Faults:
Turn signal module went out at 18,000 miles.
Speed sensor went out at 19,000 miles.
Stator started going bad at 20,000 miles.
Shifter stripped out (probably my fault for shifting way too hard).
General Comments:
This bike is surprisingly fast for what it is. The 88 twin cam motor is light years beyond the Evo.
The stock Road King Classic seat is surprisingly hard and gets uncomfortable on long rides. This can be significantly improved. Fortunately Harley sells several alternatives to this seat.
The bike handles like nothing else in a parking lot and with its adjustable air suspension, it handles very well on twisty mountain roads as well.
This motorcycle is remarkably versatile. It comes stock with a detachable windshield and you can also add a detachable rider backrest and Tour-pak. I dress mine up, go to Sturgis and then strip it back down again. It's like having aa bagger and a stripped down hotrod in one.
I sell my motorcycles every six months or so. I've had this one for 2 years now and can't bear to part with it. I love this machine!
A very reliable motorcycle. It's lasted over twice as long as my Honda did before it encountered any mechanical problems. Forget what you may have heard. Harley-Davidson now makes the best motorcycles on the planet!
15th Mar 2005, 19:06
To say that H-D now makes the best bikes on the road would be a bit of a exaggeration.
You list a number of items that needed replacing. I own a 1990 Honda Goldwing 1500 with over 100,000 miles on the clock. Repairs? One head light bulb.
I ride this bike hard, and am still amazed each and every day of how smooth and powerful the flat 6 engine is. Cars can't even keep up to this bike when it comes to dependability.
I know Harley has come along from the AMF days, but to give them them the highest rating would be flawed. All Wingers will agree with me, and I'm sure the BMW crew will also like to input on this statement.