Harley engines, junk or paranoia
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Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 75
Likes: 0
From: Sedona, Arizona
I've got an 07 RK with the standard 96. I've been on lots of trips, got around 37K on it without a loose bolt. HD makes a solid machine in my view. (Now my '74 Superglide, well you might have wanted a chase vehicle on any trip to pick up the pieces, but I still loved it, kick start and all.)
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 39,847
Likes: 2,121
From: Central, Ca.
The %age of problems is probably very low compared to the # of bikes out there, it is just those issues that are mentioned here are at the forefront because that's what we read. Have had good luck with my 09' @ 28K but it does seem to have this same ailment
https://www.hdforums.com/forum/gener...-this-too.html
https://www.hdforums.com/forum/gener...-this-too.html
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 2,476
Likes: 193
From: Las Vegas, NV
It seems to me that a lot of owners bring some of the problems on with all sorts of non Harley mods (I mean major motor work; not grips). My '09 seems to run great, no issues at all.
Road Warrior
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 1,313
Likes: 1
From: Wagoner, Oklahoma
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Road Warrior
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 1,319
Likes: 1
From: Deep South Texas
I am with you on this, I would have never given it a second thought to jump on the bike and head out. Now I want to chart my course sticking close to the dealerships just in case this bike craters under me.
Road Warrior
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 1,979
Likes: 2
From: Northern Colorado
People who have had serious problems (manufacture's defects) with their Harleys are in the minority. It's just that that minority congregates in places like online forums where everyone becomes aware of these problems and yes, people do get paranoid. I know I'm guilty of it. Overall, I'd say that Harley makes a good machine, maybe not "the best" compared to other motorcycle manufacturers but good nonetheless. Unfortunately, sometimes you end up drawing the short straw.