Buying first Harley
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Stage III
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
Buying first Harley
I am looking to buy my first Harley and I am looking at a softail deluxe and my question is if the bike is to big or heavy for a first time harley rider or should I be looking at the smaller sportster models? I grew up racing motocross and have owned a few sport bikes but never a harley. If any members have any insight on this it would be helpfull. Also I see alot of harleys with tens of thousands of miles on them and was wondering when a harley has alot of miles on it and should not be purchased?
Road Captain
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 516
Likes: 0
From: Central Ohio
a Deluxe would be a good choice due to the low seat/center of gravity thing..it would not take long to be very comfortable.
As for miles..just watch out for how it was maintained.
The miles pile up 'cause a bike is well loved..and if it was cared for properly..the extra miles should not be much of a problem.
As for miles..just watch out for how it was maintained.
The miles pile up 'cause a bike is well loved..and if it was cared for properly..the extra miles should not be much of a problem.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 23,053
Likes: 12,327
From: Arkansas
High miles on late model Harley's really are not an issue. Even if you have no intention of doing so I would suggest that if you are thinking of buying from a private party ask if you can have the bike checked over by a Mechanic. If they say yes without hesitation I would assume that it has no issues that the seller is aware of.
Intermediate
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 43
Likes: 0
I dont think the size of the bike is that big a deal really. Just go find an empty parking lot somewhere and practice for a while until you are comfortable. Engine guard might be a good idea. A MSF safety course is money well spent if you are interested. It will give you a good basic understanding on what to look for when riding on the streets with all the crazies. Good luck and have fun!
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 3,364
Likes: 33
From: So Cal The Golden State
What kind of riding are you going to do. That is much more relevant to your choice of model.
With your experience I don't think you will have issues. Just common sense when getting started.
Also some great deals to be had. You would be suprised that when looking at private parties you will all sorts of stuff. When I bought my sportster from a private party it had 138 miles on it. Thrashed trash and riden but very well maintained touring bikes. If a machine is well maintain miles don't matter to me.
With your experience I don't think you will have issues. Just common sense when getting started.
Also some great deals to be had. You would be suprised that when looking at private parties you will all sorts of stuff. When I bought my sportster from a private party it had 138 miles on it. Thrashed trash and riden but very well maintained touring bikes. If a machine is well maintain miles don't matter to me.
Intermediate
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 45
Likes: 1
From: Key Largo, FL
Buying my first bike I also thought I wanted the Heritage, rented one then rented a Road King. I bought a Road King. I don't think the size of the bike is a problem so long as you can put both feet on the ground.
Road Master
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 1,169
Likes: 2
From: New Orleans
I recommend renting the model (or one very much like the model) you want to buy first. If after renting your hooked, looked for a good deal on that model, new or used. As you are riding it home after signing all the papers is a bad time to figure out you may have made a mistake on which model you chose.
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Road Warrior
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 1,755
Likes: 1
From: dual citizen nomad
i 2nd renting one first and add think am i single? do i like hot chicks or ol cougar types? if its hot chicks get a VROD, sportster or buell. ifits ol cougar types then go big twin. if you dont care for chicks anymore get a glide,roadking or bagger cuz them golfcarts have the same attraction power as a cube van. good luck an have fun!!!
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Tourer
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 263
Likes: 1
From: Bastrop, LA
I entered the HD scene much the same way. I grew up racing dirt bikes from the time I was 9 yo until I was 16. After that, I rode a few metric bikes that friends owned, but always dreamed of a Harley. Once I decided I would buy my first Harely, riding due to size was not a problem at all. Go with what YOU want!!! The best part is riding, but adding custom components is also alot of fun. Good luck!!!
Road Captain
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 673
Likes: 6
From: NW Chicago
Renting HDs is a great way to experience the ride. A full day on one model will get you the feel of what you thought you wanted. If not, you're only out the rental fee. Whatever your choice, I'm sure you'll enjoy.