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20k to 40k miles isn't excessive on an EVO. I'd look for the latest year affordable and I'd want it mostly stock with the exception of breather, pipes & cam. Many believe that 1996 thru 1999 were the best of the EVOs, but they're all great engines. The stock cam bearings were a weak point. So you'll want to know if it was changed to a Torrington brand bearing. A lot of great EVOs can typically be had from as low as around $6K to $8k. It's a buyers market and opportunity has never been better.
Good luck on your hunt and post some pics of whatever you end up with.
Buy as new as you can afford, the more info on the maintenance you can get the better.
These bikes if taken care of can last along time.
Look for leaks, pipes discoloration, signs that the bike has been down, ie: repaint, scuffs on parts they didnt change after, other than stock bars or forks.
DO a little homework, go to a dealer and test drive a new bike to get a point of reference, you can also see many great used bikes at a dealer to test too.
I think in the end you will do better with a private seller and cash as it is a great market to buy.
I just bought a used bike, my first Harley was brand new, I have no problem buying used if you are careful.
If the motor and drivetrain has been maintained like it's supposed to be, 20K to 40K for mileage is nothing. A well maintained EVO that is treated well should be able to go 80K before the need for new rings may come up.
I'd echo the others.....buy the newest....and nicest one you can afford. If it is a tossup between 2 bikes, which one has newer tires?
EVO is a really good enigne platform to go with. My EVO Sporty engine is a rock.
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