So I decided I am going to buy a Road King and I have been seeing some very very clean 2001-2008 with low miles in the 5k price range. My question is this which would you buy?

Assuming same equipment and paint on both

2003 with 5,000 miles for $5k (5speed,cam tensioners, 88)
2009 with 30,000 plus miles for $8k+(6speed, 96,frame change)

Is it worth it to spend the extra money on the 09? I know about the cam chain tensioners on the 88's. Its been 20 years since i owned a Harley.
I am asking assuming a completely clean title, no accidents no mods. Is it really worth it to buy the 09 for the extra 3 grand.

 

Check when the frame was updated, may have been 09. If so that that is the reason to go with the 2009.

 

I read about the frame change change but forgot to mark that

 

Get the 09, at least the bike was ridden. Avoid the 16 year old bike

 

Is the 03 an anniversary one? Only reason I ask, I liked the color scheme on that
I have an 02 Classic with about 45k miles on it. Runs like a top. I had the cam tensioners replaced over the winter. My only gripe is there is no 6th gear.

 

The later '09 frame would be most rider's choice. The 30k miles isn't much. But what is important is a bike's history re: mods, maintenance, accident record ( if any), and care. All things checking out it boils down to what you are willing to pay to get the more advanced model.

 

I was in the same boat. Started looking at the older models because they were less money, but by the time I would have done the tensioner update I felt the added bonus of the extra gear, engine support, improved frame were worth it. Not to mention I also got cruise control and you could get abs as well. I also felt the extra height might help me keeping the bike upright when stopped or backing, my knees were more bent on the older frame and felt like I had a little less leverage. Ended up getting an “09” FLHR W10k for 8k, maybe not the best deal in the world, but better than any dealer would ever give me.

 

I bought an ‘03 FLHTCUI, with 2k miles on it in 2011. It’s been a great bike. I did have a bottom gasket leak at 30k, I had the SE Cam Chain Tensioner and Oil Pump upgrade installed when I had that fixed.

I never rode a ‘09, so maybe I’m missing out, but ignorance is bliss.

 

I am not so much worried about the mileage, I am asking assuming a completely clean title, no accidents no mods. Is it really worth it to buy the 09 for the extra 3 grand.

 

I thought all 2003's were anniversary
Yes, but its white