As you said it depends on the owner, but even if they have mechanical ability it doesn't mean they'd be as careful as someone else, I've seen and fixed some bad work done on Harley's done by people more qualified than me on paper. I had a new 2016 V rod Muscle for 4 years, speed sensor fixed under warranty other than that trouble free and service done by the dealer which goes well if you go to sell or trade, the majority of riders would be better going late model or new.
Same here , found a used 2008 Fat Bob 96 twin cam and only had to replace tires and added air filter and tuner . Bikes been bullet proof for me and have no issues wrenching on it myself . Once I sat on it , that was it . Been a great do it all bike for me .
Gotta have an older Harley. My new Harley is an 05 Springer Softail. Got 2 Evos from 98 Ultra and Heritage Springer. My new bike is an 09 Victory Kingpin.
1st bike I got new, '88 Sportster 1200cc. Had to break it in, services were too many in the first yearand expensive. Loved it though. It was stollen 1 year to the day. 2nd bike is a 4th hand 2003 883C 100th Anni sportster. Gorgeous but now selling it. 3rd bike is a 2nd hand 2009 883 Sportster Low. My project bike. Both of the 2nd hand bikes cost less to run. I am in the UK so we have a lot of wet weather. With Cobra Chrome its a way better experience.
My buddy just bought a brand new street glide around 35 thousand and has already put another 10 thousand into it changing bars air lift etc...etc....,,hjahahaha...either way harley's are money pits new or old,,,hahaha..not that I hate harley for this but facts are facts...I love harley davidson and no one else has what they have....I am on my first harley and NEVER want to sell it or get rid of it..I am learning to work on it AND take it in when I have the money to pay for labor...I REALLY feel great when I wrench my own harley especialley when I accormplish the heavier jobs like cam chain tensioners..I also feel a satisfaction in paying for it too...relatively speaking.hahahahaha
I own five Harleys from 1949 up. My friends tell me I have a "motorcycle problem." 😂 I remind them, I no longer have a wife or girlfriend who spends all my money, to curb my addiction."😂
I prefer the older bikes, because I can afford 2-3 different bikes for the price of one new one. One goes down, ride the other while doing repairs. And.. well.. I just like the older bikes..
Been out of Harleys and biking for 10 years but bought a dirt cheap stock 08 Low Rider Anniversay Edition with only 5000 miles on it. The "good" tires were original, dried and cracked, brake fluid gone, ignition loose and a small chip on the fender. Love it. Big fan of older low mile stock bikes at about one third the cost of a new one.
A couple years ago I brought a 98 Evo softail. Besides changing oil regularly and a set of tires I've had to do very little. Did add a set of fat tanks to increase range, 240 miles on a fill up. Rebuilding the carb this winter. Cool owning a 25 yr. old bike that people think is way newer.
It really comes down to how much money your wife won't notice you spent. And then from there you work with it. I have been at this for 40 years. And that's what I noticed
I acquired a 2003 Road King with 20K miles and had both tires replaced, changed fluids, and retightened everything. Oh, and new rear brake pad was installed. I think it was well worth it as the bike runs great and my Harley mechanic told me this bike was well taken care of. Cam tensioners appeared fine.
Great video Gixx, I used to think about buying new but after watching your channel and Doc Harley, Kevin Baxter, I've changed my mind. I'm going to buy used and put money into it. Get all the issues fixed in one shot while I'm in there.
Doc Harley is a useless wind bag. Harleys are such garbage people like you sit around watching endless videos how unreliable they are expecting a pile of broken parts to replace, and stil go buy one to sit broken down in their garage
Thank you! You can build a really sweet bike out of a used one. You'll have something worth looking at at bike night and not just another black M8 Street Glide.
I love my 96. Second one I’ve owned. Currently 07 Dyna Super Glide. Set up club style. Handles real well. 2 into 1 Rineheart exhaust. Stage 2 air mod, tuned. I love her.
That's part of the beauty of owning one! It used to be a "challenge" to join the ranks, and I, for one, wish it still was. Rolex-riders have no appreciation for the struggle to overcome that challenge and win, they just plop their money down and ride off into the sunset! They'll never understand that the well deserved honor of brotherhood is something that can't bought! Seeya!
My buddy thought he’d save some coin and buy a cheap road king. The devil on my shoulder told me to watch him struggle it out when it broke as soon as he started enjoying it. The angel wouldn’t let that happen though. Always good to have another friend who rides even if it costs me some of my time teaching.
Got a great deal on my creampuff '97 superglide three years ago. Bike had been owned by an older guy who wanted to be cool, and dumped it the second time he rode ot, and put it in the garage. I got it cheap because the crash damage looked worse than it was. New handlebars and grips, new turn signals, strip off the mangled crash guards, and I was riding. Since then it's got a new seat, a Timkin inner cam bearing, a S&S 510 cam, new S$&S lifters, and Dyna ignition. New back shocks helped, and found out the first owner put a progressive front kit on it, so that was a nice surprise. It can do highway speeds if needed, but is happiest on secondary highways, just like me.
I'm old school. My ride is old school. My nearest dealer is 200 miles away in another state. The only reason I would go to the dealer was to get the tires changed and balanced after I pulled the tires off my ride. Everything thing else is on me to fix, adjust, or modify...when I started working on my Evo, I only had experience with Panheads. Now I can tear it down to the cases and rebuild it from there...
I prefer buying older bikes and putting some money into them to make it what I want.Currently,about the newest bike I’d be interested in is maybe a softail in one configuration or another with a 107 m8 to hotrod.
I'm on my 3rd harley in 3 years. Started with a 2007 heritage. Traded it for a 2018 road glide special. Traded it for a brand new 2023 low rider st. Have truly loved all 3
My first was a stock '57 Panhead it gave me more trouble than my stock '39 Knucklehead. I now ride a stock Heritage Springer evolution motor is bulletproof.
Mine was a '58 Panhead, a one kicker, I can't remember having any trouble at all. My 2007 twin cam FI has been constant trouble. I lost the whole season trying to get the FI sorted out. I'm converting to carburetion for next season.
Bought a 2011 Road King Classic with the 103 motor seven years ago for $12,000. At 47,000 miles, it still runs like a new motor. The only part failure has been the rear brake light switch, which costs around $35 from JP Cycles, takes about 15 minutes to replace. Am thinking about building a Softail bobber, will definitely be looking for another 103!
I'm 63 and have owned 41 HD's, 1 Indian, 1 Triumph, 2 Can Ams, and a handful of Japanese bikes. They all need maintenance and have their own issues. Most you can handle on your own with a little research, tools and sweat.
Until I began watching your videos, Foo, I didn’t realize how lucky I was when I bought my first Harley, an ‘06 Dyna Wide Glide, a couple of years ago. It only had 11,464 miles on it for $7,495 and, as you’ve shown me, it had the hydraulic cam chain tensioners, 6 speed, fuel injection, and the later models TC heads making it a very good first Harley ownership experience for me. My blind luck stumbling into this bike proves the saying “Even a blind squirrel fines a nut occasionally.”.
That is awesome! Usually I hear from folks that bought and 88 from the early 2000's... motor blew up shortly after and that 4K bike just became 8K. You made a damn good buy on that 06 Dyna, those are proof as why I say the 88 is a great engine once you get that cam chest updated!
I've owned my 86 FXR for 27 years. Rebuilt it 3 times. Re did the motor twice, the trans twice and re powder coated and painted the entire bike. I even rewired it. Apart from the machine work I've done it all myself. I consider it therapy. My 2012 Ultra I've had to replace the voltage regulator twice and the stator once! It's annoying because I bought it brand new so you don't really expect things to go wrong on a band new bike! My 2016 Heritage is so far a joy to ride. No problems in the 2 years I've owned it. Bought it in 2021 with 1500 miles and did the stage 1 mods. Don't see myself buying anything else in the future. My 3 bikes are different and I enjoy them for what they are.
