Harley Repairs

[Red02FXST]

I have owned several Harley's. None needed more than normall
maintenance, oil change, brake pads and tires.
I own a 87 FLHTC now with 42,000 on the clock. I just got
finished with a valve job, new SE pistons and Andrews 23 cam
also replace the Keihen carb with a 2005 CV rejeted with 48 pilot.
All the work except the cylinder boring and valves was done by
myself.
Looking forward to many years to come of enjoyable riding.
Only things I'd like to replace is engine mount, swing arm
bushings. The stator and rotor are okay for now but
future replacement wouldn't hurt. Starter is okay for now
but could use rebuilt too. Swiches could use replacement in future too.

Kenny

[black05flhrci]

I agree with Red02FXST

I would advise one thing. If you do buy one, just RIDE the thing

Don't let anyone tell you that you MUST modify it in any way. Once you allow your best bud's brother-in-law to start messing with it, that is when the problems start.

As a new rider, you really don't NEED that extra power. Many people I have ridden with have bikes with stock motors, exhausts, and components. They had no trouble keeping up with the worked bikes while riding in normal situations.

[fatguy]

Harleys are indeed maintenance hogs, not just hogs.

Had a 1100 sabre before the FB. The handling and smooth ride was worth the difference in gold.

Never put more mile on a bike in the last 35 years than the HD.

In-law had an 03 VROD. Different animal, mucho technology, I'd bet comparable to the J's comfort (not too bad).

Something tells me the rod won't need as much attention in the maintenance dept but when it does you'll feel like the lone ranger.

Should be better than the 2010 electric glide with potatoe potatoe speakers - oh teh noes!

[hdmarsh77]

The high milage record goes to an HD and I believe the next high mile bike is also a HD.

I have a picture somewhere of a guy from Oconto, WI that pulled his bass boat to Canada every year with his HD. Had around 450,000 miles on it when the picture was taken.

Another thing to think about. When there is a problem with a HD it is usually quite east to get to the problem and fix it. I think GoldWings need an almost complete dis-assembly to work on.

The guy next door just bought a ten year old Yamaha sportbike with 44,000 miles. I can't believe what a piece of junk it is. It's covered in plastic parts and after every ride another piece cracks and to replace them is very expensive. Everything hads to come off just to get to the engine. The front whell bearing just went out so we had to jack it up to get the front wheel off. Forget it. That was an interesting chore.

I'm not saying HDs are the best. Thay can have many problems, just like every other make ever made but they can also give many many years of trouble free riding.