Performance Harleys Bought Used Are The Way To Go... Sometimes

[@GixxerFoo]

Do you worry about buying a used bike with a lot of performance work done or just ride it and not worry about it?

[@SuperdogRW713]

You're gonna worry a bit until you ride it enough that you get more and more confident with it.

[@getoffmygrass6974]

Either an owner is meticulous or they aren't, Mods won't change their habits. Plenty of staged bikes out there that are more reliable after the upgrades than they were stock.

[@lancerogers8892]

Sad to say I know someone that was soo wanting a Harley,, he went to a local dealership here in Tulsa. They saw him coming… he traded in a good Honda plus $10,000 for a 02 RK with 89,000 and they said it’s hoped up to a 103 and has a 6 speed transmission ….. He proudly road it over to our hangout, and found out its an 88tc and a 5 speed…. There was NO paperwork for the motor and he believed the salesman…. But it Does have a beautiful paint job

[@markmixon1121]

I just bought a 08 Fat boy and the only mod was v&h pipes. And I was happy about that because that probably means that it wasn't road hard . 96" has plenty of power for me. No oil inside air cleaner cover, blow by is minimal.

[@wortheffort]

I'm curious if there is such a thing as a parts kit for an entire engine. I.E. an S&S engine unassembled. Something we could put together and know all the parts are ideal instead of buying a used engine tearing it apart then sending everything to a machine shop to be surfaced.

[@georgeveneziano2754]

Bought mine box stock then rebuilt the thing so I do know and I have original build sheet and all docs. Definitely hang on to that for sale purposes. Great review

[@GixxerFoo]

Thank you! It's pretty rare anyone actually still has all the stock parts!

[@onemoreevan6578]

I don't usually buy bikes with a bunch of mods, not because I don't trust someone's mechanical ability, but because people in my area seem to think throwing a slip-on exhaust and a set of handlebars makes their bike worth just as much a new one. Maybe we can get a video on "I know what I got" Harley syndrome?

[@briangoldy8784]

Florida in a Nutshell. Throw in S&S cams, Pipes an a Tuner.. Want Retail Price.

[@metalted6128]

The world now has that mentality.

[@MrZlooze]

"I know what it's worth..."

[@vancedyer755]

Good point. I see this in the gun world as well. Priced beyond reality.

[@twinsmotogarage1866]

Great video! The salesman who I bought my LRS from contacted the previous owner who traded in and asked about modifications. He said he had everything done at a different dealer. Called that dealer and they had the cam work and 1k sevice documented. The previous owner sold me a bunch of extra parts for a couple hundred and even sent me the Dyno papers. Talk about ideal situation!!

[@dalehuber8219]

It's an engine not a motor. I watch every week. Excellent show

[@atomicwedgie8176]

It's RPM, not RPM's... just thought I would throw that in.

[@BobbySchaffer]

SRK says “drive a motorcycle” ?

[@markmixon1121]

I wonder why they call it motor oil ?

[@mikehawk4665]

I got my bike stock with 2k miles after doing suspension full stage 1 bars and other stuff if i need another bike some day at least bars and stage 1 for me no more stock bikes but it is cool that i did everything or had it done and basically got it new with 2k miles

[@xlr8r3VA]

I prefer stock bikes so I can mod them the way I want. That's the nice thing about Harley's, the are a blank slate from the factory ready for the artist.

[@PeterAngles-jq7gr]

They're an unreliable slow piece of shlt from the factory Fixed it for you

[@xlr8r3VA]

@@PeterAngles-jq7gr I own two used Harleys. A 2000 883 Sportster which had 33,000 on it when I bought it. The other is a ‘95 Electra Glide Classic which had 95,800 miles on it when I bought it. Neither bike has left me stranded… ever! And, I can still completely rebuild each bike with new parts if I ever want to. Let’s see you do that with a rice burner!

[@PeterAngles-jq7gr]

@@xlr8r3VA you Harley people seem to think needing to rebuild a motorcycle is some sort of bonus Whilst the rest of us just ride ours

[@xlr8r3VA]

@@PeterAngles-jq7gr outside of BMWs, I don’t see any Euro or Japanese bikes that can match Harley for longevity. How many 50-60 year old bikes do you still see on the road that aren’t Harley’s? Not many! Plus Harley’s market share is over 50% compared to all other bikes combined. That ought to tell you something.

