Like 3 times here !
the taxes are like you wouldn't believe. Brings to mind the snake eating it's own tail analogy.
Used is 3500 usd more than this sportster and it's a 2004 model. The only harleys in my range are the ones I listed and this new one ( actually new old stock 2018) but I am getting a 4 yr warranty on this.

 

Sorry I did not reply to this thread earlier!!! I did not notice you were from India. I do have experience on Indian roads. Spent 3 years up on Jamnagar and on an earlier trip, around 2 months. I have been down to Kochi, and also to Pune. Roads there for traveling are quite good from what I saw. Traffic habits of the drivers on the other hand are quite terrible, mostly in the cities however. Out on the highway, it is not USA or British type road rules, but it is manageable especially for a local aware of the way things are.

Now, as to the bikes.... I would lean towards any Roadster that I could make legal and afford above the other choices. I have a sportster superlow, and a softail custom. Like both of them. But to be honest I like the lighter weight of the whole sportster line. Easier to swing out of trouble on than a softail for sure. Or any other 800 plus pound motorcycle. Roadster seems to have a much improved suspension, which with the occasional pothole and other road debris, will come in handy.

Also, the lighter weight will allow you an extra half second to dodge the roaming cows that seem to be everywhere.

I am totally biased, I will admit. My style of bike I like is more towards the 70's stretched out chopper look, like my 07 Softail Custom. I am trying to transform my sportster towards that look, although I do like the exposed shocks. So take those recommendations with my style preference admittedly having some influence. Any sportster would serve you well. Suspension for you might need to be beefed up, but in India you may be able to get parts and fix that.

I am in Philippines now, and my sportster parts are very difficult to get. Customs here seems to stop them at the incoming port and sends them back. Most of the time. I have got some through after 3 or 4 tries, but it is frustrating. I know your customs people and our customs people took lessons from the same play book, so I know you understand what I mean...

 

I very well understand that particular playbook, try getting arrows and a trad bow ! I tend to avoid the bylanes and state highways instead going longer to stay on the arterials. Some cows are gonna cross the hog anyway. Btw another of my friends who recently picked up a harley is enroute Australia and I could get some stuff from him ( front progressive springs if recommended).
Rest we shall let the test ride decide. God willing I should have the hog tamed very soon.

Thanks all

 

You simply stated that the R is secondhand. You asked about which to choose - we replied! Post photos of your bike when you get it.

 

Some of us like the show and the go. My custom has both. Forwards are a must for my knees and I lowered my custom a 1/2" .
Im not a fan of the blacked out look and flat paint either.

 

booked this babe, should be in hand on the 12th this month !
Trying for the number 1911- love my usgi oldy.

 

What are all the red wires hanging down by the derby cover?

It also looks like the CAN bus connector is hanging out without its cover on.

I cannot see any mirrors. Are they not required?

What is the paint scheme? The tank looks a different shape and looks good.

A very clean looking bike though.

 

The color is something called Sumatra Brown, mirrors should be part of the package and I agree she looks neat. I have asked for the sundowner seat and chrome engine guard. Any requirements to go for the led conversion? The do have the progressive suspension in stock if needed later on.
checked- mirrors included and will be flipped on delivery.

 

What's up with the guards/brackets in the rear? Shipping? Sure hope those come off.

 

It is Indian market, they are the saree guard.