Harley dilemma

[sheddy]

I'm thinking of shelling out to get a Harley. My prefference is a second hand night train softail. At 6' I tried a 05 deuce the other day and it felt a real comfortable fit.Apart from taking big deep breaths at the price. My XV is a bit short and I kinda sit on the pillion seat sometimes.
My questions are.
Full Insurance is it seriously worth it and can it even be found at a reasonable rate.
Is the theft risk still higher for hogs than other bikes and if so what are the best ways of keeping your bike safe.
Anyone out there riding EVO softails have an opinion on them and has anyone who has owned a Harley gone back to another bike brand after.
Why are they so closely priced as km and age dont seem to count for much. All other vehicles depreciate like hell.
Does anyone have an idea of margins the dealers generally work on.

The Jap cruisers are still excellent bikes but this Harley thing has been chewing my arm off for years. Like they say there is never as good a time like the present.
Lots of questions. Thanks for any feedback.

[Scouse]

Now that's Harley a dilema now is it?

[The Lone Rider]

I think full insurance is worth it. Hell, its freakin cheap. Who are you with? Full insurance for my bike costs less then what my car was quoted for for full cover.

How is it too short? My cruiser is smaller then an XV1100 and I'm 6'1" and its alright. Maybe its forward controls you really should be looking at?

[peasea]

I'm thinking of shelling out to get a Harley. My prefference is a second hand night train softail. At 6' I tried a 05 deuce the other day and it felt a real comfortable fit.Apart from taking big deep breaths at the price. My XV is a bit short and I kinda sit on the pillion seat sometimes.
My questions are.
Full Insurance is it seriously worth it and can it even be found at a reasonable rate.
Is the theft risk still higher for hogs than other bikes and if so what are the best ways of keeping your bike safe.
Anyone out there riding EVO softails have an opinion on them and has anyone who has owned a Harley gone back to another bike brand after.
Why are they so closely priced as km and age dont seem to count for much. All other vehicles depreciate like hell.
Does anyone have an idea of margins the dealers generally work on.

The Jap cruisers are still excellent bikes but this Harley thing has been chewing my arm off for years. Like they say there is never as good a time like the present.
Lots of questions. Thanks for any feedback.

Buy my 1990 FXR and save heaps!

[scumdog]

Go for it, get a Superglide.

IF you regret it? - well at least you'll not go through life wondering about what it's like having a Harley to ride..


Of course if you get a H-D you then have to start buying bling, tassles and a really thick skin...

[jafar]

tassles ...

tassles :sick:

[peasea]

Go for it, get a Superglide.

IF you regret it? - well at least you'll not go through life wondering about what it's like having a Harley to ride..


Of course if you get a H-D you then have to start buying bling, tassles and a really thick skin...

.....and the 'right' sunnies.

[Crasherfromwayback]

I'm thinking of shelling out to get a Harley. My prefference is a second hand night train softail. At 6' I tried a 05 deuce the other day and it felt a real comfortable fit.Apart from taking big deep breaths at the price. My XV is a bit short and I kinda sit on the pillion seat sometimes.
My questions are.
Full Insurance is it seriously worth it and can it even be found at a reasonable rate.
Is the theft risk still higher for hogs than other bikes and if so what are the best ways of keeping your bike safe.
Anyone out there riding EVO softails have an opinion on them and has anyone who has owned a Harley gone back to another bike brand after.
Why are they so closely priced as km and age dont seem to count for much. All other vehicles depreciate like hell.
Does anyone have an idea of margins the dealers generally work on.

The Jap cruisers are still excellent bikes but this Harley thing has been chewing my arm off for years. Like they say there is never as good a time like the present.
Lots of questions. Thanks for any feedback.

A couple of things I hope help you mate...at six foot, I think you'd fit a Dyna (Wideglide perhaps) better. The Dyna frame is slightly larger than the Softail, so has a bit more leg room.

Ins is no big deal...HD's are no more expensive to insure than a Japanese bike.

