I agree those are wear items. Done them a few times myself. But saying never opened up is misleading in my opinion

 

I see this sentiment repeated here on these forums quite often. What I don’t see are lots of threads where someone is having an issue with the MM FI system.

I also see the modules for sale on different sites and readily available from MC “junkyards” at about $300 -400 average asking price.I picked up an ‘01 RK Classic a few years back, I’ve swapped pipes a few times and the MM system accommodates the change well. My fuel mileage is 48-50 mpg and the FI 88 TC is peppy and fun to ride. I would prefer the carb, but I wouldn’t not buy a MM bike.

 

My 1989 UltraClassic ElectraGlide had cruise control and radio. Dunlop 491 tires got 12,000k+. I ran that bike two up, 1/3 of the time also pulling a TimeOut camper.

I built the suspension for my riding weights and upgraded brakes.

According to most folks on the internet, I should have died before being able to ride 150k+ miles on that bike.

 

I toured on TC88 with no cruise. Doesn't mean it was the best.

If money wasn't an issue, I wouldn't choose an old bike. Unless I was building something custom.

 

I've found myself enjoying cruise when I have it, but not missing it when I don't. Earlier in this thread I mentioned doing a trip on my 2015 Fat Boy; it was around 3,000 miles round trip. I was quite comfortable, didn't care that I had no cruise or touchscreen, and I even debated selling the RG instead of the FB. I kept the RG instead because I ride two up on occasion, and the touring chassis has a lot more space for a passenger. I sold the FB so I could get back down to one bike.

I realize a 2015 FB is not the same as a 1998 EG, but I do think it speaks to the fact that I could tour comfortably on the EG with the right modifications. I did rebuild the forks with Progressive monotubes on the FB, and also put Progressives under for the rear. I also had a nice Mustang seat and a wind splitter windshield. I think I put 14" apes on that bike, too. SS 583 cams as well. It was a sweet machine.

So I guess the answer for any Internet strangers out there is: if you're just starting out and you want to go with an Evo, go for it. A TC-era model will be better in a number of ways, especially the 6spd and 6ga tank. The M8 will be far better. It's probably not worth going backwards unless you're a young masochist...