Opinions needed for a bike sat for 12 years
Thread Starter
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Stage II
Joined: Nov 2025
Posts: 2
Likes: 1
From: Florida
Opinions needed for a bike sat for 12 years
I have a 2008 HD Ultra classic, I moved to FL and my brother was storing it in Maryland for me which I thought was his garage, NOPE outside with a cover over it. It has sat for about 12 years he said he replaced the battery, fuel pump and fuel injectors. Prior to leaving it with him it had less than 10000 miles on it and in mint condition. He is now wanting to send it to me and I think I am screwed on this, he says he starts it but I dont have any confidence he does. I know I will need tires, anything fuel related replaced, new brakes, a full fluid change, battery, have the bike gone through from top to bottom, all wiring checked, possible mufflers and exhaust I would expect they are rusted out. I know he never winterized it so what are the chances the engine and trans are shot? Is it really worth the money to put into it or should I just let him keep it and deal with the mess he made? My thought is that if I have to put $3k into it to get everything back in running condition then it should last me many years but the engine and trans worry me. I would think the frame is ok since there wasnt a scratch on it when I left. I am not a mechanic so all work will be done by a shop.
Club Member
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 5,801
Likes: 3,800
From: Cape Cod
Little farms animals tend to chew on wires left out like that.
And not knowing the condition is the biggest factor.
It would cost you a LOT if a mechanic has to do it.
I say forget about it, its been abused for so long it's not true........
And not knowing the condition is the biggest factor.
It would cost you a LOT if a mechanic has to do it.
I say forget about it, its been abused for so long it's not true........
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 21,098
Likes: 12,640
From: South Carolina
You are the one who forgot about the bike for 12 years...
Without seeing the bike or at least some clear pics the question can`t be answered.
Wiring could have been mangled by mice, can`t tell over the internet.
Club Member
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 7,675
Likes: 8,401
From: Utah
I don't know your story but, I think maybe you screwed yourself. Why leave a bike for 12 years? Maybe you had a good reason ......
Call a dealer or Indy near your brother and pay him or someone a $100 to go look at the bike and give you a value.
Call a dealer or Indy near your brother and pay him or someone a $100 to go look at the bike and give you a value.
Thread Starter
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Stage II
Joined: Nov 2025
Posts: 2
Likes: 1
From: Florida
He was supposed to be riding it and my wife was dying and depression took its toll, but thank you for your answers.
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Grand HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2022
Posts: 4,335
Likes: 3,759
From: Florida
I’m sorry dude that’s a long time. Sadly it’s really not worth a lot in perfect low mile condition… less not being perfect. Outside 12 years would take its toll. I think you might spend as much as it’s worth just to sell it. Then you’d have twice the money in it.
Last edited by Rains2much; Nov 24, 2025 at 04:50 PM.
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