Used Harley-Davidson Low Rider ST 117: Market values, best years, and buying guide

Buying a used Low Rider ST 117: market values, pros and cons to check. The technical Crazywheels guide to making the right deal.

Used Harley-Davidson Low Rider ST 117: The Technical Buying Guide  

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Used Harley-Davidson Low Rider ST 117: Market values, best years, and buying guide

The Low Rider ST 117 is currently the "it" bike in the H-D world. Its blend of "West Coast" aesthetics and Milwaukee-Eight 117 performance makes it one of the most sought-after Harleys on the used market. However, because it is often ridden "spiritedly," its condition requires precise analysis.

Model Year Analysis: What to look for

    2022–2023: The original benchmark. They are excellent machines, but ensure all official recalls (often related to wiring or firmware updates) have been performed.

    2024–2025: These benefited from minor structural refinements in the fairing mounts.

    The Technical Tip: This is an "owner-centric" bike. Often, owners customize them. Look for examples that have kept the fundamental components (exhaust, air cleaner, ECU) in balance. If you see a bike with an open exhaust but no certified mapping, avoid it: the 117 runs hot, and incorrect fueling ruins valves quickly.

Market Values

In 2026, demand remains high, keeping prices firm.

    Average price: An ST 117 in optimal condition ranges between €19,000 and €22,000.

    Under €18,000: Beware! Many STs at this price have been in accidents or show clear signs of stunt riding or extreme abuse. Check the steering stops and the swingarm integrity carefully.

    Over €23,000: Price is only justified by high-end chassis upgrades (Öhlins/Andreani suspensions, lightweight wheels, upgraded brakes) with professional installation invoices.

Used vs. New: The Challenge

    Why buy used: You save enough to transform it into a true "Performance Bagger." The 117 is bulletproof; if treated well, it has 100,000 km of life in it.

    Why buy new: The ST invites aggressive riding. Buying new guarantees peace of mind—you won't have to wonder if the previous owner over-revved it or "rode it hard while cold," stressing the crankshaft.

Technical Checklist: Before you sign

    Swingarm Test: The ST swingarm is highly stressed. Put the bike on a stand and try to force the swingarm laterally. There should be zero play. If there is, the bearings need replacing.

    Signs of Extreme Heat: Look at the finish near the engine heads. If you see bluish or "burnt" discoloration in unusual areas, the bike has been ridden to the point of overheating.

    Clutch: Test the bike on an incline. Put it in a high gear at low RPM and pin the throttle. If the revs climb but speed does not increase proportionally, the clutch is worn (common issue for those who do "burnout" starts).

    Fairing History: Check that the nose doesn't vibrate excessively at idle. If it does, the mounting screws are likely stripped or the supports are cracked.

The Crazywheels Tester’s Opinion

"The Low Rider ST 117 changes how you ride. It’s a treasure on the used market if you find the right one. My advice? Never buy a 'tinkered-with' ST without a dyno sheet proving the engine is tuned correctly. If the engine is healthy, this bike has no rival for pure fun. But if it has been mistreated, the cost of rebuilding it will match the price of a new bike."