury. (00018c)
Do not tow a disabled motorcycle . Towing can adversely
affect stability and handling, which could result in death
or serious injury. (00017a)
Never tow a trailer.
Fuel and Exhaust
Stop the engine when refueling or servicing the fuel
system. Do not smoke or allow open flame or sparks near
gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and highly
explosive, which could result in death or serious injury.
(00002a)
Avoid spills. Slowly remove filler cap. Do not fill above
bottom of filler neck insert, leaving air space for fuel
expansion. Secure filler cap after refueling. Gasoline is
extremely flammable and highly explosive, which could
result in death or serious injury. (00028a)
•Refuel in a well-ventilated area with the engine off.
•Remove the fuel filler cap slowly.
•Do not fill fuel tank above the bottom of the filler neck
insert. Leave air space to allow for fuel expansion.
Safety First 9
Avoid contact with exhaust system and wear protective
clothing that completely covers legs while riding. Exhaust
pipes and mufflers get very hot when engine is running
and remain too hot to touch, even after engine is turned
off. Failure to wear pr otective clothing could result in burns
or other serious injury. (00009a)
Do not run motorcycle in a closed gara ge or confined area.
Inhaling motorcycle exhaust, which contains poisonous
carbon monoxide gas, could result in death or serious
injury. (00005a)
Engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals
known to the State of California to cause cancer , and birth
defects or other reproductive harm. (00004f)
Cooling System
At operating temperature, radiators and oil coolers contain
hot fluids. Contact with a radiator or oil cooler can result
in minor or moderate burns. (00141b)
Coolant mixture contains toxic chemicals, which may be
fatal if swallowed. If swallowed, do not induce vomiting;
call a physician immediately . Use in a well ventilated area.
Irritation to skin or eyes can occur from vapors or direct
contact. In case of skin or eye contact, flush thoroughly
with water and go to hospital, if necessary. Dispose of
used coolant according to federal, state and local regulations. (00092a)
Cooling fans operate automatically , e ven when the ignition
switch is off. Keep hands away from fan blades. Contact
with a rotating fan blade can result in minor or moderate
injury. (00093a)
10 Safety First
Brakes
Battery
Brakes are a critical safety component. Contact a HarleyDavidson dealer for brake repair or replacement. Improperly serviced brakes can adversely affect brake performance, which could result in death or serious injury.
(00054a)
Apply front and rear brakes evenly. Favoring one brake
accelerates wear and reduces braking efficiency . Operation
with excessively worn brakes can lead to brake failure,
which could result in death or serious injury. (00135a)
Direct contact of D.O.T. 4 brake fluid with eyes can cause
irritation. Avoid eye contact. In case of eye contact flush
with large amounts of water and get medical attention.
Swallowing large amounts of D.O .T . 4 brake fluid can cause
digestive discomfort. If swallowed, obtain medical attention. Use in well ventilated area. KEEP OUT OF REACH OF
CHILDREN. (00240a)
Batteries, battery posts, terminals and related accessories
contain lead and lead compounds, and other chemicals
known to the State of California to cause cancer , and birth
defects or other reproductive harm. Wash hands after
handling. (00019e)
Batteries contain sulfuric acid, which could cause severe
burns to eyes and skin. Wear a protective face shield,
rubberized gloves and protective clothing when working
with batteries. KEEP BA TTERIES A W A Y FROM CHILDREN.
(00063a)
Safety First 11
It is possible to overload your vehicle's charging system
by adding too many electrical accessories. If the combined
electrical accessories operating at any one time consume
more electrical current than the vehicle's charging system
can produce, the electrical consumption can discharge
the battery and cause damage to the vehicle's electrical
system. See an authorized Harley-Davidson dealer for
advice about the amount of current consumed by additional electrical accessories or for necessary wiring
changes. (00211c)
Hazardous Materials
Prolonged or repeated contact with used motor oil may
be harmful to skin and could cause skin cancer. Pr omptl y
wash affected areas with soap and water. (00358b)
Maintenance
Perform the service and maintenance operations as
indicated in the regular service interval table. Lack of
regular maintenance at the recommended intervals can
affect the safe operation of your motorc ycle, which could
result in death or serious injury. (00010a)
•A new motorcycle must be operated according to the
special break-in procedure. See BEFORE RIDING, BreakIn Riding Rules.
