Yeah, I'm a noob on the forums. But, I rode bikes most of my childhood, into my teens. I'm actually looking at this bike -- to possibly purchase this coming weekend. I'd like some feedback on the 2003 Softail -- in terms of reliability and in terms of it being a first Harley. The seller is asking around $9000.00 with the Voyager kit; new tires (on bike); 60k service done in May.

Also, is there any place I can read & determine whether the bike is a Standard, Deuce or some other sub-model Softail? I have not found a list or website that offers info on the differences.

THANKS!

 

It's a Fat boy.

Nothing wrong with an 03.

Make sure you ask about the Cam tensioners. If they have not been serviced/replaced, know they should be.

Why would you want the Voyager kit?

 

I bought my 03' Fatboy about 5 years ago. When I got it had about 11k miles on the bike. It now has about 30k miles. Other than tires and routine maintenance I've had no problems. I did change out the cam tensioners, really did not need to. Also added SE 204 cams.

If I had to jump on the bike and ride cross country, I would have no worries at all. Been a solid bike from the day I got it.

 

Bought my 03 Softail Standard last August, which was my first Harley, and I have loved every minute of owning it so far!

 

Have an 2003 Softail,one of the best riding motorcycles I have ridden. I think it's an excellent first bike.

 

Still love mine after 11years and 42k miles

 

THANKS! I'm learning... curious... how can you tell from the photo(s) that it's a Fat Boy?

I'll check with the current owner on the cam tensioners.

As for the Voyager kit. It's the compromise my wife agreed to. I've been trying off & on for 20 years to talk her into getting a bike and riding with me. For 19 years, she said NO. This year, she said she would ride if we got a trike or a bike with a trike kit that we "might" be able to convert back to 2-up riding once she feels safe.


Folks, I appreciate ALL the answers so far!
I'm trying to work out possible transport for the bike, so we can go look at it, check it out, test drive and HOPEFULLY buy it this coming weekend.

If this question isn't allowed, I'll edit/delete it. Would you think $9000 is a fair price for this 2003 Softail, with 51k miles, the new Voyager kit, new tires and the H-D 60k service done in May, 2013?

 

My first and only HD thus far is my 2003 Deuce. It's currently undergoing a Heartland 250 transformation, but I love it. This is from coming from a ZX-7 and 900 RR. I have to admit the weight (accelerating, stopping, turning) was the biggest difference for me coming from riding sports bikes. Totally different, but still fun. Maybe a V-Rod will be in my future sometime, but I don't plan on selling the Deuce.

 

No replies on the price, so I'll take it that kind of question is frowned upon. Sorry.

As for the warranty info and cam tensioners, here is what the current owner has to say, "The warranty is through Harley Davidson, purchased when we bought the bike. It is honored at any Harley dealership and is tied to the VIN number. The warranty covers everything a new bike warranty does but, as a bonus, also covers the tires.
As far as the cam tensioners go, that is included in the 50,000 mile service which was done at Tilleys Harley Davidson when we purchased the bike, at a cost of $1500, so it is really thorough."

They are the 2nd owners of the bike, from what I understand. This bike was purchased for his wife... who subsequently decided she'd rather ride on his Tri-Glide with him than beside him on her own bike.

Any other thoughts anyone would like to offer? I'm ready to buy it, but don't want to be hasty!

 

I'd be hesitant to buy a used bike with 50K+ miles on it. Just my opinion.