Next...if you can afford it, do yourself a favour and buy a Twin Cam (99 on for the Dynas, and 2000 on for the Softails). Evo's will be worth next to nothing VERY shortly. New Harleys have come back in price 10% again this year, and the used market has (obviously) had to come back accordingly. Because we've now had Twin Cams for basically nine years, they're becoming far more affordable...and the poor old Evo is not that wanted anymore.

Feel free to PM me to see what I may have in the price range you want.

Pete (Wellington Motorcycles)

[The Lone Rider]

and a really thick skin...

Especially if you are a harley cruiser rider and use kb eh!? :doh:

[Coldrider]

and a really thick skin...

Will you still wave to us commoners....
I'm not a HD fan but the 'night train' is the coolest model.

[sheddy]

Hi Pete, have replied to Clint about one of your bikes. You guys have some nice stock at the moment but the pricing confuses the hell out of me. Some newer ones are cheaper than older higher km bikes. The blacked out bikes seem dearer than chromier versions.
Dynas vs softails. I guess you buy one style and then your next bike will be the other style.[ there is always the "next bike"]. Night style bikes just sell better I guess. Dyna models must handle better in the twisties due to ground clearance ?.Thanks

[Crasherfromwayback]

Dyna models must handle better in the twisties due to ground clearance ?.Thanks

Some Dynas do have better ground clearance...but because the motor is rubber mounted, the frame isn't held together as tightly as a Softail (rigid mount), so they can feel a tad vague with higher cornering speeds. It wasn't until '06' that the Dynas got much bigger frame tubes and better frame gusseting and much larger fork tube dia that they felt as stiff as a Softail.

[Headbanger]

A couple of things I hope help you mate...at six foot, I think you'd fit a Dyna (Wideglide perhaps) better. The Dyna frame is slightly larger than the Softail, so has a bit more leg room.

Ins is no big deal...HD's are no more expensive to insure than a Japanese bike.

Next...if you can afford it, do yourself a favour and buy a Twin Cam (99 on for the Dynas, and 2000 on for the Softails). Evo's will be worth next to nothing VERY shortly. New Harleys have come back in price 10% again this year, and the used market has (obviously) had to come back accordingly. Because we've now had Twin Cams for basically nine years, they're becoming far more affordable...and the poor old Evo is not that wanted anymore.

Feel free to PM me to see what I may have in the price range you want.

Pete (Wellington Motorcycles)


Interesting, Can you define next to nothing for me? Thanks. And if you could elaborate on "very shortly" I'll make sure to mark it on the calender.

Seems to me that all Harley dealerships have a cut off point/year whatever where they wont touch bikes from.Probably makes perfect sense for a company to ensure their stock is all less then 5 years old, Still doesn't mean squat out in the real world. Bikes your not interested in don't become worthless just because you won't touch them.

Not that I would pay your prices anyway.

Here's my prediction, Plenty of love out there for all era of Harley's. All are worth more then nothing, No skin off my nose if my bike has dropped a few grand when I go to sell it many many years down the road. I gauge worth on how much enjoyment I get from something not from supposed resale value.



Go with the gut.

[Crasherfromwayback]

Interesting, Can you define next to nothing for me? Thanks. And if you could elaborate on "very shortly" I'll make sure to mark it on the calender.

Seems to me that all Harley dealerships have a cut off point/year whatever where they wont touch bikes from.Probably makes perfect sense for a company to ensure their stock is all less then 5 years old, Still doesn't mean squat out in the real world. Bikes your not interested in don't become worthless just because you won't touch them.

Not that I would pay your prices anyway.

Here's my prediction, Plenty of love out there for all era of Harley's. All are worth more then nothing, No skin off my nose if my bike has dropped a few grand when I go to sell it many many years down the road. I gauge worth on how much enjoyment I get from something not from supposed resale value.



Go with the gut.

Settle dowm mate...I was trying to help. You tell me what an old Shovel or Iron Head Sporty is worth now? Not much right (unless it's a really original shovel, and then only certain models). So early Evo's will be worth very little shortly too. And an 80's Sporty is now only worth around 5-6k.

And you wouldn't pay our prices anyway? That's cool mate...but our prices are pretty fair I'd say. Especially as everything we sell comes with a full engine and gearbox warranty.

