Harley Davidson motorcycles are renowned for their iconic designs and powerful performance. Many models come equipped with a security system and key fob for enhanced protection and convenience. If you own an older Harley with a key fob system, understanding how to properly use it is crucial for a smooth and secure riding experience. This guide will walk you through the essentials of starting your older Harley Davidson using your key fob, ensuring you’re ready to hit the road with confidence.
Understanding Your Harley’s Key Fob Security System
Older Harley Davidson models often utilize a security system that, unlike the newer proximity-based systems, gives you direct control over arming and disarming. This system activates and deactivates based on your explicit commands via the key fob, offering a sense of control preferred by many riders. While newer systems automatically arm and disarm when the fob is near or away from the bike, the older system requires manual operation, which some riders find more reliable and less intrusive.
The first step to ensuring your key fob works correctly is to check and potentially replace its battery. These fobs typically use a common 2032 3-volt battery, readily available at most stores selling batteries. A fresh battery ensures your fob communicates effectively with your Harley’s security system.
Arming Your Harley Davidson Alarm System
To arm the security system on your older Harley using the key fob, follow these simple steps:
- Locate the button on your key fob. It’s usually the only button and is clearly identifiable.
- Press and hold the button for a brief moment, typically just under a second.
- Observe the indicator lights. Upon successful arming, your Harley’s lights should flash, confirming the system is now active.
- Check the speedometer. A blinking red key icon on your speedometer indicates that the alarm system is armed. If you do not have a smart siren installed, this blinking light will be your primary visual confirmation that the system is active.
Once armed, your Harley is protected. If the alarm is triggered – for example, by attempting to move or upright the bike after it has been armed – the lights will flash, and the engine will be disabled, preventing it from starting.
Disarming Your Harley Davidson Alarm System
Disarming the security system is just as straightforward, though it requires a specific button press sequence:
- Press the key fob button twice in succession. This isn’t a rapid double-tap, but rather two deliberate presses performed in quick order.
- Practice the rhythm. It might take a few tries to get the timing right. The system is designed to prevent accidental disarming, so the two presses need to be distinct but not too slow.
- Confirmation of disarming. Unlike arming, disarming typically does not have a visual confirmation like flashing lights (unless you have a siren and chirp mode enabled). The blinking red key icon on the speedometer should stop blinking, indicating the system is disarmed.
With regular use, arming and disarming your Harley’s security system will become second nature. Consistent practice will help you develop the correct “rhythm” for button presses, ensuring smooth operation every time.
Enabling Chirp Mode and Considering a Smart Siren
Your Harley Davidson’s security system might also have a “chirp mode,” which provides an audible confirmation when arming. To check if your siren is in chirp mode or to toggle it on or off, you can perform the following:
- Arm and disarm the alarm system three times in quick succession. Follow the arming and disarming procedures described above, repeating the cycle three times relatively quickly.
- Listen for a chirp on the third arming. If a smart siren is installed and functioning, it will chirp audibly on the third time the alarm arms if chirp mode is enabled. Repeating this three-cycle process will toggle chirp mode on or off.
If you desire an audible confirmation every time you arm your system, ensuring chirp mode is enabled is key. Furthermore, if your Harley doesn’t have a smart siren, adding one is a relatively simple upgrade, especially on touring models. Siren kits are often plug-and-play, and cost-effective alternatives like piezo horns can also be used for similar functionality.
The Importance of the Bypass Code
It’s crucial to be aware that, like newer systems, older Harley Davidson security systems can be bypassed using a specific code. Familiarizing yourself with this bypass procedure is highly recommended, especially if you rely on your alarm system. Storing this bypass code in a readily accessible location, such as your phone, can be a lifesaver if you encounter issues with your key fob or security system while away from home.
Conclusion: Peace of Mind with Your Harley Key Fob
While a security system might not guarantee complete theft prevention, it serves as a valuable deterrent. Activating your Harley’s alarm system using your key fob can discourage casual tampering or theft attempts, providing you with added peace of mind, especially when parking in public places. Understanding and utilizing your Harley Davidson key fob security system is a simple yet effective way to protect your prized motorcycle.
