Yes. I have a 2006 Deluxe and I'm no longer surprised but what is now obsolete on this bike. Ridiculous...it's as if Harley Davidson doesn't even acknowledge that they made it. They made them for 19 years!
I use to work at a Harley dealer and they insisted that I not park my 1972 ShovelHead in front of the store. They told me when I rode it to work I must park in the storage building. The bike is good looking and drew attention
Yup the Harley Davidson dealer was pissed off because your shovel head Harley gets more interest shown than all of their brand new models put together lol. (Who needs a new one really?)
Man this video is 100% spot on!!! I have a 2012 Road King and looking through the P&A catalog and could not find much of anything from the factory for it. I'm done with the Harley dealership and found a good independent shop that values my bike and business.
Same here, my evo soft tail, Is what I want, don’t need nor like the latest, greatest, Flashy. New Harleys. You hipsters, with payments you can barely afford, can have em.
@@metalted6128 Yes sir- exactly! Those dumbasses will continue to play into the tornadic, downward spiral. It ain't getting any better, glad you're on an Evo.
Great video! Here in the U.K. my local Harley dealer practically chases me out of the place if I show up there! They have no parts in stock for my 2007 Dyna Street Bob, they refuse to have it in their workshop due to it's age, I had to almost beg for them to order parts! I now get what I need from online sellers, do as much of my own work as I can and use a great local independent for anything I can't handle. Love the channel buddy, keep up the good work!
I totally agree with your comment Harley dealerships these days care nothing for the brand's heritage, it's just money money money all the time Used to work for one 20 plus years ago and this attitude had already started but wasn't as bad as today Screw them My philosophy is get an older Harley, make it your own and keep it maintained through independent shops Give those corporate glass cathedrals the middle finger BTW my bike's even older than yours Stay safe and enjoy your Hog
100% agree with you.I can"t ride anymore but I put together an 81 Shovelhead in a rigid frame,bike was in a major accident,tore the swing arm right off.Had a Wide Glide front end,all chromed out,beautiful bike.I put 70,000 miles on that hardtail.Everyone loved the bike,candy apple red,gold base."How can you ride that hardtail? I heard that from everyone,"Ya gotta learn to relax,the bikes rigid but let your body relax.A beautiful woman on the back never hurts either and you"ll have no problem finding one who wants to ride with you.Ask the local bikers,they all know who the good wrenches are and they won"t be at a dealership.
Fortunately, EVO's do not need many parts. I have 64,000 on my 99 Softail Custom, and outside of normal maintenance I have replaced the inner cam brg. for peace of mind at 23,000 and replaced one stator. All done in my own garage. I love the simplicity of the EVO. The more sophisticated bikes get with more and more electronics the harder they are to work on and the more expensive they are to fix. Carburetors work fine and jets can be changed in 10 minutes without taking the carb off. The Softail custom is also a really fun bike and completes the package. I have no desire for anything newer.
I've been riding Harleys for 17 years, and other brands before then. The only thing Harley is doing for me with these new models and prices is ensuring I never buy another new Harley. Once it gets too hard to get parts for my Twin Cam I'll semi-retire it as my classic/collector/Sunday bike and go back to Japanese bikes.
I had a Gold Wing and traded it off 2 years later on 😊another HD Motorctcle because it took 3 hrs to service the Air Cleaner. The dealer did not want to do it. Look before you leap bitches.
Amen Brother. There is no power on earth that could get me to buy one of those M8s. They are total crap. And the McDearships in my area have been lousy for eons. I've been riding since 1962 and have always had at least one Harley in my garage. I show up for their free hot dogs now and then and all I see are posers. All the hard core Bikers like myself have utter disdain for the MoCo and dealerships.
@@franksaxton3583 just when you thought the M8 was bad they're trying to convert everything to this new Revmax piece of crap. Have you heard the Revmax? That thing sounds horrible.
Growing up as a kid in southern Cali back in the late ‘70s we had this family of bikers living next door. I used to hang around and watch them and their buddies building their bikes up from scratch. Nice bunch of dudes letting a kid hang around and were always nice to me.
Best and most accurate video you’ve produced gix imo. As the owner of a 01 dyna for the past 14 years with 213 000 km on it I can totally relate to the dealer issues with parts and finding some one with the knowledge to work on your ride. ❤
After a lot of thought I sold my 2008 Road King CVO and bought a 1999 Heritage Softail Classic and after 4 weeks so far so good. My neighbor rides a 1995 Softail Custom and has followed me all over though the mountains and told me more than once your EVO sounds just like an EVO should. No more computers, ECM's, electronics for me. All I'm gonna need (with the next 5,000 miles) is the inner cam bearing replaced, EV27 cam, lifters, and adjustable pushrods. Cool video too.
Hi Gixxer. I agree. Went and test drive a 2023 RG Limited today. Have a 2010 RG and that seemed to be basic afterthought to them. Was considered a trade. After the test drive found out that I love my 96 TC better with the SS cams/oil pump and Screaming Eagle Stage 1. Never mind the VH pro-pipe.They would not even give me price for new bike. I said thanks and riode off and did a 100 Mile ride home.
Price not being a factor, there’s no comparison between that 96 and that M8. I understand a budget, but that’s the only thing that would keep someone from choosing the new.
Up until a couple of years ago my brother and I turned away Harleys and concentrated on other old bikes, Rzr type vehicles, quads, jet skis and such, but the Harley guys were desperate and kept asking us for help. Finally we started taking in a few and now that's a good part of what we work on. I am up on the modern technology so I rather like working on fuel injection and electrical problems. My brother is good working with carburetors, but old carbs can be really tricky especially with the modern fuels they sell. We have already experienced problems with getting modules to the point where I had to rewire things (like turn signals to work with standard flashers). Another huge problem is that CARB rules disallow using non-approved replacement modules and so many of the usual parts houses refuse to send non-OEM modules to us here in CA, even when they are available elsewhere. It is such a shame seeing a guy come in with a really beautiful 11-50 year old bike that nobody could or would fix. Fortunately we have not had to turn anybody away --- not yet anyway, but just wait until an ECU goes out, then we'll be up the creek. Sometimes we have been forced to buy badly used junk on eBay hoping for the best and at absolutely outrageous prices for such junk. Sellers know just how desperate people are, so they really jack up the prices. Such is life for the beautiful old Harleys of days gone by. I was just saying to my brother, if Harley were to go totally bankrupt and out of motorcycle sales altogether, there are so many hundreds of thousands of Harleys out there, they could simply go into the parts and franchised repair shop business. Maybe.
Not sure what the Motor Company is thinking. I ride a stock '99 Heritage Springer last year evolution motor, it's bulletproof and she rides like a dream. I can work on it too.
TC88 '99 here. I said goodbye to the dealers over 10 years ago. My bike goes to a independent one owner shop with a tremendous amount of experience and knowledge. Nice guy too. I agree 💯% with this video; my bike has taken me too all kind of wonderful places, broke down in inconvenient places, but you' re right, it has soul!! Thank you for all these videos by the way. (TC88 with carb, dyno jet kit, S&S teardrop aircleaner, V&H sharktails, Andrews cams)
Love my 91 flhs, do my own maintaining for what little I have to do ,and yes after market parts n accessories are out there in droves. Never had a problem finding things at least for my flhs 😊
Well said. I love my EVO big twin FXDWG and EVO sporty. Fantastic bikes. Yep the new Harley's will smoke me. But I'm not in a hurry and man, they don't have the sound and vibe. They sound like a big Honda. I love Harley culture, the events, the rides, the people, the old generational bikes, the aftermarket, the small shops. But the MOCO SUCKS! So many dealers are terrible! I remember riding into any dealer back when, and it was a party every weekend. And excitement. Pride. Now, it's like walking into a funeral parlor. I'll keep working on my EVOs and shovels. I'll never give today's Harley my money until they change their attitude.
