Just bought a 2000 FLHRCI with very low miles, 4453 to be exact. Bike was a high executive bonus of some sort 16 years ago, guy never really got into it and the bike became a garage queen, though it was serviced every year which is good I guess, but it needs new tires, which brings me to my questions:

1- I wanted the Dunlop tires with the HD logo but I don't think they are worth the difference in price, about $492 shipped. So my second thought was to replace with original equipment Dunlop White Wall. I called an independent shop to ask for a quote and the guy tried pretty hard to steer me away from Dunlop tires, he insisted that Metzeler tires were much better and had better grip, however I read conflicting reviews on them.
Indy will charge me $60 for tubes and $75 per tire to mount and balance IF I bring my own tires, $50 if he supplies them.
What do you guys recommend between these two brands? I won't be taking trips for more than 3-400 miles for a year or two yet because of work and kids.

2. I am not new to the bike world, but I have been out of the game for about 13 years or so. I paid $5800 for this bike, and if it treats me well, I won't buy a new or newer bike for years to come, as this thing is in beautiful (like new) condition, no leaks no rust, no issues. Paint and chrome are as shiny as new.
I know is is a broad question, but, how much is too much when it comes to throwing $$$ at an old bike like this? Not counting tires which I believe is a maintenance item, I am thinking some chrome to dress her up, footpad inserts front and back, control/switch chrome kits and chrome reservoirs. All of the above I will do the install so no labor there.
I am considering chrome lower forks as well but this I would have a shop do for me.

I am an old fart (44) and I don't like to go fast anymore, so I think the bike has plenty of power as it is. Besides my Jeep wrangler will need some attention along the way too

So, is a $1000-1500 (give or take) in accessories too much for this old a bike? I don't care about re-sale value or getting $$$ back from accessories at sale because I will keep it for several years perhaps for whatever time God has for me on this earth...

 

model of tire makes much more difference then brand.yours has 402 dunlops stock. the new american elites(if available in your size) is a much better tire. same with metzler the 880 is the old model the 888 is newer. michelin now has the commander 11. ALL ARE VERY GOOD TIRES. you'll have to do some price comparison. cam chain tensioners are a maintenance item usually check at around 20,000 but with that age on poly pads i might check em sooner than later.

 

Thanks for the advise, I'll definitely look into that as soon as possible

 

I run the Dunlop American Elite's i Got them last year on sale from JP Cycles for $350 for the pair with a $50 mail in rebate. They have been great tires I had 8000 on them when i picked up a nail and had to replace last week. At 8000 miles they still had 5/32 tread depth. Seemed to be wearing good to me. They have a harder compound in the center for long wear and a softer compound on the outsides for better handling. I like them better than the stock tires that my Road King had on it when i bought it.

 

You just answered your own question. Put whatever you want on it that you care to spend. Its for YOU.

Good luck and enjoy the new bike.

 

No that's not too much. If you like the bike $1000 could end up being a drop in the bucket...

There are a lot of better tire options out there than the stock Dunlops. American Elites, Metzeler, Michelin just to name a few.

Oh, and 44 isnt old! wtf

 

Congrats on the new bike! Sounds like you found a smoking deal on a great garage queen.

A few things:

Your age ain't old so shut your pie hole. Lol

Put into your bike whatever speaks to you. Some people keep bikes for 10, 20, and 30 years! Others trade for a new ride every other year. There is no correct answer. I've put over $2,500 so far on my '96 Road King and want to put even more into. She's a keeper.

The OP stated he wanted the wide white walls (WWW) so that limits his choices. I would go with the non HD Dunlop 402's but that's just me. Seems you pay more for the bar and shield.

Welcome to the sickness.

 

Go with the non harley dunlops. Nobody but you will notice the logo. As mentioned if the wide whites are available in the american elites i would go there. Metzler has been hit and miss on their 888's lately. MC II
'S seem to get good press although i have never tried them.

$1000-1500 for accessories? Be lucky if it stops there. Most here wouldn't flinch at that.

 

Go with the Dunlop American elites THEY ARE GREAT TIRES..

 

$492 seems expensive for a set of tires. Save yourself a few hundred bucks and shop around for those. Got a set of Michelin Commander IIs for $305 (motorcyclesuperstore.com). Had a set on my last bike and liked them.