Need Advice on which one!?

speedrcr · #1 07-08-2008, 08:51 AM

I am about to start a "bagger" project and I am looking for advice on which year and model I should look at ....and why!

What I'm thinking....
I think I am leaning at the Road King line....because not sure I need the full baggers...but I do like the Street Glide!?

I will be doing some customizing (stretch tank, clean up the rear end, etc). I will ride solo most of the time, but hopefully the wife will join sometimes. I am looking at doing some longer rides (the pro-street isn't as much fun on rides longer that a hour or two!)...but not going nuts...not going cross country! I would like a windshield some time, but not most of the time. ...will be looking at smoothing it out, and going long and low!

So.....
* Which model and why?
* What year (looking at used) in that model and why?
* What do think about wheel size...like going to a larger rear wheel..but not crazy! ...taller front!?
* Anything to watch out for on the used bike?

And, if you know anyone...I am looking to do a trade + cash for my custom show/magazine featured Pro-street (started life as a '05 Big Dog, Bull Dog model)....you can see photos @ zanikdesign.com, in the projects section. I can also email you a spec sheet.

Thanks in advance...and I look forward to being a very active member!

Harleypingman · #2 07-08-2008, 10:43 AM

An '02 is the last year of the Timken bearing for the crank and has Delphi EFI if you are interested in an EFI bike.&nbsp\\; '01 and earlier have Magnetti-Marelli EFI which&nbsp\\;was replaced after three model years.&nbsp\\;
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mattman22033 · #3 07-08-2008, 11:11 AM

Anything 02-06 will be fine but more likely 02-04 since it going to be a project bike why spend more than you need to.
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An RK is cool but I like having a stereo.
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Wheel size...custom wheels are super cool, but if you are planning to do some touring, even if it is not super long distance, think about the loss of time to get your 21" front and/or 18" rear replaced. There are plenty of cool stock size rims out there. Again the end choice is yours. Also if you are going to lower the bike the larger wheel size(even with low profile tires) may cause you to bottom out.
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As for buying a used bike, the first thing I want to know is how it was maintained and does the owner have all the maintenance records. Also I want to be able to see the bike in person and test ride it. I have several threads on different forums where people have said no way to test ridding. If I can't test ride it then why should I buy it, how do I know you aren't trying to hide some problem. I have let every person that was interested in one of bikes that I had for sale over the years take a&nbsp\\;test ride. I have Progressive insurance and another person riding the bike is covered...I called to check.

Black Flag · #4 07-08-2008, 11:45 AM

http://www.hdforums.com/m_3598558/tm.htm
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THis bike is for sale right now...on the same page as your post!
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It sounds identical to mine (although in stock trim) and I love what I have.
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Just my .02

harleybill2008 · #5 07-08-2008, 06:06 PM

I had a 99 RK which I just traded in on an 08 StreetGlide.&nbsp\\; I have a buddy that has an 07 SG and he loves it and I really&nbsp\\;prefer the lines to&nbsp\\;it as well.&nbsp\\; It is amazing on how much better the SG is over the RK.&nbsp\\; It has better balance and just seems smoother.&nbsp\\;&nbsp\\; As you can see, my choice would be to go with the SG (I also love the radio) and I would stick with a model year that has the 6 speed tranny and 95 CI engine.&nbsp\\; With the 08 having a 6 gal. gas tank, well that is just the icing on the cake.&nbsp\\; I can't compare the 08 Rk to an 08 SG except in looks and they are both nice but you will enjoy the fairing (all gauges) and radio.&nbsp\\;&nbsp\\; Just my 2 Cents.

pandol34 · #6 07-08-2008, 06:22 PM

SG all the way!

BadPiggy · #7 07-08-2008, 07:42 PM

If you want to customize a bike...look closer at the Road Glides. Year model '04 and up.
More painting surface on the fairing.

Tinkermc · #8 07-08-2008, 08:20 PM

I went with an Ultra because it had all the bells and whistles, with lots of space and a lot of paintable area.