Yup well said, it does feel like a funeral parlor when you walk into a Harley Davidson dealership anywhere in the world now! Brand new electronically controlled everything bikes (except character) with led instruments and lots of plastic everywhere. No thanks Mr. corporate executive director in main office somewhere. I want a bike shop run by Bikers for Bikers. Luckily one of my best friends owns a second hand bike shop with many pre owned 'oldies' for sale. After 6pm when shop (usually) closes it's time for the bong and laughs in our happy Bikers corner. Older style Harleys for older style Bikers. (Mine is a twin cam tuned up chopper.)
Yeah man. Glad you found your hangout. My daughter rides with me and I wish I could give her a taste of old harley culture without the Sturgis nonsense, like we used to have. Not silly kids, nor under developed old guys. But just the love and passion for bikes, garages, tools, rides, and a good time. And a Sunday with a parking lot full of cool rides,
It's pretty sad when a company like HD abandons its own products and acts in a hypocritical way about its history. Instead of pushing $95 t shirts to people who will never own a bike, they should be offering complete bike renovation services like some of the car companies. I've already seen the parts issue with my 2008 Fat Bob. Most accessories that were originally offered are no longer available.
It’s the same with my 2007 sportster, that started out as an 883, and I’ve built it to a 104 hp(at the wheel) 1275 beast. Any part is considered here in Australia as a vintage part. I picked it up with 25,000 kms(15,534mi) did the build at 33,000kms(20,505mi). And She’s got over 46000kms (28,583mi). I was considering on getting a 2025 fatboy when they are out, but having watched this video it’s making me think otherwise.
I have been saying for years that Harley hates the Sportster. They sell them with basically no suspension, insert a "Grenade" in the center of the clutch pack (spring plate), and choke the engine with a bad air cleaner. I am sure many could list other reasons as well. I have done a LOT of upgrades to my XL1200CP. The rear shocks just look like shocks (I had mine cranked up as tight as they would go and still bottomed out on small bumps. And the front is 2 tubes with springs bathed in oil that nosedives when the brakes are hit hard.) I weight 145 pounds so, it should not have been this bad. I installed Progressive shocks and cartridges in the forks. Rides MUCH better. I replaced the clutch a month ago to remove the grenade. Bike had 21,500 miles. It now has an Energy One extra plate clutch. I also put Vance & Hines exhaust on it and a Mustang solo saddle seat. MUCH better now. I am lucky that I can work on my own bike. I am a licensed aircraft mechanic. Harley doesn't want you to hold onto a Sportster...they want you to buy a bigger bike. I don't need a bigger bike! Especially at the prices now.
I was considering trading my ‘17 sportster custom in on something a bit bigger until I heard the news that they won’t be making them any more coupled with seeing that new model that they passes for a sportster, mine will stay in my garage forever. I’ll just have to save up my $ and pay cash for an older model touring bike if I want one.
Even though I work at a Harley dealership, I almost have to stop myself from chuckling any time one of my coworkers call 500lbs+ sportsters "small bikes"
Great video! My 103 sat at the dealer for 5 months waiting on a rotor (for stator). I eventually traded into a 2023 because I commute on my bike. But luckily I still have my Carb’d Dyna for my fun cruise days. Can’t beat the sound of a carb’d TC
Similar to automotive parts Harley typically has the same 10 or 15 year service part contract with their suppliers. After that a supplier is no longer contracted to make the part and by that point the volume is so low it likely isn’t feasible or profitable to make, so it’s discontinued. This doesn’t address a dealers inability or lack of desire to work on older stuff, that’s a separate problem.
Love the video GixxerFoo! I love my 2000 883 Sportster and 1995 Electra Glide Classic. I just rode a 2022 Street Glide and it was wonderful, but it costs more than both my bikes together. I will just stick with the old stuff I can work on. Who needs electronics!?! A CV carb works just fine!
Getting ready to pick up a 03 carbureted 88, glad I found your channel. Currently ride a Kawi Concours 14 which is in it last production year and has 174k miles on it. Japanese manufacturers are notorious for reducing parts support for discontinued models. I am not a huge Harley guy but I am a hard core Moto Commuter that spins his own wrenches, so parts availability is a hugh thing for me which is why I am happy to be getting the 88 Electra Glide. Just recently found your channel and am enjoying the content.
Had an ECM go out on my ‘05 Road King, Harley had it on back order until 4/24 and the part is planned obsolete. This isn’t an old bike! I found one on EBay and got it fixed. It is ridiculous that they are doing this to their customers.
Harley technician here. I can speak from experience that the mom and pop independently owed dealerships don't pay their employees well. The one that I work at was recently bought out and now we all earn what the industry standard is.
I love my EVO. Lots of spare parts available. Really like how it runs and how it sounds. Also own some twin cam bikes . Have another complete evo moter and a bunch of spare parts. Never going to part with them.
I own, maintain, and ride my 1949 EL Panhead, 1957 G Flathead Servicar , 1968 Sportster, 1975 Sportster, and a 1996 Road King that I deleted the magnetti-marelli and ECM components. All of my bikes get more attention at the local HD dealer when I go there for events than any of their new bikes on display. Harley Corporate can't wait for us old guys that won't buy their new overpriced crap to "age out," I'm sure.
Right on man! I totaled a 17 road glide in a serious accident lucky to still be here! And now acquired a 99 Electra Glide with 1170 original miles so here we go gotta get it running after it’s slumber for 20 years. No more payments at least for now.
Riding panhead for 36 years, I’ll replace it when it quits which doesn’t seem to be any time soon. Harley ended with the evo for me, new stuff is garbage.
In 1996, I got my first Harley, 82 shovel, I was working at a New car domestic car dealership, and one of the senior Techs had been their since the last 70s, he had a 77 shovel, (his first HD) and he had a 95 RK, he later bought a 98 soft tail last year of Evo, anyway my bike was a basket case, and he was SUPER motivated to help a 25 yr old newbie with his project...all I can say is I was blessed to have all his help rebuilding the bike, I learned alot about motcycles for sure, got the bike together within a few months...his knowledge was priceless and it was free for me to learn. Never pass up an old dudes blessing of years of experience...I'm 35 yrs a tech, and the sun is setting on my career now, and I hope I can pay it forward too.
I ride with a couple guys who make a small fortune buying Harleys with fried electronics and flipping them by doing carburetor conversions. The Twin Cam 103 High Output engine has such a good sounding low idle ❤
Love your posts. I let my 01 Road King go last year, did my own maintenance and it was starting to get difficult finding some things. The only one I have to service now is a 67 Electra Glide, analog is good. But if not for such a large aftermarket and good swap meets the antiques would be relegated to museums.
My main bike is a 98 FLHR. I upgraded to a S&S 111 engine and a 6 speed gearset. Awesome power. Bought a secondary bike, 99 FLHRCI. Took off the magnetti morelli off and installed a S&S super E. Runs like a sewing machine. Good video with straight talk.
I bought a 2004 softail last year for $6000 tax and all with 14000 miles on it. It had a wobble (which they said was the wind on the windshield) it eneded up being Micheline tires and it kept fouling plugs so I learned how to work on the carb. Now it runs perfect and I love it. So much if I dont ride it everyday I start shaking.