My first Harley is my 1999 883 Sportster. I have had her for 25 years and 400,000 miles on the original engine. Best motorcycle 🏍️ ever. Just love 💕 her to death.
I bought a 1988 Electra Glide Classic for $3000. I immediately spent $2200 at an independent mechanic getting it roadworthy. Since then I have needed to replace the alternator. Now the rear pulley inside plate has fallen off. But I can work on it. It just takes a lot of time, learning as I go.
I’ve owned 3 different Harley’s, shovel head, twin cam, now a M8. Love all them, usually bought them when a year or two old. Shovel and M8 with less than 2k on them. TC had 30k still was a great bike.
All very good points. I always recommend that all bike owners get the OEM Service Manual for their bike, a set of basic tools, and a couple of Hydraulic or Scissors jacks if not a Bike Lift with a small compressor, and a Torque Wrench and some adapters for sockets. The reason for a small compressor is the ability to keep the tires properly inflated, run air wrenches (useful when replacing the compensator) or run a bike lift. But just a set of basic tools and an Oil Drain pan and some Oil Recycling containers for the New Harley Owner to do Oil changes, the average cost for a 3 hole oil change with Synthetic Oil at a Dealership is about $300. So the tools will very rapidly "pay" for themselves by enabling the owner to do basic maintenance themselves. And the OEM Service Manual has all of the Torque Values and Specs. And if the owner would also get a Parts Catalog which has the OEM part Numbers then that makes hunting for a replacement part that much easier. A Dealership will charge over 150 per hour just for labor. And a Dealership won't work on Old Harley's except for basic things like an Oil Change or Tire Change. And when Parts go obsolete, that parts catalog with the OEM Part Numbers act as a reference point for checking for compatible 3rd party parts, or looking for used parts on Ebay. The beauty of an Evo Harley is its simplicity when working on it, and its reliability. Twin Cams have a lot more power but they are more complicated with the Fuel Injection System and the inner and outer Cam chain tensioners. An OEM Service Manual, a Parts Catalog, a set of basic tools (SAE and Metric), Torx and Allen Drivers, Socket Wrenches, some extensions, a Good Torque Wrench, an Oil Drain Pan and Recycled Oil Disposal containers, and just a simple Scissors Jack and a new bike owner can get by at least on doing a lot of maintenance. Tools are worth the money.
I'd also add a battery trickle charger to add to your list of DIY tools as bike batteries are notorious for going flat when the bike is parked up during the week when you're not riding.
My first Harley is my 09 FXDC super glide custom. Only bad thing after buying it was waiting 5 months wondering if I was going to get a title from the previous owner, or he was going to get a frame back. Good new I did end up with a title. LOL.
I just don't beat the sh*t outta my Harleys. I don't ever take it apart, and I am a certified Harley Mechanic. If you beat the bike ya kinda deserve a broke bike.
Two years ago , found an unmolested 2008 heritage classic 6800 miles . She's molested now . Screamin eagle 103 kit , new 2007 police heads (ACR) , andrews 48h cam , S&S adjustable push rods, S&S instalation kit ,feuling cam plate and oil pump , cobra hp + 2into1 exhaust . Most parts came with bike . Love it totally. 70 yrs old felt cool beating a 2022 CVO . No regrets ... my last harley .
This what happened to me I bought a 1998 road glide ran it for a summer decided to put some money into it pumped 10,000$ into it and when it was all said and done the crank runout was at 18 thou what a treat ! 🤦♂️
My first Harley was a 2018 Street Bob after having ridden an ‘04 Triumph America for 13 years. It was the torque issue, but I bought both bikes new. I sold the Street Bob when unemployed and needing to keep my car to haul the dogs around. I hope I can afford to purchase my next Harley outright-so as never again having that monthly payment. I’m looking at a ‘96-‘98 Electra Glide-I know that Evo’s going to ride different than the M-8 (learned on a ‘97 Low Rider). I like the notion of being able to work on the bike myself, I have some experience and would like the opportunity to learn more at a reasonable cost. (Sorry for the long comment).
Oldest bike I have, '70 Sporty, newest bike I have, '21 SG with a 131 crate motor. I've had to learn to wrench on Ironheads, Shovelheads, Evo's, Twin Cams and Milwaukee 8's. Still have all of them . Still love all of them
A couple of years ago, I was in the market for a new bike. The M8's were a year or two old, but I went with a used Fatboy 103. Much preferred the styling and the sound of the 103, and I have not been even close to thinking I should have gotten an M8 bike. Very happy with my FB.
Bought my 09 96" Super Glide Custom 3 yrs ago, the bike has never failed me. Up grades included Super Trapp fat shot, V&N fp3, intake, bitubo front & rear suspension... another great vid Gixx... thanks!
I've been lucky that my 2009 Electra Glide Ultra Classic I bought three months ago was well taken care of. I replaced the fuel pump, fixed the top rocker gaskets and did a 3 hole oil change with 64k miles. I'll keep my fingers crossed.
1990 FLHS 50,000 miles, fixed all issues over the years, base gaskets, trans return spring. Has original clutch, cam, lifters . just completed fork seals and bushings and new back tire, battery. all done at home. I have other bikes so no problem.13 Honda CB 1100 , 71 BMW R50 /5, 70 Norton Commando in pieces, the variety of life.
I went from owning 4 GSX-R 600’s to buying my first Harley in 2012 which was a 2003 1200XL custom with 2,500 miles for $4,500… my dream Harley has always been a street glide which I have now and it’s a gorgeous black cherry 2007 that I paid $11,000 for with 28,000 last year
I used to ride sport bikes too! I had an 03 GSX-R 1000, I wish I still had it. Can't get those high power, no abs, no rider aid, ride at your own risk bikes anymore!
@@GixxerFoo RIGHT!! If I could have just 1 of my GSX-R 600’s back out of my (2)2002, 2007 (bought brand new with 8 miles on it)or my 2006, I’d have to say my 2007. The 02 was my very first bike ever!! She had the carbon fiber D&D exhaust that sounded like a formula 1 race car, chrome wheels, power commander 3 and a security system lol and they were all the blue and white paint scheme! But if I could get my 07 back with the same exhaust as my 02 then she’d be perfect 🤣 I also had a 1 of 400 Sinner and Saint edition icon helmets the Saint edition was blue and white with a blonde naked angel on each side and the Sinner was black and red with a red head naked angel 🤣 the good ol’days…
I like M8's so definitely newer engines. I have some mechanical skills but I'm new to the motorcycle game so until I get some experience working on bikes, I would rather buy recent or nearly new motorcycles; btw, I ride a 2021 Heritage 114 at this time.
I've got 10 bikes, 3 of them are Harleys... I've never been someone who makes a ton of money, but I make up for it with the ability to repair/rebuild things. I look at it as a rewarding hobby. All of them were bought in disrepair or in peices, but that's what I was looking for. If working on motorcycles bring you joy, there's nothing wrong with that. Same can be said for those who just want to ride them. Figure out which category you fall into.
I had Harley as my bucket list bike. I git a used 05 Heritage Softail for 6500 at dealer. Biggest expense..hydraulic cam chain update. Beyond that...stuff I wanted...seat, bars, l.e.d. lights and replaced the wheels as originals had rusting issues..overall, I've been happy with it as 1st owner put stage 1 and lots of extra chrome..
I suggest people do this- Forget about buying a name. Buy a cruiser made by someone else. They'll last longer. Look almost the same, maybe better. And the prices are reasonable. I just picked up a vtx1800. Buddy rode it. He's a Harley owner all his life. First thing he said was. This is a lot more comfortable than mine and she's not lacking power that's for sure. I got on it and it pulls and just keeps pulling. Dam.
