I have a 1975 Harley Davidson XLH (1000cc Sportster) ultimately the weirdest bike to ride because it is so old that the shifter is even on the right side which makes it a trick if you switch between bikes. This is however, not what you were interested in hearing about but simply how reliable they are which I am getting to, I assure you. I had been riding the bike on a regular basis since I was 15 and 1/2 and have enjoyed every minute of it. It has proven to be extremely reliable and as long as you tighten the bolts that come loose due to vibration, don't leave the key on (because it burns up points) and remember not to leave the choke on and foul your plugs it will run forever. I have replaced only a few parts mostly due to the previous owners lack of maintenance (solenoid, brake light switch, and rusty exhaust pipes) I assure you if you ride your Harley often and maintain your bike it will last you as long as you have it. Also, since my bike is a 1975 and is not at all a "looker" not all Harleys are "eye candy" simply a fun bike to ride.

Thanks
-Herb


Editor: Hi Herby, just to give additional context, what year did you buy the bike?

I actually came about getting the bike in 2005, I put a 12" over springer front end on it in 2006 if you were needing anymore additional info -Herby

Editor: That's a reasonable amount of history, one last question: how many miles have you put on it total (some Harley riders only add a few hundred a year, which isn't much of a sample.....)

My name is Dan and I have an 04 1200 sportster custom. After riding this bike for over 12000 miles I can say that I am very pleased with this motorcycle. I did get stranded once, when the bike was brand new --luckily I was only a few miles from the dealership where I bought it and they sent a truck to pick me up.

The service manager at the time ( I don't remember his name but this was at Detroit Harley Davidson in Centerline, Michigan) immediately went to work on it and discovered the battery was defective. He popped in a new battery and I was on my way in less than 15 minutes.

Hey Clayton

Loved your page!!! I'm sure my husband will too since he's no longer in the dog house for the mirror just falling off. We have a 100th Sportster 1200 and he just came home last night holding the mirror in his hand saying "it just fell off!" I was just sure he was being irresponsible and hit something, but after reading all your comments I guess it really does happen. Also wanted to comment that other than the speedometer failing occasionally for no reason, we've had no problems at all. But it's pretty new, only 3000 miles on it so far.

The End Times May Be Here! My 1999 1200 Sporty has almost 55,000 miles on it with only a throttle return spring breaking so far. No oil leaks either, although it does eat a bit of oil (about half a quart every 500 miles or so). But I have been religious about oil changes, maintenance and proper warm up procedures. You would be surprised how many HD riders just start and go, then complain about leaks.