When it comes to investing in a motorcycle, one important factor riders often consider is resale value. Not every bike retains its worth over time, but Harley-Davidson has long been known as a brand that bucks that trend. With a devoted fan base, a rich legacy, and durable build quality, Harley-Davidson motorcycles are often said to hold their value better than most.
But is that reputation justified? And how do new harley-davidson motorcycles compare to used ones when it comes to long-term value? This blog breaks down the facts and helps you understand what affects resale value for Harley models.
What Determines Motorcycle Resale Value?
Just like cars, motorcycles lose value over time. But the rate at which they depreciate depends on several key factors. Here’s what typically has the biggest impact on resale value:
Brand Reputation
Harley-Davidson is among the most recognizable motorcycle brands in the world. Its reputation for quality and heritage makes it a brand with strong name value in the used market. Buyers often feel more confident purchasing a used Harley than a less established brand.
Model Popularity
Some Harley models are more sought after than others. Bikes like the Street Glide, Road King, and Softail Slim tend to hold their value well because they remain in high demand year after year. Limited-edition models or anniversary editions may also retain more value due to scarcity.
Maintenance and Condition
A well-maintained motorcycle will always sell for more than one that’s been neglected. Keeping up with oil changes, brake service, and general upkeep helps protect your investment. Documentation of service records also goes a long way when it’s time to sell.
Mileage
While motorcycles naturally rack up fewer miles than cars, mileage still affects value. A used Harley with 10,000 miles will likely fetch a better price than one with 30,000 miles, even if they’re the same year and model.
Customization
Custom upgrades can go both ways. Some buyers love aftermarket pipes, fairings, and seats—others prefer stock. When reselling, having tasteful and quality upgrades can help, but over-customization may limit buyer interest.
How Much Do Harleys Depreciate?
Motorcycles, like any vehicle, begin depreciating the moment they’re driven off the lot. That said, Harleys tend to depreciate more slowly than many competitors.
Here’s a general idea of what depreciation looks like for many Harley models:
- First Year: 10% to 15% loss
- Years 2–3: Additional 10% to 20% loss
- After Year 5: Value levels off and holds better, assuming good condition
By year five, a Harley may still be worth 60%–70% of its original price—sometimes even more depending on demand and mileage. In contrast, many other motorcycle brands may drop to 40%–50% of their MSRP within the same time frame.
Why Do Harleys Hold Value Better?
There are a few specific reasons Harley-Davidson motorcycles tend to outperform others in terms of value retention.
Strong Community and Culture
Harley isn’t just a brand—it’s a lifestyle. Riders are passionate about the bikes, the history, and the culture. This sense of identity creates steady demand for both new and used models.
Wide Dealer and Service Network
Harley-Davidson dealerships are widespread across the U.S., and parts are widely available. Buyers often feel more secure purchasing a used Harley knowing that service, repairs, and accessories are easy to access.
Timeless Design
Harleys are designed with longevity in mind. The styling rarely shifts dramatically year over year, which helps older models stay desirable for longer. Unlike trend-based motorcycles that can feel dated quickly, Harley designs tend to remain classic.
Quality Materials and Build
Most new harley-davidson motorcycles are built with solid frames, quality finishes, and long-lasting engines. Many models are known to hit well over 100,000 miles with proper care, which makes used Harleys an attractive buy for second and third owners.
Best Harley Models for Resale Value
While most Harleys do well in terms of holding value, certain models have an especially strong reputation in the resale market:
- Street Glide: A consistently top-selling touring bike that retains value well.
- Road King: Known for its balance of comfort and classic styling.
- Softail Slim: Compact and versatile, with a high resale demand.
- Fat Bob: Popular with riders looking for aggressive styling and power.
- Heritage Classic: Offers touring comfort with timeless cruiser appeal.
These models often appear on “best resale value” lists because they combine broad appeal with proven reliability.
Tips for Maintaining Resale Value
If you’re buying new harley-davidson motorcycles with resale in mind, there are a few things you can do to protect your investment over time:
- Stick to the maintenance schedule outlined in the owner’s manual.
- Keep all service records in a safe place to show potential buyers.
- Avoid drastic modifications unless you plan to keep the bike long term.
- Clean and store your bike properly, especially during winter months.
- Don’t skip mileage-based checkups, like valve adjustments or belt inspections.
When to Sell a Harley for the Best Value
Timing matters when selling any vehicle. If you want to get the most money for your Harley, consider listing it in spring or early summer. Warmer months bring more buyer interest and faster sales, especially for models suited for road trips or weekend rides.
It also helps to sell before your model undergoes a major redesign. Buyers looking for a used Harley may be more interested in bikes that closely resemble the current model lineup.
Buying Used vs. New: Which Holds Value Better?
While new harley-davidson motorcycles tend to lose the most value in the first few years, used Harleys often hold steady after that. Buying a two- or three-year-old bike can be a smart move if you want to avoid the steepest part of the depreciation curve.
Used Harleys also tend to be easier to resell later on, especially if they’ve been kept in good condition. For buyers with an eye toward long-term ownership and minimal loss in value, a gently used Harley is often a good choice.
Final Thoughts
So, do Harleys hold their value? Compared to most other motorcycle brands, the answer is yes. Thanks to their iconic status, build quality, and brand loyalty, Harley-Davidson bikes tend to depreciate slower and remain in demand on the used market.
Whether you’re shopping for new harley-davidson motorcycles or considering a used one, it’s clear that Harley bikes offer better-than-average resale value—especially when properly cared for. If you’re looking for a long-term ride that still offers strong value down the road, Harley-Davidson is one of the safest bets you can make in the motorcycle world.