That's the second time I've heard you mention a bolt together twin cam crank & I gotta tell you nobody but you have ever seen one ! I can only wish for one !
I have two Harley’s a 21 Sportglide and a 97 Evo Fatboy. Both the bikes are great. Really enjoy working on the Evo though the M8 I just do the service work and got the shop to do my Stage 2. Interesting video, I look forward to your videos every week. Cheers Steve 😎🇦🇺
You've got a good spread in the garage! That Evo is a lot simpler to work on and actually fun, the M8's aren't too bad but you need some special tools on those for some things. Thank you for supporting us over on the channel!
I like working on my motorcycle. Most all of my experiences with mechanics or machine shops have been a nightmare. I don't know why i can't get anything done right. I was pretty much forced to learn how to do things myself.
Still have my first bike, 1993 Heritage Softail. I had new lifters, cam, pipes, S&S Super E carb, and some LED headlight and taillights/turn signal, as well as 5 gallon tanks when I had it painted in 2005. Love this bike, never gonna sell it. But I’m saving to also get a 2013 or newer Dyna, maybe a Street Bob, as well.
In 2004 after I acquired my endorsement, I had 3 criterion: It had to be a Harley, under $10K, and larger than a Sportster. I assumed a Dyna. I didn't know anything about motorcycles. I luckily wound up with my 94 FXR Super Glide that I still have... Thanks for the time and effort you put in to your vlogs. The information you share is greatly appreciated... 🇺🇸
@@GixxerFoo I've been fortunate and lucky in learning mechanical repair out of necessity. I still have a small tube of points lube 😂 and an oil spout for the old oil cans. I'm still learning from people like you, Doc Harley, Jason Freebird, ... Thanks 👍
Well I have 2 a 2003 CVO screamin eagle 95 cu deuce that I bought last year with 2400 miles on it and a 2020 Triglide that I bought new. I work on everything cars, trucks, boats and diesels also besides the bikes. I did a 131 kit on my trike when it just had 4 k on it. Been wrenching for over 50 years and I thoroughly love it. I’ve had about a dozen Harley’s over the years got my first on in 83 after a whole slew of metric bikes. Didn’t like the fact that they were basically throw away bikes went Harley and never looked back.
I've got an 01 Super Glide Sport. Went with gears, upgraded cam plate and oil pump, oil cooler, .510 cams, Mikuni, Supertrapp , K&N, fork brace. Should go for a long time now
@@djangor4969yep it is . Had to loosen the front pipe off to get the nose cone off . 2 weeks of PB Blaster and an induction heater and still broke one of the exhaust pipe studs off . Pulled the head to drill it out . If you do yours and you get the pipe loose I HIGHLY recommend adjustable pushrods so you don't have to take the whole world apart .
Exactly, too many people buy them and dump a basket case off at shop expecting them to sort it out for little to nothing... it don't work that way and if anyone is willing to take the job it's gonna be $$$.
@@GixxerFoo I'm still trying to make up my mind about you GixxerFoo. Are you a Harley dealer or a Harley mechanic? Thats not a criticism by the way, I enjoy looking and listening to your channel and value you're knowlegable insights on Harley motorbikes from the time of Adam to the present day..
I wish I still had my 1st harley. It was a 2012 fatbob with the 103 twin cam with a stage 1 screaming eagle kit on it. But some idiot decided to pull out in front of me and my bike got totalled. And he tried to kill me in the process. Now I have my second harley. It 2008 raodking.
Ive always agreed with your video but I disagree here. I think this is good for the brand and awesome to see the builders out there pimping them out into something even cooler. CVO is for those that have the money, im excited to see what people can build.
I got a 2012 road king right from Saint Paul Harley 21,000 miles one year ago. Put a thunder max tuner in it fall exhaust front to back cobra racing exhaust and big snorkel air elbow and had it Dino tuned. 79 hp 115 foot ounce of torque.. it was the back end of that exhaust that got me all that torque cobra racing mufflers. Cobra headers with crossover port. Gas mileage is nothing only 35 on a good day, but lots of fun never run out of power.
Bought my first harley and sold it six months later. An Ultra CVO with low, low miles. Nice bike but gutless compared to my other cruiser. The harley stayed in the garage so I sold it.
You can't beat that! That bike is more special and honestly worth looking at at bike night. I walk past the new bikes at bike night, if I want to see that I can go to the Harley dealer.
I've had 3 Harley's and bot them all new starting with my 2003 Low Rider. Yea, I know, it's was a little more money, but then I like knowing I'm going to be covered and have many years of riding w/out any problems. And that's excacly what I got. I'm not much for used anything. I like the latest and the greatest. That said, I've got my 2014 SGS 103ci running so good, I just can't part with it. A stock 2023 does not run or handle as good and that's just a fact with the engine mods and suspention I changed on the bike. I guess that's also a tesitiment to just how good the 103 is. I now feel I'm riding a classic. I'm chill with that. Thanks for another great video. Really enjoy your work. Happpy Thanksgiving.
I'm not a mechanic but I can do most stuff 3 hole oil changes ect for me and my friends. Especially since my local Stealership wants $150 an hour labor . Just think how many people earn $150 an hour only to get the bike back with the work not being done correctly. Which in my circles has happened A LOT .🤔😳
The used market is flooded right now. Used Harley-Davidson motorcycles are going for so cheap it'd be crazy to buy new right now. I'm not impressed with the M8 engines in the brand new ones, either. I'd buy used for sure and then spend more customizing it.
You'll get the most miles out of a carb'd 5 speed, 01-02 Timken TC 88 than any other TC. Super simple to work on, no bs sensors, limp modes, compensators, auto chain tensioner's, tranny issues, auto comp release sticking, over heating and pinging. There is a reason you pay for a premium on these years and why they are so sought after and harder to find. Upgrade cam plate, done! I ran a 2002 stage 4 95" 100/100 with the INA bearings for over 30k miles and changed them at 64k only because I did a cam swap. They were still perfect but putting in Torrington's is easy cheap insurance at those miles. Most are bias towards the year bike they have, because it's theirs and of course they bought the best years ⬆(heh emm) lol. Whilst other's, including myself are bias towards certain years. Try finding a 01-02 left side engine case. Your cam plate, oil pump, cams, lifters and all supporting bearings depend on a true crank. Excessive play is what wears and destroys it all. This is why SE cam plates have a bronze bushing, not a bad idea by the way. Ask your local Harley mechanics, what years TC they see the least problems with these days.
Those were some awesome bikes when you get that chain tensioner issue cleared up. Harley dealers these days will barely work on a 103 anymore, they only want to work on those M8's.
Have a 2010 RG 96 cu inch. Bought 7 years ago with about 15K miles. Had to replace the comepensator about 3 years ago and last year had SS cams, oil pump and gear drive installed. The only thing I do my self is oil changes and wiring lights/audio.
That awesome!! I'm not surprised on the compensator going out on that year model. But getting that corrected and upgrading the cam chest is the way to go!
amo mi evo 1340 fxr de 1990 con 114.500 km nunca me deshare de el, le hago todo el mantenimiento yo, mecanica, electricidad todo, hace 2 meses le cambie juntas y retenes de primaria y caja de cambios y ya no pierde aceite, y la palanca de cambios💪😎
I am unfortunately one of those people Iam currently involved in my own nightmare. I purchased My 1st Harley Davidson a 2003 Road King from a Stealership thinking its from a stealership Iam sure they went thru it.... NOPE. I got about 2k miles out of the engine and now Iam putting together some cash for a new engine and being a disabled Veteran on a budget that is gonna take me awhile...
Just got my first bike last year and went with a 2014 Road King guy tould me learn on this and you'll be able to ride anything lol tenable advice but love the bike
Somebody has money. My local HD dealer has about 100 Harleys in his repair department parking lot. The parts department never has any shoppers. I'm always amazed at their new inventory. About 90 baggers. About 20 non-baggers. The weekend visitors hanging around for the entertainment are OLD. I ride my motorcycle about once a month. I ride my E-bike every day.
