Best handling Harley-Davidson?

[kiwifruit]

Can those of you who have ridden lots of different HD models fill me in on handling differences? Do the soft tails handle as well as the twin shock models?

Looking at a 15-20k budget. TC88 or 96. Night train, wide glide, super glide, street bob... that sort of thing. Not a vrod, or a sporty.

My watch list:
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=402804149
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=373872903
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=424482405
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=428076845
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=428052976
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=428043865
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=428043863
amongst others

Yes, I know I should ride them all and see. I will. In the mean time, lets have your thoughts.

*The best "harleys are gay / harleys suck / harleys are slow / harleys, handle, lol / i hate harleys author will be awarded one (1) gentle pat on the head.

[riffer]

Have you got a problem with Softails?

I reckon they hand better than any of those Dynas you've linked to...

[riffer]

I know you don't like Sportys but I have to tell you the XR1200 is the best damn handling Harley I ever rode.

Followed by a number of Softails.

Except the Heritage Softail. Handled like a bag of sloppy arseholes.

[kiwifruit]

Have you got a problem with Softails?

I reckon they hand better than any of those Dynas you've linked to...

Not at all! I've heard they don't handle as well as the dynas.

Yeah, I really like the sportster's handling but i want more harley, if that makes sense?

[scumdog]

No problems with my Dyna T-Sport, that model would be one of the better handling of the 'big' models - and can be improved..

Only they don't make them anymore.

[Subike]

No problems with my Dyna T-Sport, that model would be one of the better handling of the 'big' models - and can be improved..

Only they don't make them anymore.

Hey scummy, you dont ride it fast enough to tests its limits :woohoo:

[scumdog]

Hey scummy, you dont ride it fast enough to tests its limits :woohoo:

You'll keep!

But Dangerous fanged it pretty quick around some corners and scraped bit I didn't know COULD be scraped - and didn't complain about the handling.

[jrandom]

Harleys all handle sweet as bro, just get the best looking one

[doc]

No problems with my Dyna T-Sport, that model would be one of the better handling of the 'big' models - and can be improved..

Only they don't make them anymore.

Surely with a little coin you can after market stuff to improve a dyna . What does HD "Squarking Budgie" have available nowdays ?

[Subike]

true scumy , they do tend to touch down when ridden hard.
Haven ridden a few of the early evos in the late 80"s
they were rather forgiving once you got use to them.
Ok, I thrashed around on a sportster most of the time
but did get the opportunity to try out a few 1340;s ( biggest available then)
I think it was an FXR Sport, had twin disc front, which I enjoyed the most.
Plenty of ground clearance, and at the time reasonable power
I dont know what that model has mouldered into now,
But I would think it would have been an improvement, and once tammed, a great ride

[doc]

Fxr is still probably the best handling bigblock (Triangular frame in all) But I think the Fruity one is looking for something less antique

[kiwifruit]

I think the Fruity one is looking for something less antique

Correct. Gotta be a twin cam 88 or a twin cam 96.

[scumdog]

Correct. Gotta be a twin cam 88 or a twin cam 96.

Have a look at a FXDX or FXDXT in that case, preferably later than 2000.

[kiwifruit]

Have a look at a FXDX or FXDXT in that case, preferably later than 2000.

Thanks, I'll add those models to the list. Hadn't really looked at them because of the screen ensemble but that could be changed.

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/cruiser/auction-426725546.htm

EDIT FXDX is the superglide... that's the one i like the look of most. That and the FXDWG. Still learning the model names!

[scumdog]

Thanks, I'll add those models to the list. Hadn't really looked at them because of the screen ensemble but that could be changed.

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/cruiser/auction-426725546.htm

If you buy one and decide you don't want the screen I know somebody who does!:msn-wink:

Oh, and that stupid wrap needs ripped off that bike 'zorst and the dorky bars replaced with flatter ones IMHO..

[Mental Trousers]

The best handling Harley is the one you build yourself. Create a Flat Tracker out of one.

Custom all the way bro.

[doc]

Correct. Gotta be a twin cam 88 or a twin cam 96.

Triplezee will convert an 88 to 96 or whatever you want and beat any shop price. He is the man.....:yes:

[BIG DOUG]

You can't make an 88 into a 96 without a crank swap,If you are after an fxdx I know of a good one that a friend of my owns and he wants 15k for it and they are one of the best handling big blks.

[kiwifruit]

I won't be doing major engine mods. Just filter and pipes. Suspension.


Thanks BIG DOUG. Is it on trademe? If not he can email me pics etc to photos@motott.co.nz

[SPman]

Panhead. They're good in the dirt, too....

[BIG DOUG]

No its not on trademe,I will pass on the e-mail address to him

[sinfull]

Mine .........

But if ya wanna spend that much and looking at the big guzzlers have ya thought about these ? Sure i don't like the twin headlight but a mate just swapped his twin lights for a fatboy single and it looks way cool ! Oh he swapped the shocks for Ohlins and the pipes for black straight shots and is blacking out the wheels too lol


http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/cruiser/auction-426889580.htm

[kiwifruit]

I havn't considered any of the fat ones sinfill. I'll add the fatbob to the test ride list. Headlight swap is a must!

[Paul in NZ]

None of them 'handle' like a sportsbike but all of them are fun bikes - handling is almost an irrelevant term but think of it as 'adequate' ...

Go for the one that is most comfortable for you and consider if you will carry a pillion or not - looks are important as well.... Its gotta blow your hair back or whats the point.

Have fun shopping....