•Proper care and maintenance, including tire pressure, tire
condition, tread depth and proper adjustment to steering
head bearings are important to stability and safe operation
of the motorcycle. Refer to Table 29.
12 Safety First
Parts and Accessories
Harley-Davidson parts and accessories are designed for
Harley-Davidson motorcyc les. Using non-Harley-Da vidson
parts or accessories can adversely affect performance,
stability or handling, which could result in death or serious
injury. (00001b)
•Use only Harley-Davidson approved parts and
accessories. Use of certain other manufacturer's perf ormance parts will void your new motorcycle warranty. See
your Harley-Davidson dealer for details.
Use Harley-Davidson replacement fasteners. Aftermarket
fasteners can adversely affect performance, which could
result in death or serious injury. (00013a)
•See your Harley-Davidson service manual for proper
torque values.
•Aftermarket fasteners may not have the specific property
requirements to perform properly.
See the Accessories and Cargo section in your owner's
manual. Improper car go loading or accessory installation
can cause component failure and adversely affect stability ,
handling and performance, which could result in death or
serious injury. (00021b)
•Harley-Davidson Motor Company cannot test and make
specific recommendations concerning every accessory or
combination of accessories sold.Therefore, the rider must
be responsible for safe operation of the motorcycle when
installing accessories or carrying additional weight.
•Additional electrical equipment may overload the electrical
system possibly resulting in electrical system and/or
component failure.
LABELS
See Figure 1 for safety and maintenance labels which were
on the vehicle when new. Refer to Table 2.
NOTE
Some labels are available in diff erent languages for destinations
outside the United States.
Safety First 13
Replacement labels can be purchased for your motorcycle.See a Harley-Davidson dealer.
3
1
2
om01644e
Figure 1. Labels
14 Safety First
Table 2. Labels
TEXTDESCRIPTIONPART NUMBERITEM
General warning29147-071
Battery warning15368-01A2
140011753
Battery
warning/Removal
and Installation
WARNING: Motorcycles are different from other vehicles.They operate, steer,
handle and brake differently. Unskilled or improper use could result in loss of
control, death or serious injury.
•Take a rider training course.
•Read Owner's Manual before riding, adding accessories or servicing.
•Wear a helmet, eye protection and protective clothing.
•Never tow a trailer.
For a manual, find nearest dealer at 1-414-343-4056 or www .harley-davidson.com
WARNING: A connected battery can cause a spark or motorcycle startup while
servicing. Death or serious injury could occur.
•Disconnect negative cable before servicing.
•Keep cable away from terminal while servicing.
WARNING: Sparks can cause battery explosion. Death or serious injury could
occur.To avoid sparks:
•Disconnect negative cable first.
•Keep cable away all metal parts.
•Do not allow positive battery cable to touch metal motorcycle parts with neg-
ative cable connected.
Safety First 15
NOTES
16 Safety First
VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (VIN)
2
1
om02126
General
A unique 17-digit serial or Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
is assigned to each motorcycle. Refer to Table 3.
Location
See Figure 2.The full 17-digit VIN is stamped (1) on the right
side of the frame near the steering head. In some destinations,
a printed VIN label (2) is also attached on the front downtube.
Abbreviated VIN
The abbreviated VIN shows the vehicle model, engine type,
model year and sequential number. The abbreviated VIN is
stamped on the left side of the crankcase between the engine
cylinders.
Always give the full 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number when
ordering parts or making any inquiry about your motorcycle.
NOTE
1. Stamped VIN
2. VIN label
Figure 2.VIN Locations
YOUR MOTORCYCLE
17
1HD4 NAA 1 3HC555000
1
23
4
56
7
8
9
om01842b
Figure 3.Typical Harley-Davidson VIN: 2017 Street Models
18 Your Motorcycle
Table 3. Harley-Davidson VIN Breakdown: 2017 Street Models
POSSIBLE VALUESDESCRIPTIONPOSITION
1HD=Originally manufactured in the United StatesWorld manufacturer identifier1
5HD=Originally manufactured in the United States for sale outside the
United States
MEG=Originally manufactured in India
4=Middleweight motorcycle (351 cm3 to 900 cm3)Motorcycle type2
NA=XG500Model3