Okay, we're all allowed one dumb question, so here's mine...

I'm not buying a new bike any time soon, but I'm certainly allowed my fantasies, and I love these two Softails. But, I'm trying to figure out the difference in base price.

The Heritage includes the studded leather saddlebags, backrest, and detachable windshield, which together are at least $1,250-$1,500 worth of options, but the price is only $250 more than the DeLuxe. Obviously, the MoCo ain't in the business of giving stuff away, so...

What are the key differences between the two models, other than the bags, backrest, and windshield? They have different mufflers, but that ain't a grand difference. Whitewalls?

What am I missing?

 

There's not a great deal of difference between other than the touring accessories and cosmetic differences. You can pretty much customise each to look the same. The main thing is having some idea of what you will want the bike to be a few months down the line and choose the model that minimises your cost of getting there.

As you say, the bags, sissy bar and windshield are great value. If you like the ones it comes with, then it's a bargain. Personally, I don't like studs or that kind of vertical clear sheet windshield, preferring something plainer for the bags and more "cafe" or "bullet" as a fairing. So spending the money on a Heritage wouldn't have made sense for me.

I decided to buy the fatboy mainly because of the rear wheel. Not just the looks, but the way it feels more "planted" in corners made the ride more relaxing if less nimble than the other softail options. And I've now got a fairing and bags I like.

 

Not really sure myself but I ride a Deluxe and have added a few options that make it similar to a Heritage and yeah, it wasn't cheap.


Full boat Heritage;



My done uP Deluxe;

 

I demo'd a new Deluxe a few months ago

VERY smooth. The 6th gear was nice
(NO vibes @ 70-75 mph)
The 103 was like my 88 on steroids. It rode just like
my Heritage. They must have improved the shorter shocks
cuz my wife's 03 has them and it's bumpier.
The windshield tilted back more so guess what . . .
No buffeting.

The Heritage is more of a dresser with the bigger bags etc

 

Aw, jeeeeez, that's flat gorgeous.

And, even better, you picked the right color.

But, wait...that IS a Heritage, and not a DeLuxe.

 

Sorry, I was a little slow on the upload. Mine's below this beauty.

 

What's really interesting is the Road King is $100 less than the Heritage and comes with hard bags, higher output motor, and adjustable air suspension (albeit not mounted like a softail). I don't think this is an easy A + B = C type of thing.

 

There something about a Deluxe.....It's just so beautiful!
I think it's just best looking HD........period.

 

That's better! Nice!

 

Thanks for the compliment!!!!