[willytheekid]

........But Dangerous fanged it pretty quick around some corners and scraped bit I didn't know COULD be scraped - and didn't complain about the handling.

:facepalm:...just can't believe you gave that Guzzi Riding, speed freak your bike to ride!:laugh:
....scrape it!...Im amazed he didn't tear tequila's arse off while power standing out of corners :laugh:......and from what Ive seen....Dangerous could scrape a Trike around corners!
I hope you took his BEAST for a ride.....that Guzzi is VERY well set up (...for wheelstands, speed and possibly changing the earths rotaion!)...good looking bike to!

[Crasherfromwayback]

Not at all! I've heard they don't handle as well as the dynas.

Yeah, I really like the sportster's handling but i want more harley, if that makes sense?

Softails are by far the best handling big block Harley you can buy, end of story.

The engine is bolted directly to the frame, and the swingarm goes through the frame and the engine, so you can't bend it!

A Dyna's engine is only sitting on big rubber blocks (to minimise the vibration), and the swingarm is only mounted through the back of the transmission. So when it starts to twist and flex, it simply twists the engine on the mounts and goes all rubbery.

The tricky thing is...a Dyna does actually handle better UP TO A POINT, but past that point (hope that makes sense), and Softail will fuck off into the distance.

[Big Dave]

Softails are by far the best handling big block Harley you can buy, end of story.



Not in my story. Post-2008 Touring Chassis for mine.

[Crasherfromwayback]

Not in my story. Post-2008 Touring Chassis for mine.

Yeah the new FLH frame is a definite improvement Dave, but it's still no Softail. The swingarm is still rubber mounted on an FLH, and the forks are behind the steering head, which is great for slow speed manovering (which is what it's designed for), but scary at full tilt with everything on the deck!

A Roadking etc has better ground clearance than a Heritage/Fatboy etc, but as you well know, that ain't a handling issue, it's simply a ground clearance issue. A Softail Std with good ground clearance, will piss off into the distance compared to any other big block riders being equal.

I've embrrassed quite a few sprot bikes over the Tukkas over the years, but my weapon of choice will always be an FXST or FXSTB if I'm HD mounted and not on an XR!

[Katman]

My watch list:

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=424482405


Problem solved.

[scumdog]

I hope you took his BEAST for a ride.....that Guzzi is VERY well set up (...for wheelstands, speed and possibly changing the earths rotaion!)...good looking bike to!

Yup, I did, from out by the Peg to Akaroa and back - while wearing the obligatory tassled jacket, skull-mask etc etc!:devil2::woohoo:

Dangerous WAS impressed! (I think):shutup:

[Crasherfromwayback]

Problem solved.

Too much for a 2000 model. I've got a 2008 1584cc 6 speed for 23. Much bettera.

[scumdog]

A Dyna's engine is only sitting on big rubber blocks (to minimise the vibration), and the swingarm is only mounted through the back of the transmission. So when it starts to twist and flex, it simply twists the engine on the mounts and goes all rubbery.



Tell me about it bro!:eek5::crazy:

Thinking about a Torquemaster or similar.

[Crasherfromwayback]

Tell me about it bro!:eek5::crazy:

Thinking about a Torquemaster or similar.

Aye! They're (Dynas) really good right up to that point where you ask a lil too much of them...then it's all over eh!? It feels like " I know I'm gonna crash...it's just a matter of when and how bad!!"

If you get the chance to ride a late model FXST or similar (not the FXCW/C, as they don't have the engine strut and aren't quite as stiff, plus the huge back tyre bump steers real bad), think you'll be amazed how hard you can go on them.

The thing with tying the engine into the frame with Torquemasters etc is, you start getting more and more vibration...to the point that they can actually start feeling like a pre balance shaft Softail. Not nice on longer rides.

[BIG DOUG]

Never been past by a softail yet pete and my dyna handles fine lol

[scumdog]

The thing with tying the engine into the frame with Torquemasters etc is, you start getting more and more vibration...to the point that they can actually start feeling like a pre balance shaft Softail. Not nice on longer rides.

I use to ride an iron-head....use to shake'rattle'n'roll plus blurred mirrors.

[Crasherfromwayback]

Never been past by a softail yet pete and my dyna handles fine lol

Yeah, but I've never ridden with you, else that'd all change.

[Katman]

Too much for a 2000 model.

True. I could buy half a dozen bikes for that price.

[kiwifruit]

Problem solved.

You rate the night trains?

[Crasherfromwayback]

True. I could buy a dozen bikes for that price.

Whilst that may be true...none of them would instantly add 4 inches to your old fella!

[Crasherfromwayback]

You rate the night trains?

They're basically a blacked out FXST...the best big block if you wanna hoon.

[superman]

Best handling Harley-Davidson?

I is so confused. :blink:

[Big Dave]

I did 1,200km on a 2012 Heritage last week. Liked it a lot. Maybe it's a heavy-weight issue but a late model Road King still works better for me. Seems like it has more travel.

Picking up a Road Glide Custom shortly - that will be a good comparo.

[Crasherfromwayback]

I did 1,200km on a 2012 Heritage last week. Liked it a lot. Maybe it's a heavy-weight issue but a late model Road King still works better for me. Seems like it has more travel.

Picking up a Road Glide Custom shortly - that will be a good comparo.

