I am a little confused by the model tags in regard to buying a used road king.what is the diference between the flhr , flhr1 , flht etc.have these numbers changed over the years?thanks for the help.

 

Grab a Cup of your Favorite beverage!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harley-Davidson_FL
http://home.ctlnet.com/~mcarroll/harleyalphabet.htm

 

The one you want to look out for is --> FLHRC

 

What is the story with the flhrc? Also what is the deal with the police model?are they really used police bikes? Thanks

 

What do you mean "the story with the flhrc" ?
Is what really a used police bike.
You mean used AS a police bike?
Or are they "used" police bikes?

Touring FL - FLH - 4-Speed Dresser
- FLHS - 4-Speed Electra Glide
- FLT with windshield and less goodies S = Sport
- FLHR - Road King
- FLHRCI - Road King Classic
- FLHS- Electra Glide Sport
- FLHT - Electra Glide Standard
- FLHTC - Electra Glide Classic
- FLHTCUI - Electra Glide Ultra Classic
- FLT- Rubber Mount Dresser - FLTC - Rubber Mount Dresser Classic
- FLTCU - Rubber Mount Dresser Classic Ultra
- FLTR - Road Glide
- FLTRI - Road Glide w/ Genuine Access
- FLTRSEI - Screamin Eagle Road Glide

http://www.harley-davidson.com/en_US...bmLocale=en_US

 

I see a lot of used police models for sale which are usually cheaper than the classic model.do people buy these models new for their personal use or are they sold only to the force. From looking at the hd website i guess anyone can order one.

 

Look very good to the year of manufacturing. The 'new' models Road King (after 2008) have a complete re-designed road behaviour. Compared with the models before 2008 the differences are a.o. A a improved manoeuvrability, ABS brakes (anti block system) and a more powerful engine 103 cu.
The differences are obvious and give a much better handing than the older types.
For me, if I like to change from my Heritage Classic, only the 'new' model comes into consideration.

 

Would love to buy an 07 or newer, but dont think its in the budget.i see alot of 2000-2004 low milage bikes that are reasonably priced.is there any truth that 1998 thru 2002 had the best motors or is this owners just trying to promote the sale.they talk about better bearings ,crank,etc.

 

2002 is considered the best year because of the Timken bearings and an improved swing arm. Lots a great 88's out there that you will really enjoy. Cam chain tensioners is what you will here folks preaching about but the trouble ones have almost all been changed by now. Its about an 800 problem if they have not been changed when and if they go bad. Some police bikes are good and some are worn out. Just depends on which dept had them and how good their service was done. I have a 2000 police that I would not trade for a new one. Enjoy your new king when you get it. You can buy a police version new. Not all of them saw service. The other issue with older ones if they are fuel injected is problems finding competent folks to work on the older M&M injection system. Carbed Models are better finds for this reason.