Ok, looks like I may be in the market for a used Road King in the Spring. My budget will be 12K tops. I know that '09+ is when the new frame came out and they are great, but I just can't afford that new of a bike at this point, so what year(s) should I look for in my price range that were known for quality / what year's had problems. Thanks!

 

I picked up an 06 in June for about that much from a dealer..
Looks like we're in the same area..

Just waiting for it to get out of the 30's here today so I can get out and ride..

 

Get an EVO Road King. It will run forever.

 

Stanshd.com

2002 SE RK

 

If 12k is the max including tax, I would say 05 and older is what you want to look at

 

Also, a lot depends on mileage and accessories. I may be wrong, but I believe 2000-2006 will have the same motor and transmission. Therefore, a 2001 model well kept should satisfy you just as well as a 2006 in the same condition, and it may be lower priced.

 

The 12K number should be re-visited and maybe a loan to supplement the cash on hand.
09 or newer is a must if you want to keep her for a while.

 

Not much of a difference between 02-06. I woudn't worry so much about if it is an 03 or an 05 or what ever. Look more mileage and how it has been cared for. 07 went to the 96 inch with a 6 speed. Mine is an 88 inch with a 5 speed. Lots of options and there are some steals to be had in this economy. You just need to shop around. Good luck.

 

The best of them is 2002:

- Stronger forged crank over the '03-up bikes with their cast cranks.

- Better FI system than the '01-back bikes, though they also have a forged crank.

- Better swingarm than '01-back bikes.

- Better brakes than '99-back bikes.

 

might get lucky and find a 07 or 08 if your real patient