Well a Softail frame is the smallest of the lot BD. Because the engine is solid mounted, they can shrink rap the frame around the engine, as they don't need the clearance the rubber mounted engines do (so they don't knock against the frame), when they jump around at low revs. Too small for your large frame. The FLH family is the largest, roomiest chassis, with the best ground clearance for sure. A lot of the bigger guys prefer them. But if you lifted a Heritage off the ground to give it the same clearance as ya Roadking...he'd dust you off!

[Zamiam]

A dyna is better and fxdf/fat bob the best but I'm biased. It all ties to how you ride so the best handling Harley is the one YOU feel handles the best. Ride them all and decide for yourself.

[Crasherfromwayback]

A dyna is better and fxdf/fat bob the best but I'm biased. .

With all due respect...they are if you don't ride super hard out. If you do...they ain't.

[kiwifruit]

With all due respect...they are if you don't ride super hard out. If you do...they ain't.

I know I didn't promise the fastest Harley rider a pat on the head in the original post, but I get the feeling you would like one. :pinch:

Now, that's that out of the way. Can you get me one of these?

<img src="http://img195.imageshack.us/img195/5854/webya.jpg">

[Crasherfromwayback]

I know I didn't promise the fastest Harley rider a pat on the head in the original post, but I get the feeling you would like one. :pinch:

Now, that's that out of the way. Can you get me one of these?

<img src="http://img195.imageshack.us/img195/5854/webya.jpg">

Not at all. Just that the original question was "best handling Harley-Davidson" no? So I feel a duty to explain why some of the others are slighty mislead.

Yes I can mate. I have that exact bike in stock right now matter of fact.

[kiwifruit]

I have that exact bike in stock right now

Not on the website? Might have to pop down and test ride the full range soon.

Can't get past the looks of the wideglide, esp that one

[Katman]

I think we've found a threesome made in heaven.

:love:

[Crasherfromwayback]

I think we've found a threesome made in heaven.

:love:

You coming down with him?

[MIXONE]

Too much for a 2000 model. I've got a 2008 1584cc 6 speed for 23. Much bettera.

What's the piece of artwork in your window with the cool flame job?One bootifull machine.
PS.Sorry about the pool of dribble I left....

[Katman]

You coming down with him?

I'll talk to the boss and see if she'll give me the weekend off.

[Crasherfromwayback]

What's the piece of artwork in your window with the cool flame job?One bootifull machine.
PS.Sorry about the pool of dribble I left....

An FXDF that cost the guy that built it with us around 60-70k!

It's a pretty cool bike for sure. 110" motor...plenty HP.

Glad it's only dribble...I was freaked out we'd had another wanker in the store for a minute!:innocent:

[jrandom]

I'll talk to the boss and see if she'll give me the weekend off.

+1

:sunny:

[MIXONE]

An FXDF that cost the guy that built it with us around 60-70k!

It's a pretty cool bike for sure. 110" motor...plenty HP.

Glad it's only dribble...I was freaked out we'd had another wanker in the store for a minute!:innocent:

No but I think some of the excitement ran down my leg!:love:Have to buy a lotto ticket this weekend.

[Katman]

+1

:sunny:

You get the back seat.

[jrandom]

You get the back seat.

We should ride down, man.

kiwifruit can take the 850T.

[Katman]

We should ride down, man.

kiwifruit can take the 850T.

Woohoo........

Road trip!

(We'll have to allow an extra couple of days for the Guzzi though).

[Crasherfromwayback]

+1

:sunny:

Bring me the doz you owe me, and punch yourself in the face before you walk in the door so I don't have to lose my job over it.

[Madness]

Don't drink the "coffee" :sick:

[jrandom]

Bring me the doz you owe me, and punch yourself in the face before you walk in the door so I don't have to lose my job over it.

The doz was never pinned down either way, although I did find a reference to sugar being added, remember?

I'd really rather nobody punched anybody in the face. Would a public apology from me suffice to put this to bed, or is it face-punchery or nothing as far as you're concerned?

[Kickaha]

or is it face-punchery or nothing as far as you're concerned?
If it is we want video

[jrandom]

If it is we want video

It feels wrong to be Pete's enemy now that I've got a Sportster.

And he does have a fairly good reason to be pissed off.

Let's see whether he's keen on the public apology idea.

[Crasherfromwayback]

The doz was never pinned down either way, although I did find a reference to sugar being added, remember?

I'd really rather nobody punched anybody in the face. Would a public apology from me suffice to put this to bed, or is it face-punchery or nothing as far as you're concerned?


It feels wrong to be Pete's enemy now that I've got a Sportster.

And he does have a fairly good reason to be pissed off.

Let's see whether he's keen on the public apology idea.

Sugar is not an additive, it's also in Steinie pure I'm sure you'll know.

The apology is fine, and much appreciated. It's often harder than a biff in the face. Rach is pissing herself at me now. She thinks I'm a dick.

[Big Dave]

Kudos on the Sportster Random.

Next we'll have you diggin' on the Guzzi V7.

[Grubber]

Can those of you who have ridden lots of different HD models fill me in on handling differences? Do the soft tails handle as well as the twin shock models?

Looking at a 15-20k budget. TC88 or 96. Night train, wide glide, super glide, street bob... that sort of thing. Not a vrod, or a sporty.

My watch list:
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=402804149
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=373872903
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=424482405
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=428076845
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=428052976
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=428043865
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=428043863
amongst others

Yes, I know I should ride them all and see. I will. In the mean time, lets have your thoughts.

*The best "harleys are gay / harleys suck / harleys are slow / harleys, handle, lol / i hate harleys author will be awarded one (1) gentle pat on the head.

