Table of Contents
ToggleHarley Davidson VRSC 2013-2023 Controls and Indicators
CONTROLS AND INDICATORS
Read the CONTROLS AND INDICATORS section before riding your motorcycle. Failure to understand the operation of the motorcycle could result in death or serious injury.(00043a)
Some features explained are unique to certain models. These features may be available as accessories for your Harley-Davidson motorcycle. See a Harley-Davidson dealer for a complete list of accessories that will fit your specific motorcycle.
IGNITION SWITCH
Warning
The automatic-on headlamp feature provides increased visibility of the rider to other motorists. Be sure headlamp is on at all times. Poor visibility of rider to other motorists can result in death or serious injury. (00030b)
See the YOUR OWNER’S MANUAL section at the beginning of this manual. Be sure to record all your key numbers in the space provided at the front of this book.
The ignition switch controls electrical functions of the motor-cycle.
Note
Protect your vehicle against theft. After parking your motorcycle, lock the steering head and ignition switch. Failure to lock your motorcycle can result in theft and/or equipment damage. (00491c)
Warning
Do not operate vehicle with forks locked. Locking the forks restricts the vehicle’s turning ability, which could result in death or serious injury. (00035a)
Note
Do not lubricate barrel locks with petroleum based lubricants or graphite. Inoperative locks may result. (00152a)
Note
Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position before locking the motorcycle. Leaving the switch in the ACC position will keep the instrument lights on and result in a dis-charged battery. (00492b)
To review the functions of each switch position, refer to Table 16.
See Figure 4. Unlock the switch with the ignition key, and rotate the switch to the desired position.
Remove the key before operating the motorcycle, and after parking the motorcycle and locking the switch. The key may fall out if it is left in the switch.
NOTES
- The lamps operate when the switch is in the IGN position, as required by law in some localities.
The ignition key also fits the front fork lock.
| SWITCH POSITION | REMOVE KEY | FUNCTIONS |
| OFF | Yes | Turns off ignition, lamps and accessories. Motorcycle is turned off and cannot be started. |
| ACC | Yes | Turns on accessories. Hazard warning flashers can be operated. Instrument lamps are on. Brake lamp and horn can be activated. Switch can be locked in the ACC position. NOTE: When switching to the ACC position, a startup diagnostic performs a systems check. The instrument background lighting illuminates, gauge needles sweep their full range of motion and the battery, security, coolant temperature and check engine indicator lamps illuminate. |
| IGN | Yes | Turns on ignition, lamps and accessories. |
| SWITCH POSITION | REMOVE KEY | FUNCTIONS |
| OFF | Yes | Turns off ignition, lamps and accessories. Motorcycle is turned off and cannot be started. |
| ACC | Yes | Turns on accessories. Hazard warning flashers can be operated. Instrument lamps are on. Brake lamp and horn can be activated. Switch can be locked in the ACC position.
NOTE: When switching to the ACC position, a startup diagnostic performs a systems check. The instrument background lighting illuminates, gauge needles sweep their full range of motion and the battery, security, coolant temperature and check engine indicator lamps illuminate. |
| IGN | Yes | Turns on ignition, lamps and accessories. |

- Accessory position
- OFF position
- Ignition position
Figure 4. Ignition Switch
FORK LOCK
Notice
Protect your vehicle against theft. After parking your motorcycle, lock the steering head and ignition switch. Failure to lock your motorcycle can result in theft and/or equipment damage. (00491c)
See Figure 5. The fork lock is incorporated in the right side of the steering head.
Warning
Do not operate vehicle with forks locked. Locking the forks restricts the vehicle’s turning ability, which could result in death or serious injury. (00035a)
Using the fork lock immediately after parking your motorcycle will discourage unauthorized use or theft when parking your motorcycle.
- Turn the fork to the full left position.
- Insert the key into the fork lock.
- Push down on the fork lock switch and turn to the full clockwise position.
- Remove the key.

