96 versus 103 motor?
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Tourer
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 370
Likes: 2
From: toms river nj
Thanks for all the advice. Sounds like a 96 isn't out of the question. I do t do Any two up riding either. As far as the dealership. I do live close to the ocean county harley dealership. I really hate the people there though. They r so nasty. Anyway I might go to the dealer in Rahway and feel em out. My dad bought his bike there a few years ago. As far as new or used I'm not sure yet. I have almost eleven grand plus my bike , I am either gonna sell or trade in. I planon buying in the upcoming year. I'll definitely keep up with posting. I appreciate all the advice from those more experienced. Ryan
Road Master
Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 1,226
Likes: 7
From: Junction City, KS
96" will do fine...... I had a Deluxe with an 88", had it upgraded with the SE 95" kit, and it would smoke the guys with the 96" stage 1 bikes...... I'm not a power monger, but I'm pretty sure you'd be happy with a 96cuin. Never know, maybe the aftermarket parts will be less expensive too, do a little research.
Tourer
Joined: Sep 2012
Posts: 338
Likes: 25
From: Portsmouth
I have a 2009 Ultra Classic with a 96" Stage 1. I am 275 lbs., don't ride 2 up much and feel it is adequate. I make sure I am in the right gear to accelerate. It is my first Harley and have never ridden a 103 so can't compare. IMO this bike will suit me at least until the end of the decade. Good luck.
My only input - being a big guy myself - is that I had an '08 with a 96" motor that was under powered for the size of bike and my weight so I upgraded it to a 103 and was very happy. My 2012, however, came with a stock 103 and it has WAY less power (even with a tuner and pipes) than the 96" upgraded with the HD 103 kit.
EDIT: I should add that forward momentum (horsepower) seems adequate on the 2012, I just lost take off (torque), likely attributed to the lack of cams like I had on the old bike (SE255).
EDIT: I should add that forward momentum (horsepower) seems adequate on the 2012, I just lost take off (torque), likely attributed to the lack of cams like I had on the old bike (SE255).
Last edited by Ultra103; Feb 4, 2014 at 09:06 AM.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 8,039
Likes: 1,305
From: Jayhawk Country
I have owned both and if I was you I would get the 103. The 1200 Sporty is a rocket compared to a touring bike. My 2010 96" bike was a dog compared to the 2011 103.
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Road Master
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 1,120
Likes: 4
Hey everybody....I am still saving all my pennies for a new bike....leaning towards a road king....any thoughts on a 96 vs 103.... I'm riding a sportster 1200 right now....I'm a big guy...I'm 6"4 and about 300 .....on the highway I don't necessarily feel underpowered....I can easily cruise at 60-70... My passing power feels a little sluggish but....I don't ride crazy so.....
I am trying to shoot for saving up for a 2009 or newer just because of the upgrades they made....but what about the motor....I've never had a touring bike...am I gonna be sorry later on and wishing I got a 103... Is a 96 more than enough?.....do I save a few bucks......what does everyone think?...I'd appreciate any thoughts....ryan
I am trying to shoot for saving up for a 2009 or newer just because of the upgrades they made....but what about the motor....I've never had a touring bike...am I gonna be sorry later on and wishing I got a 103... Is a 96 more than enough?.....do I save a few bucks......what does everyone think?...I'd appreciate any thoughts....ryan