How bout a 1971 Nuffield.

[Kickaha]

. She thinks I'm a dick.

You mean she didn't already know like the rest of us? :whistle:

[riffer]

The doz was never pinned down either way, although I did find a reference to sugar being added, remember?

I'd really rather nobody punched anybody in the face. Would a public apology from me suffice to put this to bed, or is it face-punchery or nothing as far as you're concerned?

who is this person on jrandom's account?

[sinfull]

Not on the website? Might have to pop down and test ride the full range soon.

Can't get past the looks of the wideglide, esp that one


+1

:sunny:


Woohoo........

Road trip!

(We'll have to allow an extra couple of days for the Guzzi though). Bring a sleeping bag each and come down on the 9th, party at our place that weekend !!! Poker run on the 10th if your into them (seems not many KBers are) I'll feed yas and send ya on yr way sunday feeling like going to work ! To rest !

She thinks I'm a dick.
Never argue with a woman !! They know best

[kiwifruit]

Bring a sleeping bag each and come down on the 9th, party at our place that weekend !!! Poker run on the 10th if your into them (seems not many KBers are) I'll feed yas and send ya on yr way sunday feeling like going to work ! To rest !



Parties and poker runs will take away from valuable Harley test riding times.... I've got the whole range to get thru! Appreciate the offer though man

[Mental Trousers]

Still reckon this is the way to go Alan!!

To my mind Harleys only start to get good once you start customizing them. Otherwise you look too much like an accountant :facepalm:

http://phillittleracing.com/images/stories/docs/sxrbrochureweb.pdf

[kiwifruit]

Still reckon this is the way to go Alan!!

To my mind Harleys only start to get good once you start customizing them. Otherwise you look too much like an accountant :facepalm:

http://phillittleracing.com/images/stories/docs/sxrbrochureweb.pdf

Yeah that thing is cool. I'm after a big one tho! What's wrong with accountants?

[rachprice]

Sugar is not an additive, it's also in Steinie pure I'm sure you'll know.

The apology is fine, and much appreciated. It's often harder than a biff in the face. Rach is pissing herself at me now. She thinks I'm a dick.

No just that you were all wokred up when I didnt even care!
Im glad you are over it :)




Never argue with a woman !! They know best
Dam right!

[Crasherfromwayback]

Dam right!

When we say so.

[AD345]

handling?

Big block?

American?

$15 - 20K?

may I suggest...

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/cruiser/auction-427402243.htm

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/cruiser/auction-429064759.htm

[kiwifruit]

may I suggest...


I'm sure they go well but not quite what i'm after :cool:

[AD345]

I'm sure they go well but not quite what i'm after :cool:

Why is that?

I'm just curious. Victorys really seem to struggle over here and I'm trying to figure out why

[kiwifruit]

Why is that?

I'm just curious. Victorys really seem to struggle over here and I'm trying to figure out why

Ok, i'll be completely honest. My opinions:

They haven't hit the styling on the head. Kinda like metric cruisers... they aren't classically styled. A bit far out. They lack simplicity and purposefulness in their form.

There is also the brand issue. They don't have the same motorcycling clout (in people's minds) as say Suzuki. In this respect they're in a whole different league to HD. If the bike was badged under the Indian brand it would probably sell really well.

Back to the styling. This is the main downfall. It's just too out there for most. Maybe its ahead of it's time?

As I said, I'm sure they are fine motorcycles. Just not quite what i'm after.

[AD345]

Ok, i'll be completely honest. My opinions:

They haven't hit the styling on the head. Kinda like metric cruisers... they aren't classically styled. A bit far out. They lack simplicity and purposefulness in their form.

There is also the brand issue. They don't have the same motorcycling clout (in people's minds) as say Suzuki. In this respect they're in a whole different league to HD. If the bike was badged under the Indian brand it would probably sell really well.

Back to the styling. This is the main downfall. It's just too out there for most. Maybe its ahead of it's time?

As I said, I'm sure they are fine motorcycles. Just not quite what i'm after.

Cheers

Thats a pretty honest answer. For me it was the styling that sold me on them. Having owned and ridden both brands I found that I was bored with H-D. They all look the same and have looked the same for decades. One mans classic styling is another mans endless variations on the same theme.

The strength of the brand is not to be underestimated. 110+ years of history takes some overcoming (even including the AMF years). Polaris has explicitly said that Indian will be completely separate to Victory and it probably needs to be. Indian has the history to cling on to the 'classic" styling while that's not ever going to be the market position of Victory.

Enjoy your new ride - when you get it

[kiwifruit]

Cheers

Thats a pretty honest answer. For me it was the styling that sold me on them. Having owned and ridden both brands I found that I was bored with H-D. They all look the same and have looked the same for decades. One mans classic styling is another mans endless variations on the same theme.

The strength of the brand is not to be underestimated. 110+ years of history takes some overcoming (even including the AMF years). Polaris has explicitly said that Indian will be completely separate to Victory and it probably needs to be. Indian has the history to cling on to the 'classic" styling while that's not ever going to be the market position of Victory.

Enjoy your new ride - when you get it

Different strokes for different folks eh. I guess the fact I grew up disliking Harleys means they are something quite new to me. If i'd spent my life being more familiar with them then perhaps i'd look at the Victory differently.

Cheers man.

[Headbanger]

Why is that?

I'm just curious. Victorys really seem to struggle over here and I'm trying to figure out why


They are sounding far more interesting now they have purchased the Indian name....

