OK so I know the 103B doesn't have the vibrations (movement) especially at idle as I really felt the difference on a FatBoy test ride the other day.
But beings I am new to Softails and the 103B I would like to get some opinions as the the other Pro's and also Con's of the 103B.

 

pros: runs smooth
cons: runs hot

 

Yeah but so does the 103. Or does the 103B run hotter than the 103?

 

Heat only is more of an issue on the softie because they don't automatically put an oil cooler on them like the touring models. I don't see them getting any hotter than the non balanced motors.

 

B motors are noisier due to the chain driven counter balancers.

 

I have two bikes, the bagger has a 103 and the softail has a 95B (an 88 w/big bore kit)......

The "B" engine has less vibration at idle. I believe that in higher rpm, like when I'm cruising at 70 to 75MPH, the "B" engine has a buzzing type of vibration. I can feel it most in the grips.

The 103, once off idle, is very smooth.......

Just my observations between the two.

 

Pros smooth and reliable
Cons not high revving (you get your max power around 3500 rpms)

 

To me, the unbalanced engine in the Dynas is smoother and quicker accelerating than the B engine. I still love my Lo and may change my mind after the Lo has as many miles as the Dyna. The vibration at idle is a given. The only way to get a smooth ride in a soft ail frame is a balanced engine and I thank God the co did it.

 

Compared to the Touring bikes it is much smoother at idle but up at highway speeds you get a high frequency 'buzz' as previously mentioned. I have owned numerous Softails, Touring bikes and Sporties...they all have their place and personality.

 

My SG had vibe at expressway speeds. I could feel it in the handlebars and the floorboards