Currently riding an 01 Low Rider, but after riding a buddies 2011 ultra classic I've decided me and the gf would get a lot more use and enjoyment out of a touring bike. Did a little research and figured I'd get an 09 or new used ultra classic so I'd have the bigger motor, 6th gear and the updated frame.

UNTIL-
I came across a '99 ultra classic with only 4,800 miles for $9000. Besides the obvious 3 things I listed, how much of a difference would there be between the 99 and an 09 + bike? I figure an 09 or newer with that low mileage is gonna be $18,000 or more if I could even find one. That'd buy a true track to help with handling and a lot of power adding goodies and still be way ahead.

Also, is there any known issues with the 99 that could bite me later? Enough to make it not worth while to look into buying?

Thanks for any advice you can give, especially from those that have a lot of miles on both eras of ultra classics.

 

If $$ is not an issue, go w/ 09-13. Intro of the 14s has really pushed prices down on 09-13, so there are some great deals.

 

Personally speaking I don't think you will be happy with the 99. There has been so much advancements in the past 15 years I think it is worth looking at newer bikes instead. There are deals out there you just need to find one that fits your taste.

 

The ride is going to be smoother with the 09 and up bikes plus you can get ABS and a host of other newer technologies. I also think 9k is a high price for that year bike. Just because it has low miles is not necessarily a good thing for a bike sitting that long without being driven. You may be opening yourself up to unseen problems.

 

It really comes down to $$$$$$$.
How much ya got and how much ya can afford versus what you want?
That is the ____________ line.

 

You would have to ride it I think. In many ways I wish I had my 85 Electra Glide over my 07. Personal choice and I had other bikes between those two. And I would give almost anything to find a FXRT in that time frame that is unmolested. Personal choice.

 

A big factor to me would be if your one to modify everything or leave things stock. If you will leave things stock, I would spring more on a 09+. If your gonna rip it apart and change everything, try to get him down a little further on the price ($9k is OK but not a smoking deal) and start with a lower cost of entry.

 

'99 for $9000 is too expensive. I don't care the mileage, that bike is 15 years old. Having had an 05 Road Glide and a 13 Road Glide get the 09 or newer.

 

My friend can afford any bike he wants. He has several Harleys including a 2012 and 2000 FLHTCUI. His favorite bike is his carbureted, 99 FLHT (Electraglide Standard).

I say buy the '99.If you decide to go newer, you can sell it for what you bought it for.

I love my "03. Only thing that would be nice is a 6 speed if you cruise over 75 mph. I have never ridden a newer bike than my '03, so I have nothing to compare it to, but my bike handles great. ABS would be nice, but if you take a Skilled Rider Course you can learn how to panic brake without skidding.

If money is no object, get a new one of course.

 

One look at the rear tire on the 99 vs the 09 will give ya the answer.