Lend me your ears....
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Road Captain
Joined: Aug 2013
Posts: 593
Likes: 59
From: manchester tn
Lend me your ears....
I've never owned a Harley.. My current bike is a yamaha raider which is a 1900cc chopper.. It looks bad *** but I'm thinking I want a Ultra Classic.. My friends tell me that I need to get a 09 or newer if at all possible but unfortunately that's out of my budget.. I've got about 9k to spend so it looks like I could get a later 90's or early 2000's year bike with anywhere from 30 to 80k miles....
So my question is 09 and newer that much better than previous years??? And is there anything I need to check as far as maintence goes that needs to be done on early models...
So my question is 09 and newer that much better than previous years??? And is there anything I need to check as far as maintence goes that needs to be done on early models...
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 14,744
Likes: 402
From: Phoenix '53, '88, '09 Big Twins
the 09 is the new frame.
earlier models use a frame that goes back to about 1983
Harley rarely offers an "all new model"--- maybe 10 times in the past century.
usually there are slight changes to existing models year over year.
within a model year, all the touring models will be very much the same but for the plastic hanging off them
You know about the ElectraGlide Ultra, there is also the EG Classic which is less expensive- lacks rear speakers, CB radio and fairing lowers..some badges and other stuff. this model can be thousands less than an Ultra- how much do you like CB ?
There was also the EG Standard until 2006, a stripped down model with plain aluminum motor, no tour pak or radio...a great base for a custom build...in fact H-D took many of the rider touches and incorporated into teh StreetGlide model ( and killed off the bargain EG Std.)
there is also the road glide ( fixed fairing- previously called the Tour Glide)
and the Road King models
get out and do some test riding and tire kicking, you'll find what you like ( and don't)
these are all models in the Touring Family- in which the entire drivetrain is rubber mounted- isolated from teh frame- the samleer Dyna frame bikes use same motor.
there is also the softail family- which has shocks under the frame & motor with balancing shafts solid mounted to the frame
mike
earlier models use a frame that goes back to about 1983
Harley rarely offers an "all new model"--- maybe 10 times in the past century.
usually there are slight changes to existing models year over year.
within a model year, all the touring models will be very much the same but for the plastic hanging off them
You know about the ElectraGlide Ultra, there is also the EG Classic which is less expensive- lacks rear speakers, CB radio and fairing lowers..some badges and other stuff. this model can be thousands less than an Ultra- how much do you like CB ?
There was also the EG Standard until 2006, a stripped down model with plain aluminum motor, no tour pak or radio...a great base for a custom build...in fact H-D took many of the rider touches and incorporated into teh StreetGlide model ( and killed off the bargain EG Std.)
there is also the road glide ( fixed fairing- previously called the Tour Glide)
and the Road King models
get out and do some test riding and tire kicking, you'll find what you like ( and don't)
these are all models in the Touring Family- in which the entire drivetrain is rubber mounted- isolated from teh frame- the samleer Dyna frame bikes use same motor.
there is also the softail family- which has shocks under the frame & motor with balancing shafts solid mounted to the frame
mike
Last edited by mkguitar; Aug 22, 2013 at 09:25 PM.
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 2,476
Likes: 193
From: Las Vegas, NV
While those bikes were fine you're still talking about an old bike, one that presumably you'd be taking on long trips. My advice would be to get something else thats newer within your budget or take a loan for a later model Ultra. Certainly you can find older bikes that are in great shape but a 12 plus year old bike will have its share of issues from any manufacturer.
Tourer
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 413
Likes: 1
From: canfield,ohio
trade your bike and your 9000 will get you your dream bike and you will never regret it .,just think of all the cool Harley clothes you can buy , just ask my wife lol . no really you will love a Harley and the life style
Cruiser
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 124
Likes: 3
From: Rome, GA
There is a ton of great bikes in your price range !
Nothing wrong with the pre 09 bikes. Early twin cam models have some issues with cam chain tensioners. I suggest you test ride as many bikes as possible and then narrow it down to 2-3 bikes you really want and make it happen. The market is wide open on 2000 year and up; bikes in the $7000 to $12000 range. Just put the word out that your looking for a used Harley Davidson. Search Craigslist in your area and check a few bikes out. Enjoy the adventure of finding the right bike for you. Good luck !
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 10,216
Likes: 224
From: Glendale AZ
Bro somebody needs to give you a dose of reality, dont trade to an HD from Metric unless your are better than average with working on bikes or your going to regret it. An ESP is wrought with so many pitfalls its almost not worth...almost. Do your walet a huge favor and stear clear of the brand, youd do better going with the voyager. Let the flaming begin......
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Tourer
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 413
Likes: 1
From: canfield,ohio
Bro somebody needs to give you a dose of reality, dont trade to an HD from Metric unless your are better than average with working on bikes or your going to regret it. An ESP is wrought with so many pitfalls its almost not worth...almost. Do your walet a huge favor and stear clear of the brand, youd do better going with the voyager. Let the flaming begin......
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Road Master
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 1,049
Likes: 5
From: IOWA
Bro somebody needs to give you a dose of reality, dont trade to an HD from Metric unless your are better than average with working on bikes or your going to regret it. An ESP is wrought with so many pitfalls its almost not worth...almost. Do your walet a huge favor and stear clear of the brand, youd do better going with the voyager. Let the flaming begin......