I agree with the warming blanket. The internals of that beast are massive and the cold thick oil really puts a strain on the system. Ditto on switching it on and off a few times.
I don't know if I'm lucky or they made changes by the 2010 models, but of my 6 bikes, the Rocket starts easiest in the cold. It's the only bike I feel has a robust enough electrical system to support heated gear, so it's the one I ride all winter. I usually get at least a few days a month through the winter, so I don't even bother with a trickle charger.
Last december i went for a ride. 4 bikes in the garage, the only one that started on its own power was the spyder, could not start the rocket even with a battery charger
I have never used fuel stabilizer... and the only time I ever had starting problems it was self inflicted. I Ride the bike at least once a month in the winter and keep it on a battery tender it always starts in the cold.
Never used a tender(would not know one if someone hit me with it) never used fuel stabaliser, bike never sits idle for more than two days wee bit cold today 45f had to wear three shirts.
No luck cleaning the fouled plugs. May be an injector. Exhaust vacuum leak as well. Delicate bike for such an apparent brute. Never had this problem arise with the X. Rode the VTX at lunch today, smooth as a top. The R3 remains DOA Back into the shop with this glitchy bugger. Not pleased. My shifter and 16 cell lithium battery have arrived. Might as well install them. My Carpenter header/pipes are slated for Thursday delivery; those will replace the TORs. Hopefully this delicate flower can be induced to function with some encouragement and gentle nudging. NOT the bike I'd want to have to rely on in a pinch, that's certain
Dave said: "Never used a tender(would not know one if someone hit me with it) never used fuel stabaliser, bike never sits idle for more than two days wee bit cold today 45f had to wear three shirts. "...and three skirts...I mean kilts.
The 'bird was running fine this morning at 32 degrees. Went to my mom's house for our morning cup of coffee and taking down her christmas tree and when I left it had definitely warmed up...37 degrees. The heated grips, seat and gloves did feel good though.