I'm an 06 heritage owner--new to the forum--and considering a 07 Springer that's available at a local dealer at a good price. Has anyone had the opportunity to compare the Heritage versus the Springer, specifically for stability and handling on the highway? What are the characteristics of the Springer front end compared to what I would think would be the more stable Heritage?

Thanks!

 

There was a comparison road test done on 05 Springer Classic vs 05 Deluxe (should handle similar to Heritage) in the Fall 2004 Enthusiast mag if you can get your hands on one. Basically the rider liked both bikes (to be expected in the Enthusiast). I do not remember what small differences were noted in handling except he stated the springer did not seem to front-end dive in hard braking like the Softail Deluxe.

 

Haven't ridden a Heritage But I'm on my second Springer the first a 93 FX and now have a 05 Classic and have never had a stability problem with ether one, both have been rock solid to over 100mph. Most of the stories I've heard aboutstability problems and bad handling have come from people who have spent very little time on the new factory Springers. They do feel a bit different when you first get on one, not better or worse just a bit different and after a few minutes you never notice it. The one thing you may notice is unless you are on a pretty rough road the Springer front end is actually a bit smoother.

 

Thanks for the input!

 

Both of those bikes look great tricked out but my vote has to go to the Springer...based on looks alone. I can't speak with any knowledge of ride comparisons.

 

I own a 2007 Heritage Classic and rode a friends 2006 Springer last October. I'm not an expert biker but didn't really notice any difference. I did not have to do any emergency braking. I was 2-up and was looking for differences. I didn't get the fascination with Springers at the time (I do now), but the extra maintenance on the front end would concern me as a non mechanic type. I was looking for 6th gear a few times and late Oct in northern Pa means lots of layers. Hope this helps.

 

I have an 05 Springer with 25,000 on it....been to Sturgis and back and Chicago too....700 miles in one day -rides great!. I love the looks of the Springer and I would definitely not worry about the extra work on the front end - nothing but inspection on my service time. Bottom line if the like the old style, Springer is the bike for you!!!

 

Thanks again for al the great feedback!