What happened to just cruisers, I mean people only used to buy touring bike to tour... I never imagined people would start buying them for bar hoppers.
Anything without a commputer, lol. Newer is not better. I'd rather buy a used Harley-Davidson, that I want, and put the money (that I want to) into it to make it my own.
🤔 Guys & gals use goggle 2 c if the bike u like or going 2 buy what type of problems it usually have or did it have a recall ....that will help u in the long run ride safe nuff said .
Another good video for new buyers mate 👍 I have a 2009 96ci twin cam Street Bob & this engine & gearbox is fantastic. Puts out 80hp & 80tq which feels like enough... But of course I want more haha. Twin cams are great, probably the best sounding Harley out there with short shots.
Awesome brother! I got the same year and same engine in my street glide. I also have a 2018 road king 107ci. I completely agree, the 96ci twin cam sounds so much better!
@@germ271999 just put some new cams in it mate. I haven't even put cams in mine & it is getting those numbers stock. Bloody good bike to ride but a bit hard on the back after a couple of hours country riding even with Fournales shockies.
Just my 5 cents ( for inflation) but the most reliability I think you can get out of a Harley is NOT to screw with it . Unless it's time for a rebuild leave it alone. If you want faster then buy it that way with a bigger Harley motor .
something nobody talks about when buying a motorcycle is, do you fit on it? am i too short, too tall, am i comfortable in the seat? are the bars too hi or low? is it too heavy to hold upright when stopped?
Harley had a bad design, bad run with the cam chains themselves. On top of that they the original spring tensioner tension was too much. They quietly switched to a lighter spring and corrected the chain issue for 2003 with the new 3 piece crank and roller bearing bottom end.
With the difference between new (taxes, DMV, interest and add-ons), it is way better to buy used. A new bike will cost you $25,000 after everything. You can get a used one of the same model for $12,000. You have $13,000 to put into a new transmission, new engine and some extra chrome. That is even letting a shop do the work. Forget Harley when it comes to older bikes, they will not work on them, so go to the nearest HD shop and voila, you are in business. I have had 12 Harleys in my 45 years of riding. Which do I have? 97 Heritage Springer and a 2003 CVO Road King. How much work have I had to do on them? Brake light pressure switch (97) and tires (03). I have owned the 97 for 12 years now and the RK for 5 years. Go used, you will not regret it.
Wish that some of the dealerships had your feeling , I seen to many dealers selling to small or to big of bikes to customers and down the road they ended hating the bike .
great points.... one more I pass along... if someone is into long distance riding and not a professional level mechanic. There are many dealerships will not touch a bike over 10 years old. 🍻
They will barely touch a 103 anymore, they only want that M8 stuff in there. They only want to do warranty work and upgrades, not actual repairs on older bikes.
My 3 pre 2010 I haven't done anything but maintenance(oil tires) and changing things I want to change My newest to me and newest 2019 1200 iron.........got a left rear turn signal/brake/running light problem Its probably going to be spring before I get to it......good thing I got 3 pre-2010
I paid 6,500$ in '09 for a black FXDL and finally going to spend the same amount this Winter on rebuilding e everything needed with that budget in mind. At 40,000 miles the plastic breather gear failed upon inspection after oil light began to flicker then popped cherry red(oh-oh too late-oh well). I rode it like a throttle monkey on a 2 stroke dirt bike. Going for upgrades on original cases and crank...bearings,cam,screaming eagle heads,pistons,new jugs,cam,oil pump,lifters,pushrods. Adding a much needed oil cooler and steel breather gear. Wish me luck as I look forward to doing everything but the crank and cam bearings. Thanks Gixer and Happy Riding Holidays too all. Dec 1st Toys for Tots ride here in Chicago on the '04 Road King will keep my juices flowing good.
If you don't wrench buy a new motorcycle (of any brand). Sorry. If you're not helpless an Evo is little more complex than a riding mower and later production is better. The HD aftermarket is unmatched with a huge support community where EVERYTHING is known and many things have more than one fix. That's why I bought my first Evo (an FXR I still ride) in 1988 and beat the feces out of it. However any more recent HD with fuel injection will be more complex and though simple compared to a car takes a bit more study.
You hit the nail on the head, the issue with the newer Harleys is they are new and many are hesitant to open them up. The second issue is that you really do need some special tools to do it right and doing it right is well the way it needs to be done. They aren't as forgiving as the Evo and the Shovel. But, you can buy those special tools on Amazon and they do work. I wouldn't make a living with them but if you got a engine rebuild in the garage they work to do it right.
Is an older Harley-Davidson you can buy cheaper worth it or do you feel getting a new model is the way to go?
As you said it depends on the owner, but even if they have mechanical ability it doesn't mean they'd be as careful as someone else, I've seen and fixed some bad work done on Harley's done by people more qualified than me on paper.
I had a new 2016 V rod Muscle for 4 years, speed sensor fixed under warranty other than that trouble free and service done by the dealer which goes well if you go to sell or trade, the majority of riders would be better going late model or new.
Same here , found a used 2008 Fat Bob 96 twin cam and only had to replace tires and added air filter and tuner . Bikes been bullet proof for me and have no issues wrenching on it myself . Once I sat on it , that was it . Been a great do it all bike for me .
Gotta have an older Harley. My new Harley is an 05 Springer Softail. Got 2 Evos from 98 Ultra and Heritage Springer.
My new bike is an 09 Victory Kingpin.
1st bike I got new, '88 Sportster 1200cc.
Had to break it in, services were too many in the first yearand expensive. Loved it though. It was stollen 1 year to the day.
2nd bike is a 4th hand 2003 883C 100th Anni sportster. Gorgeous but now selling it.
3rd bike is a 2nd hand 2009 883 Sportster Low. My project bike.
Both of the 2nd hand bikes cost less to run.
I am in the UK so we have a lot of wet weather. With Cobra Chrome its a way better experience.
My buddy just bought a brand new street glide around 35 thousand and has already put another 10 thousand into it changing bars air lift etc...etc....,,hjahahaha...either way harley's are money pits new or old,,,hahaha..not that I hate harley for this but facts are facts...I love harley davidson and no one else has what they have....I am on my first harley and NEVER want to sell it or get rid of it..I am learning to work on it AND take it in when I have the money to pay for labor...I REALLY feel great when I wrench my own harley especialley when I accormplish the heavier jobs like cam chain tensioners..I also feel a satisfaction in paying for it too...relatively speaking.hahahahaha
I own five Harleys from 1949 up. My friends tell me I have a "motorcycle problem." 😂 I remind them, I no longer have a wife or girlfriend who spends all my money, to curb my addiction."😂
Ipd1snipe, Like me, you are a "Bike Whore.." No problem with that.
Amen brother
You don't need a woman when you have 5 bikes to keep you company 😂
Those auto primary chain tensioners are almost guaranteed to tear the compensator and inner primary bearing to pieces.
it's not a problem...... I can stop whenever I want..... I only have 4
I prefer the older bikes, because I can afford 2-3 different bikes for the price of one new one. One goes down, ride the other while doing repairs. And.. well.. I just like the older bikes..
I like how your thinking... the more the better!
I bopught a 2003 RK because I couldn't afford a 49.
Sounds like my philosophy about cars and trucks.
There's so many reasons to get an older and the new ones are proving those reasons year after year with cost and how complicated they are becoming.
@@martincvitkovich724 same here. I bought a low mileage 2007 RK for $6,500. It’s been great so far. I can also afford to look for a second used bike.
Been out of Harleys and biking for 10 years but bought a dirt cheap stock 08 Low Rider Anniversay Edition with only 5000 miles on it. The "good" tires were original, dried and cracked, brake fluid gone, ignition loose and a small chip on the fender. Love it. Big fan of older low mile stock bikes at about one third the cost of a new one.
