Used Harley Davidson – The Ultimate Buyer's Guide
Everything you need to know before getting the iron horse of your dreams.
Why a Harley – and why used?
When someone asks, “Why Harley?”, the classic answer is: “If I have to explain it to you, you wouldn’t understand.” But let’s give it a try.
A Harley-Davidson isn’t just a motorcycle. It’s a lifestyle. A philosophy. A sound. A vibration. A passion. And a pure piece of American heritage.
For many riders, a brand-new Harley might be out of reach financially, but a well-chosen used one can bring you into the world of Harley with style and substance... as long as you know what you're doing.
Used Harley Davidson
Let's start with the basics.
1. Know Yourself – and Your Riding Style
There’s no such thing as a “one-size-fits-all” Harley.
Before browsing listings, ask yourself:
What kind of riding speaks to you?
Coastal cruising? Long-distance touring? Daily urban rides?
Are you comfortable with the weight and size of a Harley?
A Street 750 or Softail Slim is a very different beast from an Electra Glide.
Mechanical know-how & maintenance budget: A vintage Shovelhead might be your dream... or your nightmare, depending on your skills (unless you've got Two Wheel Brothers' mechanics backing you – then you're good to go)!
Which Harleys Make Great Used Buys? Harley-Davidson has decades of history, and many models have earned their place as ideal used buys, whether you’re new to the scene or a road-seasoned vet.
Sportster (883 & 1200)
Harley’s most compact line, but never to be underestimated. With 883 or 1200cc engines, Sportsters offer simplicity, agility, and a great base for customization. Perfect for Harley newcomers.
Be mindful of older carbureted models, they’ve got character, but require more maintenance.
Dyna (e.g., Street Bob, Wide Glide)
A cult classic. Known for its raw road feel and solid frame, the Dyna line is beloved by custom builders. If you find one in good shape with tasteful mods, it’s a gem.
Bonus: Now out of production – a future classic.
Softail (e.g., Fat Boy, Heritage, Slim)
Softails offer a more refined ride without losing Harley’s classic soul. From low-and-slow cruisers (Fat Boy) to light tourers (Heritage), it’s a versatile platform.
Post-2018 models feature a new frame for better handling, but older versions still hold strong value.
Touring (e.g., Road King, Street Glide, Ultra Classic)
Built for comfort and long hauls. Big, heavy, and road-stable — these machines eat miles for breakfast.
Perfect for riders who dream of crossing Greece or Europe without feeling it in their spine.
V-Rod:
The rebel of the Harley family. Water-cooled, Porsche-designed, with a street-muscle attitude.
If performance and speed matter to you, this one’s a beast.
Pan America (1250 & 1250 Special):
Harley’s bold leap into the adventure segment. Liquid-cooled, with VVT (Variable Valve Timing), high-tech electronics, off-road chops, and serious long-distance capability.
A Harley that does it all — on-road, off-road, daily or touring.
Pro Tip: A well-maintained Dyna or Softail is often the best starting point for a used Harley in Greece today.
Used Harley Davidson
2. Technical Tricks & Tips for the Savvy Buyer
Here’s what seasoned Harley riders look for — and what most overlook:
Check for the “Harley Shake”
All Harleys vibrate — but excessive shaking could mean:
Worn-out engine mounts or silent blocks
Poor combustion due to injector/sensor issues
Cracked engine mount (especially on Dynas)
Oil Leaks Matter
Oil around the rocker covers or oil pump usually points to worn seals.
Look under the crankcase — a few drops are normal, but Niagara Falls? No thanks.
Exhaust Rhythm & Engine Sound
Listen for:
Rhythmic firing — no misfires
Backfire when downshifting = bad mapping or tuning
Metal knocking = potential cam or timing chain issues
Feel the Swingarm & Handlebars
Push, pull, and twist.
Any play or clicking may indicate worn bearings or bushings.
Creaking when turning the handlebars = inspect front fork & steering head.
ECU Module or Power Commander
If it’s fuel-injected and modded (e.g., open pipes), it must have a proper remapping device: Power Commander, Screamin’ Eagle, etc.
No tuning + open pipes = lean combustion = shorter engine life.
Magnetic Stick Test
Use a telescopic magnetic stick in the fuel tank.