[Splineman]

[QUOTE=kiwifruit;1130205675]Can those of you who have ridden lots of different HD models fill me in on handling differences? Do the soft tails handle as well as the twin shock models?

{[Looking at a 15-20k budget. TC88 or 96. Night train, wide glide, super glide, street bob... that sort of thing. Not a vrod, or a sporty.


Yes, I know I should ride them all and see. I will. In the mean time, lets have your thoughts. ]}



I know you aren't looking at Sporty's but I thought I would reply with my .02 anyway..sorry.
Wife and I bought an 05 sporty 1200 and upgraded the shocks to Ohlins, fork springs and fork emulators, good rubber and brake pads and we tour all over on it.
It handles really well....not a "sport" bike for sure....but we get along on it and it is predictable and easy handling. Not too heavy and good on gas. No wallowing at reasonable speeds and good torque.
I am really happy with it and they actually have not too bad performance...as they are quite a bit lighter than the big ones and are only down slightly on power. So yeah they go well :clap:

[emaN]

The WideGlide's my pick :)
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=428052976

But...If you're so hung up about the 'handling'...should you be getting one?
You got other toys that 'handle' - get this WideGlide to cruise in style...n swap with me when we're out together next :shifty:

[Scouse]

Get a Night Rod Special I did and I am loving it totaly different to my Speed Triple but I changed the tail pipes to Vance & Hines Black Widows and put a power comander. had it dyno'd and it is putting out 117hp at the back wheel.

[BIG DOUG]

will if you want a good handling hd buy an XR1200x

[kiwifruit]

Yeah, I should have named the thread "Softtail or Dyna?"

This is the new #1 on my list:
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=424329253

[Crasherfromwayback]

Yeah, I should have named the thread "Softtail or Dyna?"

This is the new #1 on my list:
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=424329253

I can do brand new for very little more than that.

[kiwifruit]

I can do brand new for very little more than that.

It's got a couple of grand worth of extras tho!

[Katman]

It's got a couple of grand worth of extras tho!

And the rest.

[Madness]

Looks mint. Nek minnit, I noticed the rear brake disc :crazy: Now I can't see anything but...

[Crasherfromwayback]

It's got a couple of grand worth of extras tho!


And the rest.

Sure has. Certainly makes 'em easier to sell, but doesn't normally add much to the value. Unless it's huge 110/120R engines etc.

[Headbanger]

Yeah, I should have named the thread "Softtail or Dyna?"

This is the new #1 on my list:
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=424329253

That is so fucking sweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeet.

[emaN]

Yeah, I should have named the thread "Softtail or Dyna?"

This is the new #1 on my list:
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=424329253

I could see myself on that!:niceone:
Still kinda prefer the "old" ducktail rear guard tho'...pre 08, I think...??

[Big Dave]

Well a Softail frame is the smallest of the lot BD. Because the engine is solid mounted, they can shrink rap the frame around the engine, as they don't need the clearance the rubber mounted engines do (so they don't knock against the frame), when they jump around at low revs. Too small for your large frame. The FLH family is the largest, roomiest chassis, with the best ground clearance for sure. A lot of the bigger guys prefer them. But if you lifted a Heritage off the ground to give it the same clearance as ya Roadking...he'd dust you off!


If - if- if.

So translated: Yeah - 'out of the box' you are right BD :-)

And I agree, the XR1200X is by far the best handling new H-D. (Now there are no more Buells)

[Crasherfromwayback]

If - if- if.

So translated: Yeah - 'out of the box' you are right BD :-)

And I agree, the XR1200X is by far the best handling new H-D. (Now there are no more Buells)

Ahhhhh...nope. A lack of ground clearance does not = bad handling. It is simply that. Any Softail handles way better than any FLH.

THe XR1200X is indeed the best handling HD full stop yes.

[Flip]

Yeah, I should have named the thread "Softtail or Dyna?"

This is the new #1 on my list:
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=424329253

Thats is a nice bike. It's not even run in.

I have been on a few other new big blocks and there is not that much between them really. I do like the way my road king rides the funny steering geomerty seems to result in a bike that is very self correcting and stable. I put longer thinner mufflers which increased the ground clearance by 1/2" around the exhausts, which actually mades a lot of diference. About the only limiting factor with mine is it can become a real armfull when you hit a pothole in a fast corner thanks I believe to the swing arm being hard mounted to the motor which in turn is rubber mounted.

One thing I always notice is the single front disc fronts always seem to need a lot more lever pressure, it catches me out when ever I hop on my bros wide glide.

[GrayWolf]

Best handling HD?
now THERE's an oxymoron :crazy:

[kiwifruit]

Best handling HD?
now THERE's an oxymoron :crazy:

<img src="http://media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lqth3myWzo1ql1hpv.png">

[Crasherfromwayback]

Best handling HD?
now THERE's an oxymoron :crazy:

Next time I'm going for a ride on one you can tag along if you like.

[Crasherfromwayback]

<img src="http://media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lqth3myWzo1ql1hpv.png">

You need to clear out your message box, as it's full!

[kiwifruit]

You need to clear out your message box, as it's full!

It's not easy being so popular

[Crasherfromwayback]

It's not easy being so popular

I wouldn't know!:crybaby:

[Big Dave]

Whadda you reckon guys - should I keep winding him up?

[Crasherfromwayback]

Whadda you reckon guys - should I keep winding him up?

Like a Dyna and an FLH?:innocent:

[BIG DOUG]

93 zzr1100 HA HA HA HA LOSER

[kiwifruit]

ZZR1100s were amazing when they came out, first bike to do 0-100mph in under 5sec. Still a lot of bike today. I'd have one.

