New Biker from essex

[bish]

Well finally gone and done it. Should have done it years ago. That is - get me bke licence. Had first introductory lesson today. used to ride a moped (legally) many years ago and a few assorted big stuff (illegally) as well. Last time I rode a bike was a 600cc suzuki ten years ago.

I have always wanted a Harley and have the opportunity to get one now. For now i have my eye on a sportster as my first bike and then move onto something else when have the experience. Is this a good idea?

have noticed on Autotrader and MCN that second hand Harleys keep their value, especially modified ones. Is it worth getting a secondhand one or going for a newer model that isnt that more expensive?

Any particular pitfalls with older models?

Currently reading good sportster handbook which does say that newer models do need better breathing and exhaust due to emission regulations.

Should get my licence by end of the month and be a (fully fledged) Harley rider sometime soon after.

Finally, My two nearest dealers are Stratstone and Black Bear. Anyone had dealings with them? Any good?

been looking to see how much membership is? probably being v dumb and not noticed it!

That's it.

Bish

Welcome to the forum, bish.

Since you have prior experience with bikes, I wouldn't be too concerned about which Harley you start out with. My advice would be to go with the model you like the best (and can afford). Take your time and sort out the various styles and characteristics. Test ride some.

Don't believe everything you hear about Harleys holding their value. While there certainly is some truth to that, you will get a sense about how true that is by looking at the prices of very well maintained used bikes, and particularly how much used Harleys only one or two years old are priced at in places like Autotrader and MCN. There is a substantial drop-off in price initially, and then they hold their price pretty well.

Modified bikes are particularly prone to losing value, as the mods that are made are done according to the owners preference. The costs of mods are not well reflected in resale prices.

I think you will find that the majority opinion on this forum is to go with a used bike from a source you can trust. Then, you will probably be most satisfied getting the most bone stock bike you can find. This will allow you to spend additional money on the mods you want, rather than paying (to some extent) for someone else's penchants. Certainly, if you come upon a modified bike that fits your own scheme, and is at an attractive price, grab it (Never let the seller know that the mods on the bike are to your taste). But, yes, there certainly are caveats that go with any older bike. Ask away in the virtual rally section or more specific sections on the various models. You'll find a wealth of knowledge from members of this club. ;)

[bish]

Thanks usabear. A case of doing careful research!!

[MacHarry]

Welcome on the forum Bish

Hope to meet you at the Essex Poker-run in September

Harry from Holland

[bish]

would like to come but wont have passed test til october. mersea only half hour from me, so easy to get to. only transport will be my car. will this be ok? is a saab so not run of the mill rubbish.

[MacHarry]

Originally Posted by bish

would like to come but wont have passed test til october. mersea only half hour from me, so easy to get to. only transport will be my car. will this be ok? is a saab so not run of the mill rubbish.

It's for me not a problem when you come with a car

Harry

[kneetrembler]

Welcome,

[sKorch]

Hiya Bish

I'm in the Essex region (i think), the next meet is at Castle Hedingham (never been there myself ) on the 6th Sept.

and thats followed by the Essex Poker Run held over the weekend of 29th Sept-1sth Oct at Mersea.

I live between Chelmsford and Colchester;) , so we can arrange a meet if you are near.

I've got a 2002 883R sportie, and its very rough at anything over 65mph (vibration ), which apparently the latest models don't suffer with(rubber-mounted engine--softies ).

Mines also been 'stage 1-ed' , which in plain speak is
better exhausts
better air filter
bigger main-jet

Dealers??

cos i bought the bike second-hand last year, I' ve never yet used a dealer, but may use Harley-Tech in Maldon, or do it myself.( got 3 other bikes , NOT harleys, in different stages of roadworthyness in the garage )Ho-Hum


still,
welcome to the club
the waters quite warm sometimes

[bish]

Hi sKorch,

thanks for the advice.

i live in witham so you are quite close to me i think. We could meet up sometime soon if you want. Didn't know there was a harley indie in maldon. Yeah knew bout the vibes on older sportsters. Done a fair bit of research already. Am off on the 6th so could go along to the next meet at castle hedingham. Also free on the 1st october for the poker run. Working on the 29th and 30th. Do long days so pretty stuffs up the day for anything else.


regarding dealers just wondered what they were like once a bike sold. Service my own car but occasionally do have to us e a dealer for bits/advice.


be good to meet the local guys and get initiated!!

If you want sKorch pm me and i'll phone u?

bish

[WildBill2566]

Hi, I'm South of Colchester, near Manningtree. Welcome to the site.
I got my train from Black Bear, and have bought various bits and bobs from them. I have found them to be quite helpful, but they suffer the same high prices as all the other dealers. I do my own servicing and get most of my service items from Gurnsey HD as they are cheaper than the mainland dealers.