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Test rode a Road King - selling my Fat Boy?

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  #1  
Old 08-03-2016 | 10:58 PM
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Default Test rode a Road King - selling my Fat Boy?

I test rode a Road King today at the dealer. They pulled a nice vivid black 2016 model off the floor and I went for a spin. I really liked the way it carves the turns compared to the work of rolling over the fatter tires on my 2010 Fat Boy, and the ride was smooth as I hoped it would be.
I was surprised by the vibration when not moving because I'm used to the balanced motor in my Softail, but once moving all was good. This model didn't have the ABS, and brake dive really did not make me happy. Somebody please tell me why they don't have that under control from the factory. I would have to remedy the brake five ASAP.
Riding a bike without a nice rumbling exhaust was weird, the bike was way too quiet. I would have to have an exhaust put on immediaely, the question of course is which exhaust to go with; the dealer suggested Screamin Eagle slip-ons, of course. It goes without saying that I would put a better performing a/c on it as well, and have it dyno tuned.
I have Progressive fork springs and Progressive 412 shocks, but if I don't buy the king I'm going to have to seriously think about making a move to air shocks on my current ride. Loved the much louder horn!
I gave the SG serious consideration, but I don't like having the fairing blocking my vision. That said, the top of the windshield on the RK was right in my line of view, and I would have to do something about that. I like the hard bags; I would put them on my FB but the cost of buying a set and painting them black ice is a big investment, and the RK comes with them.
I have to see how much I can sell my FB for, the trade-in value is around $8,500 - $9,500 for a basic FB, and I will get squat for my motor work and accessories. It really is a nice bike.
 
  #2  
Old 08-03-2016 | 11:05 PM
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I also test rode a Road King recently and was very favorably impressed.
 
  #3  
Old 08-03-2016 | 11:51 PM
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The used Harley market is extremely flat right now, unless you have a 2 or 3 yr old bike with less than 1000 miles and selling it at about half its value. Also late summer is a bad time to try to sell a bike unless you want to lose a bunch. If it does not sell within a few weeks and you really have your heart (and wallet) set on the new bike then trading may be the best option.

For some odd reason, people are more willing to spend more for a used bike from a dealer than a cheaper one from a private sale. I guess with a dealer sale you have a chance at getting the dealer to fix a problem for free.
 
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Old 08-04-2016 | 03:48 AM
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Road Kings are one of the better "bang for the buck" models that H-D makes. If you do buy one, I'd strongly suggest you pay the extra bucks for the ABS.
 
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Old 08-04-2016 | 04:32 AM
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Looks like you have some money and nice mods on your FB. As much as I like the new bikes I'd ride what you have.
 
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Old 08-04-2016 | 06:04 AM
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When you twist the throttle on my bike it's so powerful it's crazy. I don't want that power anymore, I want something to ride cross country.
 
  #7  
Old 08-04-2016 | 06:05 AM
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I would not buy any bagger without ABS. The Rushmore line is really a great step up from previous models.
 
  #8  
Old 08-04-2016 | 06:38 AM
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I just picked up a 2012 Road King last week, I've had several bikes but this is my first HD. Mine has Screaming Eagle slip ons, I find them too quiet so I am getting Rinehart 4" mufflers put on.
 
  #9  
Old 08-04-2016 | 06:44 AM
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I am sure your FB is nice and hope you enjoyed it. The truth is what few on here want to talk about: For the money you put in your FB in aftermarket, you could easily have bought a RK or even more expensive bagger. You can hang on and hope you will get more for the FB or just make the best deal you can on the RK w/ trade and move on. No matter what the dealer says, I would keep the RK stock until it is broken in and then see if you want to make any modifications.
 
  #10  
Old 08-04-2016 | 06:46 AM
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I agree w/ some of the other comments and would not buy any RK or touring bike w/o ABS. RK's don't sell especially well and the model year is about over with major changed expected for '17. If the dealer is not willing to give you a hell of a bottom line deal I would walk and shop around further.
 


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