Hello,

I am new to the forum. I just started riding a motorcycle last October, at age 66! I am enjoying it immensely. My current ride is a 2009 Honda Shadow Aero 750, which I really love.

There is an opportunity in the near future for me to perhaps purchase a Harley. I had researched the different models, and I think the one that will best serve my needs is a Harley Heritage Classic. There are four different years that I could possibly purchase – 2003 (88 ci), 2005 (88 ci), 2006 (88 ci), and 2009 (96 ci).

I have heard the usual “horror stories” about Harley reliability, and I don’t buy them – at least in recent years. However, there appear to be some possible issues with different years and the mileage. For example, it seems that the tensioners should be inspected after about 20,000 miles. I assume that this would be true for all of the for years listed above. I have also seen some posts claiming that there may be a problem with the seals in 2005. Also, some people say that the 96 ci engine (like in the 2009 model) runs very hot. I live in SE Louisiana, near New Orleans, and it is hot for a good portion of the year.

So, I guess my question is – assuming that all of these different model year bikes were well-maintained, and if they had about the same miles on each, are there compelling reasons for me to choose one of these years (2003, 2005, 2006, or 2009) over the other, based upon reliability?

Thanks for sharing any insights, experience, and recommendations!!

Wayne

 

I would go with the 2009 for a few reasons
1. 6 speed gear box
2. Bigger engine (no replacement for displacement)
3. Usually lower miles on the odometer
4. Higher resale value

I have 13 heritage with a 103 and I hardly ever feel any excessive heat. All air cooled engines will get hot but it is not intolerable. I also had a 09 RKC (96 ci) and yeah it got hot but only in stop and go traffic. I suggest you test ride one on a really hot day and see if you can tolerate the heat.

 

I live in Florida and have owned an 88, 96 and now 103 Twin-Cam. I didn't find a big difference in the heat factor. They all run hot, but they're air cooled, we're in the South, so it comes with the territory. I'm no technician, but I'd suggest going with the 2009 because it will have a 6 speed transmission. Any Heritage is a nice scoot. It has to be Harley's best traditional looking model. You're going to love it.

 

What he said. Go with the '09. SJ Ron

 

I have an 06 and I love it. I would love it more with 96 CI engine and a six speed. Go with the 09.