Matte Black Harley

[imported_gusbubba]

Hey all,

my neighbor just got himself a matte black harley sportster.

He says he was advised by the shop and other sources to clean

the bike with an ammonia-based product.

Sounded a little funny to me.

Anyone confirm or deny?

[BobD]

I hate those finishes.



M-1172 1 of 2

SERVICE BULLETIN

BLACK DENIM PAINT CARE INSTRUCTIONS

Purpose

The purpose of this bulletin is to provide an understanding of

the characteristics of Black Denim paint and the required

care to the dealer network.

Black Denim finish differs from traditional high-gloss finishes

on other Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Like denim fabric,

Black Denim paint will burnish with age and use, adding

character and personality to the finish of the motorcycle. The

integrity of the paint, however is not affected by age.

Please refer customers to the Owner’s Manual for details on

finish care.

If scratched, nicked or scuffed, Black Denim paint can not be

buffed out. If polished, the finish will become less matte and

more glossy over time. This finish can not be repaired.

Motorcycles with Black Denim paint should follow processes

outlined in the Harley-Davidson Cosmetic Guidelines booklet.

Motorcycles Affected

Select 2006 VRSCD and FXDB Dyna model motorcycles.

Required Dealer Action

Inform service personnel of the special care instructions for

Black Denim paint, communicate the characteristics of Black

Denim paint to customers at time of vehicle order placement

and review at time of new vehicle delivery.

Service Procedure

Cleaning Black Denim paint:

â—�

For heavy deposits on finish:

Use a grease cutting

dishwashing detergent and a clean H-D wash-mitt (P/N

94760-99). Dilute dishwashing detergent per instructions

provided by manufacturer and rinse thoroughly with

clean water.

â—�

For light deposits on finish:

Use ammonia based

glass cleaner and a soft H-D Soft-Cloth (HD-94656-98).

â—�

For final detailing:

Use H-D Gloss with H-D Soft Cloth.

NOTE

Refer to Table 1 for recommended cleaning care products.

M-1172 July 23, 2005

IMPORTANT NOTE

In the interest of preserving customer safety and satisfaction, always check for outstanding recalls whenever any motorcycle is brought into your

dealership for either maintenance or service.

[imported_gusbubba]

Outstanding, Bob!

Thanks for the info.

[BobD]

Outstanding, Bob!

Thanks for the info.

No problemo! I`m glad I saw it too. I always just thought they where flat paint but called denim. The paint is actually made to fade and wear like denim I guess.

[nighttraingirl]

Yes, denim paint. Lucky to have not have had to deal with this stuff. I`m used to having to make things shiny. LOL.

I guess I`d just wash the tins per directions.