What Is High Mileage For A Harley Davidson? (Surprising)

The purr of a Harley-Davidson engine is the siren song for seasoned riders. But how many miles can a beloved Harley endure before it starts to whimper, and what is high mileage for a Harley Davidson?

Rugged and reliable, these motorbikes are designed to provide life-long companionship for those who ride them. Still, there inevitably comes a question of their maximum mileage. In this article, we’ll delve into the surprising endurance of Harley Davidson motorcycles, breaking down the magic mileage markers and understanding what’s considered ‘high’ and ‘maximum’ mileage. Let’s turn the key, rev the engine, and journey into the captivating realm of Harley’s high mileage chronicles!

Table of Contents

So, What Is Considered High Mileage For A Harley Davidson Motorcycle?

A well-maintained Harley Davidson motorbike can easily clock between 80,000 to 100,000 miles. Surprised? You shouldn’t be. It’s not uncommon to find a Harley Davidson crossing the 50,000-mile mark. In fact, with regular care and maintenance, these bikes are known to triple the mileage with ease. That being said, it’s crucial to note that there’s no definitive answer to this question. Factors like the bike’s model, the riding style, and the owner’s maintenance habits play a significant role in determining the motorcycle’s lifespan.

How Does This Compare To Other Brands?

When pitted against other brands, Harley Davidson holds its ground quite well. For instance, Indian motorcycles, known for their integrated, shaft-driven transmission, have comparable longevity, with well-maintained bikes surpassing the 100,000-mile mark. Honda, the world’s largest motorcycle manufacturer since 1959, produces bikes that can last up to 400,000 miles. Triumph motorcycles also fare well, with an average lifespan of 100,000 to 200,000 miles, thanks to their state-of-the-art engine technology.

Related article: Are Harley Davidsons Reliable?

Why Is Mileage Considered Different To Other Brand Motorcycles?

Harley Davidson motorcycles, particularly cruisers and touring models, are built for long-distance rides. They are designed to endure the rigors of the road and resist wear and tear better than many other brands. This, combined with meticulous maintenance, allows Harleys to clock more miles than many other motorcycle brands.

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What To Consider If Purchasing A High Mileage Harley Davidson

When considering acquiring a high mileage Harley Davidson, several factors should be taken into account:

Model

The bike’s model significantly impacts its mileage. For instance, an Evolution 883cc engine Harley Sportster may cover fewer miles than an Electra Glide with a Milwaukee Eight 107 engine, designed specifically for long-distance touring.

Rider Usage and Maintenance

The way the previous owner(s) used and maintained the bike is another crucial factor. A bike ridden hard and not maintained well might show signs of wear much earlier than one that has been well taken care of.

Related article: Harley Davidson Engine Rebuild Cost (Revealed)

Suspension, Controls, and Other Natural Wear

It’s also crucial to consider the condition of various parts that naturally wear out over time, such as the suspension, controls, and tires. A bike that has been maintained well will have less wear and tear in these areas.

Related article: Forward Controls vs Mid Controls

How Long Do Harley Engines Last?

A well-maintained Harley engine can last upwards of 100,000 miles. Of course, this longevity depends on regular servicing and responsible riding habits.

What Is A Lot Of Miles For A Harley? (My Opinion)

In my opinion, anything over 100,000 miles could be considered a lot for a Harley Davidson. However, this doesn’t mean the bike is beyond its prime. In fact, with regular maintenance and care, a Harley can continue to provide reliable service for many more miles.

my harley davidson odometer with 100,000 miles

Is There A Maximum Mileage For Harley Davidsons?

There’s no definitive “maximum mileage” for a Harley Davidson. Some touring Harleys have been known to clock up to 180,000 miles, and there are even instances of Sportsters reaching 130,000 miles. In 2009, Dave Sien set a world record by hitting the 1 million mile mark on his 1991 FXR Super Glide. This goes to show that these bikes are built to last.

Depends on the motor: Best Year Harley Evo Motor

How To Prolong The Life Of Harley Davidson Motorcycles

Prolonging the life of a Harley Davidson involves regular maintenance and responsible riding habits. Here are a few tips:

Break in the Engine Properly: For new bikes or rebuilt engines, it’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s break-in instructions. This usually involves avoiding using more than 3/4 of the throttle for the first 500 to 1,000 miles.
Follow the Service Manual: Regularly servicing your bike according to the guidelines in the service manual can significantly prolong its lifespan.

Maintain the Air Filter: Regularly cleaning or replacing the air filter can keep your bike running smoothly and extend its life.
Use Coolant: Using coolant instead of water can prevent rust and corrosion in the radiator tubes.
Inspect the Final Drive: Regular inspections of the chain, sprocket wear, and rear drive housing can help detect problems early and avoid costly repairs.

FAQs

In this section, we will address some of the frequently asked questions related to high mileage Harley Davidsons.

Can a well-maintained Harley Davidson cross the 100,000-mile mark?

Yes, with regular care and maintenance, a Harley Davidson can easily surpass the 100,000-mile mark.

How does the mileage of Harley Davidson compare with other brands like Indian and Honda?

With regular maintenance, Harley Davidson motorcycles can clock just as many miles as other top brands like Indian and Honda.

What is considered high mileage for a Harley Davidson Sportster?

Given that Sportsters are often ridden harder than cruisers, anything over 25,000 miles might be considered high mileage for these models.

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To conclude, while mileage is a crucial factor when buying a used Harley Davidson, it should not be the only consideration. Proper maintenance, model type, and how the bike was used also play significant roles in determining a bike’s condition and longevity. So, if you’re considering buying a used Harley Davidson, don’t be swayed by the miles on the odometer alone. Instead, take a holistic view of the bike’s overall condition and upkeep.

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