Extended Service Plan FAQs

What is the Extended Service Plan, and who offers it?

The Extended Service Plan (ESP) is a program offered and administered by Harley-Davidson® to protect a customer’s Harley-Davidson® or Buell® motorcycle over and above the factory 2-year, unlimited mileage warranty. Simply put, it is an opportunity for an owner to extend the factory warranty protection for anywhere from one to five more years and, if they choose, to include the motorcycle’s tires and wheels in that protection.


Why is that necessary? Isn’t the factory warranty good enough?

The factory warranty is second to none, as are the Harley-Davidson® and Buell® motorcycles themselves, but they are still mechanical and occasionally subject to Murphy’s Law. That is why it is important to understand the factory warranty covers only parts and labour over the first two years. Without ESP you, the owner, are “on the hook” for any costs regarding towing, accommodations, meals and vehicle rental while the motorcycle is being repaired. ESP covers those costs (Harley folks call these “trip interruption costs” and, naturally, there are some limits—we can’t have you driving around in luxury SUVs and staying in penthouse suites—but the limits are pretty generous) including claims on the optional Tire & Wheel coverage if purchased.


What does ESP do that the factory warranty doesn’t? Why should I buy it?

ESP does two things for you: it provides protection against expensive mechanical repairs due to premature failure; and it provides flexibility in deciding what you want to do with the bike. ESP offers the same peace of mind over expensive mechanical repairs you get with the factory warranty. And if you decide to sell the bike ESP can make things easier. ESP is transferrable to the next owner, so you can advertise the bike comes with a warranty (no one wants to buy someone else’s headaches, right?), then sell the new owner the balance of the ESP contract or cancel it and get a refund of the unused portion. Either way it means additional cash to you towards your next Harley-Davidson® or Buell® motorcycle purchase.


What is and isn’t covered under ESP?

Exactly what parts of the motorcycle are covered, and those that are excluded, under ESP are outlined in the contract which accompanies your ESP purchase. ESP will not cover the “wearables”—brake pads, battery, clutch and tires-- for normal wear. But it does protect against factory defect, and road hazards if the optional Tire & Wheel coverage is purchased.


What is Tire & Wheel coverage?

It protects you against damage to the tires and rims from any road hazard—pothole or debris in the road such a nail or roadkill rib (yes, someone actually got a flat from some poor carcass’s skeleton). All of the trip interruption cost protection applies to Tire & Wheel claims as well.


How can I get more information about ESP costs for my Harley?

Contact our Business Manager by phone or email. Find out today why ESP is the next best purchase after your Harley-Davidson® or Buell® motorcycle!