I'm currently in the market for motorcycle. I really like the Road Kings and the Electra Glide Standards. If someone had to choose between a fuel injected Road King from 2001 and a carbureted Electra Glide Standard from 2002, is there a clear winner? Mileage is almost identical on the 2 machines @ 60K & 50K respectively. Are the carbureted models reliable? I curently own a 1500 Vulcan Classic from 2000. It is carbureted and I really don't have any trouble with it. Looking for advice.

 

I'm pretty confident that you'll get mixed responses to this question, for a variety of reasons. Personally, I have always sought out the injected models as I tend to be a fan of this more technically advanced solution. I also feel that fuel injection is more consistent, for the most part. Many people feel that they can achieve better performance running carbs and who am I to refute that? That said, I have had more than one unfortunate experience with clogged jets, carb leaks etc.
From what I can gather however, if the injected bike you mentioned has the Magnetti Marelli injection, it may have some issues. I'm sure others will chime in to help your decision, but it would be injected for me.

 

You will appreciate the EFI motor much better than a carb motor. Especially if you live and ride in colder conditions, or changes in altitude (sea level to mounatins type stuff). Not saying the carb bikes lack performance or rideability. However, there are many reasons why carbs have become all but osolete on most engine applications.

Get the EFI bike

 

I would get the Road King. I too had a Vulcan and with the RK you can ride with the shield, without, or add a Dragonfly fairing and you'll have an EG. You're stuck behind the batwing on EG. I went from carb to FI and it works great.

 

Both are good bikes , I'd chose the style you like over rather it is efi or carb, the only other thing to consider is check the swing arm on the 2001, I have a 2001 Electra Glide Classic, 1999-2001 dressers swing arms can crack, there are fixes out there for it but it can happen

 

I'd purchase the bike you like most as a first comment. As far as EFI and Carb; EFI is really nice, just push the start and go. No worrying about altitude; cold; choke...

 

Buy the one that fits you and your style of riding.
Both are great bikes

 

I agree with the previous post. Buy the one that you like the most. I have had both carbs and FIs and can think of no significant negatives with either. The main thing would be whether you like a fairing or a windshield. Personally, having had both, I prefer a shield. Either should be a good ride for you. Good luck.

 

Ok, thanks for the advice on this. One more question though. The 2002 Electra has had a screamin eagle 6 spd tranny added on. Any concerns with this? It was done by the dealer who is currently selling it and I know the addition of the 6th gear would certainly help with fuel mileage on long rides. Again thanks for the guidance guys.

 

I have had both and like the ability to tune the carb without having to buy tuners and dynotuning and the whole efi thing. I know they run better but getting to that point can be frustrating and expensive. I can tune a carb alot better than I can tune FI. Others may be able to tune FI but I can't and have to have it done. If I liked both bikes equally the choice would be carbed for me without hesitation.