First Harley

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Mar 1, 2024 | 05:28 PM

#31

RAD1

Cruiser

Joined: Jan 2016

Posts: 249

Likes: 146

From: Chelmsford, MA

Quote:

Originally Posted by btsom

I don't recall if the Road King Special has crash bars. It would be a shame to tip over and mar the saddle bags, engine, and possibly the gas tank just because there are no bars for protection. Also, youtube has several videos on how to pick up a downed Harley. It is difficult enough using the recommended technique and about impossible if you try something else. I had been riding for over 42 years when I got my first Harley. It was a Road KIng and was a lot different from my previous two bikes, a Kawasaki 750 Spectre and then a Yamaha 1100 Virago. It literally took a couple of years for me to get accustomed to the Harley quirks. About the only advantage to getting the big bike as a first machine is that you won't have so much stuff to "un-learn" with the new Harley. However, it will be a challenge right away and there is a chance it might discourage you from continuing to ride. There are many low mileage "garage queens" bought by people in love with the IDEA of riding but later found they didn't like it as much as they thought they would. A big bike at the beginning contributes to that experience.

RKS comes from the factory with the engine guard, but not saddle bag guards. These are pricey but worth every penny if you're a new rider and want to protect the bike when (not if) you fall over. https://motorcycledropguards.com/

Last edited by RAD1; Mar 1, 2024 at 05:31 PM.

Mar 3, 2024 | 04:33 PM

#32

Highwaymans

Road Warrior

Joined: Nov 2016

Posts: 1,434

Likes: 623

From: IE, CA

I'd suggest Eaglerider or similiar MC rentals.... Renting is a whole lot cheaper then buying the wrong bike.... I'd do a range of bikes and go from there. Every make has pros and cons.