this is my first post in this forum. I have started to look around at HD and am thinking a tour model, maybe an electra glide. A new one is out of the question at this time so i have been focusing on used. i was thinking of something in the $9000-$15000 range. I have read a number of web sites telling me what years have this and that. I was hoping the forum members could give me some of there tips and suggestion, of questions i should ask the seller (dealer or private party), and features to look for. in other words, if you were out looking for a different one, what would you look for and what would you ask. i know some ride smoother than others. Some have a 5 speed and i think 09 and newer have a 6 speed. I have been riding a metric for most of my life, so i am not a newbie to riding. thanks in advance.

 

09 is has a lot of upgrades over previous model years,but low milage 09 would be at the top of your price range. 07-08 are kinda oddball years,older style frame but with 6 speed and 96 inch motor.02-06 good reliable bikes (other than cam chain tensioners) they have very few problems, and would leave u some budget for upgrades. freind of mine just got an 05 ultra 1400 miles for 10,000.

 

I would look for an '09 or newer. They can be had for your price range.

 

I would look for a bike in good condition, with low miles. I am very happy with my '03, that I bought in '11 with 2k miles on it. I have 28k miles on it with no problems, beside routine maintenance, and a new gas coupler.

I like my 5speed/ Stage One 88, until 75mph, then it would be nice to have 6 speeds. You can find very good deals on here. I would wait until Winter to buy from a dealer. Preferably at the end of the month when salesman are desperate for a sale.

 

Many possibilities….. but I would start with this question:
Carb or EFI ?
once you decide that….
Softail or RK ?
Then, time to get serious….. being that you are looking at used, my next emphasis would be on riding comfort; seating position, bars, pegs or boards, hard or soft luggage, faring or windshield…
While all of this is happening, do your research on motors and the difference… EVO vs Twin Cam and what year is good/bad reliability etc., there are certain model years that have issues…. '07 - '09, 110 vs 103 vs 96 vs 95 vs 88 ….

Now that you have a clear 'vision' of what you want…. it is time to make your decision…. or not.
Some bikes just 'speak to a person' and you hear it. Simple as that. I have bought several bikes like this and was never disappointed….
Have fun !

 

Hi from the UK and welcome to HDF. Answering your question is not easy, as there are so many answers we can give! I suggest you visit a few dealers, to get a measure of what there is out there that you find appealing, then give us details, so we can comment. That way you can narrow down your field, especially if you decide to buy private.

 

Welcome to the site from another South Dakotan.
Where bouts are you from?

 

Sioux falls
Wow I think we have a good start on info. If you could tell me just what u would do. ie, carb or FI etc. I know everyone has a different opinion but that is what I thought would be interesting and in formative.

 

IMO 09 or newer . The new frame was a major improvement that was over due.

 

I put 48K on an '08 Street Glide and thought it was a great bike. However, the changes between '08 and the '09-'13 models, particularly the frame, wider tires and 103, would make my suggestion to you this: If your budget can support it, go for an '09 and later. Low mileage touring bikes are plentiful because apparently some riders don't understand what touring means. (ah, grist for a different thread entirely.) Mostly, you need to look for all the maintenance items you would check on any used bike. I suppose I'd check to see if it's been trailered - not sure what damage improper trailering can cause since I've never done it.

Find out if the original owner bought HD's extended warranty, which I believe is transferable. It's worth having since it covers most of the expensive stuff and you only pay $50 per covered repair.

Good luck. I rode metric for years and those were some good bikes, but I'm permanently on the "dark side" these days.