Hello All,

I am a newbie here and I have a questions thats probably been asked before but here goes. I am currently in the market to purchase a new 1200 custom. Did the majority of you shop and compare prices at different dealers before you purchased your bikes? Should a person expect to pay full price on a harley or should I expect to be able to deal like at a car lot? I have heard from a few owners in the area that if you do not buy at the local dealer then don't expect to get any kind of service out of them. Is this true? Is it smarter to buy local and possible pay much more? Thanks in advance

 

Welcome to the forums. First, you should shop and compare. Generally, the rule is that you won't be able to bargain less than MSRP (which is unlike a car dealership). You should at least be able to get them to deal at MSRP for the bike. Be careful that they are not adding a lot of aftermarket items to drive the price up. If they have added them on, ask them to give you 10-20% off retail for them so you're not paying full price. If they won't then tell them that you'll go somewhere to buy stock and get them to sell you the add-ons at a discount. Good luck with your shopping.

 

Good to know, thank you very much. I know that my local dealer sells for a pretty good margin about MSRP. Just wanted to know what to expect.

 

You might try to pick up a new 2005. Those will be priced the best right now. Our local dealer was selling all 2005's at MSRP plus a $700 store credit.

 

Heck that's a free stage 1 upgrade right there.

 

What exactly do you get with a stage one upgrade?

 

Check this link out in the DIY forums.

https://www.hdforums.com/m_69608/tm.htm

 

ah, the search button, I will use it wisely, thanks

 

Here's a good place to start looking for sales and service Stealer or dealer I bought mine from one dealer and have had both service and warranty work done at another dealer with no hassles or problems. Depends on dealers in your area. Good luck and happy hunting.

 

And so the wisdom is shared.