Only you can make that decision, I would go ride a newer bike, weigh it out after that, life is short , if you ride the newer one, and really enjoy it, and think you still will, after the newness wears off, then go for it. Hard spot to be in, Good luck 🤞

 

I'm 76 also and because of some health issues I haven't ridden much the last 4 years. I have an Ultra Classic 2015 with only 18,800 miles. I don't know how much longer I will be riding, even though I still can right now. Touring is definitely not an option anymore. Around town and local areas is all I can do now, and really it's all I care about doing. I've traveled enough in my life and it just doesn't excite me anymore. It sounds like you are in the same stage of life as I am.

Here's my thinking: I carry an oxygen machine when I ride so I need saddlebags to store it. I only carry it in case I might need it. So I can go to a smaller, lighter bike now that has bags for the a round-town riding that I do now. You need that heavier FLHT for highway hi-speed riding so you don't get blown all over the road by bigger heavier vehicles passing you or you passing them. But for the riding you are doing you really don't need that old bike anymore, and I wouldn't put anymore money in it. it's just going to keep costing you money as it further ages, so you're going to be spending more money on fixing problems.

But you don;t need a brand new 2021 or 2022 bike either. You can most likely spend that $4-5K on a "newer" bike and have one that isn't going to require repairs all the time. I would think a 2010 model or later would serve you well. You don't have to worry about cam tensioners on models after 2007 or so. Harley changed to hydraulic tensioners. You'd be surprised how much newer bike you can buy with an extra $5K and your bike traded. They will have a bigger motor too. Heck, new tire on anything will make it feel more comfortable!

Just take your time and see what an extra $5K will get you. At your age, I wouldn't spend the money to buy a Current Year model. Some folks are still riding into their 80s so don't feel like you can't, but the odds are against you and me doing that. So don't dump a lot of money into a bike that becomes a garage queen that someone else can take advantage of.

 

Theres a saying you cant put a dollar amount on sentimental value - Sentimental value is worth more.

Fiscally - It doesnt make sence
Emotionally - thats up to you

I have my 83 I bought new and my Pop's 60 that he bought in 64. I cant imagine being without them.

 

If you are almost 70 and are happy with the Electra Glide Classic, you would be money ahead by spending the money to have it brought up to snuff. Ask yourself, "Where can I buy a new bike for $4000?".

 

If your health is still ok and your financial situation can handle it and you love riding as much as I do, go for a new model. At 64 I bought my first 900+lb touring machine , it handles great despite its weight.

 

Well? I'm 63 and I face the same thing at some point in my near future. I know that I have an emotional connection to my bike and the true worth may not meet my expectations when I sell it, but it will happen. Additionally, I will not add an expensive trike kit just to extend my years of riding. If I do get a replacement then I'll get ( with the $$$ I got from the Bike) a small convertible that has AC, Heater, Radio, Power Steering....ect.
You face a difficult decision, one that all of us must face sooner or later.

 

I agree.....

With one caveat....

If it would be a financial hardship, seriously affect your retirement "fund" to buy a newer bike, or the wife is seriously opposed to it...... I would vote to keep what you have...

I love my bikes, but financial comfort in my retirement years, and my relationship with my wife are more important, especially the older I get...

 

You might change your mind about the small convertible whenever you get older and try to crawl down into the vehicle and, worse yet, whenever you try to crawl up out of it. It ain't no fun. The big Harley is easier to manage physically than the Corvette.

 

While I was financially able, I have done a few things to my to my bike that improves performance and reliability, lucky for me that my local independent shop is a good shop.
My wife was quick to mention that I will never get the $$ that I have into it.

 

lol