hey guys, i am overseas in Kuwait right now doing contract aviation work for the Army. i am going to be coming home stateside in about three months and will be beginning the hunt for my first bike, looking for a sportster 1200.

my question is, are there any tall tale signs i should be looking for on a used bike to indicate any negative treatment, harsh riding, or anything that would be a sign to NOT buy a particular bike?

i would hate to think i found a great bike and end up finding out i made a major mistake when under the masking of chrome and accessories, all the flaws start to show and mechanical failure sets in.


in advance i thank you for your help!

 

Welcome to the HDF . When you find the right one , I would take it in and have it checked out ....just for peace of mind .

 

I would look for a rubber mount 2004 and up, 2007 and up if you want fuel injection although there is nothing wrong with the carb versions. There are many available because a lot of guys have a mid-life crisis, buy one, and then their interest fades. I have seen many 2004-2011 1200's available with really low mileage and several available at very fair prices. Familiarize yourself with the kind of Sportster you want, look at a lot of them, and you will be able to identify those that have been treated well, and not so well.

 

Tell me about it!

I've seen mint bikes with sometimes, 1000miles on them. Geez... who buys a brand new Harley (or any other bike) only to put 1000 miles on it?