I am new to the world of Harleys but have ridden many different brands in the past 25 years. I am interested in purchasing a used RKand would like to know what other touring riders thinks is a good model year to look at. I would want fuel injection and dual piston caliper brakes other than that I am flexible.

Thanks

 

I thing 2002 or 2003 to be some of the best years. this is of couse debatable. I have an 03 and it is alot better than my 98 or 01 was.

 

'99 and some '00 bikes had a bad rear cam bearing that could fail. Those years may or may not have been updated. Be sure to check.

'99-'01 FI bikes have the Marelli FI system. Some people had troubles. ( I never have).

'02-up bikes have the better Delphi FI system.

'03-up bikes have a weaker designed crank bearing. It is fine for a stock motor, but could be a weak link in built motors.

'99-'01 bikes have a rear swing arm that is known to sometimescrack.

Some '05 bikes have bad valve seals that cause excessive oil consumption.

IMO, a '02 is the best ofthe of Twin Cam fuel injected bikes. It has the better FI system and the stronger crank bearing.

 

Triple X has posted some super information. I'm not as supremely informed as he is but he did make me feel smarter for owning an '02.

 

XXX is right on on this one.....

good luck
K.

 

If you can afford it, go for an '06 motor unit that has been used for parade or funeral use. They are usually owned by the officer, very well maintained and, low milage. They are on the market here in the Dallas, TX area in the $ 13 k range.

 

Excellent advice guys, special thanks to XXX for the indepth information. It sounds like an 02 is the way to go.After I get my hands on the bike I'm sure Ill be posting and asking what the best performance mods are, thanks again guys.

 

Go easy on the mods to start with. Remember, you never get a cash return forthem at trade time. In fact, heavy duty modswill detract from resale value. My motto is : "If it doesn't bolt on, it doesn't go on !" (This excludes nessary remapping needed for a hi-flow a/c ).

 

Twin-Cam 88 since '99 they have alll had there goods & bads.... As do the new Twin-Cam 96... Like anything USED - Ya just have to Look Close - Listen & Ride it and what ever fits your budget and your needs would be the right one for you...
No matter what ya buy... Just enjoy the heck out of it!

I've had a '01 RKC - '05 RKS - and now '07 RG & have LOVED THEM ALL!!!

 

I wouldn't pass up an 03 or newer bike because of the bearing issue.
There are loads of bikes with significantly pumped up motors that
haven't had problems.