Finally Rode a HD
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 10,045
Likes: 36
From: ST. Louis
What he said, I know a guy with 160,000 trouble free miles on a 2003 Road King.
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 3,504
Likes: 12
From: DOWN SOUTH
Welcome to the forum. HD is like another bike, if u take care of it, it will take care of you. If you get it, we will be glad to help you spend your money on your new addiction, lmao. I dont know your financial situation, but a NEW classic is around 18, maybe less since you have a trade in. Dealers are trying to move new stock since its winter, you might have a shot at a good deal on an Ultra and the bright side of that is, it will have a warranty, so that should put your mind at ease some. Take care and good luck with your decision. Stay safe and keep the shiney side up.
Road Master
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 757
Likes: 1
From: Ontario, Canada
I would want to know EXACTLY what has been done to the bike you are interested in. Is it stock? Has the engine been modded in ANY way? My observation is that people that post on here with problems tend to be ones who are riding bikes that have had mechanical mods and they are having trouble sorting them out. I am not saying don't buy a modded bike, but know what you are buying and if you are OK with it then you are good to go. Also, take the bike for a LONGER ride... highway, city, various speeds etc to make sure it runs well under all conditions.
Road Master
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 892
Likes: 11
From: Northern NY
I traded an '06 Midnight RSV for my current '10 Ultra. If you really want to be impressed get on an touring bike with the "new" frame such as an 09 or newer. The thing I noticed the most was the heavy clumsey feeling that a RSV is known for is not even in the same zip code as a HD. The Ultra handles, brakes, rides and out performs the RSV immensly. The only thing that I miss from my RSV was the leg room and seat length for a two up ride. I've never looked back and as far as dependability I am certain the new HD's are as dependable as the tried and true RSV's are.
Intermediate
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 28
Likes: 0
From: riverside
I have a 2002 lowrider w/118,000 miles I don't ride to hard no wheelies or burn-outs and have a 95in kit screamin eagle heads , andrews cams ... still has original clutch and drive belt.. I was riding 1,000 per week to work b4 retireing....
Thread Starter
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Road Master
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 945
Likes: 121
From: Where The Bluegrass Grows
I'd like to thank everyone for the replys. I went back to the dealer today to swap for the bike that I rode, but when I wanted the extended warranty, they couldn't do it. It had a Stage Four kit and HD couldn't warranty it. But, anyway, they have a beautiful bone stock 07 Ultra Classic that was in my price range. It has the lowers missing from it, but I'm sure I can pick them up on ebay. Plus it has the 96 CI engine and 6 speed transmission. It don't have the ZIP the 05 with the Stage Four kit has, but I can have a piece of mind with the extended warranty.
SugsPa
SugsPa
Supporter
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 221
Likes: 0
From: Mannford, Ok
My last bike before purchasing my first Harley in 2009 was a 06 Black Cherry RSV. I can't say that your Harley will be just as dependable because I haven't had it long enough but I have friends who have Harleys with over 100K on them. But what I can tell you is your going to love your new Harley and everything that goes with it! The dealership friendliness, friendliness of other Harley riders, the accessories and clothing and the way they ride, feel, handle and sound can't be copied. Hang on it's just beginning for you!
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Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,183
Likes: 4
From: Fennario
Hey SugsPa, one of my riding buddies turned over 95k on his '08 Ultra while we were riding over the weekend. It's his daily ride... he told me he's put less than 5k on his truck since he got the Ultra.
I was you last year in July. I bought a barely used 09 Ultra Classic w/1300 miles on it. Been riding the RSV for the last 10 years. I flew to KC, MO to pick up HD, rode it home 700+ miles all in one day. Best decision I have ever made.
Great bikes. Love the ride and feel. As most will attest - it is like anything else you own - give it TLC, and you will get years back out of it.
Great bikes. Love the ride and feel. As most will attest - it is like anything else you own - give it TLC, and you will get years back out of it.