03psd, there are people out there, myself included, that would rather have the short stroke 88, (easily converted to 95 if you want btw,) with a cold forged crank vs a cheaper cast crank found in 07 and newer models.

The frame change is minimal, ( the rear tire replacement cost on the 09 models vs 08 is significant.) Go drive both and decide.

Then again you're talking to a guy with an '00 with over 100K on the speedo and no reason to go backwards by buying a newer bike.

 

I was looking for a RKC for my wife. Looked at a '12 that was absolutely a beautiful bike for $23k. Decided that there wasn't anything on the new bikes that I would really regret not having. I bought her a '05 RKC with 12k miles for $10.5k that looks 100% showroom new! It came with a lot of extras and we/she couldn't be happier with the purchase.

 

Having had the newer frame (2011) I really didn't see this huge earth shattering difference. The same goes with the 103. A 96 with mild cams will walk on a stock 103. The ABS, that IS a nice addition however. Don't be afraid to buy used, but whatever you do I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND buying the ESP because you never know what your getting used. Best of luck! BTW, I bought a used 08 with 3500 miles for $16k & 3000 miles later the engine went **** up. Extended warranty covered it for $50. The ESP is worth the money especially if buying used IMHO!

 

Thanks for the insight. I did some reading and can see the merits in your point of view. The 88" will have the 5 speed versus the 6, right? Any issues with this? Can we confirm that a 2006 Police RK will have the 88"? Some places online indicate some 2006's came with the 96" (the dealer told me the bike was a 96, but the guy who was trying to sell me was new so I dont trust him)

 

Buying a used bike can be a good deal but there is nothing like leaving the dealer riding a brand new bike. You might want to consider waiting a few months, once the 2013's hit the floor, the dealers will deal a little on left over 2112's. I bought a new 2011 after the 2012's were out and saved a few dollars.

 

I don't know about 06 Police Bikes...but if they're 96", I'd steer clear. ( Look at the issues in the 06 Dyna 6 speeds and the early 07 Touring crankshaft issues.)

The six speeds aren't and never were necessary IMO. Twin Cams love 3,000 rpms. It's their 'sweetspot.' ( I get a consistent 46 mpg.)

My 5 speed is original as is everything in my primary, starter etc. The only major stuff I've done over 107,000 miles were stators, ( took care of that problem with 3 Phase aftermarket,) and replaced the heads at 67,000 miles, ( cracked Y pipe on the exhaust burned the exhaust valve on the rear jug.) New gear drive cams at 81,000.

The rest of the motor is all original. It's taking me on a 1600 mile run to NJ, PA and OH this summer with only a new set of tires before then. Still doesn't need oil b/w 5,000 mile changes.

If I've got your ear, let me recommend my favorite RK, 2002. Still has the hot forged crank and Timken bearing ( last year for those,), Delphi fuel injection, 1" axles front and rear and an improved, stronger swingarm.

Don't care if you have to drive 500 miles for one, they're that good.

EDIT : Forgot to mention, THEY'RE CHEAP TO BUY TOO!

 

I agree that there is nothing like that sinking feeling of realizing you just lost a couple of thousand bucks that you will never get back by driving it off the lot.

My 2000 that I was talking about in the earlier reply has a six speed in it that has a better ratio than the factory ones. You can get on mine in sixth and it still delivers power. The factory six has no power at all in sixth. Another thing to consider is that the 88's are not heat monsters like the 96's and 103's.

 

Bought my RKC at Rossmeyers during Bikeweek. Was very satisfied with the deal I got on my trade and purchase. Salesman told me Rossmeyer sells more bikes during Bikeweek and Biketoberfest than many dealers sell all year. That type of volume seemingly would allow for the dealership tobe able to have room for good deals.

 

Thanks man!! I've had a lot of fun building it. I've done every stitch of the work and learned a lot from people here and the service manual along the way. Good luck with the search!!

 

A year ago i paid $15,000 for an 08 FLHRC With about $5000 in performance upgrades and bling included. i also got an ESP with it .
The 08 with the 96 , brembo brakes , 6 gal tank and 6 speed is a hell of a bike.
i saw simaler bikes from private sellers for about $13,000 .