Content Source: 2020 Indian Chief, Chieftain, Springfield and Roadmaster Rider’s Manual (9930566 R03) > Operation Chapter

IMPORTANT

The Owner's Manual for this vehicle contains warnings, instructions and other information you must read and fully understand before safely riding or performing maintenance on this vehicle.Always follow the warnings and instructions in Owner's Manual.

Click the CONTENTS link above for the Table Of Contents, or download a full PDF of the Owner Manual in the Owner Support area of Polaris.com

Starting the Engine

The starter interlock system allows the engine to be started only when the transmission is in neutral, or when the transmission is in gear with the clutch disengaged (clutch lever pulled in). The engine should NEVER start in any gear except neutral if the sidestand is down. See Sidestand.
TIP
If the motorcycle runs out of fuel, prime the system before attempting to restart the engine. See Priming the Fuel System.
  1. Perform the Pre-Ride Inspections. See . Properly secure any cargo.
  2. Straddle the motorcycle and bring it to the fully upright position. Retract the sidestand.
    TIP
    When the electrical system is activated with either the power switch or the starter switch, the key fob must be within range. See Keyless Ignition.
  3. Move the engine stop/run switch to the RUN position.
  4. Shift the transmission to neutral.
  5. Apply the front brakes. Disengage the clutch (pull the clutch lever fully toward the handlebar).
  6. The motorcycle may be electrically activated by pressing either the starter switch or power switch. Then with the throttle closed, press and release the starter switch to start the engine. The starter motor will crank until the engine starts, but no more than 3 seconds. If the engine does not start, wait five seconds and try again.
  7. If starting a COOL engine, DO NOT open the throttle while starting. Idle speed is computer controlled and idle speed will adjust automatically depending on engine temperature and air temperature. Allow the engine to warm up for one minute minimum at low RPM after starting. Do not run the engine above 2500 RPM. If starting a WARM engine, DO NOT open the throttle while starting.
  8. If either the check engine indicator or the low oil pressure indicator (or display) remains on after the engine starts, stop the engine immediately. Refer to the low oil pressure indicator/display information in the Low Oil Pressure Display section or the Indicator Lamps section.
    NOTICE
    Operating an engine with a misfire or non-firing cylinder can overheat the catalytic converter, which could result in catalytic converter damage and loss of emission control. DO NOT OPERATE the motorcycle if a misfire or non-firing cylinder exists.
  9. Leave the throttle closed and allow the engine to idle. Idle speed will gradually slow to normal as the engine warms to operating temperature.
    TIP
    Do not rev the engine or put the transmission in gear immediately after starting the engine. Allow the engine to idle for about 30 seconds after a warm start or at least one minute after a cold start (longer in cold weather). This will allow oil to reach all areas before the engine is put under load.
    NOTICE
    Do not run the engine at high RPM with the clutch disengaged or the transmission in neutral. Maximum safe engine speed is 5400 RPM. Never exceed the maximum safe RPM as this could result in serious engine damage.
    NOTICE
    The engine is air-cooled and requires unrestricted air flow to ensure proper operating temperature. Long periods of idling or traveling at very low speeds (such as during a parade) may overheat the engine, resulting in serious engine damage.

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