[Jerry74]

My heritage has progressive springs with metzlers 880 marathons handles awesome

[jimichelle]

handles ok better now with a set of metzlers 880 marathons on

[GrayWolf]

93 zzr1100 HA HA HA HA LOSER

Sorry Doug, My apologies.. I forgot, only REAL MEN can ride hardley's........:rolleyes:

[caspernz]

Best handling HD?
now THERE's an oxymoron :crazy:

My thoughts exactly. Right up there with military intelligence....

[Big Dave]

My thoughts exactly.


Well goes to show doesn't it. For the last 5 years or so they have typically handled and stopped on par with similar Japanese or European 'counterparts'. In some cases better.
But what would I know - I've only ridden them. :laugh:

[GrayWolf]

Well goes to show doesn't it. For the last 5 years or so they have typically handled and stopped on par with similar Japanese or European 'counterparts'. In some cases better.
But what would I know - I've only ridden them. :laugh:

There's the point Dave, I've also ridden them from the 1970's onwards.... from the 1000cc iron head sporty through the 80's when the evo motor appeared and into the early 2000's. I had friends with HD's so had ample opportunity to ride them and with them. They until recently as you point out (5yrs) DIDN'T handle, DIDN'T have good brakes and DIDN'T perform... hence why so many have S&S/delkron cases etc performance parts on them.
My last big cruiser was a VN1500c (4 speed model (BUBF.. butt ugly but fast... for a cruiser). My first venture into V twins was with a Virago 1100 in the mid 80's.. and mate there wasnt a HD that could touch it out of the box even the 1200 & 1100cc sporty Evo... which WAS made! The VN was also quicker than any stock HD I came across at the time... (have to admit the handling sucked though :laugh:)
I puchased a Guzzi 1100cc California in 1995,,, out braked, out ran, outhandled any HD of the time for 2/3 of the price... THATS why they have such a poor reputation for handling/performance/reliability.. because you paid a premium price for a bike that most then spent several K's on getting to do what it should from the factory. Before you say it, I KNOW Guzzi do/did not have a high reputation for reliability either!
IF a HD could give me the reliability and capability of the distances I require in a year? (20k+) Maybe one day I will look at buying one, but they don't.
I KNOW I can get on my 'jappa' with the oil etc checked and ride it at 100mph all day without any fear of it breaking... YES I have done that, I lived (born) in England and worked 4on 4off shifts rotating day/night.. so group blasts from London to Spain/Italy for a weekend were frequent.
I may not ride that hard these days.. The bike is capable of that day in day out though.
I am considering returning to riding a big twin again, I can afford to buy a HD if I want,, (Ive owned from new a BMW, 2x Guzzi's, the XV1100, Kwaka ZL100) .. and no a HD is not on the shopping list this time either, even if they were/are as relaible.. In 3-4 yrs time with 60 -100,000 km's on the clock your s/hand premium value? Will be nada!
So I am better off buying a low K's jap import or similar (like my current ZZR), and riding it for 3 yrs then getting some return in comparison for the low initial outlay.

Admission..... I will accept having followed an XR1200 sporty and an MT-01 from Greymouth to C/ch 18months ago.. the XR does go very nicely.
(But it isnt your standard? 1200 sporty).

[BIG DOUG]

You are kidding me,my 99 dyna has done 180000kms the only thing that has stopped me was a broken coil wire yeah there pretty unreliable and on my xr1200 I have just clicked over 47000k's and all I do is change the oil and filter and fill with fuel another unreliable hd and for you info the sporty chassis is the same as the xr's and as for when I sell any of my hd's I'm damm sure I won't lose as much money as ANY japanese bike new or used.

[GrayWolf]

You are kidding me,my 99 dyna has done 180000kms the only thing that has stopped me was a broken coil wire yeah there pretty unreliable and on my xr1200 I have just clicked over 47000k's and all I do is change the oil and filter and fill with fuel another unreliable hd and for you info the sporty chassis is the same as the xr's and as for when I sell any of my hd's I'm damm sure I won't lose as much money as ANY japanese bike new or used.

Wow and that was all without punctuation!:first:

Yes I know the XR and sporty share the same frame, but the XR has the extra 'punch' in the motor dept.. and as I said, I was 'impresssed with its performance' both handling and power over the pass.
Well I would reckon from the state worldwide, and 25% reduction of sales in the USA that the S/hand and retail HD high price bubble is about to be burst, but I could be wrong. Interesting though, that even in the USA, it seems it is middle aged riders not the 'matt black n well 'ard brigade' that are buying the bikes.
gotta love the 'bad boy' image, eh?

Sales
"Harley-Davidson has said it wants international sales to make up 40 percent of its total sales volume by 2014, up from about one-third today. (...) The company said retail sales of its heavyweight motorcycles fell more than 18 percent worldwide in the first quarter, with sales in the U.S. falling by nearly one-fourth. International sales fell 2.8 percent."[12]

I had heard that some dealers in the UK are now 'containering' HD's to England like Jap imports are done here; as they can pick up S/h HD's so cheaply in the US... Reading into the above statement, HD are hoping the sales overseas will be the saviour, as they obviously feel that the US has reached 'flood' proportions for their product.

