First softail- EVO vs. Twin Cam?
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2013
Posts: 9,238
Likes: 5,784
From: On the Big Blue marble
My most unreliable Harley was a 2006 Twinkie. (twin cam)
My Shovelhead was more reliable.
My Evo has been incredible for reliability.
I don't get the "can't stand the warmup of carbs" line many people spit out. 99% of Harley owners typically start their bikes up and let them warm up regardless of carb'd or FI. I've never had a group of twinkie owners have to sit around and wait for me.
To me, the allure of Harleys is much like my love for 60's musclecars. Simple, low tech. Easy to work on.
My Shovelhead was more reliable.
My Evo has been incredible for reliability.
I don't get the "can't stand the warmup of carbs" line many people spit out. 99% of Harley owners typically start their bikes up and let them warm up regardless of carb'd or FI. I've never had a group of twinkie owners have to sit around and wait for me.
To me, the allure of Harleys is much like my love for 60's musclecars. Simple, low tech. Easy to work on.
Supporter
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 3,714
Likes: 650
From: San Ramon, Ca
He must have just gotten a bad one.
If a company mass produces 250,000 of something (aprox),
there's going to be a lemon or two.
If a company mass produces 250,000 of something (aprox),
there's going to be a lemon or two.
Road Warrior
Joined: Oct 2016
Posts: 1,256
Likes: 620
From: Pittsburgh suburb
Exactly, I think that's were the M8 platform is as well, a few bad ones but mostly good - the one bad thing the Moco is doing is cutting corners here n there on some quality control stuff.
All HD`s had or have issues, My shovel was a very reliable bike & the best sounding of all my Harley`s!
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 2,250
Likes: 36
From: Montana
Find a softail with a 96 ci motor they are pretty bullet proof. You can always do a 103, 106 or 107 conversion later and have a great motor too. I had a softail with a 5 speed previously and I have to say having 6 speeds in the transmission box is wonderful. At 75 plus or long hwy days you really need an extra gear. Can you do without it . Yes you can and harley 5 soeed transmissions I feel are more ruggedly built. However you will love the comfort if you get a 6 speed. Lots of great , low mile softails out there. I just got one for a great deal in december and I love it .
Supporter
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 3,714
Likes: 650
From: San Ramon, Ca
Exactly, I think that's were the M8 platform is as well, a few bad ones but mostly good - the one bad thing the Moco is doing is cutting corners here n there on some quality control stuff.
All HD`s had or have issues, My shovel was a very reliable bike & the best sounding of all my Harley`s!
All HD`s had or have issues, My shovel was a very reliable bike & the best sounding of all my Harley`s!
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 11,814
Likes: 5,120
From: SW Ohio
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 2,796
Likes: 36
From: Toronto, Ontario
If you ever plan on riding long distances at high speeds, do not get the Evo. They vibrate, a lot; it starts to get to you after a couple of hours. The twin cam has better brakes, sealed wheel bearings, a better rear shock, a speedometer that doesn't break, a more powerful engine, and generally feels bigger. No matter what the haters say, the twin cam is the better bike. If you do proper maintenance, they will both be very reliable, however if something does go out, chances are you won't find the parts at your local HD dealership if your an Evo rider. You didn't mention your budget, but I would go 2008 and up if you can. They had all the minor issues worked out by then, and they are really a great, reliable motorcycle.
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