[@jimmansi9046]

@@PeterAngles-jq7gr with Harley riders it’s all about bragging about what mods they did to their bikes I’m lucky enough to have a 2005 Superglide with a Stage one, it’s plenty fast enough for me and I have no problem keeping up with the bigger bikes, I also have a 2014 GSXR 750 which I use for track riding and occasional street rides, digging into the motor on your Harley is only going to cause problems eventually

[@josephjeker6495]

When I buy used ,which is all I buy I stay close to stock Low mileage 1 owner. I've been riding awhile and I like setting them up to fit me and my riding style

[@donaldcross7978]

All I can say my son built his bike , had a Dyno done on it. 136 hp , traded it in for a newer bike - traded on a 2022 Road Glide. His crank , cams , heads Ect done By Zipper's ,outa Baltimore, Md. It does not have many miles on it. It was a Black Street Glide. He just wanted a Road Glide ! Beats me , who ever buys it will Get a Good Bike. He Traded it at Fairfax, Va. Last I knew it was Still there , as of 10 Day's ago.

[@MrTPF1]

I would be VERY reluctant to buy a bike that's got performance mods on it. I have zero faith that the mods were done right, even by a dealer.

[@vancedyer755]

A slippery slope indeed. I would need to know who did the work and verify the operational integrity of the installation of the mods if I don't know who installed the mods.

[@stephaneracicot791]

bought my 2002 harley softail used.61,000 km im in ontario here.bought the bike i guess i got lucky no issues at all.got the big bore kit from millwakee installed 7400 dollars canadian and this little frame of a bike hauls a.....ride like the 1970s no windshield nothing no sadle bags nothing on it plain ol harley..

[@GixxerFoo]

That's what I would love to see us shift back to! When did everyone decide they needed a touring bike to bar hop, what happened to just good old cruisers?!

[@fq7879]

I have a friend that was the finance manager for a hd dealership. Several years ago he purchased a 2003 deuce that was traded in for a new bike. The bike was beautiful and very fast. It had many high performance upgrades. The bike only had 16k miles on it. He started hearing a strange clicking noise so he brought it in for service at the dealership he worked at. They told him that it would never have the next service. The cam chain tensioners were completely worn out. I told him that i can't believe that someone would supposedly do all this high performance work and didn't change the tensioners. He had the tensioners changed and got rid of the bike.

[@ThePNWRiderWA]

I go by service records first. I find out where it was serviced and have them then search by the VIN. Most of the time I can get a pretty good picture. If they could not tell me that info I would probably pass.

[@jacobmoll2878]

When I bought my road glide ultra fltruse used, I didn't realize all that had been and not been done to it. Exhaust 259e cam intake etc I just knew it was very strong above 4. I also didn't know that the lifters hadn't been upgraded 😢. Lifter failed took out cam and of course I was not in a good place financially when it happened. I replaced it with the good deal I could get feuling reaper 574. And it was not a happy time. Down on power my friend with a stock cvo 110 was now able to blow past me and my range was down after it was tuned on dyno. I was not happy. Got offered a great deal on a thundermax and took it. Now my power was a little better but range was usually in 170 or 180 mile area. Well I decided to get a different cam now things are a little better money wise. I was thinking either back to "stock" 255 or a zippers 587, but ended up getting recommended the woods tw-7h. My riding is usually down low but occasionally I do ride hard. A lot of commuting but also use it for long vacation trips and around town and shorter day trips. So I need a good all around cam that I hope will get me a little range back. Did I do good getting the 7h? Was there a better option in your opinion? Most of my riding is between 2200 and 3200 rpm but when I get the chance to go to texas or out west it likely will be running higher at times.

[@mrloudpipes68]

I was told my factory bike is more reliable, so I do nothing but service it. Change bars to make it a more comfortable ride.

[@MoeLarrycurly1]

I hope to find a shovel project ⚡🏍️

[@phishin81]

Bought my Evo fat boy with a built motor second hand. I know who built it but don't have the specs so i was skeptical. It's an old build with low miles, runs like a raped ape. I got a good price but I definitely rolled the dice, hopefully it works out in the long run but only time will tell...

[@GixxerFoo]

You got more than most have on an old build, at least you have an idea of what the quality was when it was done. I love getting my hands on an old build and going "holy shit this thing runs"! Can't be a good price to enjoy the power on!

[@robbyclark6915]

All the bikes I see for sale are almost stock! Maybe some mufflers and a new seat, or a backrest and windshield, but that’s typically about it.

[@asquared7861]

Good video! Just got a 74 ironhead with fatbob tanks and wide rear fender, 8 over front end and big wheels 18/21. Tearing into it right now, rewiring and checkin on the cams. Guy handed me a stock set when I got it and said it’s got a hot set in it. Thing boogies but curiosity kills me.

[@majasso1888]

I was fortunate enough to find a 06 Fatboy with the 120r and the previous owner had ALL the documentation including receipts, dyno charts, and manuals for all the work done to the bike. Only issue I ran into is the tuner he used to tune the bike was so old the local HD dealer did not have the software for it so it’s pretty much useless. I was surprised that it was listed for sale for over 6 months before I bought it. Any ideas (other than the ones already mentioned) why potential buyers would shy away from buying this bike?