Form 10-Q for HARLEY DAVIDSON INC 6-May-2010 Quarterly Report

"Worldwide independent dealer retail sales of Harley-Davidson motorcycles decreased 18.2% during the first quarter of 2010 compared to the first quarter of 2009. Retail sales results continue to be impacted on a global basis by difficult economic conditions. Retail sales of Harley-Davidson motorcycles decreased 24.3% in the United States and 2.8% internationally in the quarter."

the links that info is lifted from

http://www.harley-davidson.com/wcm/Content/Pages/HD_News/Company/newsarticle.jsp?locale=en_US&articleLink=News/0466_press_release.hdnews&newsYear=2009&history=news

http://knol.google.com/k/harley-davidson-motorcycle-sales-shipments-and-revenues#

[Flip]

Well I am another Harley rider with a high milage bike, I have done almost 100,000km from new on my 05 Road King and so far its been 100%.

I love the funny old thing and the only question for me is, what colour will the new Harley be? Saying that I do like the looks of the Indian Bomber.

About the thing the jap bike industry could do to get me to buy one of their road bikes is to make it out of asbestos.

[caspernz]

Well goes to show doesn't it. For the last 5 years or so they have typically handled and stopped on par with similar Japanese or European 'counterparts'. In some cases better.
But what would I know - I've only ridden them. :laugh:

Fair enough, not knocking the durability or popularity of the HD brand, just when I've gone for a spin on anything from the HD stable in recent times it simply isn't nimble or sporty enough for my liking.
Perhaps in years to come I can see myself owning something branded HD or its counterparts from Europe or Japan.

[Renegade]

well im hanging out for the new year so i can shoot over the hill and take a sportster iron for a test ride, rode a yamy xvs recently and it ground the boards real easy, taking a boulavard out in a week or so, hoping for a little more corner clearance in the iron.

Harley are offering 2yr unlimited km warranties with free pickup anywhere in NZ, with only a handful of stores its a long way to go 24/7 for a breakdown so i guess they are backing the product.

Of course im coming from sports bikes so you never know, i may not be able to cope with the lack of lean.

[BMWST?]

so you guys saying one of these doesnt qualify as a good handlingharley?

252561

[Freespaceage]

In the end, it's irrelevant what anyone else thinks about the handling, reliability etc.. I test rode over 15 non-Harley bikes before I ended up with a Nightster - and the reason for choosing it? I thoroughly loved the ride, from the first test ride to every subsequent ride. Sure the handling does not compare to a Ducati - but it's all about the experience, and it differs from person to person. ...and no-one does customisation like Harley, the changes you can make to your bike are endless. A truly personal experience :D

252564

[The Lone Rider]

no-one does customisation like Harley, the changes you can make to your bike are endless.252564

Well thats just not true. Only 4 of these in this contact sheet have Harley engines. And one other a push rod Vtwin

252565

And close ups of some of them plus other bikes -

Kawasaki
252566

Triumph
252567

Suzuki
252568

Suzuki Again
252569

Triumph Again
252570

All NZ bikes. Have more, but forum wouldn't let me attach more.

[scumdog]

You either want a Harley or you don't.

What I don't 'get' is this need to bag them - as in seriously bag them.

Are such people insecure or something?


Or are they one of those 'other' riders, you know, the ones that want one.

The rest already have one...<_<

[BIG DOUG]

I agree scumdog I have ridden a lot of bikes old and new ,hell I even took a new suzuki gsr 750 for a ride and it was a nice bike (apart from the front brakes) and would own one.The thing is if your not into harleys or cruiser bikes why do you come into the cruiser forum and give people crap about them if your not even into them, I don't go to the sport bike forum and run those guys down for what there into, that what pisse's me off.

[bsasuper]

Best handling harley------put any harley on a trailer and tow it.

[GrayWolf]

I agree scumdog I have ridden a lot of bikes old and new ,hell I even took a new suzuki gsr 750 for a ride and it was a nice bike (apart from the front brakes) and would own one.The thing is if your not into harleys or cruiser bikes why do you come into the cruiser forum and give people crap about them if your not even into them, I don't go to the sport bike forum and run those guys down for what there into, that what pisse's me off.

Actualy if you read back, I do enjoy/did enjoy 20yrs on Cruisers etc.. I only changed due to 'requirement'. I dont have an 'ego' for the fastest, baddest, etc, I buy according to my needs, which HAS to include everyday riding, year round.

my original post was a 'tongue in cheek' remark to the effect that best handling HD is an oxymoron,, the Response from one of your 'cruiser riders' was to the effect of BAGGING me personaly as a loser for owning a ZZR1100.

FYI I am looking seriously as previously posted at returning to 'big twin' ownership as the lil lady now has her own ride. So pillion accomodation is not such a high priority, and her 'bike' is not a high speed machine either. My knowledge and thoughts on HD's are from personal and vicarious observational experience. I have narrowed the field somewhat.. and next year will likely see me back on a big twin, just not sure what exact 'type' yet.....
although there is this cute lil FJR1300 that is soooo purty!!!