Amen! I have a 1975 Electra glide and they wouldn’t even put a tire on for me I’ve had my bike for 40 years and I love it! Screw thoughts people I won’t even wear an HD tee Shirt anymore while I’m riding good luck guys keep your used bikes and keep on riding 🙂👍
Heard the service manager at local Harley shop tell someone on the phone, they don't work on pre-2015 bikes. Have a 1999 Ultra and they wouldn't (couldn't) service the bearings while mounting a rear tire. Just ridiculous. Bought every shim they had and fixed it myself. Harley had one speedo cable for my bike nationwide in 2000. The guys in New Iberia got it to me, can't say enough good about them. Rode my '62 Pan for 27 years and did all work myself. Same with the '99 I bought as a factory demo. Why would I pay $30,000+ for a bike that they won't service 10 years from now?
I trust my guy in Sarasota Fl. He seems to be overwhelmed though with bikes to work on. He found a problem with my M8 that the dealers could not. Support your independent shops.
You are like having a good buddy/ harley mechanic who will actually talk to us . Its Awesome! You just saved me $1500. The dealers tend to act all Harley-ish and cool, but in reality are upselling with every word out of their mouth!
I have a 03 RK and 05 Deluxe. Agree on fit & finish and other points you made. Mechanical quality is poor as with TC cam spring loaded chain tensioners. HD lost me as a customer due to that issue. Thanks for posting. Great video!
I rolled up to a dealer Saturday on my beautiful '01 Dyna Low Rider in Real Teal. This bike was from when H-D made bikes that looked good instead of everything sprayed flat black. An employee tried hard to buy the Low Rider that day.
Fucking beautiful man, I love the Real Teal!!! I've got a 103 Softail Slim running Woods TW-222 cams and rolled up to the Harley dealership making a racket😂😂😂 I love it when it confuses the shit out people, yeah bro loud pipes save lives. Also the Milwaukee 8's are too quiet.
I wouldn't know this feeling. I bought a new Superglide in 1998 and that was the last time it was ever inside of a dealership. I always do my own wrenching, change my own tires, and around 2007 threw an S&S 124" in there. I had great disdain for these boutique dealerships and still do to this day. Nobody is going to care more for your motorcycle than yourself.
Greetings from Finland! Following your channel for a couple of years and really digging it! Driving a -04 FXDI i bought from the original owner, sold new in my small home town. Buying all my parts from the local independent bike shop. Over here a 2023 Low rider S have a starting price of 33 000$ so buying a new one is out of the question.
I worked at Volcano Harley Davidson. Most of the customers that I dealt with there when delivering or picking up bikes told me that they Harley for the lifestyle and the dealerships nowadays don't support that anymore. That's why I believe that the market is going towards the independent owned shops. That's why my business plan is to support those independent shops.
I'd like to make a suggestion. You're pretty consistent with your camera framing. But it's more a 'formal lecturer" layout. You seem to like having a conversation with the audience. With that in mind I'd lower the camera a tad so you're inline and zoom in enough so that your eyes are right at the 2/3rd level (right now it's at the 50% line) but the bottom of frame is still at 2/3rd torso. It'll be more casual and conversational.
there are two dealers near me. they have both recently claimed they would no longer accept any work of any type on a motorcycle that was older than 10 years old. they will not change tires, or service a motorcycle more than 10 years old. a friend scheduled to have a set of tires changed on his 2005 softail springer and when he showed up was told they would change his tires because he was there and didnt want the liability of turning someone away on old tires but they made a mistake by scheduling the work to begin with and would not be accepting the bike again in the future. the dealers/corporate harley have made it really hard to want to replace my 2014 street glide with anything from the moco in the future.
I went from a 03’ Electra Glide with a 95 ci and 585 reaper cam which was a great bike. I even upgraded the 5 speed to the baker 6 but it doesn’t compare with my 22’ RG ST with the 117. My new one will eat the 03’ for breakfast. Going from a twin cam to an M8 has me smiling ear to ear but with that said I would still like to have a twin cam again someday just to have one around.
@@holmes1956O well what I do with my money is my business and what you do with your money is your business. I’m pleased with the purchase I made. Have a nice day.
I still have my 03 FLH I've beefed up the motor with ported and polished heads mikuni carb woods cam and I put the baker 6 speed in to. Wow what a difference! Stock that thing couldn't get out of its own way I really hated it.
There’s a problem when Harley started calling it’s Milwaukee headquarters a “Campus”… Their workers want work “Remotely”. A long time ago I drove my Ironhead to a dealership for a little work and all they did was stare at the bike like it was a unicorn. More recently I wanted to sell a bike through consignment. “Oh we don’t do that.” I ask why and they made up some story about “Liability “. The other day I asked about installing some aftermarket slip-on muffkers. They won’t do it because the last time they did that they said they got sued by the owner because he didn’t like the sound.
Great video. I bought me a 1984 FXR (near) basket case. It's all put together with a newly rebuilt Evo and now I'm having fun. All for a lot less cost than buying a new HD.
I have a 2015 cvo road glide ultra. Bought it used. Turns out it had some work done (big shock I know ) but that said last year in July one of the lifters died and took out the cam se 259e it turns out. Well being right after vacation I was scrapped and got a deal on a reaper 574 cam. And regardless of a Dyno tune it still is way off on power. Especially at higher revs. I am worried that something else may be wrong but the only answers I have gotten so far is the tune isn't right or my own worry about the valve springs. Any suggestions. I am in the very southwest corner of Indiana.
I have a 1993 FLHS that i totally love I’ve been wanting to put a Fairing on it forever but the kit sold by Harley is discontinued. Where can I find one. Or a custom builder that’ll make one fit.
I am a mechanic and depending on how far you want to ride and if you have a passenger or not the Harley Evo Sportster is the best bike you can get for the money. Very reliable and a blast to ride, I have a 1986 FXSTC and a 2017 Ultra limited and have owned several Harley's including Sportsters and I am thinking about getting another Sportster right now you just cannot beat them.
The EPA has been really responsible for the stock sound of Harley for the past 10 or so years. That being said, the varied stock owner's only care about profit. Once you begin thinking about everything is about profit it makes perfect sense.
I own a twin cam 103, an Evo and a shovel. It’s funny because the ignition pickup on the Evo is starting to melt and I know that’s a good sign to replace it shortly, went to Harley to get a new one and they discontinued that. It’s a freaking pickup…but they discontinued it. I know I can get a knockoff that’ll work (usually without the attitude sensor) but i wanted to keep that as it was since it had been previously outfitted with a Screamin Eagle ignition module which I think is cool since it’s period correct and works well. Tried finding an nos one online with no luck. Dealer told me to get an S&S or dynatek etc fully contained unit but again, that would eliminate the Screamin Eagle module. The cost isn’t a factor but I’m a nerd when it comes down to having old school parts running tip top. That bike is my daily so sooner than later I’ll be replacing it, maybe I’ll stumble across an nos piece lol. The shovel on the other hand, I’m in the process of doing a rolling restoration on the ole girl, most those parts are available from about 400 different aftermarket suppliers, plus much less electronics so that’s a bonus. Great vid spittin facts!!
I haven't been able to afford a new HD since 2000. My current bike is a 2003 Roadie with 114,000 miles. So if HD wants to make parts obsolete just to entice me to buy a bike I'll never be able to afford, I'll just sell the Roadie for what I can get out of it and buy a Royal Enfield
Well I just bought a 2003 CVO screamin eagle softail 1550 with 2400 mikes on it. It looks and runs like brand new. I also have 2020 Triglide that I just did a 131 kit on. I find that the TC softail is easier to work on so if there mechanics can’t work on them I wouldn’t want them working on mine. I have already found that some things are not available for the 2003. I can work around it.
They flat out refused to work on my 2002 sportster. All it needed was some oil lines and some carb work. Found an Indy shop across the street and they got me on the road. She still leaks some oil but runs and drives just fine.
