I'm intrigued by the Slim S and I'm considering a trade in, but I like the basic Slim too. I noticed the '16 basic is about $1000 cheaper than the '15. Is this just to separate the basic from the S model? It looks like the '16 has just a couple more features plus about 4lb/ft extra torque.

I'm shopping the basic Slim and wonder what reason I might have to choose a '15 or '16.

 

You could probably negotiate the 15 down and score a screaming deal.

 

I did that Thursday with a 15 Fatboy.

 

The heritage is cheaper also. I read somewhere here that the softail sales had gone down lately and this might be a way to kickstart softail sales. Sounds reasonable to me.

 

It is probably because it cost less to make 2016 softails. I would go with the proven 2015 model especially if it is discounted. Good luck

 

This is true. I forgot about that. The HD market is growing older and buying a lot of baggers, the new to HD crowd is buying Sportsters and Dynas.

I'm a member of the HD Advisory Board. I'm not sure how exclusive it is. For all I know, everyone is included.

I get in-depth surveys once a quarter, and it comes with some market stats. The aging HD customer base is a serious problem looming over the next decade. (Hence the 2016 Sportster refresh, and probably a new engine within 2 years.)

BTW. Here's my current HD. It's my fifth over many years and several other brands. The Slim will be my first ST.

I'll introduce myself once I get the bike.

 

I have an appointment with an Olive Gold Slim S in the morning. If I can work the deal, I'm taking it home. If not, I'm working a deal on one of the '15s.

As much as I don't want to pay extra for the S, it has almost everything on it that I would do. I really believe I can ride this bike without many mods. (Just grips, mirrors, solo bag and my Mother Road Customs spring seat that's been hanging around my garage for a few years. The S has the power I want, the blacked out trim, and the new cruise-control/FBW throttle.

 

Yea, I kinda wish I had waited for a '16 for the black out and the cruise, but have too much in mine now to trade. Oh well, no regrets. If you always waited one more year for the lates and greatest, you'd never have anything at all. I'd also venture to guess, as with any car brand, you'll be able to get some smokin deals on '15's. Wither '16's are predicted to sell good or not, they have to clear inventory to make room for the new ones.

As for me, I think I'm patiently gonna wait for a set of wheels off the new 48 to pop up on CraigsList and then I'll be happy!

 

True.

My second choice is a blue '15



I'd be satisfied, but have the opportunity to get the S if all works out.

 

One thing to remember: Harley makes a bolt on 110 kit that only fits 103HO models. Personally, I think the 16 upgrades are worth a lot over the 15. Check out all the differences and details before buying. Not knocking the 15's, just seeing real value in the 16's.