[Grubber]

Just my 2c worth.
I owned a couple of Harleys over an 8 year period.
First one i brought brand new with an expectation of it handling really well as it was a new bike. I was really disapointed when i rode it home to Pukekohe from Wellington. It wobbled and shimmied through every corner. Was scratching my head all the way home, wondering if i had done the right thing.
I had that bike for about 5 years and enjoyed the rebuilds and fancy paint jobs and the polishing. I turned it into a real show stopper and i have the trophies to prove it. But it still wouldn't go round corners.
Then i spent nearly $3000 on suspension and i finally got it to at least look at a corner for a change.
The 2nd one a brought i thought it would be a much improved model, as it was stated that all the suspension had been modified from the previous model. Once again i was dissapointed.
Now, i'm not sure if it was my sport/touring bike background that maybe influenced me into thinking i should have expected more bang for my buck or maybe i just wanted to ride them a little differently than was intended for them, but they did not handle well in my opinion.
I cant compare them with any jap tourers so can't coment regarding that.
I sold my last Harley and brought my first Hinchley Triumph, and i hoped on it and rode it like i had owned for years. Completely different machine.
Straight off the showroom floor and onto the racetrack with complete confidence in it's ability to go round corners.
That's pretty much my story in a nutshell.:cool:

[kiwifruit]

Test rode a softtail standard and a fatbob on Saturday, thanks to Pete from Wellington Motorcycles! Both the new 103 motors. Both bikes handled as well as I'd hoped, if not better. The softtail did hold a line better through faster corners but i quite like the "communication" and ground clearance from the dyna frame. Both bikes felt a little lacking in the character department which was a surprise. I guess that goes hand in hand with the reliability. What I was really hoping for was a bit of personality AND reliability.... maybe it's one or the other.

The Fatbob was cammed up with pipes, filter and mapping. Lots of poke! Looked awesome.

<img src="http://i44.tinypic.com/xehn5h.jpg">

[Crasherfromwayback]

Test rode a softtail standard and a fatbob on Saturday, thanks to Pete from Wellington Motorcycles! Both the new 103 motors. Both bikes handled as well as I'd hoped, if not better. The softtail did hold a line better through faster corners but i quite like the "communication" and ground clearance from the dyna frame. Both bikes felt a little lacking in the character department which was a surprise. I guess that goes hand in hand with the reliability. What I was really hoping for was a bit of personality AND reliability.... maybe it's one or the other.

The Fatbob was cammed up with pipes, filter and mapping. Lots of poke! Looked awesome.



Was good to meet you Sat, thanks for coming down! We can give you more character and personality without too much trouble too.

It just may cost a lil more...

[sinfull]

But ya can't do a Honda Pete !!!!

[kiwifruit]

Yes, I should probably mention the Honda :pinch:

<img src="http://i41.tinypic.com/9k82s4.jpg">

Picked it up yesterday!

[Crasherfromwayback]

But ya can't do a Honda Pete !!!!

I've done a few in my time mate!!!

[lakedaemonian]

I just spent a couple hours on our Road Glide Demo......I'm seriously impressed with the handling...first time since XR1200.....the fixed fairing seems to make for lighter steering....I'm convinced....now about those looks.....

Disclosure.....we sell Harleys :)

[Zamiam]

Yes, I should probably mention the Honda :pinch:

<img src="http://i41.tinypic.com/9k82s4.jpg">

Picked it up yesterday!

I guess someone has to say it a HONDA OMG!

Seriously interesting looking ride. :niceone: What model is it? I'm sure you will get as much pleasure out of your ride as those of us who ride tractors do from ours.

Congrats on your new ride :clap:

[The Lone Rider]

What model is it?

Honda only makes 1 type of 6 cylinder motorcycle, in various flavors, until 2003

http://www.google.co.nz/search?q=honda+valkyrie&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=.


100hp at 6,000rpm completely stock, at 1550cc (93ci)

[Subike]

. and mate there wasnt a HD that could touch it out of the box even the 1200 & 1100cc sporty Evo... which WAS made! ).

1986 1100 evo 4 speed chain drive sporty, Burgundy/slate with gold pinstrips, and called the Liberty model.

yup did exist, loved my one for two years, I bought it brandspankin new....
dang inflation rate of the 80,s saw the choice of house or bike, SWMBO and the kids came first......bugger

[Zamiam]

Honda only makes 1 type of 6 cylinder motorcycle, in various flavors, until 2003

http://www.google.co.nz/search?q=honda+valkyrie&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=.


100hp at 6,000rpm completely stock, at 1550cc (93ci)

Thanks- could see what I guessed was 3 pots so thought maybe a 6 but didn't know of this model. Interesting read.

[GrayWolf]

Yes, I should probably mention the Honda :pinch:

<img src="http://i41.tinypic.com/9k82s4.jpg">

Picked it up yesterday!

Would love to try one of the Valkyrie's heard they are a fantastic ride.....

[The Lone Rider]

Would love to try one of the Valkyrie's heard they are a fantastic ride.....

Same. I would guess they spit nails when you twist the throttle.

I've ridden it's smaller V4 cousin, and it's very fun.

[kiwifruit]

Impressions so far:
It's big, really big. Handles really well despite it's size. I can see how people get into trouble on them, one can forget one is riding such a huge bike and start punting it around a bit hard. Heaps of ground clearance. Stiff chassis. Great sound! Sounds like a Porsche. The ride is really smooth but the suspension isn't suited to our roads. Pulls hard, it's about as fast as the cammed up fatbob I rode from Wellington MC... maybe a bit slower down low. People are lining up to go for a cruise on the back!

It's getting tyres today (EXPENSIVE!!) so hopefully the weekend isn't too wet.

It was touch and go, almost literally, getting the bike thru the "bike gate" into the house! Will do more videos and a proper review in due course, in a new thread.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/j7Pap_AqI9Q" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[martybabe]

Nice ride Kiwifruit and very deft going up that plank for something the size of a small ship. I was harassed by one of those over the saddles on the forgotten highway once, they sure do handle for a mega cruiser. Enjoy.:niceone: