Sadly, the time has come to let go of the Road King. I have loved it for over 7 years, but as time marches on, I find the weight, mainly when parking, becoming a big factor. Looking @ 1200 Sporties in the 2003 - 2008 range, probably edging to the newer side. I have always liked them, but not really familiar with any personally since the first EVO versions. I just like to ride, some travelling but mostly commuting & recreational riding. Any big issues with this era XL? Anyone have anything to offer?

Thanks in advance.

 

I'm new to this game and just bought my first Sportster about a month ago and love it.
I think fuel injection came in to play about 2007 and then there's the fat front tire that started in 2012. Not sure of any other changes but I'm sure there'll be others answer soon.

 

Not a whole lot of changes in that age range, except fuel injection that Yogie had mentioned.

I suppose it would come down to intake preference... Carbs or Electronic.

 

In 2004 and later the engines were rubber mounted...so less vibration.

Curious, why before 2008?

 

I would chose an '04 or later - indeed I have done just that! I've owned Harleys since the '70s and never could get on with a solid mount Sporty.

 

Don't like the fat tire on the newer ones, and 2008 & earlier seems to be the price point I'm comfortable with. Prefer fuel Injection & rubber mounts, so thanks to all who answered, been helpful.

Now to sell the RK.

 

I have a 2008 I'm going to sale..PM me if your interested..

 

The 48 and Custom from 2011 onwards are the only models that have the fat front tire.

 

I know exactly where you're coming from with this.
I just traded my Kawasaki 1700 for a softail after dropping a bike at a standstill for the first time in 30 years. My back is ****ed due to arthritis.
I think you could go to a softail rather than a sporty. Lower COG means although a little heavier they are easy to manoeuvre when parking etc. I look ridiculous on mine at 6.3 when I stop and put my feet down, but I don't care, at least I'm still riding, and even the RK feels big after riding the Deluxe.
Whatever you choose, I wish you many more years happy riding.

 

You wont find any big issues with the newer models compared to the touring models. You can forget about noisy compensator, lifter noise, primary, etc., etc., that are issues with the touring bikes. I have both and I always have lots of fun when I ride the Sportster. Of course the fuel injected models from 07 on eliminate those pesky carb issues that creep up and you don't have to worry about the choke when starting a cold bike. And backing in the bike while paring and moving it around the garage is much more easier with the Sporties.