I went with one of each. I have a 2013 Electraglide Ultra, a 2006 XL1200C and a 2004 Heritage Classic. I love each one.
A couple years ago I brought a 98 Evo softail. Besides changing oil regularly and a set of tires I've had to do very little. Did add a set of fat tanks to increase range, 240 miles on a fill up. Rebuilding the carb this winter. Cool owning a 25 yr. old bike that people think is way newer.
It really comes down to how much money your wife won't notice you spent. And then from there you work with it. I have been at this for 40 years. And that's what I noticed
I acquired a 2003 Road King with 20K miles and had both tires replaced, changed fluids, and retightened everything. Oh, and new rear brake pad was installed. I think it was well worth it as the bike runs great and my Harley mechanic told me this bike was well taken care of. Cam tensioners appeared fine.
The tensioners are a crazy thing, one bike will chew through them another they will last well beyond their expected service life.
Great video Gixx, I used to think about buying new but after watching your channel and Doc Harley, Kevin Baxter, I've changed my mind. I'm going to buy used and put money into it. Get all the issues fixed in one shot while I'm in there.
Doc Harley is a useless wind bag.
Harleys are such garbage people like you sit around watching endless videos how unreliable they are expecting a pile of broken parts to replace, and stil go buy one to sit broken down in their garage
Thank you! You can build a really sweet bike out of a used one. You'll have something worth looking at at bike night and not just another black M8 Street Glide.
They aren't too bad honestly, I used to think they were junk and some years they were but they really aren't all that bad.
I love my 96. Second one I’ve owned. Currently 07 Dyna Super Glide. Set up club style. Handles real well. 2 into 1 Rineheart exhaust. Stage 2 air mod, tuned. I love her.
That's part of the beauty of owning one! It used to be a "challenge" to join the ranks, and I, for one, wish it still was. Rolex-riders have no appreciation for the struggle to overcome that challenge and win, they just plop their money down and ride off into the sunset! They'll never understand that the well deserved honor of brotherhood is something that can't bought! Seeya!
Yawn. 😮FJB 🖕🇨🇳
"...well deserved honor of brotherhood..." sweet jesus, please, you're killing me and clearly the ether is killing you!
@@ackack612 👆 See what I mean? You've proven my point exactly. Thank you.
My first Harley Davidson was a 1983 Ironhead sportster 1000. Bought it used back in 1990! Great bike for sure.
I still have my 85 and 69 ironheads
I owned a 76 1000 Sportster by AMF. It was truly a piece of junk but it still made me fall in love with Harleys
Those are some cool bikes even today and fun to ride!
Let's not forget there's shops that refuse to work on bikes 10 years old or more so do your research!!!!
Big G'day GixxerFoo from Down Under 🇦🇺
May all your days be Harley days🖤🧡🖤
Safe travels 🙏♥️🐾🐾🇦🇺
💪🖤🧡🖤💪
My buddy thought he’d save some coin and buy a cheap road king. The devil on my shoulder told me to watch him struggle it out when it broke as soon as he started enjoying it. The angel wouldn’t let that happen though. Always good to have another friend who rides even if it costs me some of my time teaching.
Got a great deal on my creampuff '97 superglide three years ago. Bike had been owned by an older guy who wanted to be cool, and dumped it the second time he rode ot, and put it in the garage. I got it cheap because the crash damage looked worse than it was. New handlebars and grips, new turn signals, strip off the mangled crash guards, and I was riding. Since then it's got a new seat, a Timkin inner cam bearing, a S&S 510 cam, new S$&S lifters, and Dyna ignition. New back shocks helped, and found out the first owner put a progressive front kit on it, so that was a nice surprise. It can do highway speeds if needed, but is happiest on secondary highways, just like me.
I'm old school. My ride is old school. My nearest dealer is 200 miles away in another state. The only reason I would go to the dealer was to get the tires changed and balanced after I pulled the tires off my ride. Everything thing else is on me to fix, adjust, or modify...when I started working on my Evo, I only had experience with Panheads. Now I can tear it down to the cases and rebuild it from there...
I prefer buying older bikes and putting some money into them to make it what I want.Currently,about the newest bike I’d be interested in is maybe a softail in one configuration or another with a 107 m8 to hotrod.
I'm on my 3rd harley in 3 years. Started with a 2007 heritage. Traded it for a 2018 road glide special. Traded it for a brand new 2023 low rider st. Have truly loved all 3
My first was a stock '57 Panhead it gave me more trouble than my stock '39 Knucklehead. I now ride a stock Heritage Springer evolution motor is bulletproof.
Mine was a '58 Panhead, a one kicker, I can't remember having any trouble at all. My 2007 twin cam FI has been constant trouble. I lost the whole season trying to get the FI sorted out. I'm converting to carburetion for next season.
Keep the rubber side down!@@planefloat
Bought a 2011 Road King Classic with the 103 motor seven years ago for $12,000. At 47,000 miles, it still runs like a new motor. The only part failure has been the rear brake light switch, which costs around $35 from JP Cycles, takes about 15 minutes to replace. Am thinking about building a Softail bobber, will definitely be looking for another 103!
I'm 63 and have owned 41 HD's, 1 Indian, 1 Triumph, 2 Can Ams, and a handful of Japanese bikes. They all need maintenance and have their own issues. Most you can handle on your own with a little research, tools and sweat.
Until I began watching your videos, Foo, I didn’t realize how lucky I was when I bought my first Harley, an ‘06 Dyna Wide Glide, a couple of years ago. It only had 11,464 miles on it for $7,495 and, as you’ve shown me, it had the hydraulic cam chain tensioners, 6 speed, fuel injection, and the later models TC heads making it a very good first Harley ownership experience for me. My blind luck stumbling into this bike proves the saying “Even a blind squirrel fines a nut occasionally.”.
That is awesome! Usually I hear from folks that bought and 88 from the early 2000's... motor blew up shortly after and that 4K bike just became 8K. You made a damn good buy on that 06 Dyna, those are proof as why I say the 88 is a great engine once you get that cam chest updated!
I've owned my 86 FXR for 27 years. Rebuilt it 3 times. Re did the motor twice, the trans twice and re powder coated and painted the entire bike. I even rewired it. Apart from the machine work I've done it all myself. I consider it therapy. My 2012 Ultra I've had to replace the voltage regulator twice and the stator once! It's annoying because I bought it brand new so you don't really expect things to go wrong on a band new bike! My 2016 Heritage is so far a joy to ride. No problems in the 2 years I've owned it. Bought it in 2021 with 1500 miles and did the stage 1 mods. Don't see myself buying anything else in the future. My 3 bikes are different and I enjoy them for what they are.
My first Harley is my 1999 883 Sportster. I have had her for 25 years and 400,000 miles on the original engine. Best motorcycle 🏍️ ever. Just love 💕 her to death.
The newest Harley I have owned is a 1988 FLHTP. Still have it. Before that was an AMF iron head sportster. Before that was a 1955 pan/shovel fl.
I bought a 1988 Electra Glide Classic for $3000. I immediately spent $2200 at an independent mechanic getting it roadworthy. Since then I have needed to replace the alternator. Now the rear pulley inside plate has fallen off. But I can work on it. It just takes a lot of time, learning as I go.
I’ve owned 3 different Harley’s, shovel head, twin cam, now a M8. Love all them, usually bought them when a year or two old. Shovel and M8 with less than 2k on them. TC had 30k still was a great bike.
All very good points. I always recommend that all bike owners get the OEM Service Manual for their bike, a set of basic tools, and a couple of Hydraulic or Scissors jacks if not a Bike Lift with a small compressor, and a Torque Wrench and some adapters for sockets.
