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I'm new to Harleys, and I'm trying to decide what I want and how much to spend. I've been riding for over ten years, but only sportbikes. I'm leaning towards a night train for now, and I was wondering if there is much of a difference between model years other than 2007+ being fuel injected. I saw a 2001 and 2005 for sale pretty close to me, but I wasn't sure how much of a difference (if any) there would be.
Also, what's the general consensus on fuel injection? I've had issues with carburetors on other vehicles before, but I've never owned a Harley. The newer models are more than I'd like to spend right now unfortunately.
you can make anything fit with a little work. i have a roland sands vintage fender and spring seat kit. i have a 2006 so i had to cut off the rear struts to install the kit, no big deal though.
I went from a 2002 Yamaha R1 to a 2008 Night Train. You will love it! I have not looked back since to be totally honest. You should be able to find great deals on used bikes. I almost wish I hunted around before paying msrp for mine 2 years ago.
I went from a Honda VFR 1000F Fire Storm to a 2002 Night Train and haven't had second thoughts once! I'll never ride anything BUT Harley's!!!
Previous bikes include Yamaha R6, R1, Honda CBR900RR and more, NEVER again ;-)
If I was to trade in my HD now I'd probably go for a 2006+ Night Train or Fat Bob. I'd choose 06 and up NT due to 200 rear tire.
I won't trade in my ride now though, as I've done tons of work on it this winter, so now the only thing I'd like to change is the rear tire (180-200). If I get a hold of tons of money that I really don't have to use on anything else I'll upgrade to 240 rear tire.
Anyways; all softails from 2000 and up are pretty much the same other then small mods (200 rear tire, bolt on struts etc) on 2006+
Good luck on your selection. I'm sure you'll be way satisfied with a HOG
How much would be involved (both cost and time) to put a 200 rear tire on an older softail? I've been seeing a lot of 2001-2005's. I'm leaning towards getting an 07 Night Train for the fuel injection and 200 tire, but I've seen some good deals on older models.
Just bought my first night train which is an 07, you never specified how much u want to spend but as far as fuel injection. I am a die hard snowmobiler and fuel injection is the only way to go. Less finicky, much more reliable and better throttle response. there are good deals out tjhere just take your time...
Just want to add my voice as another happy NT (07) rider. Just put a car tire on the back of it today so I don't have to change out the tire every year.
That's the downside of the 200mm tire. It wears out it 5-7k miles around here. The heat and pavement take their toll. For those living in the country with better roads; they might get more mileage out of 'em.
I like the EFI but there's nothing wrong with carb's in my book. My other bike, a bagger, is carbed and I like the reliability factor of carb's. The gas mileage isn't as good but everything else is the same. I'd like to put a 6 speed in my 99 bagger someday. If I did that I'm sure I'd pick up another 5 mpg.
The key to good gas mileage is to keep it at or near 3k rpm. Once you go much above that the mileage drops fast unless you have a good tail wind. Naturally a good running engine with at least 95ci is necessary to do this.
Last edited by BoomerBob; Apr 30, 2010 at 01:45 AM.
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