Harley Collector's Starter Kit - Future Classic Models Currently $10,000 or Less (Photos)
There are plenty of used Harley-Davidsons, but which ones are worth buying? How much money would you need to start a collection that will hold its value while you enjoy it? Here are 10 not to old Harleys that might fit the bill and currently are less than $10k.
1. 2007-present XL883L Sportster
We begin our Collector Starter Kit with the XL883 series of bikes because they are among the most affordable classic Harleys on the used market. The XL883 was introduced in 1986 as an entry-level model to carry the new Sportster Evolution engine. In order to accommodate shorter riders -- including women -- the XL883L (low) version has a seat height of only 25.5 inches. In 2007, the XLS engines featured fuel injection for the first time, so this year is a good one with which to start your search.
Note: all price estimates based on information obtained from the NADA price guide for Harley-Davidson
2. 1999-2005 FXDX Dyna Super Glide Sport
The Dyna Super Glide Sport was available from 1999-2005, and is already considered a classic by some riders. Based on feedback from numerous Dyna owners, Harley engineers revised the basic FX configuration so that it would handle better than any other previous model in the Dyna line; hence, the "Sport" designation. If you prefer the size of the FX over a Sportster but want a great handler, this bike's a good choice.
3. 1983 XLX-61 Sportster
The Cafe Racer trend of stripped down British and Japanese standard bikes first hit US shores in a big way in the late 1970s. The ultimate expression hard core attempt by Harley to play in that segment was the 1977-79 XLCR 1000, but its rarity (just 2-3,000 produced) puts it beyond our $10K limit. Later Harley softened the formula and made an another stripped down American bike that satisfied this demand, the XLX-61. Solo seat, black exhaust pipes, single instrument, sport bars -- all were part of The Look. The entry level XLX-61 is one of the last of the classic "Iron Head" Sportsters and is perfect to built to suit your own taste!
4. 2007-present XL1200N Sportster Nightster
Always attuned to design and customizing trends, Harley noted the proliferation of blacked-out custom motorcycles in the New Millennium, and proceeded to produce what some believe is the coolest of all the factory "night"-styled customs, the XL1200N Nightster. Flat black everywhere, with a bobbed rear fender, low bars, and the full 1200cc engine, the reasonably priced XL1200N was an instant sales favorite and remains popular today.
5. 1990 FLSTF Fat Boy
One of only two FL models that could slip under our $10K cutoff (Slide 10 contains the other one), the Fat Boy is a Harley from a whole other styling vein. There are rumors and a popular myth that it was styled to look like WWII US Military bombers, and the name is a reference to Fat Man and Little Boy, the first atomic bombs. Whatever the truth, the solid disk wheels really make a statement, and an FL with no bodywork looks as no nonsense, tough and muscular as a B-29 or any cruiser out there. Numbers are scarce, but some say less than 5,000 of these were made.
6. 2009-present FXD Dyna Super Glide
The simple, essential, powerful Big Twin, the Twin Cam Super Glide is another good choice for an enjoyable and collectible Dyna. This bike is perfect for those who want to jump from a Sportster to an FX, or someone who has a limited budget but wants to start big. The 2009 version, with an improved, highly effective chassis redesign, is a good year to begin with when launching your search.
7. 2008-present FXDWG Dyna Wide Glide
The first Wide Glide factory chopper was offered in 1980 as Harley-Davidson's answer to the popular chopper aesthetic. It was dropped from the lineup for a few years, but made a bold comeback in 2008, retaining the essential stretched forks and some low ape hanger bars, but adding a low seat and several controls options so that more than just tall riders could rock a factory chopper.
8. 2008 FXSTC Softail Custom
A lot of our Big Twin suggestions are for those who don't prefer much bling, but the Softail Custom will maximize your bling per dollar ratio. If you are not into modifying your bike and just want to buy and ride an attention-getter, look for a Softail Custom. Harley took the already stylish Softail, and added a healthy dose of chrome bits and bobs, to really make it pop in any light.
9. 2006 FXSTS Springer Softail
Want modern reliability, an affordable price, and the real throwback look? Then you want a Springer Softail. There is NOTHING modern looking about this bike with a springer front end (with added shock absorber for the 21st century), and Harley's innovative hard-tail look Softail, with hidden rear suspension. In 2006, the Springer Softail got its bobbed rear fender and fat, 200 mm rear tire. Retro with refinement and reliability. What's not to like?
10. 2009 FLHT Electra Glide Standard
You may have thought an FL dresser was out of your price range, but one model did make our $10K price cutoff: the FLHT Electra Glide Standard. It's a "Standard" because it is as basic as they come: no sound system, rather boring color choices, few accessories, no pinstriping or graphics. So, why buy one? Because as with any Harley, your customizing choices are unlimited. You can take the Standard and make it as special as your budget allows. In 2008, the FLHT got fuel injection and in 2009, a revised chassis design that increased comfort, handling, and stability. These are likely going to be some of the last Big Twin baggers without a computer controlling everything, ABS, and a dashboard that looks like a jukebox, before the Rushmore bikes were introduced.
If you need help keeping your bike running, or restoring one, the how to section of HDForums.com is here to help.
