I am currently in the process of trading in my 2004 Heritage Classic for a 2009 Ultra Classic.

The numbers appear to be good and I like the bike... BUT..... upon further inspection... I am a bit apprehensive about "pulling-the-trigger".. the bike has 31,000 miles on it...

While inspecting the bike, a friend and I noticed there was some red RTV material around the heads and at the push rod tubes.. also, it appeared on of the fins from the jug was a bit jagged-up...

I've asked the dealership to get me in contact with the previous owner.. Upon some creative investigation myself, it appears I would be the 3rd owner. I have all the history from the 1st owner, but that stops at the 11,000 mile mark.. I have no information on the last 20,000 miles...

As I said, I've asked for previous owner information.. but the dealer is having problems contacting him/her.. its been about two weeks now..

So.. the question I have is two fold...

FIRST.... Why would a 2009 with 31,000 miles have the engine cracked open? are there any known issues with that year bike (first year new frame and many other improvements) that anyone knows of...

Second... would you purchase this bike, not knowing who "got into" the engine..

I guess my issue is; not that the engine has been cracked open.. but more.. who did the work... if it was a respectable shop... no problems.. but if it was someone who had no business doing the work.. I'm concerned..

Thoughts would be appreciated !!

 

I would run away

 

A sloppy engine job at 31000 miles? Keep on shopping.

 

Your asking us ( having never seen the bike ) would we? The question I'm going to ask you is can you afford to buy any used bike and gamble what ever amount of money your going to spend? If your not sure, I would only buy new in your case and get some comfort with a new bike warranty.

 

No I would not purchase the bike. Not because somebody got into the engine but because whoever did was so sloppy that it is obvious somebody got into the engine.

There are plenty of good used bikes out there. Keep looking.

 

too many bikes on the market to pay good money for one that you arent 100% on...keep shopping. If the dealer "cant" get in touch with the previous owner....sounds fishy.

 

keep looking...
sloppy backyard wrench work

 

Move on, and find another deal that you are comfortable with. If you are second guessing the purchase then you already answered your own question.

 

the last owners name is on the title, odometer statement, loan information....

Hell I could run the VIN and come up with the last registered owner in about 30 seconds!
(happiness is having DMV access as an insurance appraiser!)

When in doubt, don't!

too many good bikes out there for sale now that the Rushmore bikes are getting people to trade in their bikes.

 

It's been a buyers market for years and I think one would be foolish to buy a used bike from a dealer ..... Sell yours outright and take your time and find a garage queen..... Tons of low mileage bikes out there, and the dealers will get premium money for their bikes... Save a few grand and shop ......the hunt is the best part.