I did a "first service" on a 2003 Heritage Softail yesterday.....the bike had only 1585 miles on it. I have no idea why the owner never bothered to do anything to it, but he didnt. I told him that chances are his warranty was not intact any longer, but to still save the recipts from the oil and filter...and the gaskets/o-rings just in case.
I just found it odd that someone would have a bike nice as that for 6 years and only put less than 1600 miles on it.
In any case the primary chain was very loose, and there was quite a bit of metal shavings on the drain plug, and in the drain pan. The final drive belt was also VERY loose, and had actually started to show signs of premature wear because of it. Finding neutral was not easy at all....and the clutch lever was like a rock.

I charged the guy $180 + parts, and he was so happy with the way it performed when I was done with it, he gave me a $50 tip.......saying he didnt know it would run that smooth from just a service.

This confirms the fact that these bikes do NEED do have that first 1000mi. service done on time. The break in of some of the critical parts causes them to get far out of spec, and if left like that it will reduce the life of the part greatly.

BTW: I used Red-Line oils in all three holes, and while it is a bit costly, it is IMHO much better than the HD branded stuff, or fossil based oil(s).

 

That's just nuts. Imagine paying for plates and insurance every year just to ride it 300 miles? I bet there's a ton of corrosion in the motor.

 

What did you pay for the 2003 Heritage? Also, is it the black/silver anniversary? Am looking at one with 2000 miles, anniversary and they guy wants $14,500 which I think is a bit high. Offered $13,500 3 weeks ago and he still has it for sale for $14,500. Assume he will for a while.

 

My bad. I thought you boought the bike but looks like you just did the service. At least the one I am looking at did have the 1000 mil service but wa sa long time ago. Debating between this bike and a 2004 RK Classic.

 

I just bought a 2003 silver black with 2400 miles on it. Dude had taken excellent care and had all kinds of extras. New set of wheels and tires(fat boy) and lots of chrome. Cost me $13,900 but it is FI. I flew 800 miles and rode it home. He serviced it for me before I got there and I have have put 3000 miles on it since I picked it up about 5 weeks ago and I love it.

 

where is that bike? need details. I'll buy it for that.