Buying my first bike...maybe a Harley?

Hello all:

Forgive me for the long post; I promise there are questions at the end. Also, I saw the other post by Motormycle, and it gave me some insight, but maybe my questions might create some different answers.

At 39, I'm Better-Late-Than-Never to the riding scene. I've registered for Rider's Edge; my first class is on August 21. To say I'm excited is an understatement. It probably goes without saying that I will soon buy my first bike.

To be blunt, I want a Harley (just love the styling, sound, etc.), but my finances can't take (at this time) the prices that most Harleys are fetching. I'm probably going to get a 750 Shadow or something to learn on, and save my pennies for a used Dyna or Softail later on down the line.

Now, that said, I see that there are some Harleys out there that can be had for under 5K. These are mostly older Sporsters (which I'm not opposed to), and even some older Dynas available for around 8K. If I could find something used at a dealer where I could finance it, I might be swayed that way.

I know I should probably get a small beater that I don't mind laying down to learn on, but if the right Harley comes along, I may not be able to pass it up.

My question(s): are there any models and or years that I should be wary of? Any other "good things to know" as I dive into the world of used Harleys? Any other insight you can offer to a first-time buyer?

Thanks! I really appreciate any and all advice...

--Anthony

Welcome to the forum Anthony.

I agree that you are better off learning on a smaller motorcycle then moving up to a larger one once you get comfortable and proficient with riding. Personally, if I were new to riding, I would consider buying a Buell Blast to learn on. (The bikes you will take the rider's edge course on most likely) These run under $5000 new and have plenty of power (500CC) to have fun while you are learning.

Sportsters are pretty reasonable in price. The newer models have rubber-mounted engines which make the ride a lot more comfortable than the solid mounted ones. I would suggest the 1200 once you get your learning established if you deside on the Sporty.

I'd stay away from the AMF years 69-81. My best friend just got a 93 Wide Glide for $6750. Look around.

Afternoon Anthony and welcome to the Forum! :D

Yeah, I definitely agree with both Dod's & Kev's advise on this. Starting out smaller is always the safest bet. And IF you start out on something say like a Honda Rebel 250 or Yamaha Virago 250 odds are good you won't have any problem (later) re-selling those particular models (and yikes, in THIS day and age you might even make a little?!). Later if you want the 'Harley Experience' without the hassle, go for a later model H-D.

Myself, I'm really coming full circle: I mostly started out Harley-wise with all those AMF 'Classics'. I really got used to them, and do date I feel very comfortable WITH them. They are machines that require a person's participation and attention. I'm not saying in a bad way, but in a way that most people just don't have the time or patience to commit to these days?! The later one's are seriously more suited to most people. Myself I just seem to be 'butting heads with them'?! I dunno... the older school H-D's just seem to work better for me these days (not counting my VERY Modern Victory!)?! JMHO....

Enjoy the forum,
LRG

I learned on my 1200 Sportster. I don't really know what to tell you to stay away from, but since I have the 1200 Sportster and my husband has the Dyna Wide Glide, I can tell you that Sportsters 07 and up are Fuel injected. Dynas added fuel injection in 05. Also 2004 and up Sportster are rubber mounted, so there is less vibration. Any of them can be set up for comfort on long rides. I ride mine over 500 miles per day when traveling and have over 30,000 miles on my 2007.

Hello all:

My question(s): are there any models and or years that I should be wary of? Any other "good things to know" as I dive into the world of used Harleys? Any other insight you can offer to a first-time buyer?

Thanks! I really appreciate any and all advice...

--Anthony


Get what you want... get a Harley with a EVO engine or twin cam. The old shovel and pan heads are just too much trouble for daily riding... unless you are into working on them.

Find a bike that fits your riding desires... if you crave touring... get a Ultraglide. Get a Heritage softtail if you will be touring and riding around town... If you are mainly an around town driver... get a sportster, FXR, Dyna...

Sit on a lot of bikes... maybe rent a couple of Harleys and get your feet wet. Take your time and buy what you like.

The new models are coming out next month and dealers are aggressively clearing out their current stock. Several dealers are also preparing for their demo days. It's a great chance to try out a few bikes.

Smaller models are always a best bet for starting. You can't go straight to a brand new Harley or Ducati and expect to excel on it. Start with lower CCs until you feel you can truly go ahead with an upgrade. I've seen too many trashed new bikes. Such a shame.

Thanks for the advice everyone. Yes, I'm likely going to go with a small beater for the first year or so (an older 600 or 750 Shadow, perhaps...I like their look and hear they're reliable), and then set my sights on a Sportster or maybe a Dyna.

I'm looking for a commuter more than anything. Something that sips gas (or at least drinks conservatively) and will comfortably get me around town.

Thanks again...

--Ant.

I was in the same situation 3 years ago when I started riding. Like you I have always loved Harleys. But my pocket book could not shell out the coin. I was very glad that I didnt get into a Harley right off the bat though. I ended up with a Honda Shadow ACE 750 which has some pretty cool styling. I just recently upgraded to my first Harley and although I do love my new bike there are some saftey features that Harleys dont have that some of the others have. On my Honda if I put the bike in gear and the kick stand was down the bike would shut off instantly. I found this very helpful as a newbie to remember to check for this. Also the just the weight difference of the bike is a huge factor in learning. Sorry to get long winded but hope this helps.

Tim