Tried to find a simple exhaust bracket for a 96" twin cam. There were not even any decent used around. Had to get it from Germany NIB. With all the older bikes out there, it seems they are leaving a lot of profit in the trash.
i support my local indi mechanic whenever possible. I have a 92 FXSTC I will never sell it. The motor & paint is still stock, The paint is flawless looks like brand new. The motor runs perfect no reason to upgrade it. Now the rest the bike has been customized it is my around the town cruiser. Had an 06 Ultra sold to get a 2020 Road Glide should have kept the 06. I liked it better. always a 👍's up on your videos
I been seeing the electronics parts availability disappearing on the Twinkies your going to see a lot of these get converted to carburator to keep em running
No, they have plenty of suckers lined up to buy $50,000 chromosexual ultradynasuperelectric fat-wideboy-glide road queens. It's unfortunately a "lifestyle" brand, not a motor company.
Most companies try to back their products forever. I have a 1998 Harley Davidson Road king classic with 123,000 miles on it. It still runs beautifully and looks great. I have definitely run into this obsolete garbage. I think it's a matter of greed on Harley-Davidson's part.
I believe HD wants you to get a new bike is because you would have to take it to the dealership to get it worked on with all the electronics the bikes have nowadays. Ill keep my 06 Street Glide and work on her myself and if not we have plenty of independent shops around Cleveland Ohio. And Skidmark garage.
I have a big bore and cam kit on my 2004 dyna fxd 1450cc but I want more power any recommendations I see procharger makes a kit or would it just be better to get a ultima el Bruto 140ci
Twincam thump? What the... I'm on my second fuel injected twin cam and they've never sounded like the old potato sound that people call it. I honestly don't know why I got the second one & got royally screwed when I traded my first one in for the one I have now. Oh and aw, after I jumped on the band wagon when the stealer ran a special on engine upgrades and was talked into turning the 96 into a stage II it wasn't long before it started having problems and then the dollaring me to death with them wanting to throw parts and then more parts at it until I fired their asses and it wasn't just the mechanics apparently not being the best I reckon, I hate to say that, but the stealership owners had more ideas as to the parts I should "try" of course once ya buy the parts and have them to install them while you're away working to pay for the crap, and ya get the thing back and it's still not working like it should and then they want ya to spend more $$$ on it! 😡 I've got sign language for the stealers 🖕! From the twin cam on I'm through with the crap. The first carbureted 2 cam's did have a little thump but it was still strange. I could say more but I'm through, for now.
Hello from Florida I have 5 Harley’s 2018 road glide ultra 2015 heritage classic 103 2003 fat boy anniversary 2003 dyna wide glide anniversary And last 2003 VROD anniversary So far my dealer works on all of them, But I stared 3 years ago buying spare parts for the 2003’s as back ups The hardest one to find parts for is the VROD It so far I have been lucky Great video I wont sell my bikes or trade them in, plan on leaving them to my son Keep up the great work Wish you were near me so you could do some work on my bikes
@@michaelmitchell5909 not yet...it's got a Stage 1 upgrade, with SE slip-ons and intake. I'll eventually upgrade to S&S when I open up the cam chest. 👍
I think it sucks that Harley-Davidson does not support their older motorcycle clientele, I mean come on they won't even change my tires for me on my 2002 Fatboy, because they say it's too old and they don't want to be responsible if something breaks on it by working on it. Come on, a 2002 Fatboy is a tank, your not going to be breaking it.
I read a comment below that mentioned Harley could re-tool old pan,shovel and EVO parts. They could take a cue from Porsche which recently started building older model engine blocks for 911s because of the pile of collector cars.that can't be driven because poor castings using magnesium which is difficult to weld.
In my experience, the Harley service shop seem to hate guys that pull in on a Buell, sportster or Vrod. I heard them turn down guys that had a Buell, they treated me like I was poor for owning a sportster, they treated me like I was a space alien for having the Vrod worked on. All that stopped when I brought in my road glide for them to work on.
I love my '97 WideGlide and my '72 ElectraGlide even more. Harley took a 56 million dollar hit just because there aren't enough repo men to pick up bikes that people aren't paying their notes on.
I’ll never forget getting a job at a harely dealer and them telling me I couldn’t ride my Kawasaki to work. They literally asked me why I don’t buy a harely. The paycheck that barely covers rent only was the reason I gave them, and had a better job the next week. And I ride my Kawasaki there everyday lol
Have you tried to order any parts for your Harley-Davidson only to find they are now obsolete and discontinued?
That’s why I make my own parts. 💯👍👍😊😃
Yup, the fuel sending assembly for 2005 and older EFI (Delphi) is now obsolete
Yes. I have a 2006 Deluxe and I'm no longer surprised but what is now obsolete on this bike. Ridiculous...it's as if Harley Davidson doesn't even acknowledge that they made it. They made them for 19 years!
Lol ... Own a shovel head .. I laughed at friends who cried about having a 10 yr old bike and Harley wouldn't touch it
They don't even sell the uprated fine tooth primary tensioner anymore.
I use to work at a Harley dealer and they insisted that I not park my 1972 ShovelHead in front of the store. They told me when I rode it to work I must park in the storage building. The bike is good looking and drew attention
You BASTARD, how dare you ride anything reliable to work of all places. " How can we sell our junk, if they know they can save money"?
Yup the Harley Davidson dealer was pissed off because your shovel head Harley gets more interest shown than all of their brand new models put together lol. (Who needs a new one really?)
😂 that is so fu**ed up.
Its not like u put competitor brand. Its there own old school.
Be proud of your history ffs.
Working on putting my '73 shovel back together...
asked in one dealership about parts and the guy says "a what".
Fuck that. You'd think that they would want you to park her inside as a testament to how reliable Harleys are.
Man this video is 100% spot on!!! I have a 2012 Road King and looking through the P&A catalog and could not find much of anything from the factory for it.
I'm done with the Harley dealership and found a good independent shop that values my bike and business.
I'll just keep my 97 Fatboy with the EVO engine, runs great and easy to work on!
Same here, my evo soft tail,
Is what I want, don’t need nor like the latest, greatest,
Flashy. New Harleys.
You hipsters, with payments you can barely afford, can have em.
Love my 98 Fatboy, great bike
My 97 Road King is the love of my life.
@@metalted6128 Yes sir- exactly! Those dumbasses will continue to play into the tornadic, downward spiral. It ain't getting any better, glad you're on an Evo.
1995 FXD here. I always buy spares if they turn uo at a good price just in case. Screw the MoCo....nothing to do with my bike.
Great video! Here in the U.K. my local Harley dealer practically chases me out of the place if I show up there! They have no parts in stock for my 2007 Dyna Street Bob, they refuse to have it in their workshop due to it's age, I had to almost beg for them to order parts! I now get what I need from online sellers, do as much of my own work as I can and use a great local independent for anything I can't handle. Love the channel buddy, keep up the good work!
Sounds like an opportunity to fill a need. 🙏♥️
My dealer here in country Australia is great! Gets me anything I want. But we all run older bikes out here it seems.
I totally agree with your comment
Harley dealerships these days care nothing for the brand's heritage, it's just money money money all the time
Used to work for one 20 plus years ago and this attitude had already started but wasn't as bad as today
Screw them
My philosophy is get an older Harley, make it your own and keep it maintained through independent shops
Give those corporate glass cathedrals the middle finger
BTW my bike's even older than yours
Stay safe and enjoy your Hog
Totally agree with you. The new bikes are nice but I just don't want to pay the premium pricing.
I agree, I love my '21 Softail Standard, but I hate what I'm paying a month for it 😀
100% agree with you.I can"t ride anymore but I put together an 81 Shovelhead in a rigid frame,bike was in a major accident,tore the swing arm right off.Had a Wide Glide front end,all chromed out,beautiful bike.I put 70,000 miles on that hardtail.Everyone loved the bike,candy apple red,gold base."How can you ride that hardtail? I heard that from everyone,"Ya gotta learn to relax,the bikes rigid but let your body relax.A beautiful woman on the back never hurts either and you"ll have no problem finding one who wants to ride with you.Ask the local bikers,they all know who the good wrenches are and they won"t be at a dealership.
