Hypothetical situation
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 2,836
Likes: 1
From: 2000 Softail FXST
As you can see by the first two posts you're going to get answers based on opinions and what other people have a preference for; mine wont be any different. Some will tell you EFI performs better and is more reliable and it works better in changing elevations so it will cost more. Others will tell you that carbs are easier to work on and cheaper to fix so their just as valuable. Both answers are right in one way or another.
I have EFI and don't really care for the computer programmed electronics. I'm considering buying an older carburated bike so I can do more of the work myself without dealing with EFI, so a carburated bike would have more "value" to me.
In the end you'll be the one that decides which is more valuable based on what you want to do with the bike. Just my opinion here.
I have EFI and don't really care for the computer programmed electronics. I'm considering buying an older carburated bike so I can do more of the work myself without dealing with EFI, so a carburated bike would have more "value" to me.
In the end you'll be the one that decides which is more valuable based on what you want to do with the bike. Just my opinion here.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 8,642
Likes: 6
From: Forest Lake, Mn
As you can see by the first two posts you're going to get answers based on opinions and what other people have a preference for; mine wont be any different. Some will tell you EFI performs better and is more reliable and it works better in changing elevations so it will cost more. Others will tell you that carbs are easier to work on and cheaper to fix so their just as valuable. Both answers are right in one way or another.
I have EFI and don't really care for the computer programmed electronics. I'm considering buying an older carburated bike so I can do more of the work myself without dealing with EFI, so a carburated bike would have more "value" to me.
In the end you'll be the one that decides which is more valuable based on what you want to do with the bike. Just my opinion here.
I have EFI and don't really care for the computer programmed electronics. I'm considering buying an older carburated bike so I can do more of the work myself without dealing with EFI, so a carburated bike would have more "value" to me.
In the end you'll be the one that decides which is more valuable based on what you want to do with the bike. Just my opinion here.
Me??? Obviously a 'carb' guy. I 'believe' EFI is more reliable, and in most instances, more tuneable, etc. BUT it requires more tools, and more technology, to "work with". Carbs are more "experience" orientated, rather than "instrument" orientated.
Road Warrior
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 1,391
Likes: 2
That statement is a mixed bag of nuts. The resale price on a used bike is dictated by what the seller is willing to accept and what the buyer is willing to pay. Condition, age, and mileage on a bike is a large factor also. There are way to many factors involved to say a used EFI bike will cost more than a used carbed bike. All things considered and if everthing mentioned above were exactly the same i don't think the difference in price would even be noticeable.
Trending Topics
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 10,788
Likes: 2,222
From: Texas
Probably wouldn't make much difference if averaged out over many bike sales , but for me, I'd give more for the EFI. I've had both, and the EFI works way better for me!
HD Forum Stories
The Best of Harley-Davidson for Lifelong Riders
7 Surprising Harley-Davidson Products that Are Not Motorcycles
Verdad Gallardo
8 Best Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
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
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 3,968
Likes: 34
From: Lockport Township, IL
I have both EFI and carbed bikes. Both seem to work just fine. Personally, I like to tinker and mess with stuff. That is why I prefer the carbed bikes. They are very easy to tweek. If you are not interested in tearing into your carborator occasionally, then the EFI may be right for you. I would not pay a premium though, to get EFI.