[peasea]

Settle dowm mate...I was trying to help. You tell me what an old Shovel or Iron Head Sporty is worth now? Not much right (unless it's a really original shovel, and then only certain models). So early Evo's will be worth very little shortly too. And an 80's Sporty is now only worth around 5-6k.

And you wouldn't pay our prices anyway? That's cool mate...but our prices are pretty fair I'd say. Especially as everything we sell comes with a full engine and gearbox warranty.

From the blue.............
We've been keeping an eye on your prices and stock for a few weeks, now that my other half has decided to buy a rubber-mounted 1200 Custom Sporty and I don't think your tags are over the top at all.

There's every chance we'll buy two machines early in the new year and I dare say Mr D will sharpen the pencil further for a double deal. There aren't many shops I'd do business with but you guys are on the short list.

I've had my details on your books for a while and even though I don't buy heaps from you the service is always good. Pass that on to your parts staff and keep up the good work.:niceone:

[Crasherfromwayback]

Cheers mate. If you're good enough to see me, I can assure you you'll be looked after!

[Headbanger]

Settle dowm mate...I was trying to help. You tell me what an old Shovel or Iron Head Sporty is worth now? Not much right (unless it's a really original shovel, and then only certain models). So early Evo's will be worth very little shortly too. And an 80's Sporty is now only worth around 5-6k.

And you wouldn't pay our prices anyway? That's cool mate...but our prices are pretty fair I'd say. Especially as everything we sell comes with a full engine and gearbox warranty.


Settle down?

I was merely engaging you in conversation.

The comment in regards to prices was merely stating the fact I don't shop for bikes at dealerships, I'd imagine if the bank balance allowed me to walk into your shop and take my pick then my position would be different.

Aside from that, Your argument fell over when you used an 80's sporty as an example, I sold my 87 Sporty for 8 grand in 94, If that same bike would now sell for 6 then its held its value to an amazing extent.

And lets not make comparisons between single cam to double cam evo's and evo's to shovels, Thats just being silly.

[sheddy]

Thank you all of you who took the time to assist me with my questions.
I was going to chase a private sale bike. However Its not always easy to find exactly what you want and then waiting for the right bike and deal to front up can go on for ever.
Checked out softys and Dynas today and after much consideration bit the bullet and purchased a 05 softail Deuce. The seat length to forward controls is very good and this really tidy machine fits my basic criteria. I am happy with the price a bit higher than I wanted but with the minimal depreciation I'm not too worried about taking a hit when it comes time to change.I'm now a Harley owner and can at least say I have been there and done that whichever way it works out. Most of the sales guys I have come in contact with have been pleasant to deal with both electronically and physically,apart from one guy who shall remain nameless giving his shop mechanics some unneccresary bullshit to build up his ego. Fortunately he wasnt in a Harley or European establishment.
Big Bikes in Hamilton had the deal for me. I recommend anyone looking to purchase to talk to them as well when doing the rounds. :first:Not withstanding the mainstream guys were helpful as well, they just didn't have the right bike for me on the day.
Not that Im a Pussy whipped individual [PWI]. Hard men look away now.
I would like to also thank my long suffering shed moving wife [ She is low maintenance can lift heavy things and dosn't have plastic nails preventing assistance with dirty metal items] for giving me the opportunity to spend some serious dosh on a toy she cant hope to gain any benefit from. :love:
God I'm getting soft. Next stop for me will be old fart Roadking I think.. That will start another debate I'm sure. See you on the highway and by the way anyone looking for a low km tidy XV1100 pm me I may have a deal for you.
Ps. not that you care, but if your on a bike and I'm not tank slapping I will still give you a wave. Now I need something for this grin or my face or its going to really ache tomorrow

[jafar]

