Rev Control: Update Your Harley's Odometer

It's a clear fact that for custom motorcycle owners, the ability to constantly "explore" the engine to obtain maximum performance isn't a priority. This, coupled with the minimalism characteristic of vehicles in this segment, means that many models don't have a rev counter or RPM (revolutions per minute) meter.

Simplifying information
Is it necessary to know this information to enjoy riding a motorcycle? It's not really essential, as we can rely on the vibrations and behavior of the engine, feeling the human-machine connection that makes motorcycles so special compared to other vehicles.
Now, to simplify things, applying the same logic, we don't need a speedometer either, as we can feel the air pressure against our bodies and adapt our riding to the circumstances, not to established limits. In fact, many racing motorcycles don't have a speedometer, as the engine speed is more important than the vehicle's linear velocity.

If you know the RPM, we know the optimal time to shift gears without forcing them. We improve throttle control efficiency and can even detect problems or faults early, such as clutch plate wear. Obviously, for a street bike, we absolutely need an odometer, but what if we could have it all in one device?

Options
If we finally decide we want to add a tachometer to our motorcycle, we have several options depending on the year and model: analog or electronic, universal or specific devices, and we can even view this information on our mobile phone.

In this specific case we decided to install a Harley-Davidson integrated RPM counter on a Road King for several reasons:

Directly replaces the original clock, preserving the classic look of the motorcycle.
Complete compatibility with original electronic systems, without the need for additional cables or sensors.
Easy and quick installation, you can do it yourself without special tools.
Fully configurable display: we can select whether we want to see the gear engaged, the amount of fuel, the time... and we can assign different colors to each part of the dial.

Data transfer
The first thing we need to do before removing the original counter is to record the vehicle's mileage. To do this, press the reset button and record the number.

Next, we'll locate the vehicle data connector (see your motorcycle's workshop manual for its location). This connector provides direct access to the data stored in the ECM or control unit.

We will insert one end of the cable supplied with the new kit into the connector.

and the other end we will connect to the new odometer.

After a few seconds, the total counter will be automatically transferred from the ECM's memory to the new device, and the display will read "OK" when the process is complete.

This way, we won't lose the total mileage accumulated, which is very important, especially for legal reasons, and practical when monitoring maintenance checks. We can now discard the data cable and install our new odometer.

Disassembly and replacement
To continue, you must disconnect the main fuse or Maxi-Fuse located on the side of the motorcycle.

We continue, removing the seat and releasing the console,

which allows us access to the rear of the odometer.

By gently pressing on the tabs that hold it in place, we will remove the retaining ring and release the odometer, which we will replace with the new one following the reverse order of disassembly.

Display settings
With the new device in place, we'll reconnect the main fuse and start the engine, checking that the needle on our brand new rev counter is working properly and that the total mileage matches the previous one.
At this point, all that's left to do is select from the more than 600 available colors to customize the display screen.

Generally, choosing the aesthetic combination we like best is the longest part of the assembly process...


Frank Burguera

#harleymechanics