Nada Harley Davidson Motorcycles (2024)

FAQs

What year were Harleys bad? ›

If you're considering a used Harley, you may want to be cautious of model years between 1999–2006 as these models featured the problematic Twin Cam 88A engine.

Models like the Road King and Street Glide, which are highly sought after, tend to maintain their value better due to their consistent demand. This popularity ensures that there is always a market for these bikes, keeping their resale prices robust.

Larger bikes like Harley-Davidson models can typically withstand more miles without rapid engine wear. For Harley-Davidson motorcycles, the high mileage threshold is around 45,000 to 60,000 miles.

For these motorcycles, the high mileage range is anywhere between 20,000 to 30,000 miles. Larger motorcycles, like Harley-Davidson, can usually take more miles without their engines being worn down as quickly. For these bikes, the high mileage point is around 40,000 to 50,000 miles.

Among its engines, the best Davidson engine is the Milwaukee. Since the founding of Harley-Davidson motorcycles to date, the company's most reliable and advanced engine is the Milwaukee Eight. The engine was introduced in 2016 and comes in two versions, the 114 and 117 cubic inches of displacement.

The Twin Cam 88 engine, a significant introduction in 1999, proved troublesome at best. Overhead twin cams were new to Harley, and the cam chain tensioners soon earned a reputation for shoddy construction, especially between 1999 and 2002.

Best-Selling Harley of All-Time: The Sportster

The Harley-Davidson Sportster, first introduced in 1957, is renowned for revolutionizing motorcycling with its powerful engine and lightweight design. The Sportster is the most popular HD and the best-selling Harley of all time.

The #1 logo was originally created to celebrate the 1969 AMA Grand National Championship season title of Harley-Davidson racer Mert Lawwill. It was later modified to the current version to include stars within the logo. Tap to shop one of our most iconic graphics ⬇️

The Harley-Davidson engine can last 60,000 to 250,000 miles with proper maintenance. Some models can last 400,000 to 1,000,000 miles. Whether you choose Softail, Evo, or Twin Cam motorcycle engines, complete the required maintenance. Replace the oil filter, air filter, worn-out valves, drive belts, and pistons.

Which Harley-Davidson has the best gas mileage? ›

Iron 883 models have been shown to deliver 50+ MPG, making them some of the most efficient Harley-Davidson bikes.

Older bikes can have timeless appeal and often come at a lower price, but they might also require more maintenance and repairs. A good rule of thumb is to look for a model that is not more than 20 years old unless you are specifically looking for a classic bike and are prepared for the potential challenges.

Drive belts are far easier to replace in a shop than out on the road. Keep in mind that Harley-Davidson recommends inspecting the drive belt after the first 1,000 miles of use and every 5,000 miles thereafter for standard belts on unmodified bikes.

High mileage for a motorcycle is between 20,000 to 50,000 miles. Smaller motorcycles like sports bikes are considered to be high mileage at between 20,000 to 30,000 miles. Larger models like cruisers and touring bikes are deemed high mileage at around 50,000 miles.

Production Years: 1995 to 1996

You may sing many praises about the Harley-Davidson Bad Boy, but you can never ignore the elephant in the room — in all other aspects, it was an alright motorcycle.

The best years, such as 2007–2009 and 2014–2016, showcased significant advancements in performance, reliability, and rider comfort. On the other hand, the early years from 1999–2002 and the transitional period of 2006 highlighted some of the challenges Harley faced in perfecting this engine.

Significant market forces—including Japanese competition and a recession—and a long-term decline in quality, were pushing America's last motorcycle maker into bankruptcy. In 1981, however, a group of executives who loved the company and its product closed ranks to rescue Harley-Davidson from decline.

Classic Motorcycles: bikes that are 20 years or older. Vintage Motorcycles: bikes that are 25 years or older. Antique Motorcycles: bikes that are 35 years or older.