T-Sport: A Drastic Change

First, The Bad News

There I was again speaking with John, the service manager at Ottawa HD. My Electra Glide was once more in the shop, but this time the repair bill would be quite significant. A month earlier it was discovered that my primary was gaining oil, and our worst fear about the cause was finally proven true. The main seal was not only leaking, but it could not just be replaced because it was also spinning within the block. The block would have to be replaced as well. Other options were discussed, but were not recommended since the labor component of the bill would be about the same while the longevity of the repair would not be guaranteed.

My first reaction was to continue my high performance quest with this bike and replace the Harley block with a heavy duty one from Delkron, or S & S. And while everything was apart, maybe go with a big bore kit too. John patiently pointed out that my year of bike had many inherent deficiencies that would only become more pronounced as the power increased. He suggested I would be better off to change the bike with one at least a few years newer if I wanted to continue my search for more power.

That piece of information was a major blow to me. I had spent thousands over the years on that bike, and the thought of losing all that just to start over on another bike almost as old as mine, well, that just wasn't in the least bit appealing. But fate has a funny way of

At Ottawa HD; should I buy it?

unlocking new opportunities. As I pondered what to do, I mused aloud that maybe I should just get a Super Glide. Lighter, easier to work on, and more in line with my need for speed, perhaps I should just sell the Geezer Glide.

That is when I learned about the T Sport. John had a 2001 FXDXT demonstrator that he had built up and was using as his personal ride for the summer. The engine had been bumped up to 95 cubic inches and included high performance modifications from both HeadQuarters and Screamin' Eagle. John showed me a dyno chart that had horsepower and torque values both registering over 100. This was getting interesting. He then asked me if I wanted to take it on a test ride. I declined, but said I would have to think about this new possibility.