Considering a RK in the future, build/service wise, carbs or EFI, known issues to check, options/trims, etc? Thoughts? I like the 03' 100th Anniversary's but I think the 98' 95ths are just as cool a bike. Thanks a ton

 

Okay, this has been sitting for a while, and I think it has because the questions have been asked so many times in the past. I'm not trying to be a jerk but do a "search" and you should easily get your questions answered.

Just an FYI a '98 RK has the Evo motor and the 99-14's have the Twin Cam.

If you want my bias'd opinion, I would pick up '02 carbed bike. Swing arm upgraded in '02 and it still had the stouter bottom end on the motor. Oh, also I think '01 and older EFI bikes use the MM efi system verses the newer delphi system and I understand it sucks. But then again I love my carbed bike.

 

Are you currently riding a Harley? Budget? There is a pretty big difference in the prices from a 98 to a 2008. Are you the mechanic type or take everything to the dealer? I bought my first Harley a few years ago. It is a 99RKC and was in near mint condition with low miles. I had a budget paying cash of $8500. Got the bike for $8200 and love it. Mine has the Magnetti fuel-injection and runs perfect so far. Some have had issues with this and prefer the carb version. If I had to do it again and new better I would have probably bought one with a carb. The TC88 motors and five speed tranny work fine for me. As you get newer 2002 up to now, the RK's get bigger in size and power. My bike is awesome for me and that's what matters and its paid for. I will always own a HD from now on until I quit riding. BTW, the only other big thing to keep an eye on that is wear item is the cam tensioners. I got lucky as the previous owner had upgraded to a gear-drive setup. Good luck in your purchase. Be patient there are lots of low mileage bikes at great prices to be had out there.

 

...and the Road King is the SAME as all the other touring bikes- except for plastic, wheels, badges and speakers. ( same frame, drivetrain, geometry, brakes and suspension within model year)

as pointed out above, the '98 is an 80" Evo motor- completely different motor, different tranny cases and frame supports.

the 99 + is a twin cam, but changes on Harleys are incremental, for instance the brakes improved into 2000.

Anniversary models are the marketing departments dream- there were 420,000 "100th Anniversary" 2003 model year bikes...made during a 15 month model year.

The anniversary model means nothing unless you happen to like the paint.

an older bike requires you get your hands dirty or find an independent shop. The dealer network can;t be counted on to support machines over 10 years old.
carbs were phased out in 2006- they may not have parts, the EFI has changed a bunch- no way will they stock obsolete control modules etc. or old brake parts etc etc


Take your time


mike