Looking at buying a Softail Classic. Lots of used bikes around, particularly 2006 and earlier. Prices are not all that much less than new. Is it worth the few thousand dollars savings to go used? With financing is it really any cheaper to go used? Giving up the six speed and maybe injection is it worth it? Based on how I have seen some guys treat their bikes, is it worth it?

 

I would go new exspecially if your financing it .It would only be a few $ more per month IMO

 

You should be able to find a lot of good deals on used bikes as long as you don't buy from an HD Dealer. Go with a private seller, there's some desperate folks out there with all the layoffs. You will get a good deal. Financing is easy through local bank or credit union. Besides the weather is bad now so you won't whine while you wait for the title to clear.

 

I always buy used (bikes, cars, trucks). Currently there are lots of nice low mileage bikes out there that dudes must sell. Go to a private owner vs. dealer and you will find some great deals. FYI - You will be happy with the 88" 5 speed when considering $$$$ saved.

 

If money is not an issue, buy new. If you're counting dollars, let someone else take the depreciation hit and find a good used one.

 

If you take a bit of time, you will find a used 6 speed/bigger motor newer bike at a considerable savings. I found one from a private owner 85 miles from my house and saved over $5K. The bike had 289 miles on it after a year. The last 4 bikes I bought were from private owners who needed to move them. Take your time and look. It will be worth it - IMO.

 

I would probably end up going new but I would definately check
used first, you never know what kinda deal(s) you might find.

 

I usually like to buy new but there are some really killer deals out there in the used market. Like others have said, bad economy is forcing people to sell cheap. Last month I bought a 2004 Nightrain that had 1700 miles on it and it still has 2 years of extended warranty left. It had been sitting covered in his garage and looked like it had just rolled off the showroom floor. Owner had a few nice touches done to it at the dealer at the time of sale and he paid $22,000 out the door. I paid $12,000. Craigslist is a good place to look. Rick

 

I have never bought a new bike as there are always tons of deals on used ones. You can come up with toms of extras as well. I looked for a bike taht had what "I thought" I wanted at the time and found one. Saved about $7000 over new. Mileage was low. Too many people buy bikes, ride them 5000 miles and then never look at them again, especially Harleys. I agree private party is the way to go. Check out these sites.
http://www.cycletrader.com/
http://losangeles.craigslist.org/
http://www.chopperexchange.com/index...FQHHGgod_iUTTA
and of course don't forget ebay. The dealer will still rape you on tax and license IMO...

 

Saw this posted somwhere else but, lots of good used bikes out there now for some really good prices.