Fortunately, EVO's do not need many parts. I have 64,000 on my 99 Softail Custom, and outside of normal maintenance I have replaced the inner cam brg. for peace of mind at 23,000 and replaced one stator.
All done in my own garage. I love the simplicity of the EVO. The more sophisticated bikes get with more and more electronics the harder they are to work on and the more expensive they are to fix.
Carburetors work fine and jets can be changed in 10 minutes without taking the carb off. The Softail custom is also a really fun bike and completes the package. I have no desire for anything newer.
I've been riding Harleys for 17 years, and other brands before then.
The only thing Harley is doing for me with these new models and prices is ensuring I never buy another new Harley. Once it gets too hard to get parts for my Twin Cam I'll semi-retire it as my classic/collector/Sunday bike and go back to Japanese bikes.
Same here brother!
I had a Gold Wing and traded it off 2 years later on 😊another HD Motorctcle because it took 3 hrs to service the Air Cleaner. The dealer did not want to do it.
Look before you leap bitches.
Amen Brother. There is no power on earth that could get me to buy one of those M8s. They are total crap. And the McDearships in my area have been lousy for eons. I've been riding since 1962 and have always had at least one Harley in my garage. I show up for their free hot dogs now and then and all I see are posers. All the hard core Bikers like myself have utter disdain for the MoCo and dealerships.
@@franksaxton3583 just when you thought the M8 was bad they're trying to convert everything to this new Revmax piece of crap.
Have you heard the Revmax? That thing sounds horrible.
2007 Suzuki vl800 c50
Bought it with 5,000 miles
In 2007
Now bike has 97,000 miles
Brakes,tires,plugs,oil change 2 batteries and 1 stator
FUCK HARLEY
I can remember the day when your first harley was a basket case that you brought back to life!
Growing up as a kid in southern Cali back in the late ‘70s we had this family of bikers living next door. I used to hang around and watch them and their buddies building their bikes up from scratch. Nice bunch of dudes letting a kid hang around and were always nice to me.
Best and most accurate video you’ve produced gix imo. As the owner of a 01 dyna for the past 14 years with 213 000 km on it I can totally relate to the dealer issues with parts and finding some one with the knowledge to work on your ride. ❤
Went to the big dealer last year for a master cylinder gasket for a 2012 Softail. "That part is obsolete", what a joke!
After a lot of thought I sold my 2008 Road King CVO and bought a 1999 Heritage Softail Classic and after 4 weeks so far so good. My neighbor rides a 1995 Softail Custom and has followed me all over though the mountains and told me more than once your EVO sounds just like an EVO should. No more computers, ECM's, electronics for me. All I'm gonna need (with the next 5,000 miles) is the inner cam bearing replaced, EV27 cam, lifters, and adjustable pushrods. Cool video too.
I did the same, sold my 07 and got a 1996 Softail Custom. The EV27 cam with bigger jets in the carb makes it a pretty quick bike.
I have a 98 dyna Fxd superglide last year of the Evo, and I will never sell it. The simplicity, the sound, the vibrations it’s awesome. Great video!
I have a 96 dyna superglide FXD . Runs strong never had a problem yet . Great old bike .
My personal everyday ride is a 91 FXR & I'll die with it !
junk
@@RichSalvemini are you referring to Dyna & FXR or just Evo engines in general ?
@@leonardstanford1877 HARLEYS ARE JUNK.
My local Harley dealership states they will work on ANY Harley, ie: my 1983 FLHT. They have a few older techs there.
Hi Gixxer. I agree. Went and test drive a 2023 RG Limited today. Have a 2010 RG and that seemed to be basic afterthought to them. Was considered a trade. After the test drive found out that I love my 96 TC better with the SS cams/oil pump and Screaming Eagle Stage 1. Never mind the VH pro-pipe.They would not even give me price for new bike. I said thanks and riode off and did a 100 Mile ride home.
Price not being a factor, there’s no comparison between that 96 and that M8. I understand a budget, but that’s the only thing that would keep someone from choosing the new.
Love my '22 RG ST 117
Whoa dont blow it up on that 200 mile round trip man.
I'm not 400 pounds with a 250 pound wife and 100 pounds of luggage cruising up a mountain highway. So I don't need 117 CI to ride.
@@Havanorange It’s ok to not be able to afford something, making ridiculous excuses is kinda lame.
Up until a couple of years ago my brother and I turned away Harleys and concentrated on other old bikes, Rzr type vehicles, quads, jet skis and such, but the Harley guys were desperate and kept asking us for help. Finally we started taking in a few and now that's a good part of what we work on. I am up on the modern technology so I rather like working on fuel injection and electrical problems. My brother is good working with carburetors, but old carbs can be really tricky especially with the modern fuels they sell. We have already experienced problems with getting modules to the point where I had to rewire things (like turn signals to work with standard flashers). Another huge problem is that CARB rules disallow using non-approved replacement modules and so many of the usual parts houses refuse to send non-OEM modules to us here in CA, even when they are available elsewhere. It is such a shame seeing a guy come in with a really beautiful 11-50 year old bike that nobody could or would fix. Fortunately we have not had to turn anybody away --- not yet anyway, but just wait until an ECU goes out, then we'll be up the creek. Sometimes we have been forced to buy badly used junk on eBay hoping for the best and at absolutely outrageous prices for such junk. Sellers know just how desperate people are, so they really jack up the prices. Such is life for the beautiful old Harleys of days gone by.
I was just saying to my brother, if Harley were to go totally bankrupt and out of motorcycle sales altogether, there are so many hundreds of thousands of Harleys out there, they could simply go into the parts and franchised repair shop business. Maybe.
Not sure what the Motor Company is thinking. I ride a stock '99 Heritage Springer last year evolution motor, it's bulletproof and she rides like a dream. I can work on it too.
Love my 83 Shovelhead.
TC88 '99 here. I said goodbye to the dealers over 10 years ago. My bike goes to a independent one owner shop with a tremendous amount of experience and knowledge. Nice guy too.
I agree 💯% with this video; my bike has taken me too all kind of wonderful places, broke down in inconvenient places, but you' re right, it has soul!! Thank you for all these videos by the way.
(TC88 with carb, dyno jet kit, S&S teardrop aircleaner, V&H sharktails, Andrews cams)
Love my 91 flhs, do my own maintaining for what little I have to do ,and yes after market parts n accessories are out there in droves. Never had a problem finding things at least for my flhs 😊
Well said. I love my EVO big twin FXDWG and EVO sporty. Fantastic bikes. Yep the new Harley's will smoke me. But I'm not in a hurry and man, they don't have the sound and vibe. They sound like a big Honda.
I love Harley culture, the events, the rides, the people, the old generational bikes, the aftermarket, the small shops. But the MOCO SUCKS! So many dealers are terrible! I remember riding into any dealer back when, and it was a party every weekend. And excitement. Pride.
Now, it's like walking into a funeral parlor.
I'll keep working on my EVOs and shovels. I'll never give today's Harley my money until they change their attitude.
Yup well said, it does feel like a funeral parlor when you walk into a Harley Davidson dealership anywhere in the world now! Brand new electronically controlled everything bikes (except character) with led instruments and lots of plastic everywhere. No thanks Mr. corporate executive director in main office somewhere. I want a bike shop run by Bikers for Bikers. Luckily one of my best friends owns a second hand bike shop with many pre owned 'oldies' for sale. After 6pm when shop (usually) closes it's time for the bong and laughs in our happy Bikers corner. Older style Harleys for older style Bikers. (Mine is a twin cam tuned up chopper.)
