i bought a sportster because thats what i could afford. i instantly knew i wanted a bigger bike. i do a good bit of city riding, but also want to do some serious cross country rides. i think i want a road king. i know i want smooth suspension, bags, shield, and still have something that can navigate some city traffic. i am looking to spend 13 to 14k. any suggestions? carb vs injection? newer softail vs older touring? if you had 13 to 14k and a clean slate how would you spend it? as a note, i dont care about bling. it can be flat black for all i care. i want it to ride, not lean up against on the weekends. i realize that this is all so subjective, but still looking for any feedback or input that might help enlighten me.

 

Cant go wrong with an Ultra Classic

 

Doc, I hate to be the one to break this to you, but your not getting any Harley touring bike for the money you have to spend (unless your talking used). In fact you need about 16K to get started in some of the Dynas and Softails. What is your Sporty?

 

yep, sorry. def want used. sporty is a tricked out 05 1200 custom.

 

Well here is what I did. I went from an 03 Sporty 883 to a 05 Road King Custom. What a difference. The ride is about 1 million times better. I could ride all day with that smooth suspension.

Now, I bought from a dealer and got a good deal, but it was above 13-14K. To get a touring model for 13-14K you are going to sacrifice a lot (IMO) of add-ons. Add-ons like touring seat, rider backrest, and other touring essentials. If I were you I would wait until you can spend just a touch more.

However, if that ain’t your bag I suggest looking in the paper. I had seen a 04 RK standard with 5600 miles and a ton of extras for 14,500. That would be a great bike. My wife has a Heritage Softail Classic and to be honest I think that bike is every bit as comfortable to drive as my RK Custom. Plus, you can find used ones like you can find an overpriced Harley accessory.

My point: Buy a used bike that someone put a lot into and never rode. Wow, you see them in the paper all the time!

 

I bought my '03 cop bike from a dealer-$12,995.00 delivered.Yes it was used(24,579 miles),but had never been in police service.The previous owner had installed a Sundowner seat,Reach bars,and a factory sissy bar.
BTW,expect to get hosed on your trade.Sportys are a dime a dozen now,it seems.
Clark

 

I was in the same situation (more or less) and found my 06 EGS for 15k even.
I "wanted" a carbed,black,no radio,Electra Glide of some sort,and the used bikes were within 2k of the new bike.
I felt at the time that the standard was the best "value" for me,and I could add goodies later as I needed.
When I was looking for a sportster for my Daughter,I just let as many people know as I could and found a nice 2001 833 used for 3K and jumped on it.
There are good deals to be had,so be patient in your search.
Good luck
Mick

 

I found the perfect 05 EG Classic on Craigslist.org Got it used with only 1788 miles on it. Took a while to find it and feel bad about only paying $14M.

http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/mcy/

 

RoadGlide.

 

I would go with the ultra .It has everything and is very nimble in city