should you order with or without the alarm : V-Twin Forum: Harley Davidson Forums

toybox99615 · 10-05-2008, 07:51 PM

I've put myself on the confirmed order list for a new TriGlide. It it scheduled to be built in January 2009 with delivery in February. The order was on the dealers books for a while before I came long and made the deal. The dealer has the bike coming with the alarm system factory installed. I've read a few bad reports over the alarm. I'm especially concerned about the being being no way to completly remove the alarm unit from the system should a problem arise. As I understand it once you have the alarm installed there is no way to simply unplug it and go back to a non-alarm set-up.

I might be overreacting to a few post I'd read hear and there. But I sure don't need another piece of technology that can go gunny sack and leave me on the side of the road. The dealer claimed the alarm was ordered as it lowers insurnace cost. My insurance company says the alarm would save me $ 20 a year.

I have until mid-December to decide if the alarm system should be left on the order or removed from the order. Right now I'm thinking take it off and avoid problems. Does anyone out there have experiences, good or bad, with the current alarm system?

OldMsocko · 10-05-2008, 08:13 PM

I also have a new bike ordered and would like to know if HD is having trouble with the factory installed security system.

ktwillys · 10-05-2008, 08:24 PM

I have not heard of problems with the alarm system but as long as you remember your code then it should not be an issue..

I do believe that the only alarm system you need comes in the .45 caliber form... but for peace of mind when you cant see the scoot while you are out it sure is nice..

I am going to eventually get the pager.. well maybe..

remember...

locks only keep honest people honest...

ADVNTR · 10-05-2008, 08:40 PM

I have "security" with the siren. 07 Ultra. It gives Peace of mind when on tour. No problems with this system or the one on my former 02 FLHTC

Gunny4Sawx · 10-05-2008, 08:53 PM

I've not heard of any problems with it and would get it. It's got a warranty on it. I've never had problems with either mine or the wifes. But these are all pre 08s

RexBuck · 10-05-2008, 09:01 PM

Have and 08 Ultra with alarm, siren and rechargable pager. It has worked just fine and I like having the peace of mind that I have a chance of stopping someone fooling around with my bike (hasn't happened yet).

I have not heard of any problems with the security system other than the odd dead fob battery or lost fob. In both cases the over-ride code will get you back on the road. I would recommend it.

20538 · 10-05-2008, 11:00 PM

I have the factory alarm on my 08 FLHX with siren and pager system. No problems and yes it gives me a peace of mind as others have mentioned.
I think those who have a problem with anything tend to complain and those without problems just sit back and enjoy a trouble free life.

Jeffytune · 10-06-2008, 12:44 AM

It is far cheaper to order it when you buy the bike then to have to pay to have one installed later on.

Get the Alarm.

CopperTop · 10-06-2008, 05:38 AM

I've never had a problem with the alarm/siren setup on either bike ('08 Ultra and '06 Sporty), so absent any specific knowledge of problems with the TriGlide, I'd get one for sure.

Congrats on the trike, though. They're sweet. Be sure to post pics when you take delivery.

badbagger09 · 10-06-2008, 06:49 AM

I had an alarm on my 08 V-Rod and had no problems with it. Just remember to have your key fob with you at all times. I went for a ride without it one day and could not start my mc until I manually disarmed it. My bad.....
Ride Safe

ChopperDude · 10-06-2008, 07:47 AM

Just some terminology clarifications...

When I hear the word "alarm", I'm thinking of the sound being produced. With Harleys, you have a TSSM (the *security* module), and a separate *siren* (often referred to as an "alarm".)

You can always remove the siren, very easily. No harm no foul. If you ever start having problems with the TSSM, you can always replace it with the cheaper TSM (same thing WITHOUT security) module.

I haven't heard of many issues with the TSSMs, I'd just leave it in.

wassup8687 · 10-06-2008, 08:13 AM

It's a great investment. Keep the FOB with you and you are good to go and no one else will be able to ride it away.

arealinvestor · 10-06-2008, 08:35 AM

It's a worth while investment.Get it!!!! Even if it goes bad you have HD roadside assistance to pick the bike up so why worry????? If you don't, get the AAA RV package which covers motorcycles.they will pick your bike up and deliver it to the HD dealer!!!!!!

leolarry · 10-06-2008, 08:54 AM

I had the security alarm with the smart siren installed on my 03 Road King , the parts were about $400 and then the installation cost was about $85, So it is a lot cheaper to order it on the bike when you buy it . I like it and works fine .

wolf? · 10-06-2008, 08:57 AM

on the plus, even though i think alarms are pretty useless, the vehicle can be used keyless most the time. the ignition switch turns without the key once unlocked. and unless you lock it when u run into the store, someone can just jump on it and ride.
the alarm will activate and disable the ignition when u walk away with the fob in ur pocket.
only reason i keep my alarm intact.