I did quite a bit of research on the M-M fuel injection system before I got my '01. Some love it, some hate it. Mine has never given me an ounce of trouble.

 

Steelhead, the MM fuel injection works great and has a better idle sound than a Delphi system. I think thats 'cause it uses a dual throttle body and the Delphi
uses a single. The ones I rentedperformedgreat!

More on the 08 models; Brembo brakes, Isolated Drive System, a lower first gear ratio,ABS is optional on all touring models $795(but standard the Ultra Classic and Screanmin Eagle EG's), and electronic throttle control (make ABS stops easier to perform because the throttle ca be closed electronically).

 

In05 theyadded a clear-lens, reflector-optic headlight.

 

'05 also had "beehive style" lifter springs that supposedly rotated, some said a good thing others said excess wear, larger than previous years front brake mater cylinder, and also went to dot 4 fluid...believe it was dot 4 can't remember, but it says it on the cover anyways. I do know it was not the same as the previous years.

Adam

 

03 is the year weaker crankshaft bearins were introduced.

I would stay away from anything 1999 if for nothing else, you'll never get another set of wheels on without a lot of difficulty.

Major advantages to 2002-2006 model years because there wasn't a whole lot of changes. Almost all sheet metal and wiring remained constant.

 

You'll save a large bucket of money buying a gently used FLHR. And as stated above, only the '99 is the "runt", and only due to the wheel issue. And if you're concerned about Magneti-Marelli EFI bikes, ask the folks who own them.

 

Wheu!...I'm glad I got the '02FLHRIwhich I just recently bought. I solicited advisefrom this forumB4 purchasing it and they were positive. Haven't ridden it as much as I would have liked to yet but take it out whenever time permits.

Tom

 

It wouldn't have made a difference. I did a lot more research in 2000than just one motorcycle forum and there was no reason to avoid pre-'02 HD touring models. Then again, I was only getting advice from people who were riding them, not from armchair generals.