Looking at FXDX tomorrow! Help!
#1
Looking at FXDX tomorrow! Help!
Going to look at a 2001 FXDX tomorrow which I finally found in my area and in my budget! Never bought a used Harley before from a stranger, so I'm looking for what to ask/look for so I know its all good.
1. its a 2001 with 5,000 miles. Any way to be sure that is correct, and he didnt swap odo's?
2. it is bone stock, which I like because I assume it wasnt beat on much - I know to check for rubber stuck under the rear fender, anything else?
3. What kind of other questions should I be asking? Should I try to do a compression test? Check the plugs? What else?
4. Anything specific to these bikes to look for? Something known for failing?
Thanks! Hopefully I'll have a new ride soon!
1. its a 2001 with 5,000 miles. Any way to be sure that is correct, and he didnt swap odo's?
2. it is bone stock, which I like because I assume it wasnt beat on much - I know to check for rubber stuck under the rear fender, anything else?
3. What kind of other questions should I be asking? Should I try to do a compression test? Check the plugs? What else?
4. Anything specific to these bikes to look for? Something known for failing?
Thanks! Hopefully I'll have a new ride soon!
#2
Is he the original owner? If not...then what about the mileage...
Bring a little inspection mirror and a flashlight; you can see into tight spots like underneath and inside the drive belt opening; might give you more clue as to actual mileage. Some places are only clean once...
Good luck...
Bring a little inspection mirror and a flashlight; you can see into tight spots like underneath and inside the drive belt opening; might give you more clue as to actual mileage. Some places are only clean once...
Good luck...
#7
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#9
I would not focus so much on whether the mileage is correct as I would focus on overall condition. Alot of things can need attention on a bike if it has been neglected for a number of years. First thing I always do is check the paperwork and the vin. numbers on the bike. If the paperwork (title) has any issues - I walk. No sense spending a morning going over a bike with a fine tooth comb to then find out there are issues with the paperwork. Next look at the service records. When I inspect a bike I start at the front and then systematically and slowly work back. I look for evidence of crash damage, neglect and/or rust, ham-handed repairs, and anything that doesn't look "right". Finally, listen carefully to the motor. If the owner does not allow test rides then I will do two things. First, I will have him ride the bike up and down the street. Second, I will have him ride a route that we agree upon and I will follow in my vehicle. From this observation you can learn almost as much as a test ride. GOOD LUCK!
#10
Good information posted above. If the tires are original they'll obviously both need replaced due to age. With only 5K on a 12 year old bike I would assume it's sat unused a good deal of the time. Hopefully the owner drained the tank, or kept StaBil in it. Take the cap off and see if it smells like gasoline or varnish. It's a good sign for the carb if it quickly starts up from cold and will idle w/o choke once warm. Unless the battery was recently replaced and kept on a Tender it'll probably need replaced.
Last edited by Ridewva; 12-18-2012 at 10:06 AM. Reason: I noticed the ad on Mass Craigslist, 5,300 miles. No picture or details though. Let us know how it looks, good luck.