Figure 5. Fork Lock: V-Rod Models
HAND CONTROLS: BASIC OPERATION
Electric Starter Switch
NOTE
The OFF/RUN switch MUST be in RUN position to operate engine.
See Figure 6. The electric starter switch is located on the right handlebar control group. See OPERATION, Starting the Engine for detailed operation procedures.
- Put the engine OFF/RUN switch in the RUN position and the transmission in neutral. Neutral (green) indicator lamp should be illuminated.
- See Figure 4. Turn ignition switch to IGNITION and push the START switch to operate starter motor.
Engine OFF/RUN Switch
See Figure 6.The engine OFF/RUN switch (7) turns the ignition power ON or OFF. The engine OFF/RUN switch is located on the right handlebar control. Push the top portion of the engine OFF/RUN switch to turn off ignition power and shut the engine off. Push the bottom portion of the engine OFF/RUN switch to
NOTES
- The engine OFF/RUN switch must be in the RUN position to start or operate the engine.
The engine OFF/RUN switch should be used to shut the engine off.
- To shut the engine off, push the top of the OFF/RUN switch to the OFF position.
- See Figure 4. Turn the ignition key to the OFF position to turn the ignition power completely OFF.
Throttle Control Grip
See Figure 6.The throttle control grip (9) is located on the right handlebar control and is operated with the right hand.
To reduce rider fatigue on long trips, a spring-loaded throttle friction adjustment screw (10) is located at the bottom of the throttle grip clamp on non-cruise equipped models.
- Slowly turn throttle control grip clockwise (toward the front of the motorcycle) to close the throttle (decelerate).
- Slowly turn throttle control grip counterclockwise (toward rear of motorcycle) to open the throttle (accelerate).
Warning
Do not tighten throttle friction adjustment screw to the point where the engine will not return to idle automatically. Over-tightening can lead to loss of vehicle control, which could result in death or serious injury. (00031b) - Loosen the throttle friction adjustment screw so the throttle returns to the idle position when the hand is removed from the grip.
- Screw the throttle adjustment screw in to increase friction on grip. This provides a damping effect on throttle motion.
NOTE
The throttle friction adjustment screw should not be used under normal stop and go operating conditions.
Clutch Hand Levera
Warning
Do not position fingers between hand control lever and handlebar grip. Improper hand positioning can impair control lever operation and cause loss of vehicle control, which could result in death or serious injury. (00032a)
See Figure 6. The clutch hand lever (1) is located on the left handlebar and is operated with the fingers of the left hand.
- Slowly pull clutch hand lever in against handlebar grip to fully disengage clutch.
- Shift to first gear using the gear shifter lever. See CON-TROLS AND INDICATORS, Hand Controls: Basic Opera-tion.
- Slowly release the clutch hand lever to engage clutch.
A clutch switch is incorporated into the left handlebar switch assembly. It enables the rider to start the vehicle in any gear (or in neutral) as long as the clutch lever is pulled in. If the clutch is not disengaged and the vehicle is in gear, the vehicle will not start.
Horn Switch
See Figure 6. The horn is operated by pushing on the horn switch (2) located on the left handlebar control.
Headlamp Dimmer Switch
See Figure 6. The headlamp dimmer switch (3) is located on the left handlebar. The switch has two positions to activate the headlamps high or low beams.
- Press the top of the headlamp dimmer beam switch to activate the high beam.
Press the bottom of the headlamp dimmer switch to return to the low beam.
See Figure 8. The (blue) high beam indicator lamp will illuminate when the high beam is on.
Turn Signal Switches
See Figure 6. Each handlebar control group contains a turn signal switch.
- The right turn signal switch (11) operates the right front and right rear flashing lamps.
The left turn signal switch (4) operates the left front and left rear flashing lamps.
NOTE
Front turn signal lamps also function as running lamps. Due to local regulations, this feature may not be available in all locations.

