I've about had it with bike computers and the repair price-gouging they enable. Even more than that, I want to ride something I understand. I'm leaning hard toward an Evo, in particular a 95 or 96 Road King for the higher seat. What are the mods I should do to improve performance without sacrificing ANY reliability or durability? What are the mods I should avoid if I encounter them on a prospective bike? Thanks.

 

It really depends on what you are starting with. Assuming everything is alright and it is none stock:

Bolt in cam. Cam choice depends on style of riding and realistic usage. Andrews EV13, Andrews EV27 are two popular choices but there are many others

Free flowing air cleaner
Good exhaust system. NOT straight drag pipes
Dynatek ignition system
Rejet the carb

Good idea to change the cam bearing and lifters as a preventive measure

Possibly new spark plugs, wires, and coil

Change all fluids including flushing brake lines

All of the above are very cost effective bang for the buck measures

It all depends on how much you want to spend.

Some 96 models had a fuel injection system that left something to be desired but was not terrible

 

Any evo Road King will be a good choice. Pay no mind to the guys whining about frame width and other nonsense. If you were to think of Dynas, now there are some real deals to be made as long as you are cool with a Dyna over a Road King. Wide glides and low riders under 6k all day long around here. Guy just sold one here for 2500 needing completion from sitting.

Usually you will find them already done with a stage one or whatever they were sold leaving the dealer or indie dealer wanting it to run "better". Don't let any of that worry you as it can be straightened out easily on these motors.

Good choice going backwards in time dude. Others here will agree I am sure.

Griz

 

Best bolt on part is a decent cam. EV 27 or 13, Woods 6, or Vthunder 3010.
That stock N grind cam is for ****.

 

Just buy the bike you want with reasonable mileage that looks like it's been well maintained. Worry about all that other **** later.

 

 

Evos have electronics too! Ignition system, regulator and flasher unit - you can't entirely escape, so don't try to be too much of a dinosaur! Beemervet has hit the nail on the head - find yourself a decent bike and we can help you fix it, tune it - whatever. As for 'bulletproof' get one with an S&S engine.......

 

I agree with Graham, buy something you like, then fix whatever needs fixed.

 

Great advice. When I was looking last year I bought something that I wanted to make a lot of changes to, now a year and a few months later I'm still fixing everything that's wrong with it. Some day I'll get to making it look like I want, but not sure when that day will be.

 

In my experience that day never comes.
I thought I was done with mine now I am reconsidering a couple of things.