1998 Harley-Davidson Motorcycle reviews

Was looking for my first serious bike. Initially was looking into a Honda Ace, or dare I say the VTX. Had a friend of mine who had a '00 Honda Spirit. Liked the ride, power was good, and was generally easy to ride. While I was considering which bike to purchase, a good friend of my wife offered to sell us one of his 98'HDSportster 883's he had. Offered it at a price I couldn't refuse. Now, I have to say Harley wasn't a bike I was considering, hearing about complaints of vibration and lack of power, among other general complaints. Bought the '98 HD Sportster, and after some research on the Internet, had the 1200 conversion done, with the SE Cams, and the SE pipes, Carb and Filter work done. After a pleasant experience with the HD dealership, I took the HD out for it's first drive after the engine conversion. It took 3 hours for a 30-minute ride home. I just couldn't bring myself to take it into my garage. I had the biggest grin for the whole 3 hours. After a proper break-in, I've finally opened the throttle somewhat, and the growl from the SE pipes, and the 'hold on tight' torque feel just makes me grin like a fool. My good friend who has the Spirit, was not a Harley fan also, but can honestly say when he got off the Harley for the first time, he was also grinning like a fool. There's just something about a Harley. He now just shakes his head at the Spirit. He told me he wished he had never driven the Harley. Now he said he badly wants to get one too. For those of you that are hesitant or have preconceived notions about a HD, if at all possible, take one out for a ride. I also was convinced I wouldn't like a Harley; until I rode one. Show less

What a bargain at $5195. I've own about 20 bikes and this is my second keeper. I'm a Standard guy and this bike handles great. My biggest suggestion is to add a Supertrapp. This one mod will add about 7 hp and give the bike a powerband. Next, add the SE air filter and better ignition mod. Last, buy some 1200 heads off the internet, there are tons for sale because guys upgrade to the Buell heads. I upgraded the brakes and suspension too. All totaled about $7700. My bike recently dynoed at 69 hp and 74 ftlbs of torque. Show less

Its a good bike for someone starting out new and with all the after-market parts you can get to were you want in HP and performance what a good bike Show less

Good things: looks, sound, balance, low-end power, tons of accessories and after-market stuff. With new Screamin' Eagle pipes and aircleaner, its pretty quick (avoid most Japs, Brits, Italians and Buells and you will feel faster). Bad things: 1998 front "hugger fork length will leave you bottomed out a lot at least if you are over 175 lbs. (try braking on a rail crossing for full effect of lack of fork travel),don't try to sign your name or play piano for an hour after a ride (hands are numb). When my chrome started falling off at 11 months and 8,000 miles the dealer I took it to said "not covered" because I stored it outdoors. All in all, it's a fun bike and I enjoy it but I am glad it's not my only bike! Show less

Well actually, it's an FLHTP-I, Cop bike. I bought it with only 970 miles. 7500 on it now with no problems. H.D. should offer this air-ride seat as an option on other Tourers. I've got a bad back and can ride this thing all day. Only complaint with FLHT's, is that the oil filter is a pain in the ___ to change. Show less

This is the finest Harley I have ever ridden and I've owned 6 others. It maintains the old chopper look but is rubber mounted to absorb vibration, which it does well. It has good power but a jet kit helps out tremendously. More chrome then a 58 Ford and 3 times as expensive. This is not a cheap bike, but if you want the mystique that comes with the name, it is the bike to have. Handles well in turns though scrapping occurs with aggressive leans on curves. Good gas mileage, but you didn't buy this bike for that. Show less