103 cubic inch
Club Member
Joined: Jul 2013
Posts: 468
Likes: 222
From: NorCal
Improvements over the years
I recently sold my 02 Standard to get my 13 RK. And there is a 07 SG in the garage. The 02 was pretty stock except for carb work, K&N, and V&H Pro Pipe. It ran good, but there were the handling issues that I had to fight with, and I did find myself looking for a 6th gear. The 07 with the 96 ci is pretty stock, Stage 1 update, pipes and air cleaner, and it runs a lot better. Improved handling, and the 6th gear is in there. Much more stable chassis. The new RK has an incredibly better chassis and the 103 runs very well. So far just pipes, SE air cleaner, and Stage 1 chip. It runs out well.
You will be getting so much more than just an improved engine by getting a new bike. The difference between the 88 and the 103 is pretty big, and you will appreciate the added power. I have seen a big increase in fuel mileage. 6th gear is now a must have (and waiting for #7). The handling improvement alone would have been enough for me to switch.
Test ride. It may seal the deal for you.
You will be getting so much more than just an improved engine by getting a new bike. The difference between the 88 and the 103 is pretty big, and you will appreciate the added power. I have seen a big increase in fuel mileage. 6th gear is now a must have (and waiting for #7). The handling improvement alone would have been enough for me to switch.
Test ride. It may seal the deal for you.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 56,052
Likes: 87,517
From: Western South Dakota
Go ride a new-er one and then decide.
Another few $K will/could upgrade yours and it would be cheaper in the long run, but it would not be worth any more $$ if you wanted to trade er' in.
Another few $K will/could upgrade yours and it would be cheaper in the long run, but it would not be worth any more $$ if you wanted to trade er' in.
Road Master
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 874
Likes: 80
From: new york
2013 bikes are moving with some great incentives, the 103" will be a vast improvement over the 88". The problem with the new bikes is heat from the cat in the exhaust, tweaking will be needed but the end result is fantastic.
I was going to dump $700 - $900 into the engine of my '05 Road King this fall, then $400 this spring on tires... it had 22K... I just traded it in for a 2013 Ultra Classic Monday 8-5-13... the stealer had a deal going on till 8-15 to give full retail on trade ins,,, they gave my $10,500 on the RK and I almost **** myself... and when the wife said "go ahead and buy the 2013, I did...
This '13 FLHTCU is the best bike I've ever ridden bar none...
This '13 FLHTCU is the best bike I've ever ridden bar none...
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Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 5,308
Likes: 9
this is the last year of the classic...lot of bang for your buck. if it does not have cruise, the dealer can add it in about 30 minutes. have that thrown in the deal. lose the cat and add xieds...you are ready for the open road.
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