10 Harley-Davidsons That Look More Expensive Than They Are

Over the last year or so, the prices for certain motorcycles have come down substantially. Depreciation is always part of life, but older used motorcycles are not usually affected that much. Harley-Davidson motorcycles, in particular, have held their value, but that is no longer a given.

By the time a motorcycle reaches a certain age, it reaches the bottom of the depreciation curve, by which time a combination of scarcity and inflation dictates that the price will once again gradually rise. Well, for several of these older Harleys, that depreciation curve is sinking deeper than ever. As a result, there are several bikes on the used market that cost a bit less than one might expect.

In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including KBB. Buying a used motorcycle always has an element of risk attached, so please do your research, and proceed with caution. The motorcycles on this list go from oldest to newest.

1996 Fat Boy

Price Range: $4,000 – $6,000

The Fat Boy is a true icon of the ’90s, and the modern version still looks much the same to the untrained eye. By far the biggest difference between this ’90s gem and the modern equivalent is the engine. By modern standards, the old 66-horsepower EVO is a little weak for a bike that weighs over 700 pounds. It will still get up to highway speed without much effort, and if you want it to have more power, there are several aftermarket solutions for that, limited only by budget.

Specifications

1998 Dyna Super Glide

Price Range: $3,000 – $5,000

When it comes to older Dynas like this, it is important to address the elephant in the room. The now infamous “Dyna death wobble” is real, and it is dangerous. These frames are crude by modern standards and are not designed for corner carving on twisty canyon roads. Dynas are meant for cruising, and as long as you are willing to accept that, then this is still well worth a look now that prices have dipped below the $5k mark.

Specifications

1998 Road Glide

Price Range: $5,000 – $7,000

Prices for these old touring bikes vary depending on the condition, but if you are able to find one in decent shape, its lines are pretty similar to the new touring bikes. Its classic shark nose fairing will likely have a few cracks by now, but the EVO motor is both reliable and easy to maintain. Unfortunately, just like the other two cruisers, it will feel sluggish in a bike that is carrying this much weight around.

Specifications

1999 Electra Glide Classic

Price Range: $4,000 – $6,000

There is a touch of irony here. The prices for these bikes have come down to such an extent that the newer, bigger Twin Cam 88 engine – in some cases with fuel injection no less – is actually cheaper. This classic design will appeal to some, but others will prefer the aforementioned Road Glide. While the Twincam 88 was a step in the right direction, it was just a step, and it only made a little more torque.

Specifications

1999 Road King Classic

Price Range: $4,000 – $6,000

Unlike the Electra Glide, which will look a little dated to some, the Road King offers more or less the same “retro” design as the modern bike. It gets the same engine as the aforementioned Electra Glide. It is also a little lighter and won’t be as sluggish. Just don’t expect “face melting” torque from any of these old air-cooled bikes.

Specifications

2002 VRSCA V-Rod

Price Range: $4,000 – $6,000

If power is what you are after, then the first-generation V-Rod offers unbeatable value. Harley-Davidson teamed up with Porsche to build these thoroughly modern liquid-cooled V-twins back in the early 00s. With a bit of an odd rider triangle for a bike making over 100 horsepower, this is not a comfortable motorcycle, but it is certainly fun and looks just as good as it ever did.

Specifications

2012 XR1200X

Price Range: $6,000 – $8,000

Much was made of the fact that Harley chickened out of making the Bronx at the very last minute. But you need not look far to see why the brand was a little scared of making a naked bike. The XR1200 was a great idea, and certainly looks the part, but it was hopelessly overpriced and turned into a sales flop as a result. Prices are still all over the place, but you certainly can find more value these days.

Specifications

2013 Breakout

Price Range: $8,000 – $10,000

In terms of design, the old Breakout doesn’t look too different from the new bike. The main difference is the engine. While this Twin Cam 103 was hugely popular, it was showing its age a bit by the time the Breakout came out and was outgunned by cheaper metric options. If you do want more power, the aftermarket will solve that problem, but at the cost of any semblance of long-term reliability.

Specifications

2021 Pan America

Price Range: $8,000 – $10,000

When looking at the retail value of the Pan America, it is virtually impossible not to do a double-take. The incredible depreciation of this particular model is largely down to the teething issues Harley experienced with these bikes. There were several recalls, and if you do want one, it is crucial that you make sure the recall work has been completed before you take ownership of the bike.

Specifications

Bonus: Any Custom Chopper

Price range: $1,000 – $3,000

So, this is just a bit of fun really. Choppers drift in and out of fashion, but one thing remains true: they are highly individualized builds. So it will be desperately hard to find the right fit. But, if you do, there is most certainly a lot of value to be had. With prices so low, the parts alone are often worth more than the bikes are sold for.

Specifications