Okay, I posted this question in the touring section last night and so far, everyone things I nuts. I have a 07 FXD and I am thinking about trading on to a 1996 FLHRI with 31000 miles. Very clean bike and I like the old type look. My current mechanic says its a good move especially for longer traveling. You all obviously have EVO experience which I don't, good choice?, bad idea? I know, ride it first, its really only my opinion that matters, etc, etc. I am just looking for some insight
Thanks.

 

Man there are a lot of ways to answer your question but you seriously need to ride it before you buy it.

As for buying a '96 EFI bike I wouldn't unless you or someone you know is very good with the early EFI system.

On the other hand if you yank that EFI system off and put a carb on that bike you will have a great machine that will last for a very long time.

JMO

 

Why not?

I have no experience with owning either a Twin Cam or an FI Evo, so I have no idea what I'm talking about here. But none the less, why not? You've obviously been smitten by the FLH or you wouldn't be here!

 

My current mechanic cut his teeth on those older evo's and he claims to be very good with them. I have always liked the Road King and this one is clean and set up about perfect for my tastes. I appreciate the input.

 

Then you're all good.

In that case I would definitely buy the EVO.

I still say you should ride it first though.

 

It also depends on what your idea of 'longer traveling' is. I've had my 93 FLHS (what the RK replaced in 1994) from Michigan to Florida at least 8 times. Twice to Milwaukee. Once to Sturgis and York. Sometimes two up, other times solo. If you want to put some serious miles under you butt, the 'glides are great.

 

1997 FLHTCUI with over 100k and wouldn't trade it for 2 of those 07 FXDs. I do all my own wrenching though and I have made quite a few upgrades to the bike over the last couple of years but parts are not hard to find (YET) and with all the great knowledge here in the EVO section its been a breeze. Bike had 92K and still running great before I did anything to the engine. The MM EFI system gets a bad rap IMO. It's a simple system and IF you don't plan major engine mods it will serve you well. Just put in a little time reading and learning about it. Factory Service Manual is a must!

 

Two totally different types of rides. I don't think you'll be losing much in actual value between the two. Not big on efi myself but you can swap that to an S&S carb and have a real nice ride. .

 

Another thing that can be done rather cheaply is to upgrade the ignition wiring harness to a 97 or 98 version, which are more receptive to programming. Ebay is your friend here. Requires the ecm also, as they are different.

Griz

 

Get the EFI and ride the **** out of it. I've had mine for almost 3 years now and have almost doubled the mileage that was on it when I bought it with no real issues that I haven't been able to fix or get done.
One thing for sure, look into changing out the front air system for a Racetech or progressive upgrade as well as the rear air shock system.
I love my '96 EFI and will keep her going as long as I can.
Good decision, ride safe.