Milwaukee 8 Status Report

[Mojo]

Well, after 1,400 miles, and a Stage 1 upgrade I have some observations to share:
- Engine seems rock solid, runs well and packs a punch power wise.
- Engine mechanical noise is reduced over the V Twin.
- Engine vibration at idle is minimal however, Higher RPM vibration is still there.
- MoCo PR about less heat from exhaust ? . . perhaps just a little- STILL hot!
- MoCo PR about better suspension? BS- I can't tell a bit of difference front or back.
- Boombox improvements . . . NONE, My 2017 has the SAME map file as my 2014.
- Transmission seldom "clunks" going to 1st but clunks like Hell going thru other gears.
- Clutch squeeze seems reduced and easier than previous models.
- Exhaust note and tone is different from Twin Cam engines even with aftermarket pipes.

Overall, I am pleased with the M8 models however, due to the Motor Companies hype and PR barrage, I expected more from the so called improvements.

 

[TomA]

Thanks Mojo I will stick with the 14 for a couple more years after this report.

 

[fishin1789]

Thanks Mojo, you just saved me a lot of cash! Now I'll just buy more goodies for the '15!

 

[mrudnick]

Mojo
Thanks. I love my 14 SGS and find her to be extremely smooth compared to my 1989 FXRS, (which I still have) I did not actually think HD could make a smoother engine than the twin cam as I am quite pleased with both the little bit of vibe as well as noise.
Also interesting that you don't feel the difference in the ride but living on the west coast of Florida, the roads are like glass and a hard tail would probably ride as well as my SGS
I did change my front suspension to Harleys optional suspension which lowered my front end 1 inch. It is fantastic.
I will keep my bike for many years.
Best Regards
God Bless
Mike R

 

[mrudnick]

I also forgot to mention that my bike color is "Blackened Cayenne"and this color is gorgeous! Seems like Harley discontinued which makes mine unique. How cool is that!