Whether you’re looking to sell your Harley-Davidson or just curious about what it’s worth, you’re not alone. With their iconic design, loyal fanbase, and long-standing legacy, Harley motorcycles are often seen as machines that not only ride well, but resist depreciation. But is that actually true?
This guide walks you through the truth behind Harley-Davidson resale value: what affects it, how to evaluate your bike, and how to tell whether now is the right time to sell or hold onto your beloved ride a little longer.
Table of Contents
Why Resale Value Matters
Imagine you’ve got a Road King sitting in your garage. It’s clean, well-maintained, and hasn’t seen much road time in the last few years. You’re wondering: Should I sell it now, or wait until demand ticks up?
Knowing your Harley’s real value, not just what you hope it’s worth, is key to making a smart decision. Whether you’re eyeing a trade-in, private sale, or just calculating insurance coverage, understanding value puts you in control.
Quick Takeaways
- Age and condition are the top influencers of resale value. A vintage model in mint shape? Gold. A beat-up 3-year-old Softail? Not so much.
- Popular models like the Street Glide and Road King tend to hold value better than less sought-after ones.
- Mileage matters a lot. Lower mileage usually means higher value.
- Modifications can help or hurt resale depending on the quality and how well they match market preferences.
- Tools like NADA Guides and Kelley Blue Book are your best friends for estimating price points.
- Local demand and regional trends significantly impact what buyers are willing to pay.
What Affects a Harley-Davidson’s Resale Value?
Several core factors come into play when estimating how much your Harley is worth:
1. Age of the Motorcycle
While all motorcycles depreciate, Harleys tend to hold up better than most, especially vintage models or those with historical significance. Older bikes, like a well-preserved 1970s Electra Glide, may even appreciate over time if they become collectible.
Recent models also do well, but they follow a more typical depreciation curve:
- Year 1–2: 15–20% drop in value
- Years 3–5: Slower depreciation if maintained well
- Years 6+: Values stabilize if the bike remains in good shape
2. Condition and Maintenance
Condition is king. A Harley that’s been pampered will always be worth more than one that’s been neglected, regardless of age.
Use this rough grading system to self-evaluate:
- Excellent: Like-new, no visible wear, perfect mechanical condition
- Good: Minor wear and tear, everything runs smoothly
- Fair: Signs of age, cosmetic blemishes, possibly some mechanical attention needed
Keep maintenance records. Oil changes, tire replacements, and repairs all add resale credibility.
3. Mileage
Buyers are mileage-sensitive. Even though Harleys are built for the long haul, lower numbers tend to attract more interest.
- 0–10,000 miles: Premium pricing
- 10,000–25,000 miles: Acceptable, slight discount
- 25,000+ miles: Value starts to drop unless the bike is in pristine shape
Still, a 30,000-mile bike with excellent service history can outperform a poorly maintained low-mile one.
4. Modifications and Custom Work
Harleys are known for personalization. But when it comes time to sell, not all mods are welcome.
- Performance mods (like a high-end exhaust or upgraded suspension) may increase value if professionally done.
- Aesthetic mods (custom paint, chrome, ape hangers) are a gamble. Some buyers love them, others don’t.
- Extreme mods or DIY jobs? These usually hurt resale, unless you find a niche buyer.
Tip: If you’re selling, consider whether reverting the bike to stock will net a better price.
5. Model Popularity
Some Harley models are simply more desirable, which helps maintain their value. Among the top performers:
- Street Glide – Always in demand for its mix of comfort and cool factor
- Road King – A favorite for touring riders, classic looks and great longevity
- Fat Boy – Iconic and consistently sought after
- Iron 883 / Sportster 1200 – Great entry-level Harleys with reliable resale performance
On the flip side, discontinued or less successful models (like the Street 500) often lose value faster due to lower demand.
How to Check What Your Harley is Worth
There are two main ways to assess your motorcycle’s current market value:
Online Valuation Tools
Start with reputable platforms like:
- NADA Guides: offers a detailed price range by model, year, and condition.
- Kelley Blue Book (KBB): easy-to-use online estimator based on national averages.
- Cycle Trader / Facebook Marketplace: great for checking real-world prices in your area.
When using these tools:
- Plug in your make, model, and year
- Accurately rate its condition
- Compare to local listings for context
- Don’t forget to factor in modifications or accessories
Professional Appraisals
For rare or high-value models, or if you want a more accurate number for insurance or sale, consider hiring a motorcycle appraiser.
They’ll evaluate:
- Maintenance records
- Aftermarket parts
- Cosmetic and mechanical condition
- Comparable recent sales
Bonus: Appraisal reports can boost buyer trust during negotiation.
How Market Trends and Region Affect Pricing
Recent Sales Trends
Motorcycle markets fluctuate. Warmer months often see spikes in demand, while winter brings slowdowns. Pay attention to:
- What similar Harleys are actually selling for
- Seasonal pricing patterns
- Economic trends (gas prices, inflation, etc.)
Regional Demand
Location matters more than you’d think. For example:
- Harleys often fetch higher prices in cities or warm-weather states (like California, Texas, or Florida)
- In rural or cold-weather areas, demand might be lower, pushing prices down
If your local market is slow, listing online and offering to ship could open up better opportunities.
Should You Sell Now or Hold?
It comes down to timing and purpose:
- Sell now if your Harley is in top condition, and demand is strong (spring and early summer are ideal).
- Hold if the market is slow or your model is close to becoming a classic (10+ years old with low mileage).
If your bike is well-maintained, has a clean title, and is a desirable model, you’ll almost always find a buyer, especially if you price it based on facts, not feelings.
Final Thoughts
So, do Harley-Davidsons hold their value?
Yes, but only when the right factors align. The brand, the model, the condition, and the market all play a role. Unlike many other brands, Harleys can defy typical depreciation trends, especially if you ride responsibly and maintain them well.
Whether you’re selling now or just keeping tabs on your investment, knowing your Harley’s true worth gives you the freedom to make smart, confident decisions.
FAQs
How can I find the value of my Harley-Davidson?
Use tools like NADA Guides, Kelley Blue Book, and Cycle Trader listings to get a reliable estimate. For rare models, consider a professional appraisal.
Does mileage affect a Harley’s value?
Yes, lower mileage typically means higher resale value. But strong maintenance history can help offset higher miles.
Are modifications good or bad for resale?
It depends. High-quality performance mods can help, but over-customization may hurt. Always consider whether the average buyer will appreciate your changes.
Which Harley models hold their value best?
Touring and cruiser models like the Street Glide, Road King, and Fat Boy tend to hold value better than entry-level or discontinued bikes.