I have been looking at Road Glides for the past month. I also been reading these forums all the time. Is there a certain year or model that seems to have more problems that I should avoid. A lot of people say to get an 09 or newer but they are hard to find at a price I can afford at this time. I am really itching to ride a RG soon!!!
I don't know that there is a bad year persey. The 09 and newer has the new frame, wider rear tire, 5lbs. additional payload in each saddlebag, and available ABS to name a few. In 2007 the 96" engine and 6-speed trans became standard. Prior to that it was the 88" engine and 5-speed, but there is nothing wrong with them from what I know.
There isn't a specific year to avoid per se'. The early M&M injected bikes can be trouble some, but if I found the "Right-One", then I'd buy it and have a blast with it.
09' has several modifications over 08' but my 08' is fine for me. six gallon tank, six speed and a lot more that make riding fun. Just did a 500 mile mountain trip with my buddy who has an 09' and neither had any issues.
No real "problem" years,.. every year including up to brand new bikes on the dealer floors have problems. Granted the newer frame is really nice, the older bikes have lots of potential as well. An 88" punched out to a 95" will walk the dog with any 96" or 103" off the showroom. Those 95" motors are tough!
My friend just punched out his 88" and spanked another friend on his stock 103". After watching this I'll just punch out my 96" when I need more power I should be good.
I wanted the Ultra so you have to go newer to get that. I bought a new '12 model last year and really enjoying it without a bit of problem. If I had a problem it would be the weather being over 100 degrees every day here. I don't get as much wind as I did on my Heritage but all 100 degree wind does is burn you. Good luck in your search.
Just my 2 cents here, but get what you can afford. Chances are if you find an older RG you like the bugs have probably been worked out plus a lot of owners have already customized them adding tour packs. Most Harley owners are pretty meticulous about the upkeep of their bikes, I know I am.
I had a 2008 FLTR bought right off the showroom floor back in September 11 of 07.
Started having my first problem right out the gate with the windshield then the radio, fairing, rear pulley to transmissions, bottom end of motor, but managed to get 110,000 miles out of the bike.
I now have a 2012 FLTRX BBP and I love it, performance better and handling is great.
If you buy any year bike look at maintenance records, receipts. 09 and later ride better, 08 with some kind of device ( I had a progressive touring link on mine ) improved a more solid feeling through the bike.
Check out the BIKE you can find a deal out there.
Started out looking at a 2011 but really couldn't afford it. Found my 2005 and love it and the cost fit my real budget not my dream one. Find what you can afford and you will enjoy it more!
Come on now. Is there a bad time for sex? Similarly, is there a bad year for a road glide? Some may be a bit better than others but I am willing to bet there is no such thing as bad sex or a bad RG.
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