Yeah man. Glad you found your hangout. My daughter rides with me and I wish I could give her a taste of old harley culture without the Sturgis nonsense, like we used to have. Not silly kids, nor under developed old guys. But just the love and passion for bikes, garages, tools, rides, and a good time. And a Sunday with a parking lot full of cool rides,
It's pretty sad when a company like HD abandons its own products and acts in a hypocritical way about its history. Instead of pushing $95 t shirts to people who will never own a bike, they should be offering complete bike renovation services like some of the car companies. I've already seen the parts issue with my 2008 Fat Bob. Most accessories that were originally offered are no longer available.
It’s the same with my 2007 sportster, that started out as an 883, and I’ve built it to a 104 hp(at the wheel) 1275 beast. Any part is considered here in Australia as a vintage part. I picked it up with 25,000 kms(15,534mi) did the build at 33,000kms(20,505mi). And She’s got over 46000kms (28,583mi). I was considering on getting a 2025 fatboy when they are out, but having watched this video it’s making me think otherwise.
China's war on America. Distroy anything made in America..
I have been saying for years that Harley hates the Sportster. They sell them with basically no suspension, insert a "Grenade" in the center of the clutch pack (spring plate), and choke the engine with a bad air cleaner. I am sure many could list other reasons as well. I have done a LOT of upgrades to my XL1200CP. The rear shocks just look like shocks (I had mine cranked up as tight as they would go and still bottomed out on small bumps. And the front is 2 tubes with springs bathed in oil that nosedives when the brakes are hit hard.) I weight 145 pounds so, it should not have been this bad. I installed Progressive shocks and cartridges in the forks. Rides MUCH better. I replaced the clutch a month ago to remove the grenade. Bike had 21,500 miles. It now has an Energy One extra plate clutch. I also put Vance & Hines exhaust on it and a Mustang solo saddle seat. MUCH better now. I am lucky that I can work on my own bike. I am a licensed aircraft mechanic.
Harley doesn't want you to hold onto a Sportster...they want you to buy a bigger bike. I don't need a bigger bike! Especially at the prices now.
I was considering trading my ‘17 sportster custom in on something a bit bigger until I heard the news that they won’t be making them any more coupled with seeing that new model that they passes for a sportster, mine will stay in my garage forever. I’ll just have to save up my $ and pay cash for an older model touring bike if I want one.
Even though I work at a Harley dealership, I almost have to stop myself from chuckling any time one of my coworkers call 500lbs+ sportsters "small bikes"
Great video! My 103 sat at the dealer for 5 months waiting on a rotor (for stator). I eventually traded into a 2023 because I commute on my bike. But luckily I still have my Carb’d Dyna for my fun cruise days. Can’t beat the sound of a carb’d TC
Similar to automotive parts Harley typically has the same 10 or 15 year service part contract with their suppliers. After that a supplier is no longer contracted to make the part and by that point the volume is so low it likely isn’t feasible or profitable to make, so it’s discontinued. This doesn’t address a dealers inability or lack of desire to work on older stuff, that’s a separate problem.
As a shovel owner, I can see this, I work on all of my own bikes, but I still have yet to find someone to work on it even if I wanted lol
Great video. Have a 91 heritage evo and a 16 ultra limited. Your are correct on the old bikes. They have sole/character.
Love the video GixxerFoo! I love my 2000 883 Sportster and 1995 Electra Glide Classic. I just rode a 2022 Street Glide and it was wonderful, but it costs more than both my bikes together. I will just stick with the old stuff I can work on. Who needs electronics!?! A CV carb works just fine!
Getting ready to pick up a 03 carbureted 88, glad I found your channel. Currently ride a Kawi Concours 14 which is in it last production year and has 174k miles on it. Japanese manufacturers are notorious for reducing parts support for discontinued models. I am not a huge Harley guy but I am a hard core Moto Commuter that spins his own wrenches, so parts availability is a hugh thing for me which is why I am happy to be getting the 88 Electra Glide. Just recently found your channel and am enjoying the content.
Had an ECM go out on my ‘05 Road King, Harley had it on back order until 4/24 and the part is planned obsolete. This isn’t an old bike! I found one on EBay and got it fixed. It is ridiculous that they are doing this to their customers.
Harley technician here. I can speak from experience that the mom and pop independently owed dealerships don't pay their employees well. The one that I work at was recently bought out and now we all earn what the industry standard is.
I love my EVO. Lots of spare parts available. Really like how it runs and how it sounds. Also own some twin cam bikes . Have another complete evo moter and a bunch of spare parts. Never going to part with them.
I bought a brand new 1985 FXWG back in 85 and I still own it.
My fav bike ever!!
I own, maintain, and ride my 1949 EL Panhead, 1957 G Flathead Servicar , 1968 Sportster, 1975 Sportster, and a 1996 Road King that I deleted the magnetti-marelli and ECM components. All of my bikes get more attention at the local HD dealer when I go there for events than any of their new bikes on display. Harley Corporate can't wait for us old guys that won't buy their new overpriced crap to "age out," I'm sure.
Right on man! I totaled a 17 road glide in a serious accident lucky to still be here! And now acquired a 99 Electra Glide with 1170 original miles so here we go gotta get it running after it’s slumber for 20 years. No more payments at least for now.
Glad you're ok! And good replacement choice!
I have a 99 Electra-Glide, bought it in 2022 for 5500 with 66,000 miles on it, getting ready to upgrade the cam chest
Riding panhead for 36 years, I’ll replace it when it quits which doesn’t seem to be any time soon. Harley ended with the evo for me, new stuff is garbage.
Agreed ,had my 64 FL since 1974 old and slow like me
What's the matter with the Evo? It's more similar to Shovels and Pans, than it is like the Twincam or M8
@@basedorthobrofren nothing ,I have a EVO parked next to my knuckleheads .
In 1996, I got my first Harley, 82 shovel, I was working at a New car domestic car dealership, and one of the senior Techs had been their since the last 70s, he had a 77 shovel, (his first HD) and he had a 95 RK, he later bought a 98 soft tail last year of Evo, anyway my bike was a basket case, and he was SUPER motivated to help a 25 yr old newbie with his project...all I can say is I was blessed to have all his help rebuilding the bike, I learned alot about motcycles for sure, got the bike together within a few months...his knowledge was priceless and it was free for me to learn. Never pass up an old dudes blessing of years of experience...I'm 35 yrs a tech, and the sun is setting on my career now, and I hope I can pay it forward too.
I ride with a couple guys who make a small fortune buying Harleys with fried electronics and flipping them by doing carburetor conversions.
The Twin Cam 103 High Output engine has such a good sounding low idle ❤
Just got back into riding a year ago.
Picked up a carbed FXDWG.
Simple and easy.
Thanks for even mentioning the Shovelhead. Bought a 76 FX in 1988 and it's the only Harley I still have.
Love your posts. I let my 01 Road King go last year, did my own maintenance and it was starting to get difficult finding some things. The only one I have to service now is a 67 Electra Glide, analog is good. But if not for such a large aftermarket and good swap meets the antiques would be relegated to museums.
The first bike you showed on your video is exactly like my 05 wide glide. I mention it because I haven't seen another red/silver one in my travels.
My main bike is a 98 FLHR. I upgraded to a S&S 111 engine and a 6 speed gearset. Awesome power.
Bought a secondary bike, 99 FLHRCI. Took off the magnetti morelli off and installed a S&S super E. Runs like a sewing machine.
Good video with straight talk.
