Road King vs Electra Glide
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Tourer
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 341
Likes: 16
From: Michigan
Thanks for all the great info. I have another question.
I will be buying used and I understand the 09's have a new frame. Is there a big difference in ride quality between pre 09 and the newer bikes?
Are there certain years that are more probmatic than others in terms of overall reliablity?
I will be buying used and I understand the 09's have a new frame. Is there a big difference in ride quality between pre 09 and the newer bikes?
Are there certain years that are more probmatic than others in terms of overall reliablity?
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 14,744
Likes: 402
From: Phoenix '53, '88, '09 Big Twins
I was on a 1995 ( with plenty of funds available) up to 2010...I passed on all the models in between until the 09 I have now.
The tipping point was the new frame, brembos, abs, 6 speed, 6 gallon tanks and most important to me the 07+ EFI controls.
The 09+ frame is remarkably more stable and has a higher GVWR...another plus, the rear section is a bolt on which can reduce repair costs in a wreck- previously even a bent saddlebag support tab on the frame could = total loss
I am happy with my 96" and I consider that in the long run it may be more reliable than the 103 due to the smaller bore and lack of need for compression releases.
The 103 does have more power- stock trim about 3 more HP but as a result of the bore much more torque- about 15%.
This torque is handy in canyon riding, city riding and maybe for a frequent 2 Up rider like you
2˘ mike
The tipping point was the new frame, brembos, abs, 6 speed, 6 gallon tanks and most important to me the 07+ EFI controls.
The 09+ frame is remarkably more stable and has a higher GVWR...another plus, the rear section is a bolt on which can reduce repair costs in a wreck- previously even a bent saddlebag support tab on the frame could = total loss
I am happy with my 96" and I consider that in the long run it may be more reliable than the 103 due to the smaller bore and lack of need for compression releases.
The 103 does have more power- stock trim about 3 more HP but as a result of the bore much more torque- about 15%.
This torque is handy in canyon riding, city riding and maybe for a frequent 2 Up rider like you
2˘ mike
Road Captain
Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 633
Likes: 4
From: missouri
You should consider putting a Road Glide Ultra on the list for consideration... When the 2015 Road Glides come out I think you are going to see a lot of used ones for sale. I have owned all 3. Started with a Road King, then went to an Ultra Classic, back to a Road King, Then a Road Glide. I Consider a Road Glide Ultra to be the best of all worlds. You get the storage of an Ultra, but the frame mounted shark nose fairing gives you better visability and handling like a Road King. But that's just my way of looking at it 
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 2,053
Likes: 39
From: San Diego
Since you are looking for used, I would suspect that an 09 or up Electra Glide with quick detachable touring pack would work great for you.
Road King and Glide are both the same bike, except the Glide has all the touring accessories already integrated into the bike.
Have your wife pick out the saddle that is most comfortable for her after her injury.
Road King and Glide are both the same bike, except the Glide has all the touring accessories already integrated into the bike.
Have your wife pick out the saddle that is most comfortable for her after her injury.
Last edited by Uncle Paul; Aug 18, 2014 at 01:03 PM.
Road Warrior
Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 1,686
Likes: 242
From: Glen Mills, PA
Here is my reasoning for a RK. It can be loaded up like and EG or stripped down like a dyna with bags. I just spent 5 days riding 2 up with luggage and it was great. I stripped off the windshield, sissy bar and touring seat today for my ride to work. It really feels like 2 different bikes when configured differently. Its feels light and maneuverable today and heavy and safe on the highways at 80 mph loaded up.
You can't make a bad choice!
You can't make a bad choice!
Cruiser
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 114
Likes: 1
From: WI
I think the biggest decision is the fairing? Do you want one or not. Since your on a dyna your use to not having a radio. Both bikes have the same frame and ride. I would recommend a 09 and up on either bike. I have had both and they both are great. My wife picked out her own seat and was happy once she found one that fit her needs. Also I have ridden my rk on several long trips and no complaints.
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Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2012
Posts: 6,153
Likes: 2,560
From: CT/FL
Since you are looking used, I think you can get a newer less miles RK for the same price as an older EG. You can then add the accessories, spend the gift card money you will likely receive, haha. The stock seats are the same, but a used bike may have something else. The RK quick detach back rest works great, but the EG will have arm rests on the tour pack. Since this is your first touring bike, I don't think your wife will miss them. Good luck and have fun shopping!
Tourer
Joined: May 2014
Posts: 299
Likes: 1
From: Arizona
If you like the RK you rented go with it. Get the newest one you can afford. Get one with ABS, cruise, and security. My experience is it handles just fine on long trips and at speed.
They should price out less than the other touring HD's and you should be able to negotiate a good price as there are a huge number people who have upgraded to '14 Rushmore models.
They should price out less than the other touring HD's and you should be able to negotiate a good price as there are a huge number people who have upgraded to '14 Rushmore models.