Road King Classic, Standard, or Custom?
Road Master
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 901
Likes: 5
From: Springfield, MO
I'm a batwing guy, but if I was going to get a Road King it would have to be the Classic. The leather bags, white walls and spoke wheels all add up to one very cool, very retro, very beautiful bike. I love 'em!
Don't know if I'd love keeping the white walls and spokes clean, though.
Don't know if I'd love keeping the white walls and spokes clean, though.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 6,913
Likes: 87
From:
You get the most for your money with a Classic. Hard bags with the Standard. You can put locks on all the bags. The leather covered bags on the Classic and Custom are hard bags under the leather.
Obviously, I prefer the Custom. I did not want to have to clean whitewalls and spokes nor did I want to run tubes in my tires. I like the solid wheels of the Custom and Standard, especially the ones on the Custom. I added locks to my bags and added a detachable windshield, luggage rack and backrest as well as passing lamps.
Regardless of what some who don't own a Custom may think, the shorter rear shocks do not adversely affect riding comfort or handling. You also do not need the new frame of 2009 nor do you need IDS added.
The Custom was only made for 2004 - 2007 so you will be somewhat unique. Classics and Standards are everywhere, especially Classics. The '07 Custom is the best, IMO, because it has the six speed tranny and the 96" engine. My '07 is a great ride and has been trouble free. I do have a Stage 1 with SEAC and SE slipons.
You will not go wrong with any of the three models but try to find an '07 for the 96" and six speed. The Classic is a classic and looks it but the Custom is something special.
Obviously, I prefer the Custom. I did not want to have to clean whitewalls and spokes nor did I want to run tubes in my tires. I like the solid wheels of the Custom and Standard, especially the ones on the Custom. I added locks to my bags and added a detachable windshield, luggage rack and backrest as well as passing lamps.
Regardless of what some who don't own a Custom may think, the shorter rear shocks do not adversely affect riding comfort or handling. You also do not need the new frame of 2009 nor do you need IDS added.
The Custom was only made for 2004 - 2007 so you will be somewhat unique. Classics and Standards are everywhere, especially Classics. The '07 Custom is the best, IMO, because it has the six speed tranny and the 96" engine. My '07 is a great ride and has been trouble free. I do have a Stage 1 with SEAC and SE slipons.
You will not go wrong with any of the three models but try to find an '07 for the 96" and six speed. The Classic is a classic and looks it but the Custom is something special.
Road Master
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 894
Likes: 55
From: Colorado
HD Forum Stories
The Best of Harley-Davidson for Lifelong Riders
7 Times Harley-Davidson Chucked Tradition Out the Window
Verdad Gallardo
7 Surprising Harley-Davidson Products that Are Not Motorcycles
Verdad Gallardo
8 Best Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
10 Worst Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
Killer Custom's Jail Break Is The Breakout That Refused to Blend In
Verdad Gallardo
Crazy Bunderbike Build Looks Amazing, But Is It Impossible to Ride?
Verdad Gallardo
Harley-Davidson Reveals Super Cool Cafe Racer Concept
Verdad Gallardo
Engraved Rebellion: Inside Bundnerbike's Glam Rock II
Verdad Gallardo
10 Motorcycles You Should Never Buy
Joe Kucinski
Get the one that speaks to you. Take your time and shop around. I was looking for a newer model when I bought my Road King and wound up buying a 2000 police that had a new 103 engine with a Screaming Eagle six speed installed with all new bearings and bushings in the frame. I knew I was going to buy that bike when the motor hit its second lick after cranking it. I came off of an 07' softail and could not be happier than I am with my 2000 police. I still have the Softail but have completely lost interest in it and am trying to sell it now. I took my time and looked at probably a 100+ bikes before I found this one and boy am I glad I took my time and did not buy the first one that came around. One thing that is really nice about the police bags is that you do not have to get off of the bike to open them. It is so nice to sit at a light and reach in for something if I want. Good luck on your search.
