to all Harley owners. how dependable are Harley's" i.e,, touring models.?

Question

is it truth that you have to tighen the head bolts? they say the bolts loosen with all the vibs from the engine. is this the case?

wow, honda or yammy eh?

Answer 1

A large part of the correct answer to this question is in the form of another question. How much do you want to spend, and how often? You can buy a reliable Harley and you can buy the same style of metric bike, and save money. But remember the old saying, "Crap in, crap out!" If you buy a Harley, and do the average and normal maintenance on it, you will have a reliable bike that will not only give you good service, but hold it's value. Buy a metric bike, and see what it's worth 2 years down the road. Harley's do vibrate a bit when at idle, but how much time are you going to spend sitting still, with the engine running? On the road, in 5th gear, "smooth" as any Honda! You can invest $15k in a metric bike, and get good service out of it, and in a couple of years, it's worth $8k. Buy a Harley, for the same price, and in the same time frame, it'll be worth $13k. For my money, the difference in depreciation allows me a lot more flexibility to service my HOG, and keep it's value up. You see a lot of people buying old Harleys and restoring them. How many Hondas, etc. do you see them doing that to?

Answer 2

In the reviews of touring bikes over the last 10 years at least, the Harley always comes in last. That should tell you something. If you are planning on touring you should consider a BMW, or a Honda for reliability, comfort and economy.

Answer 3

The new Harleys don't vibrate like they used to, and they're built much better. Harley Davidson makes a great, classic looking bike. However, for the money, you're better off going with a Honda or Yamaha touring model. More performance, technology, and quality for the money.

Answer 4

The new evolution motor is really reliable. There are only two models to choos from is you're into touring, the Ultra Classic Harley or the Honda Goldwing. You can't go wrong with either. Good luck.

Answer 5

Harley changed to the new evolution engines . anything before that will have vibs. I have 2001 soft tail and have only change oil and nothing else. The new ones are very dependable.

Answer 6

The new Twin Cams are quite reliable.I have an "02" and and have had very good luck.The Road Glide offers alot of bang for the buck,radio,cruise control,etc..Though you may want the 95 inch kit for abit more power.Same frame and suspension as the Electra glides but with a frame mounted fairing and famous HD touring ride.

Answer 7

Sounds like bait. If you have to ask it might not be the best scooter for you. I have traveled cross country numerous times with no problems. Have over 60k on my evo dresser and about 14k on my twinkie. And no you don't have to tighten the head bolts. But like any other machine during the regular maintenance you should check all major nuts and bolts (this includes all bikes not just HD).

Answer 8

Regardless of brand and model, I believe maintenance (or lack of) is the critical factor in any type of motor. I have 25,000 miles on an 01 Harley and have only had one minor engine problem- an O2 sensor went bad.

Answer 9

Harleys do rattle themselves apart. Live with it. No use making excuses, or whatever. You pay for the name and the "cool" factor.
If you can afford a Harley, you should be able to afford to fix it, or have a decent set of tools.

I make no apologies for this, and yes, I still look cool fixing my Harley on the side of the road.

Answer 10

Sorry
I don't own a Harley but I ride with them often

And they seem to be a great bike in todays age
Alittle harder on gas than my Vulcan though

We have been many miles and never seen 1 brake down yet,

Aroostook County Bikers
http://www.aroostook-county-ubm.com