This 1996 Heritage is sitting in the ocean front parking garage of the Condo where I work. The owner bought it new, has 11K on it and has not been started since 2004. It's surface rust from top to bottom... I have never owned a HD, the old guy is selling his condo and asking me for an offer for his bike, as I have had my eye on it for about 5 years. I have no clue what it may be worth.
Any guidance is much appreciated.

 

Not a project I would want to start (sorry no help on what its worth)

 

For a first HD, sitting for 9 years, I wouldn't...

 

If you have mechanical ability, a place to work, tools, lift and time plus money..... Yes

If not, thank the guy very much and walk on down the line

 

They can be had running for 5 to 7 thousand. Being in salt air and not running for that length and if any of the valves were in the open position the valve seats and cylinder will have rusted. If you want to restore it to show room condition would cost many $$$$. If you just want to clean it up a little and get it running possible could be done for cheap if you can do the work yourself. If you have the skill, time and space and can get it for less then $1000. might be a fun project. If turns out to be more then you want to undertake should be able to part it out and get your money back.

 

I wouldn't.

 

You didn't mention how much he said he would pay you to take it.

That bike has been sitting in salt air for nearly a decade and not started for the same length of time. Surface rust? Rust is rust. You have no idea if the frame has been compromised by the "surface rust" let alone the internal components of the engine.

Walk away and never look back. If you want to enjoy the Harley experience, this isn't the first Harley you want to buy.

What a shame. It was probably an awesome bike ten years ago.

 

If its near West Palm Bch, I'll look at it with you and give a better assessment.

 

If you can live with some rust / do a rat project and can buy it for under 1k i say why not.

If you want to take it back to like new condition probably cheaper to buy a new bike.

 

$1K and you got a deal. Some time, dedication and elbow grease would have that thing back to new.