Tips on Making the Switch From Sport Bikes to Harley-Davidson
Harley-Davidson bikes and sport bikes might only share one thing in common, but there are valid reasons for owning both.
If you’re a connoisseur of motorcycles, you’re probably already well aware of the stark difference between sport bikes and cruisers. Heck, even if you’re a dyed-in-the-wool Harley-Davidson devotee, you can probably at least guess that the two are worlds apart. Other than the fact that both have two wheels, sport bikes and cruisers share little in common. In construction or culture.
There are plenty of folks out there on both ends of the spectrum who are curious about the other, however. You sit on one side of the fence, peering over at the forbidden fruit. And there’s really nothing wrong with that, because we can appreciate enthusiasts of all ilk. Our members certainly agree, and they recently jumped at the chance to help a life-long sport bike rider looking to make the switch to a Harley-Davidson.
New member ZXROM recently posted a query seeking expert advice on which Harley would be right for him, and the responses (as always) don’t disappoint.
“Hi, I’m coming from riding sport bikes my whole life. I’ve been increasingly becoming more interested in Harleys. I love anything on two wheels with an engine and don’t pick sides, styles or cultures. I own two Hayabusas, and I’ve always had at least two bikes. But right now it’s one too many. I’ve been possessed with the idea of trading my nicest one for a Dyna or a Softail – I find them the most appealing. I was hoping to get some help with frame/year choice.
My biggest concern right now is my height. I’m 6/2-6/3 and not looking like a monkey humping a football would be nice. I’ve been on a few Softail slims at a dealer, and while I absolutely love the way those bikes look, (the 114cu isn’t too shabby either), I thought I looked way too big on that frame. Comfort wise, things could be changed, but I’d still dwarf that bike. Any suggestions for me? Thanks.”
Right away, NORTY FLATZ chimes in with some great general advice for making the switch from sport bikes to a Harley. And he makes some interesting comparisons between the two.
“I would suggest that you don’t take the “performance” of Harleys seriously. Compared to what you’re used to, they are slugs. But, they are fun. You just have to get used to extended passing times and planned passing opportunities. A stock HD is slow. A modded HD is slightly faster, but by no means fast. An overly modded HD isn’t reliable, so that’s no good.
It’s just a different kind of riding experience. You’re going from a ZR1 to a Model A. Still fun but totally different. Where the ‘busas demand precision, the HDs don’t. Don’t try to ride one like the other and you’ll be OK. Look for an HD with “forward” controls. At your height, that might be good.”
Unsurprisingly, at least one member has already gone through the same process the OP is considering. Therefore, MatteGlide15 is able to provide some truly valuable insight into transitioning to a Harley-Davidson.
“I own a ‘busa as well so I can relate to how you feel cause I was once in your same shoes. I eventually caught the HD bug as well and purchased a Night Rod. At the time, it was considered the ‘performance’ bike for Harley. But as I started riding it more, I found myself traveling further and I started caring less about going fast and more about feeling comfortable. So I traded it in for this! I still pull the ‘busa out when I need that speed itch scratched, but for the most part, I enjoy being stretched out and relaxed on my Road Glide.”
When it comes to finding a bike to suit his larger frame, plenty of tall members chime in with advice as well.
“6’4″ here,” says nevada72. “I ride a Street Glide. As has been mentioned, modifications are easy and I’ve done a few things to make the bike work for me – lowering floorboard kit, different seat, among a few things. Right now there are some good deals on used pre-17 bikes because of the changes to the new bikes. I would look at something from the touring line like a Street Glide or Road King.
Obviously it’s a whole different kind of bike than what you are used to. But I came from metrics as well. You learn to appreciate the strengths such as comfort and balance that the touring line brings.”
“I’m 6’5″ and ~215lbs,” adds YeOldeStonecat. “I have had all 4 main chassis types in my garage – FXD, an FLHS, and currently my FXSTS. As well as my wife’s XL1200. All 3 of my bikes were set up for 2-up riding. The FLHS and FXSTS had forward controls and my FXD had mid-controls, but I have highway pegs on it so I kept my feet up on the pegs and used my heels for shifting and braking. My current Softail Springer is by far the most comfortable bike for my height frame, because I sit low and back in it like I’m in a Lazy Boy recliner going down the road. I have a very bad lower back.”
After the considerable input, the OP was able to test out a friend’s bike and is getting a good idea of what he should look for.
“Thanks for your suggestions, I rode my friend’s Night Train with forward controls and 12” apes, I believe, and I found it fairly comfortable. I do like the “sit in the bike” position a lot better. It feels more like you’re part of the bike, and I love the Softail looks. I’ll have to pay attention to what kind of forks he has, because I can’t really put a proper model designation on it. I also like the stripped down and classical look over baggers and fully accessorized Kings and Glides.”
So maybe it’s possible to enjoy the best of both worlds, after all. Do you have any advice for the OP in regards to picking up a Harley compliment to his crotch rocket? Head over here and chime in!