I bought a 2004 softail last year for $6000 tax and all with 14000 miles on it. It had a wobble (which they said was the wind on the windshield) it eneded up being Micheline tires and it kept fouling plugs so I learned how to work on the carb. Now it runs perfect and I love it. So much if I dont ride it everyday I start shaking.
Amen!
I have a 1975 Electra glide and they wouldn’t even put a tire on for me I’ve had my bike for 40 years and I love it! Screw thoughts people I won’t even wear an HD tee Shirt anymore while I’m riding good luck guys keep your used bikes and keep on riding 🙂👍
Thank you for keeping the older scooters alive and well…I always enjoy your knowledge from the videos..
2016 Twin 103 Fat Boy Don
Heard the service manager at local Harley shop tell someone on the phone, they don't work on pre-2015 bikes. Have a 1999 Ultra and they wouldn't (couldn't) service the bearings while mounting a rear tire. Just ridiculous. Bought every shim they had and fixed it myself. Harley had one speedo cable for my bike nationwide in 2000. The guys in New Iberia got it to me, can't say enough good about them. Rode my '62 Pan for 27 years and did all work myself. Same with the '99 I bought as a factory demo. Why would I pay $30,000+ for a bike that they won't service 10 years from now?
Yeah it's a pretty sad day when independent shops,care more about fixing your Harley than the actual Harley dealer does.
I trust my guy in Sarasota Fl. He seems to be overwhelmed though with bikes to work on. He found a problem with my M8 that the dealers could not. Support your independent shops.
I agree with this video. The young new mechanics,the old mechanics retiring, and supporting the small business shops
You are like having a good buddy/ harley mechanic who will actually talk to us . Its Awesome! You just saved me $1500. The dealers tend to act all Harley-ish and cool, but in reality are upselling with every word out of their mouth!
I have a 03 RK and 05 Deluxe. Agree on fit & finish and other points you made. Mechanical quality is poor as with TC cam spring loaded chain tensioners. HD lost me as a customer due to that issue. Thanks for posting. Great video!
One of HD's biggest markets is part's, why they want to do away with the older bike parts is beyond me.
I rolled up to a dealer Saturday on my beautiful '01 Dyna Low Rider in Real Teal. This bike was from when H-D made bikes that looked good instead of everything sprayed flat black.
An employee tried hard to buy the Low Rider that day.
Fucking beautiful man, I love the Real Teal!!! I've got a 103 Softail Slim running Woods TW-222 cams and rolled up to the Harley dealership making a racket😂😂😂 I love it when it confuses the shit out people, yeah bro loud pipes save lives. Also the Milwaukee 8's are too quiet.
Ain’t it the truth. As an Evo, Twin Cam and Milwaukee-Eight owner, I can attest to this!
When my twin cam dies, which probably isn’t to far off, I will not buy a new one. These new M8s are in no way worth what they want for them.
I wouldn't know this feeling. I bought a new Superglide in 1998 and that was the last time it was ever inside of a dealership. I always do my own wrenching, change my own tires, and around 2007 threw an S&S 124" in there. I had great disdain for these boutique dealerships and still do to this day. Nobody is going to care more for your motorcycle than yourself.
Greetings from Finland! Following your channel for a couple of years and really digging it!
Driving a -04 FXDI i bought from the original owner, sold new in my small home town. Buying all my parts from the local independent bike shop.
Over here a 2023 Low rider S have a starting price of 33 000$ so buying a new one is out of the question.
2023 CVO Road Glide Limited is 89 700$ over here.
I worked at Volcano Harley Davidson. Most of the customers that I dealt with there when delivering or picking up bikes told me that they Harley for the lifestyle and the dealerships nowadays don't support that anymore. That's why I believe that the market is going towards the independent owned shops. That's why my business plan is to support those independent shops.
I'd like to make a suggestion. You're pretty consistent with your camera framing. But it's more a 'formal lecturer" layout. You seem to like having a conversation with the audience. With that in mind I'd lower the camera a tad so you're inline and zoom in enough so that your eyes are right at the 2/3rd level (right now it's at the 50% line) but the bottom of frame is still at 2/3rd torso. It'll be more casual and conversational.
there are two dealers near me. they have both recently claimed they would no longer accept any work of any type on a motorcycle that was older than 10 years old. they will not change tires, or service a motorcycle more than 10 years old. a friend scheduled to have a set of tires changed on his 2005 softail springer and when he showed up was told they would change his tires because he was there and didnt want the liability of turning someone away on old tires but they made a mistake by scheduling the work to begin with and would not be accepting the bike again in the future. the dealers/corporate harley have made it really hard to want to replace my 2014 street glide with anything from the moco in the future.
I've had to turn down work due to my hands being shot an the lack of room at an old age, sadly its a trend across the industry now,
I went from a 03’ Electra Glide with a 95 ci and 585 reaper cam which was a great bike. I even upgraded the 5 speed to the baker 6 but it doesn’t compare with my 22’ RG ST with the 117. My new one will eat the 03’ for breakfast.
Going from a twin cam to an M8 has me smiling ear to ear but with that said I would still like to have a twin cam again someday just to have one around.
Hmmm I thought harleys were about the ride not the speed. If I want to go fast I will ride something meant to go fast
@@holmes1956O well what I do with my money is my business and what you do with your money is your business. I’m pleased with the purchase I made. Have a nice day.
I still have my 03 FLH I've beefed up the motor with ported and polished heads mikuni carb woods cam and I put the baker 6 speed in to. Wow what a difference! Stock that thing couldn't get out of its own way I really hated it.
@@riverat7558 that’s awesome! The 6 speed is a game changer. It’s nice to go 75 mph without being at 4k rpm’s.
There’s a problem when Harley started calling it’s Milwaukee headquarters a “Campus”…
Their workers want work “Remotely”.
A long time ago I drove my Ironhead to a dealership for a little work and all they did was stare at the bike like it was a unicorn.
More recently I wanted to sell a bike through consignment. “Oh we don’t do that.” I ask why and they made up some story about “Liability “.
The other day I asked about installing some aftermarket slip-on muffkers. They won’t do it because the last time they did that they said they got sued by the owner because he didn’t like the sound.
I still call Juneau Avenue the original Harley-Davidson "factory."
Great video. I bought me a 1984 FXR (near) basket case. It's all put together with a newly rebuilt Evo and now I'm having fun. All for a lot less cost than buying a new HD.
I have a 2015 cvo road glide ultra. Bought it used. Turns out it had some work done (big shock I know ) but that said last year in July one of the lifters died and took out the cam se 259e it turns out. Well being right after vacation I was scrapped and got a deal on a reaper 574 cam. And regardless of a Dyno tune it still is way off on power. Especially at higher revs. I am worried that something else may be wrong but the only answers I have gotten so far is the tune isn't right or my own worry about the valve springs. Any suggestions. I am in the very southwest corner of Indiana.
💯 % true. The dealer I purchased my new 2004 FLSTFI, refuses to work on it now.
I have a 1993 FLHS that i totally love I’ve been wanting to put a Fairing on it forever but the kit sold by Harley is discontinued. Where can I find one. Or a custom builder that’ll make one fit.
I am a mechanic and depending on how far you want to ride and if you have a passenger or not the Harley Evo Sportster is the best bike you can get for the money. Very reliable and a blast to ride, I have a 1986 FXSTC and a 2017 Ultra limited and have owned several Harley's including Sportsters and I am thinking about getting another Sportster right now you just cannot beat them.
Best reason to support your local shop. I get discounts on my parts and the work is top notch. Add into this the owner is familiar with panheads up.
The EPA has been really responsible for the stock sound of Harley for the past 10 or so years. That being said, the varied stock owner's only care about profit. Once you begin thinking about everything is about profit it makes perfect sense.
