Why This Bike Is Worth the Hunt 

I almost quit riding after buying my first Dyna Low Rider S. The engine rattled, the tires crumbled, and the seller ghosted me. Don’t make my $14k mistake. The 2017 Dyna Low Rider S is the motorcycle equivalent of a vintage Rolex—coveted, iconic, and dangerously easy to overpay for if you don’t know what to look for.

This discontinued model skyrocketed in value after Harley killed the Dyna line in 2017, turning it into a cult classic. But with prices now rivaling new bikes, buyers face a minefield of garage queens, slapped-together mods, and sellers hiding costly secrets. Let me show you how to spot the difference between a showroom gem and a polished-up parts bin.

1. The Garage Queen Trap: When “Too Clean” is a Red Flag

We’ve all seen those listings: “Never seen rain! Only 2,000 miles! Collector’s dream!” But here’s the truth: bikes that sit too long often hide expensive secrets.

Real-World Horror Story: A buddy of mine shared how their “museum-quality” 2017 Dyna blew a head gasket on its first ride after years of storage. Why? Stale fuel gummed up the injectors, and dried-out seals failed under pressure.

What to Check:

  • Tires: Cracks on the sidewalls? Dry rot means immediate replacement.
  • Fuel System: Smell the gas. If it’s sour or varnishy, walk away.
  • Seals: Fork seals leaking? That’s a $300 fix if they’re seized.

Pro Tip: Ask for garage photos. If the bike’s parked on a carpet with a battery tender, it’s probably a garage queen.

2. Service History: The Paper Trail That Tells All

No service records? Hard pass. A Dyna Low Rider S without paperwork is like a mystery novel—you don’t know how it ends, but it’s probably bad.

Key Records to Demand:

  • Oil Changes: Twin Cam engines need fresh oil every 3k–5k miles. Skipped changes? Engine wear skyrockets.
  • Valve Adjustments: A forum user on HD Forums lamented skipping theirs—result? A $1,200 top-end rebuild.
  • ABS Checks: The 2017 model was the first Dyna with optional ABS. Ask for receipts if it’s been serviced.

“If the seller says ‘I did all the work myself,’ assume they didn’t.” Always verify with a Harley dealer using the VIN.

3. The Cold Start Test: Listen for the “Death Rattle”

Fire up the bike cold. If you hear a clattering noise (aka the Twin Cam’s infamous “death rattle”), it could mean:

  • Timing Chain Tensioner Failure: Common in early Twin Cam engines. Fix: $500–$800.
  • Piston Slap: Worn rings let pistons wobble. Bad news for compression.

Hack: One Rider suggests revving the engine slightly during cold starts to check for inconsistent noises. If it smooths out, it’s likely a tensioner issue.

4. ABS: Savior or Money Pit?

The 2017 Dyna’s ABS is a lifesaver… until it isn’t.

Real Talk from Owners:

  • “My ABS module failed at 8k miles. Harley wanted $1,200 to replace it.” – Reddit/r/Harley
  • “I disabled mine for better feel on twisties. Just don’t panic-brake!” – Dyna Bro Instagram page.

What to Do:

  • Test the ABS during your ride. Hit 20 mph and slam the brakes (safely!). If the pedal pulses, it’s working.
  • Check for ABS warning lights. A steady light = $$$ repair.

5. Seller Red Flags: Spot the BS

I’ve met sellers who’d swear a bike was “ridden by Elvis.” Here’s how to dodge the cons:

Walk Away If They:

  • Refuse a Test Ride: Hides transmission issues.
  • Won’t Share the VIN: Likely masking accidents or theft.
  • Say “No Lowballs”: Overpriced garage queens.

Scam Alert: Watch for “curbstoners”—unlicensed sellers posing as private owners. Always meet at their home, not a parking lot.

6. Dealer vs. Private Seller

Dealers:

  • Pros: Warranties, financing, inspections.
  • Cons: Markups (I’ve seen $3k+ over private sales).

Private Sellers:

  • Pros: Better deals, negotiation room.
  • Cons: “Sold as-is” = you’re stuck with problems.

Tip: Search Facebook Marketplace for “Dyna Low Rider S + [your city]”. Private sellers often post there first.

7. Modded Bikes: Cool or Catastrophic?

That Dyna with a stage 4 kit and 240mm rear tire? It looks rad, but…

Risky Mods:

  • Big Bore Kits: Can grenade engines if not tuned right.
  • Oversized Tires: Stress wheel bearings and void warranties.
  • Aftermarket Tuners: A Power Commander V without a dyno tune? Say hello to lean conditions.

8. After You Buy: Don’t Skip These Steps

  • Replace All Fluids: Old brake fluid = spongy stops.
  • Join a Forum: r/Harley and Dyna Bro groups are goldmines for fixes.
  • Upgrade the Compensator: The stock sprocket wears fast. A $250 upgrade saves your engine.

Conclusion

The 2017 Dyna Low Rider S isn’t just a bike—it’s a brotherhood. But buying one used? It’s a minefield of garage queens, shady sellers, and hidden costs. Do your homework, trust your gut, and never skip the cold start test.

Your Turn: Found a Dyna? Share your story. Got burned? Warn the tribe. And if you’re staring at a too-clean listing? Remember: “Ridden hard and loved harder” beats “never seen rain” every time.