[@harleyhawk7959]

have the build sheet for my motor, it goes with bike when I sell it. from flywheel up.

[@mrbigg7255]

Hot rodding yourself is the most fun.

[@kevinmc5249]

Very good information here! I’m in the market for my first Harley and this is very sound advice. I have the video paused and LMAO at 7:05 - 7:25. 😂

[@jeffstonecipher1594]

I also paused at that section. Mostly because the guy doing that tailpipe dragger wheely (nails on a chalkboard) is on a Road King Classic -the very bike I own!! Would never even attempt doing something that stupid - but I just have the 96ci stage I. He's giving sound advise though, avoid anything modded beyond stage I for your first Harley and shoot for low miles if you can spring for it. Good luck to you 🙂

[@btu91111]

my 05 Deluxe I just bought has some mods but I dont know what I have. I think before I start tearing into it too far I should take it to the drag strip and see what time I can get. What would be considered a good time for a twin cam 88? I did see a screemin eagle cam plate and it sounds like a cam everybody says. Also it was running hot as hell until I put the love jugs fans on it so It may be souped up some. I dont know maybe I am just easy to please.

[@BobbySchaffer]

every harley video is an add for Goldwing

[@chrismartin500]

Meh. No soul. Good bikes but they arent cool

[@geraldgoodiii6993]

A dealer will try to sell that sort of stuff for what it would cost to get the bike and all the mods

[@alanjones4358]

What on earth is that a picture of at 4 minutes in?

[@chrisburch9513]

Aftermarket parts like manufacturer parts come in two sizes: Keepers and Disposable. Keepers are serviceable and rebuild-able. Disposable are upgrades with a shelf life: fluids, pads, tires, etc... It's good to know the difference and counter price accordingly.

[@scrumthebum2451]

I’ve got paperwork on my heads from zipper’s cam spec card & dyno sheets on my Twinkie. Might sell it and get a cvo 🤑🤑

[@manmeetsharma2632]

I bought second hand Softail slim 107 earlier this year interstate. So when i had chance to take it above 3000 rpm for first time after buying it, I was surprised by how hard it was pulling. I also noticed it had black pushrod covers, a tuner and idle was different than stock M8. I went to my local hd dealer, they put the vin number in there system and I found it had power cam in it. I think even the dealer I bought it from didn't knew it had stage two power cam in it because price they sold me was very reasonable.

[@Spike_6280]

Very well presented. Full of great information to consider with all of the variables involved in buying a used bike. I have had good luck so far. Thanks for posting this video.

[@Bags103]

Hey Gixxier foo, It's been a bit . I just hit my personal best top speed,134.5 mph (220km) 2014 fatbob heavy breather Vance & Hines Pro pipes as well and fp3 tuner. I love the fatbob it handles like it's in rails.

[@nathanmoody6360]

Also if you by a bike that has been Dyno make sure you get the tune or have it down loaded to a thumb drive

[@jerlaine1638]

I'll choose a stock bike over a built bike EVERY time from now on. I can't guarantee that the previous owner did the work to my standard, and after the non stop issues my Fatboy had yeah from now on I want a good bike

[@d1mennis]

Any time you buy something used it's a crap shoot! I personally would rather buy a stock bike or a stage 1 kit bike. Something that hasn't been opened up and do my own mods.

[@hellbilly6532]

I don’t trust what folks will tell about a bike they’re trying to sell,

[@arthurleino]

Good info for buying a used Bike.

[@nealmoyer7216]

I HAVE 2020 107 WITH STAGE 2 UPGRADE . ALL DOCUMENTED BY RELIABLE SHOP. IM 74 YEARS OLD AND DO NOT ABUSE MY BIKE. SO MAYBE BUY FROM ANE OLDER PERSON MIGHT BE A GOOD IDEA.

[@MrTheDays1]

Just bought my 2002 FXDL from the original owner

[@Kevin-ne3tl]

@@MrTheDays1 Great bike, I have the same.

[@larrygruber5895]

Cpl weeks ago I bought a 21 ultra limited that had stage 2,Reinhart exhaust decatted at about 3k miles all work was done at the Harley dealership that i got it from and previous owner bought it new February of 22 it had all services done on time it does have high mileage at 33k so I did get a 3 year esp i feel i got a pretty fair deal at $22 k and the previous owner is a older guy that traded it for a trike

[@j-bird1707]

My 97 FXDL definitely got some stanky done to her. Bought it from a dealer a few years ago for 5k. At first it felt like a standard EVO but I could hear something was different. Once you get over 4 rpm it morphs into an absolute rocket! Not a clue what’s been done lol. Popped the plate off and could see an older style ignition setting with the little square pegs that click up and down. Set at 7500rpm… If anyone knows what this might be let me know thanks!

