I put 140k on my 1989 EVO UktraClassic, and pulled camping trailers even. My 2002 Ultra Classic only had 24k on it when I bought it. I've been told I was a daredevil for touring on "that old bike without ABS". I paid 8500 for my 2002. I had 18k cash to spend.

I'd rather ride than spend more money on a newer bike. Before I buy a newer bike I'll put an S&S motor in my frame.

on back roads, I run in 4th gear alot. Perhaps if I lived west of the Mississippi and could set the cruise at 80+ for hours, a six speed would make sense to me.

I really all comes down to your choice. And if you will pay for maintenance or do it yourself. I've got a 1993 Softtail in my shop for some wiring now. Doingnit for one of my brothers. Nothing that a few hundred would fix with new parts, but not everyone can do that. But it will be running order tomorrow.

Older bikes are not reliant on computer matching upgrades or workarounds.

 

The nice thing about older bikes is all I need is the onboard AFR unit.
With every change, i don't need to run to a dyno room.
Mt EFI and related parts will not EVER fail me either.

 

Heres the thing, the hi miles scare me as you have no idea of the defered maint work. The 04, were the cam shoes changed? My advice (an this and a dime will get you on a bus) I'd look for an 09 or later on a touring bike or a 96er with a 6 speed. Bargains are out there...

 

But ..............are they real?
By any measurement without W.G on the board, i would have to say no

 

You hadda ask the wife for an OK to buy a bike?!
Buy a Burgman scooter. Trust me on this.

 

UPDATE

going in the morning to look at 2010 ultra limited
and 2012 ultra classic

2010 has 46k and they want 9500
2012 has 23 and they want 11000



​​

 

Hey Bill, do you really think buying a 900 pound road going barge is a great "first REAL bike" to buy?

What is your level of riding experience?

 

A 2012 with 23K for $11,000 would be really great deal, imho.

 

my first bike was honda cl360 35 yrs ago
have had several since
this is a harley
my first real bike