Choosing the Best Harley Scan Tool can be overwhelming. This article compares two popular options: Techno Research’s Centurion Super Pro and Diag4Bike, to help you make an informed decision. Both tools offer extensive diagnostic capabilities for Harley-Davidson motorcycles, but they differ in licensing, pricing, and user experience.
Centurion Super Pro: Pay-Per-Bike Licensing
The Centurion Super Pro utilizes a “Pay-Per-Bike” licensing model. This means you initially purchase the module, cables (compatible with various Harley connectors), software, and a license key for around $750. This allows you to diagnose and work on one specific motorcycle. Additional bike licenses can be purchased for approximately $75 each.
The software includes free updates for the current version year. However, upgrading to the next year’s version requires a fee (around $300). While the software continues to function without updates, you may miss out on compatibility with newer models and features. Skipped updates are pro-rated upon eventual purchase. Tuning capabilities are available for an additional fee.
Centurion’s user manual is considered less than ideal, requiring users to learn through trial and error. However, technical support is available via phone [(248) 658-1800 or (248) 658-1801]. Their online manual can be found here: centurion-introduction. Be prepared for slow loading times. Sections 7 and 8 are particularly relevant for diagnostic procedures.
Diag4Bike: One-Time Purchase, Higher Price
Diag4Bike offers a different approach with a one-time purchase price of around $1200. While more expensive upfront, this eliminates the per-bike licensing fees. Functionality mirrors the Centurion Super Pro, covering diagnostics, troubleshooting, and potential tuning options (with a separate per-bike tuning fee and dongle). Hardware includes cables for various Harley models, and a Bluetooth module option is available.
Similar to Centurion, Diag4Bike provides free software updates for the current version year. Subsequent year updates cost $300. Skipping a year increases the fee to $400, and two or more missed years result in a $450 update cost. The software remains functional without updates, but newer features and bike compatibility may be limited.
Diag4Bike’s user manual is also considered challenging to navigate. U.S.-based support is limited to HardDrive/VTwin Products, the distributor, who primarily handle sales. They can forward inquiries to the developers in the Czech Republic. The online manual is located here: Diagnostics – DOC4BIKE. The “Toolbox” section contains most of the commonly used functions.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Tool
Both Centurion Super Pro and Diag4Bike offer comprehensive diagnostic capabilities for Harley-Davidson motorcycles. The best choice depends on your individual needs and budget. Centurion Super Pro’s pay-per-bike model may be more cost-effective for hobbyists working on a single bike. Diag4Bike’s one-time purchase eliminates per-bike fees but comes with a higher initial investment, making it potentially more suitable for professional mechanics or those working on multiple Harleys. Consider your long-term usage and budget when making your decision. Both tools require a learning curve due to their complex functionalities and less-than-perfect user manuals.
