03 or 07 Softail
Cruiser
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 235
Likes: 8
If they all told you that, then I would have to say not much. By that logic the 96, 103, and 110 should have a shorter engine life than the 88 because the piston moves another .375 inches (10.6%) on each stroke.
This would also mean that the 5.9 Cummins Diesel Engine would wear out much faster same displacement 5.9 gas engine as it has about a 25% longer stroke.
There are many conditions that lead to short engine life but the length of the stroke isn't one of them.
It's a close race but would still go for the 2007.
This would also mean that the 5.9 Cummins Diesel Engine would wear out much faster same displacement 5.9 gas engine as it has about a 25% longer stroke.
There are many conditions that lead to short engine life but the length of the stroke isn't one of them.
It's a close race but would still go for the 2007.
Tourer
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 485
Likes: 12
From: New York
Grand HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2012
Posts: 3,751
Likes: 459
From: Here and now
All other factors being equal, I would think that longer stroke should shorten wear life of piston/ring/cylinders. Piston more sideloaded around TDC, piston speed higher...I would imagine produces more wear on the cylinder bore. That being said, another question would be is the magnitude of difference relevant?? I dont know.
Bottom line is as you stated. The magnitude of difference should not be relevant either way.
I would still go with the 2007, for the six speed if nothing else.
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Stage III
Joined: Feb 2015
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
From: Syracuse
Holy crap. I unleashed a hornets nest lol. Lots of great views both ways. When I look at a the other stuff the 07 has - chromed and powder coated engine. 200 rear. Few extra cubes an extra gear and a 3 year newer bike at that, I guess it should be the choice.
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 4,356
Likes: 1
From: Lansdale, Pa
My Softail custom is an early build, built in June 2006 and I don't have any problems.
My bike has 24,000+ miles now, I ran it very hard for the first 9000 miles until I broke the drive belt then I settled down a little. I'd buy this bike all over again.
My bike has 24,000+ miles now, I ran it very hard for the first 9000 miles until I broke the drive belt then I settled down a little. I'd buy this bike all over again.
Club Member
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 2,404
Likes: 12
From: Haymarket, VA
I would go for the '07. I have 41K on my Deuce with zero problems. My only issue is the 5th gear whine which was lessened a lot with Spectro Platinum tran oil.
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Stage III
Joined: Feb 2015
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
From: Syracuse
I think it's a given I'll go with the 07. The 03 was a great ride when I had one and I guess it would have been like going home. Frickin thing was identical down to the braided lines and chromed accessories. However, 4 years newer has to be a plus. Especially for the same $$$$$ besides seller just found and sent a photo without the bags and windshield (Saddlemen quick detach bags. HD quick detach windshield two more great upgrades when needed) it looks wicked in the two tone paint. Thanks for all the back and forth. Wish I could afford both but the 07 it is!!
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