I found a guy looking to trade his 87 Softail standard for a sporty 883 hugger. I happen to have a 94. The softy has 33,xxx miles on it and has tins ready for paint right now and needs a primary gasket. My sporty needs the o ring that goes to the end of the clutch cable and that's it. The sporty has under 13,000 miles. Is this a good trade?

 

Probably worth similar in value, so in that aspect it is. As far as the repairs, the o-ring on the cable is super easy to fix and would cost you next to nothing. The primary gasket on the Softail could be easy (outer primary) or very challenging (inner primary). Quality paint also costs a lot.

Unless you're looking for a clean slate to paint, I would say you'd be better off selling your bike and buying a more complete Big Twin.

 

Kinda of one those things...If you really like the ST, I'd say go for it. Repairs for both bikes are not that costly or difficult. If you are looking to change then this sounds like a good deal.. Ask and look at the bike. Maybe grab a buddy who knows STs to take a look and make sure there is not a gremlin lurking.

 

Thank you for the replies and advice!