The reason for a small compressor is the ability to keep the tires properly inflated, run air wrenches (useful when replacing the compensator) or run a bike lift.
But just a set of basic tools and an Oil Drain pan and some Oil Recycling containers for the New Harley Owner to do Oil changes, the average cost for a 3 hole oil change with Synthetic Oil at a Dealership is about $300. So the tools will very rapidly "pay" for themselves by enabling the owner to do basic maintenance themselves.
And the OEM Service Manual has all of the Torque Values and Specs. And if the owner would also get a Parts Catalog which has the OEM part Numbers then that makes hunting for a replacement part that much easier.
A Dealership will charge over 150 per hour just for labor. And a Dealership won't work on Old Harley's except for basic things like an Oil Change or Tire Change. And when Parts go obsolete, that parts catalog with the OEM Part Numbers act as a reference point for checking for compatible 3rd party parts, or looking for used parts on Ebay.
The beauty of an Evo Harley is its simplicity when working on it, and its reliability. Twin Cams have a lot more power but they are more complicated with the Fuel Injection System and the inner and outer Cam chain tensioners.
An OEM Service Manual, a Parts Catalog, a set of basic tools (SAE and Metric), Torx and Allen Drivers, Socket Wrenches, some extensions, a Good Torque Wrench, an Oil Drain Pan and Recycled Oil Disposal containers, and just a simple Scissors Jack and a new bike owner can get by at least on doing a lot of maintenance.
Tools are worth the money.
I'd also add a battery trickle charger to add to your list of DIY tools as bike batteries are notorious for going flat when the bike is parked up during the week when you're not riding.
Waited 18 years to afford my 05 wide glide finally got it this last July. Been loving it. Paid 6k.
For me one of the best looking Twin Cams
You got a good deal and congratulations on your ride! It's worth the wait no matter what year or how much you paid!
My first Harley is my 09 FXDC super glide custom. Only bad thing after buying it was waiting 5 months wondering if I was going to get a title from the previous owner, or he was going to get a frame back. Good new I did end up with a title. LOL.
I just don't beat the sh*t outta my Harleys. I don't ever take it apart, and I am a certified Harley Mechanic. If you beat the bike ya kinda deserve a broke bike.
Two years ago , found an unmolested 2008 heritage classic 6800 miles . She's molested now . Screamin eagle 103 kit , new 2007 police heads (ACR) , andrews 48h cam , S&S adjustable push rods, S&S instalation kit ,feuling cam plate and oil pump , cobra hp + 2into1 exhaust . Most parts came with bike . Love it totally. 70 yrs old felt cool beating a 2022 CVO . No regrets ... my last harley .
This what happened to me I bought a 1998 road glide ran it for a summer decided to put some money into it pumped 10,000$ into it and when it was all said and done the crank runout was at 18 thou what a treat ! 🤦♂️
My first Harley was a 2018 Street Bob after having ridden an ‘04 Triumph America for 13 years. It was the torque issue, but I bought both bikes new. I sold the Street Bob when unemployed and needing to keep my car to haul the dogs around. I hope I can afford to purchase my next Harley outright-so as never again having that monthly payment. I’m looking at a ‘96-‘98 Electra Glide-I know that Evo’s going to ride different than the M-8 (learned on a ‘97 Low Rider). I like the notion of being able to work on the bike myself, I have some experience and would like the opportunity to learn more at a reasonable cost. (Sorry for the long comment).
My dad gave me his 2006 Sportster 1200 low..I LOVE IT!
21k miles..stage 2..Mustang seat..chrome everywhere.
Bike is fun and loud 😁
Oldest bike I have, '70 Sporty, newest bike I have, '21 SG with a 131 crate motor. I've had to learn to wrench on Ironheads, Shovelheads, Evo's, Twin Cams and Milwaukee 8's. Still have all of them . Still love all of them
A couple of years ago, I was in the market for a new bike. The M8's were a year or two old, but I went with a used Fatboy 103. Much preferred the styling and the sound of the 103, and I have not been even close to thinking I should have gotten an M8 bike. Very happy with my FB.
Also, even if someone does want to use a shop, the older a bike is, the tougher it is to find a quality mechanic for it.
It really is hard to find anyone that works on older motors, most of the guys that knew those engines inside and out have either retired or passed.
Bought new. Still have 'em. 74 FXE, 94 FLHTCU, '13 FTK.
Bought my 09 96" Super Glide Custom 3 yrs ago, the bike has never failed me. Up grades included Super Trapp fat shot, V&N fp3, intake, bitubo front & rear suspension... another great vid Gixx... thanks!
I've been lucky that my 2009 Electra Glide Ultra Classic I bought three months ago was well taken care of. I replaced the fuel pump, fixed the top rocker gaskets and did a 3 hole oil change with 64k miles. I'll keep my fingers crossed.
I never had any Desire to own a Harley .. Did buy a 2008 Buell Ulysess last summer..
I've got an 09 Ulysses XT with two 1200 Sportsters and a Super Glide 88 TC
The Ulysess was sooooo far ahead of it's time, that was out before there was an adventure bike market to speak of!
Just got a 2006 softail deluxe with 6100 mile for 6,500 dollars one owner my first Harley Davidson
Dang you got a steal on that bike!
Just paid 5k for a 2011 Honda Fury with 6k miles on it. The bike will literally outlive me. I like riding my bikes, not wrenching on them..
Im with you on that! Privately, a lot of riders on this forum might agree with you too ,but they would never own up to it in public.
1990 FLHS 50,000 miles, fixed all issues over the years, base gaskets, trans return spring. Has original clutch, cam, lifters . just completed fork seals and bushings and new back tire, battery. all done at home. I have other bikes so no problem.13 Honda CB 1100 , 71 BMW R50 /5, 70 Norton Commando in pieces, the variety of life.
I went from owning 4 GSX-R 600’s to buying my first Harley in 2012 which was a 2003 1200XL custom with 2,500 miles for $4,500… my dream Harley has always been a street glide which I have now and it’s a gorgeous black cherry 2007 that I paid $11,000 for with 28,000 last year
I used to ride sport bikes too! I had an 03 GSX-R 1000, I wish I still had it. Can't get those high power, no abs, no rider aid, ride at your own risk bikes anymore!
@@GixxerFoo RIGHT!! If I could have just 1 of my GSX-R 600’s back out of my (2)2002, 2007 (bought brand new with 8 miles on it)or my 2006, I’d have to say my 2007. The 02 was my very first bike ever!! She had the carbon fiber D&D exhaust that sounded like a formula 1 race car, chrome wheels, power commander 3 and a security system lol and they were all the blue and white paint scheme! But if I could get my 07 back with the same exhaust as my 02 then she’d be perfect 🤣 I also had a 1 of 400 Sinner and Saint edition icon helmets the Saint edition was blue and white with a blonde naked angel on each side and the Sinner was black and red with a red head naked angel 🤣 the good ol’days…
Yes, avoid any 1989 Big Twin if you plan to ride. It’s a “One Year Only” motor. 🏍💨🏍💨
I like M8's so definitely newer engines. I have some mechanical skills but I'm new to the motorcycle game so until I get some experience working on bikes, I would rather buy recent or nearly new motorcycles; btw, I ride a 2021 Heritage 114 at this time.
I've got 10 bikes, 3 of them are Harleys... I've never been someone who makes a ton of money, but I make up for it with the ability to repair/rebuild things. I look at it as a rewarding hobby. All of them were bought in disrepair or in peices, but that's what I was looking for. If working on motorcycles bring you joy, there's nothing wrong with that. Same can be said for those who just want to ride them. Figure out which category you fall into.
I had Harley as my bucket list bike. I git a used 05 Heritage Softail for 6500 at dealer. Biggest expense..hydraulic cam chain update. Beyond that...stuff I wanted...seat, bars, l.e.d. lights and replaced the wheels as originals had rusting issues..overall, I've been happy with it as 1st owner put stage 1 and lots of extra chrome..