- Clutch hand lever
- Horn switch
- Headlamp dimmer switch
- Left turn signal switch
- Front brake master cylinder reservoir
- Electric starter switch
- Engine off/run switch
- Brake hand lever
- Throttle control grip
- Throttle friction adjusting screw
- Right turn signal switch
- Clutch master cylinder reservoir
Figure 6. Handlebar Controls: V-Rod Models
TURN SIGNAL SWITCH OPERATION
Operating
Press and release the left or right turn signal switch to activate the turn signal lamps. The lamps flash until they are automatically canceled or manually canceled by the rider.
NOTE
If a turn signal indicator flashes rapidly, a turn signal bulb is not operating. Exercise caution and use hand signals. Replace defective components at earliest opportunity.
Automatic Canceling
The turn signal lamps automatically cancel when a full turn has been detected (based on vehicle speed, vehicle acceleration, and turn completion).
The lamps also cancel if the turn signal has been activated for a prolonged period while the vehicle speed is greater than 11 km/h (7 mph). If the motorcycle is stopped or moving slower than this speed, the turn signal continues flashing.
Manual Canceling
To cancel the turn signal, press and release the turn signal switch a second time.
To activate the opposite turn signal, press and release the turn signal switch for the new direction. The first turn signal cancels and the opposite turn signal lamps begin flashing.
HAZARD WARNING FOUR-WAY FLASHER
If the motorcycle must be parked alongside a roadway, the hazard warning four-way flashers can be turned on with the security system armed. This allows a stranded motorcycle to be secured with the four-way flashers operating until help is found.
Activate
- Turn the ignition switch to IGNITION with security system disarmed (fob present, if equipped).
- Press the left and right turn signal switches at the same time.
- Turn the ignition switch OFF and lock the switch. The four-way flashers will operate for two hours. The security system (if equipped) will automatically arm.
Deactivate
- Have the fob present to disarm the security system (if equipped).
- Unlock the ignition switch and turn the switch to IGNITION.
- Press the left and right turn signal switches at the same time.
INSTRUMENTS
Speedometer
Travel at speeds appropriate for road and conditions and never travel faster than posted speed limit. Excessive speed can cause loss of vehicle control, which could result in death or serious injury. (00008a)
See Figure 7. The speedometer registers miles per hour (U.S. models) or kilometers per hour (international models) of forward speed. The speedometer also provides the following selectable functions:
- Odometer
Trip odometers A and B
12 or 24 hour clock
Fuel range
Note
Never attempt to tamper with or alter the vehicle odometer. This is illegal. Tampering with or altering a vehicle odometer may cause equipment damage. (00160a)
The speedometer has a single display window for the above functions.
- See Figure 7. Pressing the function switch with the ignition switch in any position will activate the odometer reading and time. Time and mileage or kilometers may be checked without unlocking ignition switch. Press and release function switch once to view odometer. Press and release switch again to display time.
- To check mileage on trip odometers, the ignition switch must be in the ACC or IGNITION position. Press and release the function switch until the desired trip odometer reading is displayed. An ‘A’ or ‘B’ in the upper left of the display window identifies trip odometers.
- To reset or zero trip odometers, have desired odometer (A or B) in display window. Press function switch and hold switch for 2-3 seconds. The trip odometer will be reset to zero.
- 4. Repeat the previous step if you wish to zero both trip odometers.
Setting Clock
- Turn the ignition switch to ACC or IGNITION.
- See Figure 7. Press function switch until time (hour and minutes) is displayed. Press and hold the function switch for five seconds or until 12HR begins to blink in the speedometer display window. Release the button.
- Press and release the function switch once to advance to a blinking 24HR military style time display. Each time you press and release the button, the display will switch between 12HR and 24HR.
- When the desired time style is displayed, press and hold the function switch for five seconds. The display will switch to the time display with the hours blinking.
- Press and release the function switch repeatedly to advance the hours. Each time you press and release the switch, the display will advance one hour.
NOTE
No AM or PM time setting is required. When correct hour is reached, press and hold function switch to advance to minute setting.
When the correct hour is displayed, press and hold the function switch for five seconds. The minutes display will start blinking. - Press and release the function switch repeatedly to advance the minutes display. Each time you press and release the button, the display will advance one minute.
- When the correct minutes are displayed, press and hold the function switch for five seconds. The minutes display will stop blinking, indicating that the clock has been set.
- Turn the ignition switch OFF.
Fuel Range Function
The fuel range function shows the approximate mileage avail-able with the amount of fuel left in the fuel tank.
- With the ignition switch in the ACC or IGNITION position, press function switch until fuel range function is displayed, as indicated by the letter ‘r’ in the left side of the odometer display. The calculated remaining distance (miles or kilo-meters) to empty is displayed, based on the amount of fuel in tank. Range can be accessed at any time using the function switch.
- When the low fuel warning lamp illuminates, the range feature will automatically be displayed in the odometer unless this automatic pop-up feature is disabled by a press and hold of the function switch while in range display mode. Automatic range pop-up feature will show that it is disabled by blinking twice. Likewise, automatic range popup can be reactivated by a press and hold of the function switch. Range will blink once when the automatic pop-up feature is reenabled.
NOTE- Refer to Table 6. When the low fuel warning lamp turns on, refuel as soon as possible.
- The range display is only updated when the vehicle is moving.
- After the range calculation reaches 16 kilometers (10 miles) remaining, the range display will display “r Lo” to indicate that the vehicle will shortly run out of fuel.
- The low fuel warning lamp will not turn off until there is sufficient fuel in the tank, the ignition switch has been turned off and back on, and the vehicle has begun forward speed.
Note
See OPERATING RECOMMENDATIONS section. Do not operate the engine above maximum safe RPM as shown under OPERATION (red zone on tachometer). Lower the RPM by upshifting to a higher gear or reducing the amount of throttle. Failure to lower RPM may cause equipment damage. (00159a)
Tip Indicator
Warning
If tip occurs, check all controls for proper operation. Restricted control movement can adversely affect the performance of the brakes, clutch or ability to shift, which could result in loss of vehicle control and death or serious injury. (00350a)
Should motorcycle be tipped over, the word “tip” will appear in the odometer window. Engine will not start until reset. To reset, cycle ignition/headlamp key switch ON-OFF-ON.

