People have a lot of different reasons for wanting to own a Harley. Some want it because of the "legend" or "lifestyle" or just because Harley's are a more "exclusive" bike. It really doesn't matter what the reason is, if you want one and can afford it, you should get one.

I've owned Hondas, Yamahas, and Kawasakis, and ridden several other brands.

The truth is that almost all of the "big name" bikes are good machines. Some have weaknesses and strengths that others don't share. But they are good bikes. You can't stay in business long if everything you make is junk.

But for me, nothing "fits" like a Harley. I can't quantify or qualify it any better than to say that my comfort level is higher on a Harley than any other motorcycle that I've ridden. I've told friends who have owned other brands NOT to ride a Harley unless they are prepared to buy a Harley, because there is just something there that the other bikes don't seem to have. Will everyone feel the same way? Nope. But if a Harley gets into your blood, you just won't ever want anything else.

Regardless of what you ride, I hope you enjoy it. Good luck!

 

I had a Honda 900 before I purchased my '09 Road King. I enjoyed my Honda, and it was a high performer, but it doesn't hold a candle to the RK.
For the sheer joy of riding, nothing compares to this Harley.

As others have said, it is only money - you can't take it with you. Buy what you want.

 

Go out and rent one for a weekend the decide if u want to buy one...

 

Aside from what everyone else has said about buying into the family and owning an american made motorcycle you should look at the practical side which I think is why you asked the question in the first place.

1. How's the resale/trade-in value of your Yamaha?
2. How's the resale/trade-in value of your Yamaha gonna hold up over the next 5 yrs?
3. Look at how well HD Motorcycles hold their resale value. Buy a used one and maybe save some money depending on mileage, accessories, etc... Or buy a new one. Either way get the RK, ride the hell out of it, and still have something to show for your money 5 yrs from now.

 

I didnt' think I would ever own a Harley because of cost compared to metric bikes. I have the 09 EGS and love it. I look at the value of it. It will hold its retail a lot better than metrics. I like how they improved the models. Im set.

 

Very bad advice, do not look at it as an investment.

What are the guys who paid new MSRP for 10 year old used Harleys a few years back or those who paid over MSRP for new ones saying about holding their value? Earlier this year there were 3 or 4 posts a week on this forum where guys were whining about how little their bikes were worth.

Actually, resale on Metrics isn't that bad (I've actually made a little money on a couple). All vehicles take a big hit if you buy them New. After about 5 years the price flattens out.
IMO maintenance cost is about the same Harley vs. metrics. There are more accessories for Harleys so you may spend more there (and probably won't get it back on resale).

 

I agree.. I paid 9800 for my roadstar midnight rode it for 5 years and got 6600 for it on trade in. Now though the price of the metrics has gone up quite a bit.

 

I re-entered riding bikes after a 30 year hiatus. Not knowing if I would like it or be skilled enough to handle it, I started off with a Yamaha V-Star 1100. I paid $6K for it and road it for 13K miles (in 3 years). You know, no matter what, no matter what it looks like, no matter how well it rides; its just not a Harley. I picked up a used '09 Road King this summer and it is great.

My V-Star sits in my garage since no one seems to want it now (brand, economy; who knows). The King looks and rides great. Ego aside, I am glad I have the RK. Do I regret the V-Star.... No. It is a good bike and will do the next owner well; assuming I get a new owner. I will probably have to drop the price to $4500 but oh well. As in most cases in life, you have to like your decisions "in the moment". Later on, all decisions can have down sides.

DB

 

It's a sh*tty position to find oneself in to regret buying something you just spent a lot of money on. That's why I always get the one I want. Even if it costs more. I don't go for substitutes or close enough.

If you want a Road King it seems your decision is new or used. Either way, buy what you want.

I personally am very happy with my RKC.

 

I went from a Honda Sabre 1100 to a road king 2006 and I have never regreated the change. Love my Harley!!! As matter of fact trying to sell my RK bought a 2007 Street Glide. They ride so much different than the metric and as far as the maintenance I changed the oil and all that myself. You don't have to buy the maintenance its money in their pockets. I have a guy that can do the same work for less. The 6 speed is really nice on the highway. Go plop down the money and get out and ride it, you will think about th emoney for a while but the time you get to 6th gear you will say man why did I wait to buy!!!!!!!!!!!!
HARLEY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!