144,000 people liked this video i remember when only a couple hundred did. Good content.
Thank you! You been around for a little while then!
I suggest people do this-
Forget about buying a name. Buy a cruiser made by someone else. They'll last longer. Look almost the same, maybe better. And the prices are reasonable. I just picked up a vtx1800. Buddy rode it. He's a Harley owner all his life.
First thing he said was.
This is a lot more comfortable than mine and she's not lacking power that's for sure. I got on it and it pulls and just keeps pulling. Dam.
That's the second time I've heard you mention a bolt together twin cam crank & I gotta tell you nobody but you have ever seen one ! I can only wish for one !
I have two Harley’s a 21 Sportglide and a 97 Evo Fatboy. Both the bikes are great.
Really enjoy working on the Evo though the M8 I just do the service work and got the shop to do my Stage 2.
Interesting video, I look forward to your videos every week. Cheers Steve 😎🇦🇺
You've got a good spread in the garage! That Evo is a lot simpler to work on and actually fun, the M8's aren't too bad but you need some special tools on those for some things. Thank you for supporting us over on the channel!
I like working on my motorcycle. Most all of my experiences with mechanics or machine shops have been a nightmare. I don't know why i can't get anything done right. I was pretty much forced to learn how to do things myself.
Still have my first bike, 1993 Heritage Softail. I had new lifters, cam, pipes, S&S Super E carb, and some LED headlight and taillights/turn signal, as well as 5 gallon tanks when I had it painted in 2005. Love this bike, never gonna sell it. But I’m saving to also get a 2013 or newer Dyna, maybe a Street Bob, as well.
In 2004 after I acquired my endorsement, I had 3 criterion: It had to be a Harley, under $10K, and larger than a Sportster. I assumed a Dyna. I didn't know anything about motorcycles. I luckily wound up with my 94 FXR Super Glide that I still have... Thanks for the time and effort you put in to your vlogs. The information you share is greatly appreciated... 🇺🇸
Thank you for taking the time to check out the videos, it's much appreciated by all of us here!
@@GixxerFoo I've been fortunate and lucky in learning mechanical repair out of necessity. I still have a small tube of points lube 😂 and an oil spout for the old oil cans. I'm still learning from people like you, Doc Harley, Jason Freebird, ... Thanks 👍
Well I have 2 a 2003 CVO screamin eagle 95 cu deuce that I bought last year with 2400 miles on it and a 2020 Triglide that I bought new. I work on everything cars, trucks, boats and diesels also besides the bikes. I did a 131 kit on my trike when it just had 4 k on it. Been wrenching for over 50 years and I thoroughly love it. I’ve had about a dozen Harley’s over the years got my first on in 83 after a whole slew of metric bikes. Didn’t like the fact that they were basically throw away bikes went Harley and never looked back.
I've got an 01 Super Glide Sport. Went with gears, upgraded cam plate and oil pump, oil cooler, .510 cams, Mikuni, Supertrapp , K&N, fork brace. Should go for a long time now
My Twin Cam 88 is all over my work bench. .
Build it back better than ever!
Would that be related to cam chain tensioner breakdown issues Ive only picked up recently?
@@djangor4969yep it is . Had to loosen the front pipe off to get the nose cone off . 2 weeks of PB Blaster and an induction heater and still broke one of the exhaust pipe studs off . Pulled the head to drill it out .
If you do yours and you get the pipe loose I HIGHLY recommend adjustable pushrods so you don't have to take the whole world apart .
@@djangor4969 ordered the cam cam tensioner tools from JP Cycles so you don't have to press out cams .
Older bikes are the way to go. If you're not mechanically inclined and have no desire to learn...motorcycles are not for you period ☕️
Exactly, too many people buy them and dump a basket case off at shop expecting them to sort it out for little to nothing... it don't work that way and if anyone is willing to take the job it's gonna be $$$.
@@GixxerFoo I'm still trying to make up my mind about you GixxerFoo. Are you a Harley dealer or a Harley mechanic? Thats not a criticism by the way, I enjoy looking and listening to your channel and value you're knowlegable insights on Harley motorbikes from the time of Adam to the present day..
I wish I still had my 1st harley. It was a 2012 fatbob with the 103 twin cam with a stage 1 screaming eagle kit on it. But some idiot decided to pull out in front of me and my bike got totalled. And he tried to kill me in the process. Now I have my second harley. It 2008 raodking.
There are some (a lot) Dealers that will not work on older Harley-Davidsons. 😮
It's getting hard to get a 103 work on, they only want to work on M8's anymore.
I like the older ones myself love my Evo
Ive always agreed with your video but I disagree here.
I think this is good for the brand and awesome to see the builders out there pimping them out into something even cooler. CVO is for those that have the money, im excited to see what people can build.
I got a 2012 road king right from Saint Paul Harley 21,000 miles one year ago. Put a thunder max tuner in it fall exhaust front to back cobra racing exhaust and big snorkel air elbow and had it Dino tuned. 79 hp 115 foot ounce of torque.. it was the back end of that exhaust that got me all that torque cobra racing mufflers. Cobra headers with crossover port. Gas mileage is nothing only 35 on a good day, but lots of fun never run out of power.
Any vehicle will eventually need work. Harleys just need more.
Bought my first harley and sold it six months later. An Ultra CVO with low, low miles. Nice bike but gutless compared to my other cruiser. The harley stayed in the garage so I sold it.
I’ll stick to my 2012 103 RK , I plan on putting some cams in there soon 👌🏽
I bought my father's 1999 FXDS off him for $2k....I have now spent a total of $5,500 including the cost of the bike. It was worth every penny 😅
You can't beat that! That bike is more special and honestly worth looking at at bike night. I walk past the new bikes at bike night, if I want to see that I can go to the Harley dealer.
😎👍
Big thumbs up for the channel...
Thank you!!
I've had 3 Harley's and bot them all new starting with my 2003 Low Rider. Yea, I know, it's was a little more money, but then I like knowing I'm going to be covered and have many years of riding w/out any problems. And that's excacly what I got. I'm not much for used anything. I like the latest and the greatest. That said, I've got my 2014 SGS 103ci running so good, I just can't part with it. A stock 2023 does not run or handle as good and that's just a fact with the engine mods and suspention I changed on the bike. I guess that's also a tesitiment to just how good the 103 is. I now feel I'm riding a classic. I'm chill with that.
Thanks for another great video. Really enjoy your work. Happpy Thanksgiving.
unfortunately...some of us have chronic pain i.e. hands , fingers and wrists, and turning a wrench is painful so we pay someone else lol
I feel you, there really comes a time when you have to do that. I have some customers that l know well that have had to do just that.
I'm not a mechanic but I can do most stuff 3 hole oil changes ect for me and my friends. Especially since my local Stealership wants $150 an hour labor . Just think how many people earn $150 an hour only to get the bike back with the work not being done correctly. Which in my circles has happened A LOT .🤔😳
The used market is flooded right now. Used Harley-Davidson motorcycles are going for so cheap it'd be crazy to buy new right now. I'm not impressed with the M8 engines in the brand new ones, either. I'd buy used for sure and then spend more customizing it.
You'll get the most miles out of a carb'd 5 speed, 01-02 Timken TC 88 than any other TC. Super simple to work on, no bs sensors, limp modes, compensators, auto chain tensioner's, tranny issues, auto comp release sticking, over heating and pinging. There is a reason you pay for a premium on these years and why they are so sought after and harder to find. Upgrade cam plate, done!
I ran a 2002 stage 4 95" 100/100 with the INA bearings for over 30k miles and changed them at 64k only because I did a cam swap. They were still perfect but putting in Torrington's is easy cheap insurance at those miles.
