The Best Year to Purchase a Used Harley Davidson Motorcycle

Introduction

The decision to purchase a used Harley Davidson motorcycle can be a thrilling one, but it's important to consider several key factors such as the year of the motorcycle and its condition. In this article, we'll explore the nuances of choosing the right year to buy a used Harley Davidson and highlight some crucial considerations.

The Golden Years: 1940s and 1950s Harleys

If you're looking for a vintage Harley Davidson, the years 1940 and 1950 present a great opportunity. If you purchased a motorcycle from this era back in 1990, it's quite likely that its value has appreciated significantly since then. Vintage Harleys from this period are highly collectible and can fetch premium prices today.

The Post-2006 Era: Softails and Modern Designs

Starting from 2006, Harley Davidson introduced significant design changes, particularly with the release of the Softail lineup. In 2006, Harley introduced the first rubber-mounted engines and six-speed gearboxes, which considerably improved the ride and handling of the motorcycles.

However, it's important to avoid the earlier models of the M8 series, which were produced between 2016 and 2017. These models faced oiling and shock travel issues, though recalls have addressed these issues. Newer M8 models, particularly those after 2018, don't suffer from these problems and feature increased shock travel in the rear, set to 5 inches.

It's generally advisable to avoid models with Moto Marelli injection, as they don't perform as well as carbureted models. Old carbureted Harleys can be upgraded to S S or Keihin for better performance. Some enthusiasts insist that Evo engines with Keihin carburetors were superior, and may still find examples of these bikes that have been meticulously restored and upgraded. However, keep in mind that these are not stock and come at a higher price.

Current Recommendations: 2014 to 2022

Currently, you can find some decent deals on 2023 and 2022 models, but dealerships may overprice them due to rising prices for these models. Newer bikes in the 2014 to 2022 range, particularly those with the "Rushmore" redesign introduced in 2014, are competitively priced and in good condition. The "Rushmore" redesign marked a significant improvement over earlier models.

When considering the future, the trend is likely to see the Limited and Ultra models receiving the new modernized fenders in 2024, which should lead to a decrease in their value. Additionally, new CVO models and possibly new models built around the Rev Max engine may emerge, potentially leading to cheaper M8-based touring bikes.

Harley Davidson is known for its reliable, air-cooled engines, particularly the M8. It's unlikely they will introduce a completely new engine anytime soon, as the M8 remains a core part of the brand.

For enthusiasts who dream of a future M9 engine, time will tell if such an improvement will materialize, but for now, the M8 will continue to be a staple in the Harley lineup.

Conclusion

The best year to buy a used Harley Davidson motorcycle depends on your priorities and financial situation. Vintage models from the 1940s and 1950s, newer models with the "Rushmore" redesign, and those with the improved M8 engine are all great options. Research thoroughly, and consider the long-term value and condition of the bike you're interested in.