2016 H-D Tri-Glide Hydraulic Clutch Lever with ED

[Schmidt_House]

I own a 2016 H-D Tri-Glide with an unnerving clutch lever issue. Typically at high speeds, 60+ MPH, in 5th or 6th gear, going up hill, in warm weather, the clutch lever goes "soft" almost to the grip before it engages the clutch. I have to pump the clutch lever to get it back to a normal shift position. As soon as I down shift to a lower gear, the clutch lever is firm again. Several times, when using cruise control at highway speeds, I lost the ability to downshift using the clutch.

I have taken the M/C to the Harley Dealership, but they can't duplicate the problem. I believe it is only because their test rides are short. It has been suggested that I drain and replace the hydraulic fluid, since it has never been changed. I think there is a problem with the clutch lever system on the handlebars.

Anyone experience a similar clutch issue? If yes, what was the diagnosis and "fix"?

 

[rhino 2]

There was a recall on the 2014 and 2015 Hydraulic clutches...Recall#15V21600...

Most likely it doesn't pertain to your problem, But at least i'll bump up your post for more people to see..:Shrug:......

 

[Jack Klarich]

HD recommends to flush the hydraulic clutch every 2 years

The problem is as the fluid ages along with the heat from the exhaust the fluid produces gas bubbles. In turn this causes the fluid to break down faster

When you get around to flushing your system pay attention to the sediment at the bottom of the master cylinder. You will need to wipe this crud out, try using some Q Tips. Remove as much as you can before flushing and refilling the system

IMO, HD should have recalled every hydraulic clutched bike and trike for these problems

Part of the ongoing problem was master and slave cylinder failure( IMO from the heat and poor design of the slave cylinder

Good luck and check back in

have a look here for a better clutch slave cylinder

https://www.fuelmotousa.com/i-23898858-rekluse-clutch-slave-cylinder-h-d-milwaukee-8.html

 

[Jack Klarich]

Steven, give your local dealer a shout out

Harley did have a recall on some 16 model year HD bikes with the hydraulic clutch

Tho the Tri Glide nor the Freewheeler were on the list they should have been

Your dealer may chose to good will your trike and repair the problem free with the newest slave cylinder parts and maybe a new master cylinder also.. a phone call or stop by is free to you