Buying XL 1200 C

HrlyRdr20

I have been looking at a few different 1200's in various places. From dealerships to private sellers.

As this will be my first American bike, are there any particular things i should look for when purchasing a used motorcycle?

I understand a used motorcycle has been ridden, but i'd like to be able to decipher those that have been 'ridden' and those that have had the hell ridden out of them.

thanks in advanced to any help you can render.

glider

You could do a compression test if the owner would let you and I would take a look at the rear tire for wear as compared to the miles on the bike. A typical tire will get about 10k out of it before needing replacement. Ask for any service records, If the service was done at a dealer, they would have the records on file. Ask what services were done like the 1000/5000 mile services and who did them as well as receipts for parts used if they were done by the owner. Check the oils and see what condition they are in, it should generally give you an indication how it was maintained. If you find a used bike that the clutch needs adjustment and the oil is black it generally means that it wasn't cared for very well. Usually the overall condition of a bike will lead to the general condition of the insides being taken care of it it presents itself well.

Engine Compression How To Check It - Harley Davidson Community

Here's some more things to look for.

Buying A Used Bike (What to look for) - Harley Davidson Community

Also this may come in handy aside from KBB or NADA for used prices.

Prices On 1995-2007 Biikes - Harley Davidson Community

New Car Prices, Used Car Values, New Car Reviews and Car Buying at NADA Guides

New Car Prices and Used Car Blue Book Values - Official Kelley Blue Book Site << bottom of page.


Welcome aboard!

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HrlyRdr20

Thank you Glider.

I will look into those links.

Are there any particular flaws or defects that are/were prominent with the late model XL 1200's?

Dr. Doolittle

I will second the recommendation for Glider's links. I had printed them out, read and reread them several times, and was ready to put them to use when I changed my mind and bought a new Street Glide.

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2008 Street Glide

HrlyRdr20

A big thanks to the both of you.

I am currently looking at 2 1200's.

One 100th anniversary Ed. with 4400 miles and a 2006 XL Custom with 4200 miles.

The asking price is 6500 on the 03, and 8500 on the 06.

Both are in great shape, a few add on chrome pieces, V&H pipes...ect.

Any opinions?

Hobbit

one is a rigid mount and the other rubber - for distance the rubber mounted motor will have/better less vibes, the 100th anni version should have some nice badges and touches but thats it.
boils down to rubber or not? have you test ridden either?

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HrlyRdr20

Yes i have ridden both.

If im correct, HD started using the rubber in 04?

And for the short run i made, the 03 rode a bit better to me.

Hobbit

correct the rubber motors started in 04' the 03' is more rigid due to the solid mounted engine makes for better handling

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HrlyRdr20

I dont think the price on the Anniversary is that bad at all either.

Also, the badges give it a distinct look imo.

Hobbit

with the miles and the prices i would go with the Anniversary model also

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