Looking into getting my first Harley
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Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 669
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From: Scottsdale, Arizona
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Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 78
Likes: 19
From: Indiana
Thanks, everyone, for such good advice!
My local dealer has a "Demo Days" weekend coming up in September where I can sign up early and ride a bunch of different bikes all day. I'm planning on spending the weekend there with my father (He's in the market for a Street Glide), and trying some options.
After browsing eBay for ideas, I am definitely feeling hopeful that there are nice bikes out there to be had for ~10k. This Super Glide caught my eye, for example.
My local dealer has a "Demo Days" weekend coming up in September where I can sign up early and ride a bunch of different bikes all day. I'm planning on spending the weekend there with my father (He's in the market for a Street Glide), and trying some options.
After browsing eBay for ideas, I am definitely feeling hopeful that there are nice bikes out there to be had for ~10k. This Super Glide caught my eye, for example.
Tourer
Joined: Apr 2012
Posts: 334
Likes: 3
From: Honolulu
I went with the Dyna Fat Bob. Just love the look of a mix sport and Harley. It's probably the best handling Harley ever made.
I could have gotten a Honda or like for far less, but it would never hold it's value like the Harley.
The reason I got a New bike, is I plan to keep her forever! That's why I didn't buy a used bike. I wanna know every mile she has on her! (Just like having a virgin)
Best advice would be to find a dealer that has bikes to test ride/rent that way you can get the feel of which bike you really want! Don't worry about the cost. In the end buying a bike that you settle on is way too expensive! Get the one you really want and it's money well spent!!
First thing you do is install a set of pipes that will give your harley a deep rumble, and your wife will fall in love with riding with you all over again! LOL!
Good Luck!
I could have gotten a Honda or like for far less, but it would never hold it's value like the Harley.
The reason I got a New bike, is I plan to keep her forever! That's why I didn't buy a used bike. I wanna know every mile she has on her! (Just like having a virgin)
Best advice would be to find a dealer that has bikes to test ride/rent that way you can get the feel of which bike you really want! Don't worry about the cost. In the end buying a bike that you settle on is way too expensive! Get the one you really want and it's money well spent!!
First thing you do is install a set of pipes that will give your harley a deep rumble, and your wife will fall in love with riding with you all over again! LOL!
Good Luck!
Big Kahuna HDF Member
Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 322,622
Likes: 3,077
From: .....
Test ride the ones you're interested in at a dealership. Look over what they have and since you're looking to spend $10k, it'll have to be used. If they're like the dealership I go to, they'll have a lot to pick from. If you do talk with them, don't tell them what you can afford and turn down their first (maybe second) offer. Ask about warranties.
That's all I can tell you. You've already done the first part.
That's all I can tell you. You've already done the first part.
Road Warrior
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 1,950
Likes: 40
From: Christoval
Just go ahead and get one of the touring models! That's what you will eventually end up with any way. The only harley I have ever ridden was the one I bought, 04 electraglide 10500$ I knew what I wanted and that's what I bought, Don't be intimidated by the size they ride and handle very easily.
Road Captain
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 552
Likes: 1
From: Northern VA
For what it's worth, i got a 2006 EG as my first Harley after having spent more than a year looking for the right bike and price. I got my FLHTPI with 21k miles, slip on Rineharts, and the guy threw in luggage, passenger backrest, etc. all under $8500. No issues with the bike, just got a great deal. My opinion is that you can buy a used bike (i would look at touring types) with low miles, do a few tasteful mods and still spend around half of what a new similar STOCK bike would run you. Sure there is a warranty thing to consider, but you have to ask yourself if that is worth the $$$. I personally like the touring bike look, as well as functionality. Plus you can go on long trips and not worry about space or passenger comfort.
Last edited by DNC; Jun 23, 2013 at 08:20 PM.
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Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 78
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From: Indiana
Thank you guys very much!
I definitely think shopping used is a wise choice. It seems like I can save a LOT of money that way.
However, just so I am educated, if for some reason I increase my budget some and decide to look at new bikes, do you guys have any advice for how I can mitigate some of the dealer "fees"? Also, how about extended warranties? I usually don't by them, but if I could get it for a lot cheaper than retail, I might think about it. Any advice on warranty pricing? Or is it non-negotiable?
None of that will matter if I find a nice used bike, but it's nice to know ahead of time, just in case.
I definitely think shopping used is a wise choice. It seems like I can save a LOT of money that way.
However, just so I am educated, if for some reason I increase my budget some and decide to look at new bikes, do you guys have any advice for how I can mitigate some of the dealer "fees"? Also, how about extended warranties? I usually don't by them, but if I could get it for a lot cheaper than retail, I might think about it. Any advice on warranty pricing? Or is it non-negotiable?
None of that will matter if I find a nice used bike, but it's nice to know ahead of time, just in case.
Road Captain
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 656
Likes: 0
From: The computer desk.
Everything is negotiable, don't go in there and try and kick their ***, just go in and try and get the deal that you want. Be prepared to spend a few hours going back and forth but if you think it's too high it probably is. Extened warranty is a money maker for the guy/gal selling it, they start really high and then come down from there, the last two that I bought, for both mine and my wifes bikes were 1688.00 for the 7 year including tire coverage, I thought it was fair so I paid the price.
Good luck and have fun!
Good luck and have fun!