Thank you all of you who took the time to assist me with my questions.
I was going to chase a private sale bike. However Its not always easy to find exactly what you want and then waiting for the right bike and deal to front up can go on for ever.
Checked out softys and Dynas today and after much consideration bit the bullet and purchased a 05 softail Deuce. The seat length to forward controls is very good and this really tidy machine fits my basic criteria. I am happy with the price a bit higher than I wanted but with the minimal depreciation I'm not too worried about taking a hit when it comes time to change.I'm now a Harley owner and can at least say I have been there and done that whichever way it works out. Most of the sales guys I have come in contact with have been pleasant to deal with both electronically and physically,apart from one guy who shall remain nameless giving his shop mechanics some unneccresary bullshit to build up his ego. Fortunately he wasnt in a Harley or European establishment.
Big Bikes in Hamilton had the deal for me. I recommend anyone looking to purchase to talk to them as well when doing the rounds. :first:Not withstanding the mainstream guys were helpful as well, they just didn't have the right bike for me on the day.
Not that Im a Pussy whipped individual [PWI]. Hard men look away now.
I would like to also thank my long suffering shed moving wife [ She is low maintenance can lift heavy things and dosn't have plastic nails preventing assistance with dirty metal items] for giving me the opportunity to spend some serious dosh on a toy she cant hope to gain any benefit from. :love:
God I'm getting soft. Next stop for me will be old fart Roadking I think.. That will start another debate I'm sure. See you on the highway and by the way anyone looking for a low km tidy XV1100 pm me I may have a deal for you.
Ps. not that you care, but if your on a bike and I'm not tank slapping I will still give you a wave. Now I need something for this grin or my face or its going to really ache tomorrow

Nice choice, post some pics sometime :niceone:

[scumdog]

Good one sheddy - sounds like a fine choice, just be prepared for a shit-load of the unwashed telling you what a POOR choice you've made in selecting a breed of bike notorious for having poor handling, poor brakes, antiquated engineering, oil leaks, unreliablity.... the list goes on.

But as in all bike ownership: You made the choice for YOU, not to please the rest of the word.

[sheddy]

I hope the pic comes up.

[scumdog]

I hope the pic comes up.

ANOTHER white Harley - I'm impressed!!

I guess it's white pearl like my T-Sport??

And I love the 2-into-1 zorst - exactly what I intend to fit to my bike.

[NighthawkNZ]

Good one sheddy - sounds like a fine choice, just be prepared for a shit-load of the unwashed telling you what a POOR choice you've made in selecting a breed of bike notorious for having poor handling, poor brakes, antiquated engineering, oil leaks, unreliablity.... the list goes on.



Oh I just thought that was us honda riders that get that.... :lol:

[98tls]

Does look nice in white for sure......ive not seen many Harleys in white,in fact only one other and thats SDs,they look so good it makes you wonder why theres not more around.

[sheddy]

Yea White pearl sounds about right.
I used to bag Harleys as well and I felt that was valid up until the EVO bikes without big mods. These twin cams are something else. I learnt not to bag other peoples rides years ago. Ride it first then have your say. I have had A GPZ900 so know what fast is all about. These days I need my licence and there are too many HP cars out there to even think about going loose. Many of our roads are too crap to ride fast anyway with a high chance of survival.They even make you walk at40km over the limit know I believe. Hey this thing hauls ass plenty enough for me. I try to comply but the testosterone is too hard to supress.The sound did I mention the sound mmmmmmmmmmmmmyes:yes:

[peasea]

Yea White pearl sounds about right.
I used to bag Harleys as well and I felt that was valid up until the EVO bikes without big mods. These twin cams are something else. I learnt not to bag other peoples rides years ago. Ride it first then have your say. I have had A GPZ900 so know what fast is all about. These days I need my licence and there are too many HP cars out there to even think about going loose. Many of our roads are too crap to ride fast anyway with a high chance of survival.They even make you walk at40km over the limit know I believe. Hey this thing hauls ass plenty enough for me. I try to comply but the testosterone is too hard to supress.The sound did I mention the sound mmmmmmmmmmmmmyes:yes:

A good move, well done. The reasons you 've posted for going HD are close to mine. Yours looks like a nice machine, enjoy it but for keeerists sake don't go 111kph or we'll all die. It's true; ask anyone at LTNZ.

