Should I.... 2003 Heritage Softail 34k miles...
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Intermediate
Joined: Aug 2018
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From: Capecod, Ma
Should I.... 2003 Heritage Softail 34k miles...
Guys I’m torn between this and a Road king with 52k miles on it.... I live both bikes but I’m torn which one to buy. Both seem to be in really good condition. Thoughts...
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 5,014
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From: Northern California
I prefer the Road King as I like the Touring frame, comfort, style. With that said, you have to ask yourself which one you really like? You didn't indicate motor sizes, if they are the same model year, other details. So assuming they are both the same year, motor displacement then I would focus on:
- How they ride - ergonomics
- Maintenance history - would you be the 2nd owner, 3rd, etc and do you know the bikes full history?
- Go on a long ride with each so the motor is well warmed and you can see if there are any leaks or other issues
- Also ask about the last time the cam chain tensioner shoes were checked for condition?
Thread Starter
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Intermediate
Joined: Aug 2018
Posts: 29
Likes: 3
From: Capecod, Ma
I prefer the Road King as I like the Touring frame, comfort, style. With that said, you have to ask yourself which one you really like? You didn't indicate motor sizes, if they are the same model year, other details. So assuming they are both the same year, motor displacement then I would focus on:
- How they ride - ergonomics
- Maintenance history - would you be the 2nd owner, 3rd, etc and do you know the bikes full history?
- Go on a long ride with each so the motor is well warmed and you can see if there are any leaks or other issues
- Also ask about the last time the cam chain tensioner shoes were checked for condition?
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 14,140
Likes: 11,207
From: San Diego, CA
The two bikes will feel different.... touring frame v Softail frame.
When I bought a bagger in '12, I was going to sell my '03 Heritage. I took it for one last ride, then I couldn't sell it.... they were just two different bikes... I love them both, kept them both, and ride them both... The only hard fast rule is, that on multi-day trips, the bagger gets the nod... all other rides/outings, the bike is selected on a whim....
If you prefer the Touring bike.... if it has good service records, or looks/checks out to be well maintained, 54K miles isn't too much mileage... obviously, if there are signs of lack or maintenance, 54K miles could be too much.
TAKE NOTE...... it's a buyers market... I wouldn't pay NADA, Black Book, or KBB prices. They don't seem to reflect the bad seller's market we're in. Don't let emotion cause you to overpay. There are a lot of good bikes on the market.....
Good luck...
When I bought a bagger in '12, I was going to sell my '03 Heritage. I took it for one last ride, then I couldn't sell it.... they were just two different bikes... I love them both, kept them both, and ride them both... The only hard fast rule is, that on multi-day trips, the bagger gets the nod... all other rides/outings, the bike is selected on a whim....
If you prefer the Touring bike.... if it has good service records, or looks/checks out to be well maintained, 54K miles isn't too much mileage... obviously, if there are signs of lack or maintenance, 54K miles could be too much.
TAKE NOTE...... it's a buyers market... I wouldn't pay NADA, Black Book, or KBB prices. They don't seem to reflect the bad seller's market we're in. Don't let emotion cause you to overpay. There are a lot of good bikes on the market.....
Good luck...
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