Metal shavings = fuel pump issues or rust inside the tank.
Used Harley Davidson
3. Used Harley Inspection Checklist
This is where it counts.
A Harley isn’t a scooter — a wrong buy could be costly.
General Condition
Frame: Rust, dents, or signs of repairs?
Paint: Factory paint adds value. Custom paint?
Make sure it’s well done.
Saddle & accessories: Reflect overall care.
Engine & Transmission
Sound: Should be distinctively Harley — not confused or rattling
Smoke: Blue = burning oil = trouble
Leaks: A few drops? Okay. A steady drip? No thanks.
Shifting: Should be smooth — especially 1st and 5th/6th gear
Electrical & Wiring
Test lights, horn, turn signals, controls, gauges.
Messy wiring = poor mods or sloppy maintenance.
Service History & Mileage
Ask for service receipts or records.
Don’t obsess over mileage.
A well-cared-for 50,000km bike ia better than a neglected 10,000km garage queen.
Custom Mods
Ask what’s been changed: exhaust, bars, seat, ECU, brakes.
Custom bikes can be showstoppers — or fragile. Depends on who built them.
If there's been a "reflash", it should have been done knowledgeably.
Bikes with extensive custom modifications can be more sensitive — or more impressive.
It all depends on WHO did the work.
Used Harley Davidson
4. Smart Questions to Ask the Seller
Why are you selling it? (Ask politely. The tone says a lot.)
Was it ridden regularly or just stored?
City use only or long rides too?
Any accidents or drops?
Anything that needs replacing soon (belt, tires, battery, etc.)?
Are the papers in order? Taxes, roadworthiness, service book?
Pro Tip: If the seller hesitates or dodges questions, walk away. Harleys need clean histories — not mystery stories.
Used Harley Davidson
5. Test Ride or Mechanical Inspection – A Must
If you’re unsure, get a Harley-specialized mechanic to inspect it.
Two Wheel Brothers offers full used Harley inspections — so you can buy with confidence.
After all, it's no coincidence that at TWB we offer a 6-month warranty on our own pre-owned Harley-Davidson motorcycles.
Better yet:
Test ride it.
Feel the bike. It should speak to you. If it doesn’t — it’s not the right one.
Used Harley Davidson
6. Legal & Transfer Process
Ensure proper power of attorney or notary document for transfer
Title must be clear (not under seizure or lacking import papers)
Check VIN number on the chassis vs. the registration
Final transfer at the Ministry of Transport or via KEP (Citizens’ Service Center)
Used Harley Davidson
7. Price Points & Pitfalls
Prices vary by model, year, engine size, rarity, and condition.
Too cheap? Could be trouble... or a golden opportunity
Too expensive? Cross-check with similar listings
Compare prices via:
Biker classifieds / forums
Facebook groups
Or contact Two Wheel Brothers and tell us about your dream bike.
Used Harley Davidson
8. Bonus Tips from Two Wheel Brothers
Don’t buy with your eyes, buy with your mind.
Prefer Harleys with service history, known workshops, or shop warranty.
Don’t dismiss older models, many Evo and Twin Cam engines are rock solid.
Budget for: helmet, maintenance, tires... and beers (post-ride only).
Used Harley Davidson
Used Harley-Davidson – Final Thoughts
Buying a used Harley-Davidson is a journey — filled with excitement, anticipation, and responsibility.
Don’t let a shiny pipe blind you.
Inspect. Ask. Research. And above all — follow your heart, but keep your mind open.
Need help finding or inspecting a used Harley?
Two Wheel Brothers is here — with passion, respect, and years of real-world experience.
Ready to Ride the Dream?
A Harley-Davidson isn’t just a motorcycle. It’s a way of life.
If you’re standing at the threshold — make the choice wisely.
Looking to buy a pre-owned Harley-Davidson and need help with inspection or choosing the right one?
Talk to the specialized professionals at Two Wheel Brothers, we're here to guide you with honesty, experience, and a true passion for the steel that makes history.
See our available used Harleys here:
Two Wheel Brothers @Car.gr
Book a FREE technical inspection before buying:
Two Wheel Brothers: +30 210 97 66 206
A Harley isn’t bought. It’s chosen.
Choose with your head. Ride with your heart.
Two Wheel Brothers: Because We Can!