- Tachometer
- Speedometer
- Fuel gauge
- Odometer
- Function switch
Figure 7. Instrument Cluster
INSTRUMENT LAMPS
Check Engine Lamp
See Figure 8. The check engine lamp is located inside the instrument cluster. Its purpose is to indicate whether or not the engine/engine management system is operating normally.The engine lamp color is amber.
The engine lamp normally comes on when the ignition is first turned on and remains on for approximately 4 seconds, as the engine management system runs a series of self-diagnostics.
If the engine lamp comes on at any other time, see a Harley-Davidson dealer.
Low Fuel Lamp
See Figure 8. The low fuel lamp lights up to indicate that the fuel level is low. The low fuel lamp color is amber. Refer to Table 6.
The low fuel warning lamp will not turn off until there is sufficient fuel in the tank, the ignition switch has been turned off and back on, and the vehicle has begun forward speed.
Battery Discharge Lamp
See Figure 8. The battery lamp indicates either overcharging or undercharging of the battery. Refer to HARLEY-DAVIDSON SMART SECURITY SYSTEM, Harley-Davidson Smart Security System.
Security System Lamp
See Figure 8. The security system lamp will illuminate when the security system is armed. Refer to HARLEY-DAVIDSON SMART SECURITY SYSTEM, Harley-Davidson Smart Security System.
If the security system lamp remains lit after the security system is disarmed, see your Harley-Davidson dealer.
ABS Lamp
See Figure 8. On ABS equipped models, the amber ABS indicator lamp begins to flash at key ON to indicate that the system is operation. It continues to flash until motorcycle speed exceeds 5 km/h (3 mph). Continuous illumination of the lamp will only occur when ABS detects that the system is malfunctioning. See a Harley-Davidson dealer for service.
Warning
If ABS lamp remains on continuously, the ABS is not operating. The standard brake system is operational, but wheel lock up can occur. Contact a Harley-Davidson Dealer to have ABS repaired. A locked wheel will skid and can cause loss of vehicle control, which could result in death or serious injury. (00361a)
INDICATOR LAMPS
See Figure 8. Indicator lamps are located along the bottom of the instrument cluster.
Turn Indicator Lamps
The turn indicator lamps flash when the turn signals or 4-way hazard flashers are activated.
Headlamp High Beam Indicator Lamp
The headlamp high beam indicator is lit when the high beam switch is activated.
Neutral Indicator Lamp
The neutral indicator lamp is lit when the transmission is in neutral gear.
Engine Coolant Temperature Indicator Lamp
Notice
If the engine coolant temperature indicator lamp remains lit, always check the coolant level. If the coolant level is normal and the lamp is still lit, stop the engine at once and do not ride further until the trouble is located and the necessary repairs are made. Failure to do so may result in engine damage. (00158a)
Warning
Do not remove radiator filler cap when engine is hot. The cooling system is under pressure and hot coolant and steam can escape, which could cause severe burns. Allow engine to cool before servicing the cooling system.(00091a)
The engine coolant temperature indicator lamp is lit when the coolant temperature has exceeded 117° C (243° F).
See MAINTENANCE AND LUBRICATION, Coolant Level to check and add coolant as necessary. See TROUBLESHOOTING, Cooling System for other possible causes. If coolant level is sufficient and the lamp remains lit, stop the engine at once and see a dealer for service.
Oil Pressure Indicator Lamp
Notice
If the oil pressure indicator lamp remains lit, always check the oil supply first. If the oil supply is normal and the lamp is still lit, stop the engine at once and do not ride further until the trouble is located and the necessary repairs are made. Failure to do so may result in engine damage.(00157a)
The oil pressure indicator lamp is lit when sufficient oil is not circulating through the engine.
The lamp is lit when the ignition is turned on prior to starting the engine. With the engine running, the lamp will be off when engine speed is above idle.
See MAINTENANCE AND LUBRICATION, Checking Oil Level to check and add engine oil as necessary. See TROUBLESHOOTING, Engine for other possible causes. If oil level is sufficient and the lamp remains lit, stop the engine at once and see a dealer for service.