Most are bias towards the year bike they have, because it's theirs and of course they bought the best years ⬆(heh emm) lol. Whilst other's, including myself are bias towards certain years. Try finding a 01-02 left side engine case. Your cam plate, oil pump, cams, lifters and all supporting bearings depend on a true crank. Excessive play is what wears and destroys it all. This is why SE cam plates have a bronze bushing, not a bad idea by the way.
Ask your local Harley mechanics, what years TC they see the least problems with these days.
Those were some awesome bikes when you get that chain tensioner issue cleared up. Harley dealers these days will barely work on a 103 anymore, they only want to work on those M8's.
@@GixxerFoo That’s too bad, 103 is a good engine, they pretty much all are with a quirk here and there.
Have a 2010 RG 96 cu inch. Bought 7 years ago with about 15K miles. Had to replace the comepensator about 3 years ago and last year had SS cams, oil pump and gear drive installed. The only thing I do my self is oil changes and wiring lights/audio.
That awesome!! I'm not surprised on the compensator going out on that year model. But getting that corrected and upgrading the cam chest is the way to go!
Going to pay someone, so I think I should go newer, good advice
amo mi evo 1340 fxr de 1990 con 114.500 km nunca me deshare de el, le hago todo el mantenimiento yo, mecanica, electricidad todo, hace 2 meses le cambie juntas y retenes de primaria y caja de cambios y ya no pierde aceite, y la palanca de cambios💪😎
I am unfortunately one of those people Iam currently involved in my own nightmare. I purchased My 1st Harley Davidson a 2003 Road King from a Stealership thinking its from a stealership Iam sure they went thru it.... NOPE. I got about 2k miles out of the engine and now Iam putting together some cash for a new engine and being a disabled Veteran on a budget that is gonna take me awhile...
Just got my first bike last year and went with a 2014 Road King guy tould me learn on this and you'll be able to ride anything lol tenable advice but love the bike
That's a lot of bike for a first bike! But yeah if you can handle that bike you can ride anything!
Somebody has money. My local HD dealer has about 100 Harleys in his repair department parking lot. The parts department never has any shoppers. I'm always amazed at their new inventory. About 90 baggers. About 20 non-baggers. The weekend visitors hanging around for the entertainment are OLD. I ride my motorcycle about once a month. I ride my E-bike every day.
What happened to just cruisers, I mean people only used to buy touring bike to tour... I never imagined people would start buying them for bar hoppers.
Early 88 TC with Gear Drive Cams.
Anything without a commputer, lol. Newer is not better. I'd rather buy a used Harley-Davidson, that I want, and put the money (that I want to) into it to make it my own.
🤔 Guys & gals use goggle 2 c if the bike u like or going 2 buy what type of problems it usually have or did it have a recall ....that will help u in the long run ride safe nuff said .
Another good video for new buyers mate 👍
I have a 2009 96ci twin cam Street Bob & this engine & gearbox is fantastic. Puts out 80hp & 80tq which feels like enough... But of course I want more haha.
Twin cams are great, probably the best sounding Harley out there with short shots.
Awesome brother! I got the same year and same engine in my street glide. I also have a 2018 road king 107ci. I completely agree, the 96ci twin cam sounds so much better!
I have the same Harley, I wish I had watched this video and gotten a 103.
@@germ271999 just put some new cams in it mate. I haven't even put cams in mine & it is getting those numbers stock.
Bloody good bike to ride but a bit hard on the back after a couple of hours country riding even with Fournales shockies.
Just my 5 cents ( for inflation) but the most reliability I think you can get out of a Harley is NOT to screw with it . Unless it's time for a rebuild leave it alone. If you want faster then buy it that way with a bigger Harley motor .
Thank you! The twin cams do sound good, a lot better than the M8's in my opinion!
something nobody talks about when buying a motorcycle is, do you fit on it? am i too short, too tall, am i comfortable in the seat?
are the bars too hi or low? is it too heavy to hold upright when stopped?
Great background. Why 2003 for.less cam chain tessioner issues? That year is still spring loaded.
Harley had a bad design, bad run with the cam chains themselves. On top of that they the original spring tensioner tension was too much. They quietly switched to a lighter spring and corrected the chain issue for 2003 with the new 3 piece crank and roller bearing bottom end.
With the difference between new (taxes, DMV, interest and add-ons), it is way better to buy used. A new bike will cost you $25,000 after everything. You can get a used one of the same model for $12,000. You have $13,000 to put into a new transmission, new engine and some extra chrome. That is even letting a shop do the work. Forget Harley when it comes to older bikes, they will not work on them, so go to the nearest HD shop and voila, you are in business. I have had 12 Harleys in my 45 years of riding. Which do I have? 97 Heritage Springer and a 2003 CVO Road King. How much work have I had to do on them? Brake light pressure switch (97) and tires (03). I have owned the 97 for 12 years now and the RK for 5 years. Go used, you will not regret it.
Wish that some of the dealerships had your feeling , I seen to many dealers selling to small or to big of bikes to customers and down the road they ended hating the bike .
It's all about upsell today and not gauging a riders experience and getting them on the right bike that fits their needs.
125 sprint, ironhead sportster, 88in twin cam.
Damned! I knew I should have kept my wallet in my pocket!
😅
Is that even possible when it comes to motorcycles in general lol!
great points.... one more I pass along... if someone is into long distance riding and not a professional level mechanic. There are many dealerships will not touch a bike over 10 years old. 🍻
That's because they want you to trade in and buy new.
They will barely touch a 103 anymore, they only want that M8 stuff in there. They only want to do warranty work and upgrades, not actual repairs on older bikes.
My 3 pre 2010 I haven't done anything but maintenance(oil tires) and changing things I want to change
My newest to me and newest 2019 1200 iron.........got a left rear turn signal/brake/running light problem
Its probably going to be spring before I get to it......good thing I got 3 pre-2010
I paid 6,500$ in '09 for a black FXDL and finally going to spend the same amount this Winter on rebuilding e everything needed with that budget in mind.
At 40,000 miles the plastic breather gear failed upon inspection after oil light began to flicker then popped cherry red(oh-oh too late-oh well).
I rode it like a throttle monkey on a 2 stroke dirt bike.
Going for upgrades on original cases and crank...bearings,cam,screaming eagle heads,pistons,new jugs,cam,oil pump,lifters,pushrods.
Adding a much needed oil cooler and steel breather gear.
Wish me luck as I look forward to doing everything but the crank and cam bearings.
Thanks Gixer and Happy Riding Holidays too all.
Dec 1st Toys for Tots ride here in Chicago on the '04 Road King will keep my juices flowing good.
That right there is what it's all about!! It's worth it!! Keep up the strong work brother!!
TFT in Chicago is 12/03/23. FJB 🖕🇨🇳
At 71 I quit working on mine
I rather buy a brand new one. Unfortunately, I don't have 2023 money, I have 2002 money!
If you don't wrench buy a new motorcycle (of any brand). Sorry. If you're not helpless an Evo is little more complex than a riding mower and later production is better.
The HD aftermarket is unmatched with a huge support community where EVERYTHING is known and many things have more than one fix. That's why I bought my first Evo (an FXR I still ride) in 1988 and beat the feces out of it. However any more recent HD with fuel injection will be more complex and though simple compared to a car takes a bit more study.
You hit the nail on the head, the issue with the newer Harleys is they are new and many are hesitant to open them up. The second issue is that you really do need some special tools to do it right and doing it right is well the way it needs to be done. They aren't as forgiving as the Evo and the Shovel. But, you can buy those special tools on Amazon and they do work. I wouldn't make a living with them but if you got a engine rebuild in the garage they work to do it right.
Couldn’t agree more. Another excellent video. Keep em 10:58 coming
For me, only a Evo with a Carb will do.
That's where I'm at 91 flhs, runs great 😊