Buying your first Harley? Don't start with a 900-pound touring bike. Here are 5 used models that are perfect for first-time Harley owners.
Why Your First Harley Matters
Your first Harley sets the tone. Buy something too big, too heavy, or too powerful, and you'll struggle. Buy something manageable, and you'll fall in love with riding. These 5 models are perfect for first-time Harley owners.
1. Sportster 883 – The Classic Starter
The Sportster 883 is Harley's entry-level bike, and for good reason. Used models go for $7,000-$10,000. You get:
- Lightweight – 545 pounds, easy to handle
- Manageable power – 54 ft-lb torque, perfect for learning
- Low seat height – 27.3 inches, easy to flat-foot
- Affordable – Cheapest way into Harley ownership
Sportsters are perfect for city riding, learning to handle a Harley, and building confidence. A used 2020 Sportster 883 with 5,000 miles at $8,500 is a great first bike. You'll learn to ride, have fun, and not break the bank.
Browse used Sportster 883 models
2. Softail Standard – The Modern Starter
The Softail Standard gives you Milwaukee-Eight power in a manageable package. Used models go for $15,000-$18,000. You get:
- Milwaukee-Eight 107 – Modern power, smooth operation
- Manageable weight – 680 pounds, not too heavy
- Clean design – Easy to see around, no fairings to worry about
- Modern reliability – 2018+ models are bulletproof
Softail Standards are perfect if you want modern power but don't want a huge bike. A used 2021 Softail Standard with 8,000 miles at $16,500 is a great first Harley. You get Milwaukee-Eight reliability without the size of a touring bike.
3. Heritage Classic – The Comfortable Starter
The Heritage Classic gives you touring comfort without the size. Used models go for $18,000-$20,000. You get:
- Milwaukee-Eight 107 – Smooth, reliable power
- Detachable windshield – Wind protection when you need it
- Comfortable seat – Better for longer rides
- Classic styling – Looks great, easy to love
Heritage Classics are perfect if you want comfort and style. A used 2020 Heritage Classic with 10,000 miles at $19,000 is a great first Harley. You get touring capability without the bulk of a full-dress tourer.
4. Fat Boy – The Iconic Starter
The Fat Boy is an icon, but it's still manageable for beginners. Used models go for $17,500-$19,500. You get:
- Milwaukee-Eight 107 or 114 – Plenty of power, but manageable
- Low center of gravity – Feels lighter than it is
- Iconic styling – You'll love looking at it
- Stable handling – Solid-disc wheels feel planted
Fat Boys are perfect if you want that iconic look but need something manageable. A used 2021 Fat Boy with 7,000 miles at $18,500 is a great first Harley. The low center of gravity makes it easier to handle than you'd think.
5. Road King – The Touring Starter
The Road King is the smallest full touring bike, perfect if you want touring capability. Used models go for $19,000-$21,000. You get:
- Milwaukee-Eight 107 – Proven touring power
- Detachable windshield – Versatile wind protection
- Hard saddlebags – Real storage capacity
- Full touring capability – Ready for long trips
Road Kings are perfect if you want to tour but don't want a huge bike. A used 2020 Road King with 12,000 miles at $20,000 is a great first touring Harley. You get full touring capability without the bulk of an Ultra Limited.
What to Avoid for Your First Harley
Don't start with:
- Ultra Limited – Too big, too heavy, too much bike
- CVO models – Too expensive, too much power
- Low Rider S – Too aggressive, too much power for beginners
- Breakout – Too aggressive, not beginner-friendly
These bikes are great, but they're not for first-time Harley owners. Start with something manageable, learn to ride, then upgrade when you're ready.
Tips for First-Time Harley Buyers
When you're buying your first Harley:
- Start small – You can always upgrade later
- Focus on condition – A well-maintained bike is worth more than low miles
- Get service history – Make sure it's been taken care of
- Test ride if possible – Make sure it feels right
- Don't overspend – You might drop it, you might want to upgrade
The Bottom Line
Your first Harley should be manageable, reliable, and affordable. These 5 models check all those boxes. Start with something you can handle, learn to ride, then upgrade when you're ready.
Ready to find your first Harley? Browse my inventory or text me at 414-439-6211 to see what I've got. I'll help you find the perfect first bike and get it shipped to your door for $499.
