CBG Workshop
Many thanks to trained Harley-Davidson specialist, barista-in-training and general cool dood Oli Gook, from Roosters Bike Barn, Norfolk, 07919 046808
HARLEY-DAVIDSONS ARE HEAVY, even Sportsters. And they don’t have centrestands to make things trickier. So, if you are using a bench, one that has a front wheel clamp and holes or U bolts to be able to secure the bike with straps is essential. And make sure your bench is designed for that kind of weight.
First thing is to buy the parts you will definitely need. This includes engine oil, gearbox oil and, on some Harleys, primary drive oil. Then there’s a spin-on oil filter and spark plugs. Engine oil is pretty standard 20W-40 or 20W-50, even the liquid-cooled V-Rod, but see what’s recommended as the engines are air-cooled and dry-sumped. Harley-branded plugs most suspect are Champion items. Oli likes to recommend an oil filter with a nut-shape on the end to help removal with a socket, as it is tucked between the front chassis and the engine where there is little clearance for a normal filter tool and, if left,
