I'm looking to maybe buy a 2009 sportster Low with only a little over 4,000 miles on it. It would be a second bike to go along with my Heritage. The dealer is hawking the low mileage like it's a great thing, but it's got me a little concerned.

That's less than 500 miles a year. Who has a Harley and rides it that little? I don't know, maybe it sat for a good long while? I haven't actually seen the bike in person yet, only in photos on the Internet, but I'll be looking for rust in hidden places when I check it out in person. And I'll take it for a test ride obviously.

Anything else I should be looking for?

 

look at the plugs,even tire wear,excessive vibrations,any new parts on the bike ? possibilty a cover up from being laid down.start up easy ?,and of course engine sounds.thats what i would look for.

 

Just went through this with a 2008 ST that had 3600 miles- everything in the tank was shellac, and the injectors clogged shut. New pump, regulator, filter, check valve, rail, and injectors. Battery was toast. If it has the original tires, they are 11-12 years old- (check the date stamp in the sidewall). I'd ask for new tires & battery, and proof the tank & injectors are OK, or price reduced to cover that expense.

 

Yeah, this is the kind of thing I'm worried about. I wonder how much I can tell from just a test ride. The salesman I'm talking to didn't even know if it has aftermarket pipes.

 

I bought an 8 year old bike with 2k miles. My dealer changed all the fluids, and I bought new tires. I had a bottom gasket leak, and shiftshaft seal leak, but not until 30k.

 

Yes, check it out, tires, tank, etc. If I can't ride it, I won't buy it. Simple.

 

Lot of HD with only a hand full of miles on them . The bike is a 2009 low miles does really make it worth much more basement price of leave it there.
Good chance it needs tire age wise and battery to start with.

 

So how much are they asking for it???

 

I bought a 1992 FLHTCU with 800 miles on the clock ... Garage Queens are out there

 

I bought my '98 with about 3,500 miles on it about 6 years ago. Previous owner changed the battery. The front wheel bearing was squealing a little. But the bike was bone stock and had been pampered like a museum piece. I replaced the the wheel bearing, the tires, and of course made a few more "optional" updates. For me, it was a project. It all depends on what you want it for I guess.