- Left turn lamp
- Headlamp high beam lamp
- Neutral lamp
- Oil pressure lamp
- Engine coolant temperature lamp
- Right turn lamp
- Low fuel lamp
- Security system lamp
- Anti-lock brake system (ABS) lamp
- Battery discharge lamp
- Check engine lamp
Figure 8. Instrument Lamps
GEAR SHIFT LEVER
Location
See Figure 9. The gear shift lever is located on the left side of the motorcycle and is operated with the left foot. The shift lever changes gears in a sequential five-speed transmission.
Shift Pattern
The clutch must be fully disengaged before attempting a gear shift. Failure to fully disengage the clutch can result in equipment damage. (00182a)
See Figure 9. Each gear must be engaged in sequence. Lift the gear shift lever to upshift and press the lever to downshift. After each gear change, release the gear shift lever to allow it to return to its resting position. See OPERATION, Shifting Gears.
Neutral
Neutral is located between first and second gear. The transmission can be shifted to neutral from either first or second gear. Lift or press the gear shift lever 1/2 of its stroke. In neutral, the indicator lamp will light.

Figure 9. Shift Lever and Shift Pattern
ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS)
Identification
See Figure 10. Models that are equipped with the ABS option can be identified by the presence of a hydraulic control unit as shown.

Figure 10. Hydraulic Control Unit
BRAKE SYSTEM
General
The rear brake pedal controls the rear wheel brake and is located on the motorcycle’s right side. Operate the rear brake pedal with the right foot.
The front brake hand lever controls the front wheel brake and is located on the right handlebar. Operate the hand lever with the fingers of the right hand.
Warning
Do not position fingers between hand control lever and handlebar grip. Improper hand positioning can impair control lever operation and cause loss of vehicle control, which could result in death or serious injury. (00032a)
Some models are equipped with an anti-lock braking system.
Non-ABS Brake System
Apply brakes uniformly and evenly to prevent wheels from locking. Use front and rear brakes equally for best results.
Warning
Do not apply brake strongly enough to lock the wheel. A locked wheel will skid and can cause loss of vehicle control, which could result in death or serious injury. (00053a)
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)
Harley-Davidson’s Anti-Lock Brake System assists the rider in maintaining control when braking in a straight-line emergency situation. ABS operates independently on front and rear brakes to keep the wheels rolling and prevent uncontrolled wheel lock-ups either on dry pavement or on slick surfaces such as gravel, leaves or when riding in wet conditions.
ABS: How It Works
The ABS monitors sensors at the front and rear wheels to determine wheel speed. If the system detects one or both wheels are slowing down too quickly, which indicates they are close to locking, or if the deceleration rate does not match a criteria stored in memory, the ABS reacts. The system rapidly opens and closes valves to modulate the brake caliper pressure utilizing only the brake lever/pedal pressure being applied by the rider. During ABS activation, the system provides the electronic equivalent of manually pumping the brakes and is capable of cycling up to seven times per second.
The rider will recognize ABS activation by the slight pulsing sensation in the hand lever or the rear brake pedal. The pulsing sensation may also be accompanied by a clicking sound from the ABS module. Both are the result of normal operation. Refer to Table 17.
ABS: How To Use
While an advantage in emergency braking, ABS is not a substitute for safe riding. The safest way to stop a motorcycle is upright with both wheels straight.
Harley-Davidson ABS is a manual assist system. When in an emergency stopping situation, maintain pressure on the brakes through all ABS events. Do not modulate or “pump” the brake controls. The wheels won’t lock until the end of the stop when motorcycle speed reaches approximately 6 km/h (4 mph) and ABS is no longer needed.
Warning
ABS cannot prevent lockup of rear wheel due to engine braking. ABS will not aid in cornering or on loose/uneven surfaces. A locked wheel will skid and can cause loss of vehicle control, which could result in death or serious injury. (00362a)
More information is available at www.harley-davidson.com/abs.
ABS: Tires and Wheels
