Comp & cold weather.

[build it]

At what point does an engine get to radical for real cold weather riding? My engine is a 126, not sure of fuel system yet. Compression should be relatively high, powerband relatively high too.

It wasn't worth having the electrical gear on the bike this year, as the bike wasn't torn down yet.

Also planning on a move to some place I can ride everyday, but still curious.

[HarleyHiwayMan]

Interesting question, I'll be watching this thread for opinions.
If the engine starts it is not to cold (for it to run) in my opinion. Ride wise I go at 25* and up, if I have a reason the roll.

[build it]

Thanks Highwayman, I'm in SW Connecticut, where are you?

[PoorUB]

At what point does an engine get to radical for real cold weather riding? My engine is a 126, not sure of fuel system yet. Compression should be relatively high, powerband relatively high too.

It wasn't worth having the electrical gear on the bike this year, as the bike wasn't torn down yet.

Also planning on a move to some place I can ride everyday, but still curious.

What is real cold weather? I have ridden my Ultra at 5F in January. For some guys really cold is 50F.

IMO, if you run the right oil any engine will love the cold air. I have never seen an engine have issues with cold ambient temps, just hot ambient would cause trouble.

[ThumperDeuce]

Aircraft engines ( which are air-cooled ) usually get a preheat at +20f and below before starting.  The operational issues I was taught was to be careful not to thermal shock the engine i.e. reduce the power and do an extended glide.  I think the same idea would apply to any air-cooled engine.  My scoot loves the cold dense air.

[Merc63]

Wouldn't be running 20w50 that's for sure.

It will run in anything cold.

But will it start, that's the question?

Get one of those small space heaters and blow it over the engine 3-5hours before starting.  Should be fine then.

[build it]

I'm wondering g if there is a line comp wise and performance wise where the weather is to cold for the engine. I suppose I got a good enough answer. Thanks all.