Apples to oranges maybe, but i met a guy this weekend with 134k miles on a 2005 Road Glide, on original engine and trans. So if it all checks out that mileage is no big deal.

 

Can you explain this a bit? I have a 2008 Heritage and love it, but they MPG is more like 37. idle air control valve ??

 

I hope not, I just bought a 2007 Heritage with 65,000 mi on it, it runs great, I would think unless the 07 your looking at was beat to death and neglected on maintenance you have a super great ride lined up! I just brought mine home yesterday from Indiana, cold ride but run great and starts instantly even below 32*. I know several that have over 50k on the 96 ci engines in various bikes, and they run like new and never been touched.

Out of the three you mentioned it is the only one that will need nothing but normal maintenance, has the 96 ci engine over the 88. The 88 ci engines will need about $2500.00 to $3000.00 in cam chain tensioner work to convert to the hydraulic version the 07 comes with, including the oil pump upgrade, or risk the common failure around 20K mi. resulting in much more Ca-ching! The other thing you'll add is a six speed tranny on the 2007 which will be a welcome addition on long highway runs, anytime you're running over 65 mph. I would have less worry in a well taken care of 07 with 23,000 mi on it than a new bike, it's pretty sure there are no issues by the time you get that many miles on a bike.

I say buy it while momma is smiling!!

 

Having a 6th gear is a pretty big deal, especially if, like me, you do a lot of highway miles.

 

Kculp. In regards to your questions about milage and Iac valve. I will try to explain. As far as your milage, is your bike stock, stage 1 or what? Lot of factors fall into this. The Idle air control valve is located at the 12 o'clock position in upper part of throttle body. If your head Breathers are stock the oil vapor from heads is injected into throttle body. This oil mist will cause an oil film on the IAC pintol and get dirty and so will your throttle body. Can cause running and Idle issues. Should clean this every year and you should be good. Hope this helps.

 

Wow , this place is awesome, what great information guys ! Unfortunately we’re thinking about building an Ark around here we’ve had so much rain every day I still haven’t got to ride the 2007 Soft tail but after some information from here I’m definitely leaning towards it and I hope it’s as good on the inside as it looks on the outside! Thanks again for so much Help from all you guys !

 

I am stock, but has VH pipes. Best mpg ever obtained was 38. Always been disappointed although I ride spirited! No idle issues, but I'll clean it before taking it out of storage this spring. Octane makes no difference but I usually run 91 at the pump. Thanks for the help. I did find a youtube on the topic.

 

I get about 45 - 50 on the Freeway , I don't pay attention to it Hot Rod-in around town .

 

Thanks to everyone’s Help making my mind up , very helpful Forum and proud to be part of it ! I absolutely Love my 2007 Softail Custom, what an awesome, Beautiful Bike!

 

You cant go wrong with that bike.

Don't stress over the cam chain tensioners, just have them checked from time to time. The biggest thing you can do to get longevity out of them is to keep fresh oil in the bike.

For what you paid for that excellent looking bike, a whole new engine if ever needed still puts you so far ahead of the game financially.

So next time you enter a dealership, just laugh at the price of new rides knowing you are so far ahead of the game.

Great looking softy, may you get the biggest grin for many safe miles!