Are older BDs versatile and reliable?

[prizepup]

I'm in the process of purchasing a new bike. I currently own a metric, however, I'd prefer something with personality. I'm looking at an 03 Bulldog which seems to be in pretty good shape and has a little over 6k on the odometer. I love the look and style of the bike but I'm definitely not looking for just a show piece. I want a bike I can use as a daily commuter as well a confidently ride cross country if I so desire. Most BDs I've seen for sale, even older ones, have less than 10k miles on them, which indicates to me they are mainly used as bar hops. So I'm trying to determine if a BD will fit my needs before I drop coin. Otherwise I'll just get a Harley and be done with it. Does anyone here have an older BD they use daily and have taken on long trips? Just looking for some guidance. Thanks!

 

[toodie]

Ah " just get a Harley and be done with it" :roll:

Search forum for Raywood and see how many miles he has ridden.

 

[Bobby Schulz]

Every brand has a repair shop

 

[outdoorsman26]

they are not "JAP" bikes they WILL break down as will harleys, do they break down more?? my buddy has a 08 softail and has had more shit go bad in one yr than I have in 4!! but Ive seen it the other way as well!! I say if ya like it buy it and then worry bout it when sumthin happens!!

ohhh and they are an easy bike to ride cross country!!! there are guys pushin
80-90k

 

[stlmikie]

03 and earlier are great reliable bikes.

 

[erldawg]

There's several threads on reliability on the form. The older bikes do not have the prioritized BD parts therefore easy to pick up parts if they malfunction. When I started to look I was a little apprehensive because of some of the threads on break downs but decided to buy a doggie and have had no issues. It's just like anything else...luck of the draw. If your that concerned then I would say buy a HD and put $10,000 worth of parts to make it unique.

The BD's are unique to begin with and need attention. A quick clean before or after a ride will identify potential problems before they happen while out on the road. I found an issue this morning while wiping the bike down and fixed it before I went out.

These bikes draw attention wherever u go. People just stop and look it's crazy and sometimes annoying when u need to get going and they won't shut up..:lol: Mad Dog can vouch for that one happened twice on our last trip...

 

[DR BULLDOG]

2004 BULLDOG

I have a 04 Bulldog great bike lots of power with the S&S 585 cam have changed the control module once with 11,000 miles take care of it and enjoy the BD & Iwould buy another one tomorow if I had the cash.:up:

 

[Mad Dog]

when u need to get going and they won't shut up..:lol: Mad Dog can vouch for that one happened twice on our last trip...

Was that the Virginia or North Carolina State Police???:roll:

 

[prizepup]

Thanks folks, I really appreciate the feedback. Thanks erldawg, that was some good info and must agree about the uniqueness and the lore of the Dogs. I also must admit that I've always wanted a BDM but had never been able to afford one until I stumbled across this potential deal on an 03 Bulldog. I like Harleys, though have never own one yet but they are EVERYWHERE. And that says something about them as well. However, it would take quite a few mods to make one my own. You're a sage man, sir. I'll let you know how I make out on this deal. Thanks again.