[@briankeenan4901]

There used to be a Harley dealer near me and I know 2 guys that bought performance upgraded Harleys from this special dealer that used to bore out the engines and put bigger pistons in them. Both Harleys from this dealer ended up having the piston wear right through the case. Of course, Harley ceased to deal with this dealer. People tend to believe dishonest morons more than honest reputable people.

[@racex3721]

I'd rather know whats done to the bike in detail rather than just ride off into the sunset and think welp seems good to me. Harleys have to many unknown variables.

[@rarebreed9208]

"I don't understand it." "It was running real badass until I tried to ride it."👍👍👍

[@PeterAngles-jq7gr]

Sounds like every Harley ever made

[@Kevin-ne3tl]

@@PeterAngles-jq7gr Got a hard on for Harleys Peter? At least your name fits.

[@jimharrison4526]

This is exactly why I try to buy new or slightly ridden bikes. And even then (without the documentation) it's hard to tell what's been done to it like you said. Thanks for the videos.

[@MoeLarrycurly1]

I think honesty is the first thing that disappears 😢😢

[@racex3721]

This is exactly what happend to me. Bought my 2017 low rider s from a dealership i noticed it had adjustable push rods thought maybe the previous owner changed cams then looked at the service history previous owner had a TTS master tune also a clue. Some months later bike developed an awful noise in the engine. Turns out pistons were cracked due to improper clearance. Long of the short previous owner got heads ported bigger valves av&v valve springs fueling 594 cams 10:5:1 compression pistons as well. Also found out dealership was running a stage one tune on it. Fortunately warranty covered replacing the jugs pistons kept the cams and they added the MVA heads. It doesent feel like as much torque as it did prior but top end seems to accelerate better.

[@carlbruhn1772]

If there is a Star Racing 30/30 cam in the bike, there is no question something special is awaiting the twist of the Throttle. Empty boxes and paperwork are proof, no paperwork it's completely suspect.

[@garyiacopucci293]

I wouldn't worry too much, but I trust myself more than anyone else. I'll just build in my garage, plus it gives me some me time from my wife. Then we can go on a ride together.

[@richardrussell500]

You have no idea how the previous owner rode it... be ready to spend some bucks!

[@johnweisYamaroler]

Are you saying that there are dishonest car(bike) sellers??😂😂

[@vernegibb621]

50/50 gamble at best.

[@acim2228]

HAD MOST HARLEY SINCE THE 60S I LONGER RIDE THEM. 2 BANGER AIR PUMP THAT LAST TO MAYBE 50K VIBRATES SO MUCH YOU CANT SEE OUT THE MIRROR COSTS UP THE BUTT PLUS PARTS OIL SPOTS DEALERSHIP SUCKS IF STILL IN BIZ AND ON AND ON TODAY I RIDE A F6B 4.4 IN 60 SEC RUN 100 MPH ALL DAY ZERO VIBRATION 6 BANGER 40 MPG HAS EVERYTHING

[@karlbishop7481]

I won't buy a used Harley that isn't 100% stock.

[@larrylong4407]

Dyno power output test

[@bradboustead1682]

Buy a low mileage used motorcycle from an old guy who left it stock.

[@Goldencountry63]

Rule of thumb in my opinion is be ready for anything with spare cash to help with anything that comes up. Hope for the best and expect the worst.

[@racex3721]

Or buy a bike with an extended warranty

[@dennisberg570]

If you want a really good used Harley , buy a bone stock unmolested stocker original owner Period !!!!!!

[@paulperrigo3517]

I stay away from bikes that are tuned. You don't know how they rode them. I like to do my own mods

[@rugershooter5268]

Coulda bought Low Rider 80 or 88 I think 80ci, had it all, they rattled it off, even had relief valves so you could get it started....I didn't go for it It was a consignment, I just bought 19 1200 iron 5000 miles last register expired '21.......stock except for crappy saddlemen 2 up seat and padless sissybar....and go faster chin I've put crash bar and LED running/brake/turn signals......and trying to decide what seat.......I won't modify performance

[@frankmarkovcijr5459]

HD big twin have so many issues I would steer clear of them.

[@harleyhawk7959]

yes you better, maybe jump on a moo ped.

[@frankmarkovcijr5459]

@@harleyhawk7959 I have a Sportster 883 that I have had for 25 years and 400,000 miles. The mechanical issues with Twin cam and Milwaukee 8 are well known and not worth repeating here.

[@jeffstonecipher1594]

Maybe just a skateboard for this guy just to be safe🙂🙂@@harleyhawk7959

[@PeterAngles-jq7gr]

Or just buy bikes that aren't slow garbage from someone other than Harley

[@PincheBuzo]

So, buy fast garbage from someone else?

[@Kevin-ne3tl]

@@PincheBuzo Don't pay attention to "Peter". His name fits.