2002 Road King vs 2003 Heritage Softail Classic

Gunther · #1 (**permalink**) 08-28-2009, 03:21 PM

Hi Everyone,

I hope someone can point me in the right direction.

I been looking to buy my first Harley for a few months now and I thought I had narrowed it down to a 2002 Road King. Earlier this week, I was approached with the following bike for sale, and now I'm not sure.

A. 2002 Road King Classic with 24,000 miles, It's a basic stock bike with EFI and the added slip-on Screaming Eagle Pipes.
or
B. 2003 Heritage Softail Classic (100th Anniversary Edition, Black & Silver), with 31,000 miles, also a basic stock bike with the added slip-on Screaming Eagle Pipes. Cost: $1,0000 less then the 2002 Road King.

I thought I had made my choice with the '02 Road King, but now I don't know which would be a better buy?

Everyone I spoke to in person suggested that I would prefer the Road King due to my physical size (6'2" & 280 lbs). Although I think both bike models would be a great choice. I plan on using this bike for mostly bar-hopping type of rides, with the occasional weekend long rides. The wife will most likely not be coming along for the rides.

I would appreciate any advice you may have.

Sincerely,
Gunther

Blackpearlultra · #2 (**permalink**) 08-28-2009, 03:42 PM

I would agree that the Roadking would be the way to go. Better suspension for guys our size as well you can customize with an add on fairing and bags similar to an FLH model. I think the RK has a longer wheel base as well but don't quote me on that. Have you road tested each of them? Which one felt the best?

MLC · #3 (**permalink**) 08-28-2009, 04:05 PM

i started out with a dyna and cant afford to replace it at the moment. if i knew then what i know now i'd have gone with a road king. i initially wanted something just like your idea and found i really enjoyed touring 10x more than i thought i would. like BP said above, ride them both and see what grows on you.

mrpiff · #4 (**permalink**) 08-28-2009, 04:06 PM

I think either will suit your purposes, but as Mark pointed out, the RK has an air adjustable rear suspension that you can adjust to fit your size and comfort tastes.

It also allows for more modifications depending on your preferences.

speed · #5 (**permalink**) 08-28-2009, 04:22 PM

With your size Gunther I highly recommend the Road King over the Softail. The Softails have terrible suspension - especially for larger riders.

Cheers,
Speed

Mominatrix · #6 (**permalink**) 08-29-2009, 03:32 PM

When your picking a bike the price does make a difference but it's not a necessity buy it's a desire buy. With that being said when the prices are close it comes down to what do you really want. Both bikes can be customized to suit your individual riding needs. You can bar hop a Road King or tour on a Softail. I've had both. Loved my Fatboy but I opted for the smooth ride of my Road King. I'm a tall girl and the Road King just fits better. I never thought I would enjoy long distance touring when I first started riding but then I tried it. Nothing better in the world than a few days of nothing but road, friends and fun. I vote the Road King.

Gunther · #7 (**permalink**) 09-03-2009, 01:03 PM

Hi Everyone,

I would like to thank everyone who took the time and effort to comment on this post. You comments and advice were very much appreciated.

You are now looking at a new 2002 Road King Classic Owner & Rider.

Thanks again for all your help.

Cheers

Gunther