ABS motorcycles must always use Harley-Davidson specified tires and wheels. The ABS monitors the rotational speed of the wheels through individual wheel speed sensors. Changing to different diameter wheels or different sized tires can alter the rotational speed. This can upset the calibration of the ABS and have an adverse effect on its ability to detect and prevent uncontrolled wheel lockups. Operating at tire pressures other than those specified in Table 14 can reduce ABS braking performance.
Table 17. ABS Symptoms and Conditions
| SYMPTOM | CONDITION |
| Pulsing brake lever or pedal during an ABS event | Normal condition. |
| Clicking sound during an ABS event | Normal condition. |
| ABS lamp flashing | Normal condition – motorcycle turned on – speed under 5 km/h (3 mph). |
| “Surge” sensation while braking | Normal condition – most noticeable when braking with one brake (front only or rear only). Result of a reduction in deceleration which can be caused by cracks or bumps in road, engine braking (high engine RPMs causing the rear wheel to slow down), hard braking at slow speeds, and other conditions. This is due to ABS modulating caliper brake pressure to prevent uncontrolled wheel lock. |
| Temporarily stiff rear brake pedal | Normal condition – engine braking (high engine RPMs causing the rear wheel to slow down) or down shifting can activate ABS. If applying the rear brake at the same time or immediately after, the ABS may be closing a valve to prevent pressure to the rear brake. This is due to ABS modulating caliper brake pressure to prevent uncontrolled wheel lock. |
| Tire chirp | Normal condition – depending on surface, tire can chirp without locking the wheel. |
Table 17. ABS Symptoms and Conditions
| SYMPTOM | CONDITION |
| Black mark on pavement | Normal condition – depending on surface, tire can leave a black mark without locking the wheel. |
| Wheel lock at low speed | Normal condition – ABS will not activate on front wheel below 5 km/h (3 mph) or on rear wheel below 8 km/h (5 mph). |
JIFFY STAND
Warning
Always park motorcycle on a level, firm surface. An unbalanced motorcycle can fall over, which could result in death or serious injury. (00039a)
The jiffy stand is located on the left side of the motorcycle and swings outward to support the motorcycle for parking.
Warning
The jiffy stand locks when placed in the full forward (down) position with vehicle weight on it. If the jiffy stand is not in the full forward (down) position with vehicle weight on it, the vehicle can fall over which could result in death or serious injury. (00006a)
Warning
Be sure jiffy stand is fully retracted before riding. If jiffy stand is not fully retracted, it can contact the road surface causing a loss of vehicle control, which could result in death or serious injury. (00007a)
JIFFY STAND INTERLOCK: INTERNATIONAL MODELS
Some international models have a jiffy stand interlock.
The motorcycle will start and run with the jiffy stand down while the transmission is in neutral. If the jiffy stand is down and the transmission in gear, engaging the clutch stalls the motorcycle. The message “SidE StAnd” will scroll across the odometer. Raising the jiffy stand or putting the transmission in neutral, will permit the engine to run. The odometer will clear the message.
If the stand lowers at a speed greater than 15 km/h (10 mph), the engine will continue to run. It will illuminate the indicators (flash twice) and scroll the message “SidE StAnd” across the odometer. The message will remain until the system detects the jiffy stand in the fully retracted position again. The rider may continue to ride while in this mode.
The rider may clear the text messages at any time by pressing the function switch once while the vehicle is powered up.
FUEL FILLER CAP
See Figure 11. The fuel filler cap is located under the seat.
To open, turn the fuel filler cap counterclockwise and lift up. To close, turn the fuel filler cap clockwise until it clicks. The ratchet action of the cap prevents overtightening.
See SAFE OPERATING RULES section and review safety procedures.
Notice
Do not spill fuel onto the motorcycle while refueling. Immediately wipe up fuel spills on your motorcycle. Fuel can cause damage to cosmetic surfaces. (00147b)
Warning
Use only unleaded fuel in catalytic converter-equipped motorcycles. Using leaded fuel will damage the emission control system. (00150b)
Warning
Avoid spills. Slowly remove filler cap. Do not fill above bottom of filler neck insert, leaving air space for fuel expansion. Secureable and highly explosive, which could result in death or serious injury. (00028a)

