Harley-davidson Cross Bones Review

Used Buyer Review

The Cross Bones is one of Harley's more honest attempts at old-school bobber style without the custom price tag. Running from 2008 to 2011, it's built on the Softail chassis with the 96ci Twin Cam, springer front end, and that swept-back seating position that looks genuinely tough rather than trying-too-hard. Used examples are plentiful and prices have settled into sensible territory, which makes this an interesting proposition right now. Here's the honest part though — that springer fork is characterful but it's also a handful in fast corners and wants constant attention. Maintenance costs on springers aren't for the faint-hearted, and previous owners often skimped on it. Before buying, grab the bars and check for any slop or uneven movement. The solo seat looks incredible and feels like sitting on a brick after 45 minutes. Most owners fitted a different seat within a year, so hunt for one that's already been sorted. Electrics are typical pre-2014 Harley — functional but temperamental.