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 > Choosing a first HD

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WarrenJohnson

Galion, Ohio

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Posted: 02/07/03 08:58pm Link  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

I am saving up for a new HD and can't decide which model to get. I am planning on waiting for a sponsered demo ride that will be in July, but just wanting to get some input. I am leaning toward the Heritage Softail Classic. The bike I am riding now is a 1977 Honda CB750K. It runs great but is a little cramped for my legs. I have a 34" inseam and thought a bike with foward controls might be more comfortable. Any thoughts?

motorhead

Newnan ,GA

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Posted: 02/07/03 09:14pm Link  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

The Heritage is a very nice bike! Cost wise most of the HD's are relatively close in price so it boils down to how you will use it or what you want on it.

Road King is an awesome bike too, so take a look at them. I have a 2000 Deuce & I wouldn't trade it for anything!


Keep the rubber side down!

Bikeridernet

CT

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Posted: 02/15/03 05:11pm Link  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

Compare and search! You can probably do this by going on vacation somewhere and renting a H-D. Some of these motorcycles may not be easy to ride but they are easily sold, if you find one and you know what they say,be careful what you wish for (or you'll sell it sooner or later). However, please do try them out based on everything your fear or fearless attitude holds. Maybe I should say this because we share the roads with very difficult people(car people)and these motorcycles, all of them are our only defenses.
I do know my own limitations. I will be operating my bike or the one I choose. I think I want a Dyna® Low Rider. I also think I want to own a Fat Boy, just cause of the foot rest floor boards. I'll learn other wise after I rent either one very soon.

FifthGear

Houston,Texas

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Posted: 02/17/03 09:36pm Link  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

A Heritage Softail is a very fine bike. Actually, the seating position and leg room is more forward and less restrictive for the long legged rider than the Road King or the other Harley touring bikes. The stock handlebars are very comfortable compared to the Road King stock bars and very little has to be changed for a wide variety of people of different arm and leg reach. The only draw back I see in the TC88 counter balanced engine over the touring rubber mounted TC88s is that at speeds above 70 MPH there is a slight vibration. Opposite from the TC88A which shakes at idle and smoothes out while cruising. There are other considerations of course but addressing comfort I think you will be very comfortable as far as the ergonomic issues


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WarrenJohnson

Galion, Ohio

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Posted: 02/25/03 06:32am Link  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

Thanks for the advise. I decided on the Heritage Classic and bought a new '03 model this past weekend. The bike feels extremely comfortable and the controls seem to be located perfectly for me. I can't wait for the weather to break so I can get out and get some miles in.

shadowfire

gibsonton,fl,united states

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Posted: 03/04/03 01:18pm Link  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

You can not go wrong by taking your time and renting different models. Forward controls may not be for you over the long haul. Keep in mind that HD has frame mounted as well as rubber isolated mounted engines. I have riden and owned both types and been very satisfied with both types for short trips. When you plan to travel over 600 miles in one day, on a frame mount you will need to stop more often for rest as a rule. Take advantage of every opportunity to ride a demo bike. A lot of used bike lots have HDs for the buyer to try out.

My inseam is 31 inches and a bike with floorboards either HD or Victory (Polaris) are very comfortable. I have found that in the past when I had foreign made bikes, the angle for the legs was never comfortable at all no matter how good the saddle felt. Keep in mind that forward controls will throw your center of balance a little forward also which alters the handling of the bike. Try them all before you make a large financial commitment.

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