Figure 11. Fuel Filler Cap
SHOCK ABSORBERS
General
The rear shock absorber spring preload can be adjusted for the weight the motorcycle is to carry and has five preload graduations. Notice the adjustment settings as you turn the collar.
Use the adjustment setting numbers as a reference for equal adjustment of shock absorbers on both the right and left side of the motorcycle.
Adjustment
Warning
Adjust both shock absorbers equally. Improper adjustment can adversely affect stability and handling, which could result in death or serious injury. (00036b)
Notice
Do not turn the shock absorber adjustment collar clock-wise beyond adjustment setting 5. Doing so may result in equipment damage. (00166b)
- See Figure 12. Place a SPANNER WRENCH (Part No. 94448-82B) around the lower collar of the shock absorber.
- Refer to Table 18.To adjust the rear shock absorber spring preload, turn the spring adjusting cam to the desired position. When returning to off-cam position, cams should be backed off in opposite direction.
- Turn the collar clockwise (toward higher numbers) to increase the preload.
- Turn the collar counterclockwise to decrease the preload.
Table 18. Recommended Preload
| LOAD* | POSITION** |
| Less than 75 kg (165 lbs) | 1 |
| 75-89 kg (165-195 lbs) | 2 |
| 89-102 kg (195-225 lbs) | 3 |
| 102-116 kg (225-255 lbs) | 4 |
| 116 kg (255 lbs) to maximum added weight allowed (refer to Table 11) | 5 |
| Load includes total weight of rider, passenger, accessories and cargo. See Figure 13 for preload positions. |
|

Figure 12. Rear Shock Absorber Adjustment: VRSCF Model

Figure 13. Shock Preload Cam Positions (typical)
SIDE-MOUNTED LICENSE PLATE
See Figure 14. Some models are equipped with a side-mounted license plate assembly. The license plate must be in the extended position during operation. Due to local regulations, this feature may not be available in all locations.
The side-mounted license plate assembly includes an LED lamp module. If the LED lamp fails, see a Harley-Davidson dealer for assembly replacement.

Figure 14. Side-Mounted License Plate Assembly
REAR VIEW MIRRORS
Objects in mirrors are closer than they appear. Use caution when judging distance of objects in mirrors. Failure to judge correct distances could result in death or serious injury. (00033a)
Your vehicle is equipped with two convex rear view mirrors.
This type of mirror is designed to give a much wider view to the rear than a flat mirror. However, cars and other objects seen in this type of mirror will look smaller and farther away than they actually are.
- Use caution when judging the size or relative distance of objects seen in rear view mirrors.
Always adjust the rear view mirrors to clearly reflect the area behind the motorcycle before riding.
NOTE
Adjust mirrors so you can see a small portion of your shoulders in each mirror. This will help you establish the relative distance of vehicles to the rear of your motorcycle.
MIRRORS: VRSCF MODEL
See Figure 15. On the VRSCF model, the mirror stems operate as front turn signals. Use the following procedure to properly align the front turn signals and position the rear view mirrors.
NOTE
See Figure 16. Always loosen fasteners before changing the position of the turn signals or mirrors. Simply pushing the mirror face or stem may cause damage to the assembly.
- See Figure 16. Loosen the nut on the mirror stem. Adjust the front turn signal so it is directed straight ahead, with the lighted surface facing the forward direction of the vehicle as shown in Figure 15.
- Tighten nut to 7.4-8.5 Nm (65-75 in-lbs).
- Loosen the screw on the rear of the mirror. Adjust the mirror to desired position (without changing the orientation of the front turn signal).
- Tighten screw to 11-13 Nm (97-115 in-lbs).

- Front turn signal (perpendicular to forward direction of vehicle)
- Mirror
Figure 15. Mirror/Turn Signal Alignment: VRSCF Model

- Mirror screw
- Mirror stem nut
Figure 16. Mirror/Turn Signal Fasteners: VRSCF Model
Reference Links
View Full User Guide: Harley Davidson VRSC 2013-2023 User Manual
Download link: https://www.harley-davidson.com/be/nl/index.html
