Upgrading Recommendations
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Joined: May 2014
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From: Fort Frances
Upgrading Recommendations
So everyone I just recently sold my 06 Softail Deuce FXSTDI. I'm now looking into more touring models. But I admit I'm torn between a Road King or a Heritage. I've never ridden either one, but lots of my friends recommend the Road King due to my size(6'2" and 220lbs). Me and the girlfriend outgrew the Deuce and we need something to take us on some longer trips and not to mention a little more comfort for me when I'm solo. To be a little more specific I have 2 different Road Kings in my eyes, there are others but hardbags are a must for me and a lot of the other models are classics and to switch to hardbags just does not justify the cost.
First Road King is a 1999 with 30,000 miles. All engine updates have been done for bearings and cam tensioner. The bike is completely stock carb model and said to be amazing shape but I haven't seen it in person yet.
The second is an 07 RK with around 35,000 miles. Undoubtably a newer model with better brakes, a 96" and a 6 speed. But the catch is it's in about the same shape and it's $5000 more. I do all my own work and for $5000 I could make that 88" pretty nice and most likely update to a 6-speed as well(if I ever wanted to).
Then of course my third option is a number of Heritage models I've found with similar miles and prices, but again I've never ridden one and I'm told because of my size I will not be as comfortable.
More or less is I do not know the major differences between the different years of RK other then the engine and tranny and if they would be a major factor, given the cost difference. Anyone with more experience is greatly appreciated. Thanks everyone.
First Road King is a 1999 with 30,000 miles. All engine updates have been done for bearings and cam tensioner. The bike is completely stock carb model and said to be amazing shape but I haven't seen it in person yet.
The second is an 07 RK with around 35,000 miles. Undoubtably a newer model with better brakes, a 96" and a 6 speed. But the catch is it's in about the same shape and it's $5000 more. I do all my own work and for $5000 I could make that 88" pretty nice and most likely update to a 6-speed as well(if I ever wanted to).
Then of course my third option is a number of Heritage models I've found with similar miles and prices, but again I've never ridden one and I'm told because of my size I will not be as comfortable.
More or less is I do not know the major differences between the different years of RK other then the engine and tranny and if they would be a major factor, given the cost difference. Anyone with more experience is greatly appreciated. Thanks everyone.
Road Captain
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 543
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From: clinton CT
For two up riding especially for the misses....you may also consider one of the ultras. Whether it is a limited or a Road glide you may find that it is more suited for the both of you. Go test ride all the different models with her and ask her what she likes the best....My wife rides about 50% of the time with me and it is nice knowing that she is more comfortable on my ultra. All personal preferences. Good luck.
Club Member
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 1,478
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From: PA
My wife started to ride with me more so I upgraded from a softail deluxe to a Touring bike because it was not a comfortable ride and never looked back. I did get a tour pak with rap around backrest for her. I swear she falls asleep behind me, she says no. JC
Last edited by jc15025; Jun 24, 2018 at 07:31 AM.
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Joined: May 2014
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From: Fort Frances
Thanks everyone. Unfortunately my price range keeps me in the used section. A Road King is something we've been really looking at but trying to find the major differences between the different years other then engine and transmissions. Mainly looking at years 2008 and older. I know they changed the frame a bit in 2009 but most bikes that newer are not in our price range around here.
My old old man has a 2007 CVO Ultra and we've rode it a few times, the wife hates it. Says she feels unstable being so high up and always on edge, and I personally am not a fan of a batwing. Its a toss up between the RK or a RG if we go touring. She rides with me maybe 20-30% right now but she'd like to ride more and go farther.
My old old man has a 2007 CVO Ultra and we've rode it a few times, the wife hates it. Says she feels unstable being so high up and always on edge, and I personally am not a fan of a batwing. Its a toss up between the RK or a RG if we go touring. She rides with me maybe 20-30% right now but she'd like to ride more and go farther.
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Joined: Oct 2011
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From: Nor Cal
$5000 more?... I think either the 99 is super cheap or the 07 is priced too high ... (without knowing exact prices)
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Joined: Oct 2009
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From: Milton Mills NH
I had a Heritage, loved it for many reasons, my wife had no issues riding thousands of miles on it. My main complaint was the vibration.The eng is bolted to the frame, hence vibration. After a while it does get to you.
Other than that that bike would turn on dime, go like hell and never ever let me down.
One thing to consider yes you will pay more for the RK, but it will be worth more when you are ready to move up.
Other than that that bike would turn on dime, go like hell and never ever let me down.
One thing to consider yes you will pay more for the RK, but it will be worth more when you are ready to move up.
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Joined: May 2014
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From: Fort Frances
Keep in mind this is Canadian prices which is roughly 30% more then USD but the 1999 is private sale and he is asking $8k and could probably get it a little less. The 2007 is a trade in at a dealer and they want $11,800. After registration taxes in my province the difference is a little less then $5k(13%). The 1999 has got some minor chips in the tank and saddlebags showing its age. And the 2007 being a trade in is basically showroom.