I own a twin cam 103, an Evo and a shovel. It’s funny because the ignition pickup on the Evo is starting to melt and I know that’s a good sign to replace it shortly, went to Harley to get a new one and they discontinued that. It’s a freaking pickup…but they discontinued it. I know I can get a knockoff that’ll work (usually without the attitude sensor) but i wanted to keep that as it was since it had been previously outfitted with a Screamin Eagle ignition module which I think is cool since it’s period correct and works well. Tried finding an nos one online with no luck. Dealer told me to get an S&S or dynatek etc fully contained unit but again, that would eliminate the Screamin Eagle module. The cost isn’t a factor but I’m a nerd when it comes down to having old school parts running tip top. That bike is my daily so sooner than later I’ll be replacing it, maybe I’ll stumble across an nos piece lol. The shovel on the other hand, I’m in the process of doing a rolling restoration on the ole girl, most those parts are available from about 400 different aftermarket suppliers, plus much less electronics so that’s a bonus. Great vid spittin facts!!
06 Dyna low rider over a newer low rider S. and loving it.
I haven't been able to afford a new HD since 2000. My current bike is a 2003 Roadie with 114,000 miles. So if HD wants to make parts obsolete just to entice me to buy a bike I'll never be able to afford, I'll just sell the Roadie for what I can get out of it and buy a Royal Enfield
Well I just bought a 2003 CVO screamin eagle softail 1550 with 2400 mikes on it. It looks and runs like brand new. I also have 2020 Triglide that I just did a 131 kit on. I find that the TC softail is easier to work on so if there mechanics can’t work on them I wouldn’t want them working on mine. I have already found that some things are not available for the 2003. I can work around it.
They flat out refused to work on my 2002 sportster. All it needed was some oil lines and some carb work. Found an Indy shop across the street and they got me on the road. She still leaks some oil but runs and drives just fine.
Tried to find a simple exhaust bracket for a 96" twin cam. There were not even any decent used around. Had to get it from Germany NIB. With all the older bikes out there, it seems they are leaving a lot of profit in the trash.
i support my local indi mechanic whenever possible. I have a 92 FXSTC I will never sell it. The motor & paint is still stock, The paint is flawless looks like brand new. The motor runs perfect no reason to upgrade it. Now the rest the bike has been customized it is my around the town cruiser. Had an 06 Ultra sold to get a 2020 Road Glide should have kept the 06. I liked it better.
always a 👍's up on your videos
I heard a custom builder say that they would always get a custom electric rig and junk the original, didn't matter the age or condition
I been seeing the electronics parts availability disappearing on the Twinkies your going to see a lot of these get converted to carburator to keep em running
Good Stuff ! Mine is 20 years old and paid for and all the upgrades I want.✌
M8 114 or 117 with that star 3030 cam and good pipe sounds pretty damn incredible..
Even the shorter stroke 107 with the 30/30 is impressive.
If they deny service and fixing the bikes at the dealerships, then Harley is done.
No, they have plenty of suckers lined up to buy $50,000 chromosexual ultradynasuperelectric fat-wideboy-glide road queens. It's unfortunately a "lifestyle" brand, not a motor company.
Most companies try to back their products forever. I have a 1998 Harley Davidson Road king classic with 123,000 miles on it. It still runs beautifully and looks great. I have definitely run into this obsolete garbage. I think it's a matter of greed on Harley-Davidson's part.
I believe HD wants you to get a new bike is because you would have to take it to the dealership to get it worked on with all the electronics the bikes have nowadays. Ill keep my 06 Street Glide and work on her myself and if not we have plenty of independent shops around Cleveland Ohio. And Skidmark garage.
I have a big bore and cam kit on my 2004 dyna fxd 1450cc but I want more power any recommendations I see procharger makes a kit or would it just be better to get a ultima el Bruto 140ci
For me, my twin cam heritage is my favorite bike that i own. It's definitely the bike I'm gonna keep forever
twin cam eater. Indian 4 ever.
Twincam thump? What the... I'm on my second fuel injected twin cam and they've never sounded like the old potato sound that people call it. I honestly don't know why I got the second one & got royally screwed when I traded my first one in for the one I have now. Oh and aw, after I jumped on the band wagon when the stealer ran a special on engine upgrades and was talked into turning the 96 into a stage II it wasn't long before it started having problems and then the dollaring me to death with them wanting to throw parts and then more parts at it until I fired their asses and it wasn't just the mechanics apparently not being the best I reckon, I hate to say that, but the stealership owners had more ideas as to the parts I should "try" of course once ya buy the parts and have them to install them while you're away working to pay for the crap, and ya get the thing back and it's still not working like it should and then they want ya to spend more $$$ on it! 😡 I've got sign language for the stealers 🖕! From the twin cam on I'm through with the crap. The first carbureted 2 cam's did have a little thump but it was still strange. I could say more but I'm through, for now.
Long live the shovelhead, my 1980 and my new to me 2008 FXSTC .
Hello from Florida
I have 5 Harley’s
2018 road glide ultra
2015 heritage classic 103
2003 fat boy anniversary
2003 dyna wide glide anniversary
And last
2003 VROD anniversary
So far my dealer works on all of them,
But I stared 3 years ago buying spare parts for the 2003’s as back ups
The hardest one to find parts for is the VROD
It so far I have been lucky
Great video
I wont sell my bikes or trade them in, plan on leaving them to my son
Keep up the great work
Wish you were near me so you could do some work on my bikes
I love how my 04 TC88 carbed Low Rider sounds under hard acceleration. Don't believe I'll ever part with her. ❤
U got a cam in it?...I have an 04 road king. It pulls pretty good man but not like my tc110 I had few years ago
What was the process to convert to carb?
@@michaelmitchell5909 not yet...it's got a Stage 1 upgrade, with SE slip-ons and intake. I'll eventually upgrade to S&S when I open up the cam chest. 👍
@@MrBradfordchild it came carbed..I believe in 2004 the option was available for FI, but mine came carbed from the factory. 😁
@@eddiegerlach7121 wow, I had no idea that had carb that long. Good thing you got there!
I agree gixxer, I like my M8 but your right it sounds "funny " I hope my eventual Woods cam will cure that and perk up that torque!
I think it sucks that Harley-Davidson does not support their older motorcycle clientele, I mean come on they won't even change my tires for me on my 2002 Fatboy, because they say it's too old and they don't want to be responsible if something breaks on it by working on it. Come on, a 2002 Fatboy is a tank, your not going to be breaking it.
Spot on, except in my area, aftermarket shops really don't care about their reputation or helping you.
I read a comment below that mentioned Harley could re-tool old pan,shovel and EVO parts.
They could take a cue from Porsche which recently started building older model engine blocks for 911s because of the pile of collector cars.that can't be driven because poor castings using magnesium which is difficult to weld.
In my experience, the Harley service shop seem to hate guys that pull in on a Buell, sportster or Vrod.
I heard them turn down guys that had a Buell, they treated me like I was poor for owning a sportster, they treated me like I was a space alien for having the Vrod worked on. All that stopped when I brought in my road glide for them to work on.
Dont worry that was because they were to retarded to work on the others. Not your fault
Love my 08 ultra classic twin cam 96". Hope to get a evo road king in the future.
I love my '97 WideGlide and my '72 ElectraGlide even more.
Harley took a 56 million dollar hit just because there aren't enough repo men to pick up bikes that people aren't paying their notes on.
I’ll never forget getting a job at a harely dealer and them telling me I couldn’t ride my Kawasaki to work. They literally asked me why I don’t buy a harely. The paycheck that barely covers rent only was the reason I gave them, and had a better job the next week. And I ride my Kawasaki there everyday lol
I sold the '91 Sturgis and '99 Night Train,, have a '78 Low Rider in my house for art.. Flat 2 German stuff is now what I straddle