Ever found yourself on a long stretch of open road, wishing you could relax your grip on the throttle? If you ride a Harley Davidson, cruise control can be a game changer. It lets you enjoy the ride without constantly adjusting your speed, making those long trips more comfortable.
Key Takeaways
- Cruise Control Basics: Cruise control on a Harley Davidson automatically regulates your speed, allowing for a more relaxed riding experience, especially on long trips.
- Benefits: Using cruise control can lead to reduced fatigue, improved fuel efficiency, increased comfort, and an overall enhanced riding experience.
- Activation Steps: Activate cruise control by ensuring your motorcycle is in good condition, reaching at least 25 mph, and pressing the ‘SET’ button to lock in your desired speed.
- Adjusting Speed: Easily modify your cruising speed using the ‘Set/Accel’ and ‘Decel’ buttons for gradual increases or decreases while maintaining safe riding posture.
- Disengagement Methods: To turn off cruise control, squeeze the clutch, press the brake, or toggle the cruise control switch off for a smooth return to manual control.
- Safety Considerations: Always stay alert, use cruise control on open roads, maintain safe distances, and practice in familiar areas to ensure a secure riding experience.
Understanding Cruise Control On Harley Davidson
Cruise control on a Harley Davidson makes long rides more enjoyable. It helps maintain speed without constant throttle adjustments.
What Is Cruise Control?
Cruise control is a system that automatically controls the speed of your motorcycle. Once activated, it maintains a set speed until you deactivate it. Most Harley Davidson models with cruise control feature buttons on the handlebars for easy access. This system typically includes an on/off switch and speed adjustment buttons, allowing you to fine-tune your pace as needed.
Benefits Of Using Cruise Control
Using cruise control provides several advantages during your rides:
- Reduced Fatigue: Maintaining a consistent speed minimizes physical stress and fatigue on long journeys.
- Improved Fuel Efficiency: Staying at a steady speed can enhance fuel economy. This results in fewer stops for gas on long rides.
- Increased Comfort: You can relax more as you ride, enjoying the scenery without focusing solely on speed.
- Enhanced Riding Experience: With cruise control, you can operate at optimal speeds, making your ride smoother and more enjoyable.
Leveraging these benefits can transform your long-distance rides on a Harley Davidson, allowing for a more relaxed and pleasurable experience.
How To Activate Cruise Control
Activating cruise control on your Harley Davidson is straightforward. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth experience on the road.
Preparing Your Harley Davidson
- Ensure your motorcycle is in good working condition. Check fluid levels and tire pressure before your ride.
- Familiarize yourself with the cruise control buttons on the right handlebar. Typically, these include a ‘SET’ button and a ‘CANCEL’ button.
- Ride at a speed of at least 25 mph before activating cruise control. This speed threshold varies by model but generally ensures the system engages properly.
- Accelerate to your desired speed. Reach a comfortable cruising speed before engaging the system.
- Press the ‘SET’ button. This locks in your current speed.
- Release the throttle. Your motorcycle will maintain the set speed.
- Adjust speed if necessary. Use the ‘RESUME’ button to return to the previously set speed or the ‘ACCEL’ button to gradually increase speed.
- To deactivate, press the ‘CANCEL’ button or squeeze the brake. This action safely disconnects cruise control.
Following these steps ensures effective use of cruise control, enhancing your riding comfort and control on long journeys.
How To Adjust Cruise Control Settings
Adjusting the cruise control settings on your Harley Davidson enhances your riding experience. Here’s how to do it effectively.
Increasing And Decreasing Speed
To change your speed while in cruise control, use the control buttons on the motorcycle’s handlebar.
- Increase Speed: Press the “Set/Accel” button briefly to increase speed in increments. You can press it multiple times for a larger adjustment.
- Decrease Speed: Press the “Decel” button to decrease speed. Like increasing speed, pressing it repeatedly makes larger changes.
Use these buttons while maintaining a safe riding posture. Avoid abrupt changes that could affect your balance and control.
Disengaging Cruise Control
To safely turn off cruise control, follow these steps:
- Squeeze the Clutch: Pull in the clutch lever to immediately disengage the system.
- Press the Brake: A gentle tap on the brake pedal also deactivates cruise control.
- Use the Cruise Control Switch: You can toggle the cruise control switch to the off position if you prefer.
These methods ensure smooth transitions back to manual control without losing speed regulation. Always ensure you’re back to the desired speed before moving on.
Safety Considerations
Using cruise control on a Harley Davidson enhances your ride, but safety must always come first. Follow these guidelines to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience.
Best Practices For Safe Use
- Stay Alert: Always keep your eyes on the road. Situational awareness is crucial, especially for sudden changes in traffic or road conditions.
- Use When Appropriate: Activate cruise control only on highways or open roads. Avoid heavy traffic or winding paths where frequent speed adjustments are necessary.
- Check Your Speed: Maintain a safe following distance. Adjust your set speed according to traffic flow and speed limits.
- Limit Distractions: Focus on riding. Avoid adjusting your bicycle’s radio or interacting with mobile devices while cruising.
- Practice in Familiar Areas: Before using cruise control on longer trips, practice in a safe, familiar environment. This builds your comfort level with the controls and system.
- Ignoring Road Conditions: Don’t engage cruise control on slick or uneven surfaces. Inclement weather can affect traction and handling.
- Speeding Up Unexpectedly: Abruptly accelerating while in cruise control can destabilize your ride. Always anticipate speed adjustments.
- Neglecting Comfort Techniques: Don’t forget to shift your weight or change your posture regularly. This reduces fatigue and maintains control.
- Being Overconfident: Avoid relying solely on cruise control for long durations. Stay engaged and ready to take manual control when needed.
- Failing to Test System: Always ensure cruise control functions correctly before embarking on a long ride. Test it during local trips to avoid surprises.
Conclusion
Using cruise control on your Harley Davidson can truly transform your riding experience. It allows you to enjoy the open road while minimizing fatigue and maximizing comfort. Remember to stay alert and practice safe riding techniques.
Take your time to get familiar with the system and always test it out in a safe environment. With a little practice and attention to road conditions, you’ll find that cruise control can be a fantastic tool for those long rides. Enjoy the journey and ride safely!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of using cruise control on a Harley Davidson motorcycle?
Cruise control on a Harley Davidson enhances the riding experience by reducing rider fatigue, improving fuel efficiency, and providing greater comfort on long trips. It allows riders to maintain a steady speed, letting them enjoy the scenery without constantly adjusting the throttle.
How do I activate cruise control on my Harley Davidson?
To activate cruise control on your Harley Davidson, locate the cruise control switch on your handlebars. Start riding at your desired speed, then engage the cruise control by pressing the appropriate button. Adjust the speed using the + and – buttons as needed.
What safety considerations should I keep in mind when using cruise control?
When using cruise control, stay alert and focus on the road. Only use it on suitable roads, maintain safe speeds, and limit distractions. It’s also essential to practice in familiar areas, test the system before long rides, and always be aware of changing road conditions.
Can I use cruise control in all driving conditions?
No, cruise control should not be used in all driving conditions. Avoid using it on winding roads, in heavy traffic, during inclement weather, or on surfaces with poor traction. Always prioritize safety and adjust your riding style based on road conditions.
How can I ensure a secure experience while using cruise control?
To ensure a secure experience, test your cruise control system before long rides, stay aware of your surroundings, and maintain a comfortable speed. Also, avoid being overconfident and remain cautious of any changes in road conditions while using cruise control.
