EVO buying advice please!
Thread Starter
|
Intermediate
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 47
Likes: 0
From: SW Ohio
EVO buying advice please!
Sold the '05 Electra Glide a couple years ago. Just missed having a Harley. Decided to buy something more affordable. Evo bagger here I come. That said, is there a model year that is more desirable than others? I wanna spend $8k or less. That seems reasonable except for a few highly optomistic folks. I did find one that is real 'old school' looking. Its a 1986-my senior year in high school-hence the appeal. I plan on at least 3k miles per year so I'm not planning on riding to bike night and back and nothing else. I have read a bunch of posts but would appreciate any advice or sources. Thanks, Jon
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 5,070
Likes: 2,114
From: Ohio
97-98 will take the same parts to around 2007 so that is a plus for cheaper good used parts. Older models use the carb but the M&M efi on the 95-98 is a give and take, some have had great results out of it, some havn't, either way the carb conversion is a easy task. Have seen several early 90's dressers that are sweet with low miles so it will be personal preferance, have read the earley 90's have some electrical issues but alot of good folks on here can nip that quickly.
Advanced
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 61
Likes: 1
From: Savannah, GA
I just bought a 1992 FLHTC. I liked what was done to the bike already so I am happy. If you are going to modify from scratch I reccomend a 1996 and up as the fairing changed that year to the newer fairing so you have more choices for upgrades and you don't have the battery taken saddle bag space on the right side bag. Plus most the aftermarket parts is more available for those... Good luck!
Diesel
Diesel
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 9,193
Likes: 494
From: Richmond, VA
I recently rode a 1997 bagger with the M&M efi. I can honestly say the bike ran suburb. Still, if I was shopping for a used bike, especially a bagger thats got 100 miles of wiring, I would at least think about an older carbed model. Once bikes get 15 or 20 years old, they are gonna need work, and I like to do the work myself when possible. If that efi started acting up, I would be totally at the mercy of the stealership.
Road Captain
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 550
Likes: 8
From: Twin Cities,Mn.
Some of the parts on older models have become obsolete-If your lucky,the aftermarket supply companys will take care of you. I had an 86 FXR with an old school look. I LOVED the bike,other than all the butchers that owned it prior to me! Just be carefull....look it over real good. My FXR ended up being a basket case-not so bad if its expected,not so good if its a surprise!
Trending Topics
Road Warrior
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 1,912
Likes: 2
From: Cave Creek, AZ
I owned a 96 RK, and believe when I say go with the 97 - 98 model, you would be surprised what is not available for the 96. More options in seats and back rests, brake pedals, fuel management systems, etc. More things were available for the 97 and 98.
HD Forum Stories
The Best of Harley-Davidson for Lifelong Riders
10 Worst Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
Killer Custom's Jail Break Is The Breakout That Refused to Blend In
Verdad Gallardo
Crazy Bunderbike Build Looks Amazing, But Is It Impossible to Ride?
Verdad Gallardo
Harley-Davidson Reveals Super Cool Cafe Racer Concept
Verdad Gallardo
Engraved Rebellion: Inside Bundnerbike's Glam Rock II
Verdad Gallardo
10 Motorcycles You Should Never Buy
Joe Kucinski
10 Things Harley-Davidson Needs to Fix in 2026
Verdad Gallardo
Southpaw Super Glide: A Left-Hand-Drive 1979 Harley FXE Built to Fit the Rider
Verdad Gallardo
The Best and Worst Harley-Davidson Moves of 2025
Verdad Gallardo
Road Master
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 842
Likes: 47
From: New Hartford CT
I'm very happy with my 89, but I have done many upgrades over the last several years, as it was totally stock when I first got it. It ran and rode OK, but only OK. Now it runs and rides as good as, if not better than, new.
Thread Starter
|
Intermediate
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 47
Likes: 0
From: SW Ohio
First off, much thanks. There's a 1987 on ebay at Moine Cycle Warehouse. It is SO retro I love it. I really want a bike that I can go anywhere. I don't think I will want a bunch of aftermarket stuff. Just a solid runner. My only question is what problems are typical in those years? It won't be my only bike, just a nice compliment to the garage.