[07fatboy]

I hope the pic comes up.

good choice mate hope your having fun...stay safe

[popelli]

...and the poor old Evo is not that wanted anymore...

great because its probably the best engine harley ever made. and for those that want an evo there being cheaper means they are an absolute bargain

the evo was spot on from day one unlike the twin cam which is beset with problems resulting in a major makeover with the 96" version - why did so many parts from the 88" engine need changing

their are too many rumours surrounding the twin cam and its throw away crank and how long the crank lasts before its needs to be thrown away

I have had an evo electraglide thats now 21 years old and been round the clock a few times and the botton end hasn't been touched.

when and if it ever wears out it will either be rebuilt or replaced with an s&s 96" evo style motor

[peasea]

great because its probably the best engine harley ever made. and for those that want an evo there being cheaper means they are an absolute bargain

the evo was spot on from day one unlike the twin cam which is beset with problems resulting in a major makeover with the 96" version - why did so many parts from the 88" engine need changing

their are too many rumours surrounding the twin cam and its throw away crank and how long the crank lasts before its needs to be thrown away

I have had an evo electraglide thats now 21 years old and been round the clock a few times and the botton end hasn't been touched.

when and if it ever wears out it will either be rebuilt or replaced with an s&s 96" evo style motor

Have to agree.

I just flicked my FXR and it was running fine at 97,000k's. I simply want to get something a bit younger and was thinking of going Twin Cam. However, after talking to a few bods I might just stay Evo and use the performance bits I have under the house.

A WG up to about '97 looks attractive.

[scumdog]

Given the above info I'll refrain from fitting a 96" kit to my Superglide in case it blows up on me.

Having said that I haven't seen too many twin-cams at the side of the road with shagged engines, in fact apart from an early production problem with cam bearings I have not heard of any problems with them here or on the US H-D forums.

[HenryDorsetCase]

I hope the pic comes up.

thats badass! (in a good way)

[peasea]

Given the above info I'll refrain from fitting a 96" kit to my Superglide in case it blows up on me.

Having said that I haven't seen too many twin-cams at the side of the road with shagged engines, in fact apart from an early production problem with cam bearings I have not heard of any problems with them here or on the US H-D forums.


I've only heard complaints about overheating on the big-inch deals and someone mentioned crankpin hiccups on the earlier TC's. Mind you, I've heard some complaints about Evo cam bearings but only had anything to do with one such mishap. We fixed it several years ago and it's still running.

Perhaps it's as much to with the operator and maintenance as much as faulty machinery.

[bernardf]

http://www.hdforums.com/
http://www.cvoharley.com/
CVO is real good for the 110 motor

:Playnice:

[Bruiser]

Have to agree.

I just flicked my FXR and it was running fine at 97,000k's. I simply want to get something a bit younger and was thinking of going Twin Cam. However, after talking to a few bods I might just stay Evo and use the performance bits I have under the house.

A WG up to about '97 looks attractive.

Or even a 98', eh pc. :msn-wink:

[Toaster]

...Full Insurance is it seriously worth it and can it even be found at a reasonable rate.

...The Jap cruisers are still excellent bikes but this Harley thing has been chewing my arm off for years.

Mate, I figure we only live once and that ain't that long either. To me, it is all about relationships and experiences, so go for it and experience a Harley if you can afford it and that is what floats you boat.

If there is something you really want to do in life, go do it. Otherwise you will always wonder what it would have been like and never knew.

Insurance - if you never make a claim, at least it was peace of mind even if it is expensive. If you come off, then you would always say it was worth it on any higher value bike and it also indemnifies you.

I bought a Jap bike because a new one was a lot cheaper than a Harley. I might look at a Harley in 10-15 years time myself, but they only one I like is the v-rod for my own tastes.

[homer]

get a quote from swann insurance it will be cheaper than most others ....halved my months premium for a gsx 600

[Cherryrob]

Hi Sheddy,Well done on your purchase.You wont regret it. We ride (on Harleys)to the Vicclub race days as we sponsor 2 Ducati 749rs.Come over and say hello if your down that way or catch up and come down with us.Cheers Rob Check out www.ktlbikes.co.nz for your next purchase
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