Hi all. Been on my Sporty a while and ready for something bigger and smoother for longer miles. I like the 18+ Softails but prices are high. Used seem to be asking for same price as new!

My question is for those who have had the previous model Softails (say 2012-2017...I'm not sure of the previous model year range) and now have an 18+. How much better are they?

I like the Slim model. I rode my buddies 2017 Slim S and my right hand was getting buzzed (he has 12"apes)....just like on my Sporty. So that was a turn off. Wondering if the 18+ are smoother.

I've test ridden a few models but you can't get a good feel on a 15 min test ride.

Thoughts? Thanks!

 

2018+ Softails got a whole new frame, and engine. And yes they are waaaay smoother.

Best to judge binge some videos if you havent seen anything info wise on the new bikes.

 

I'll just say the 18+ models are worth the money.

 

I find the M8 to be smoother, stronger, and quieter, while throwing off way less heat. The frame is so much better balanced (granted I had a 14' Dyna), and the ground clearance is better than twin cam Softails. My dyna also reaked of gasoline after parking. I believe it may have been because they ran much hotter and had vented caps. While there is a hint of gas smell in the garage after parking, its nothing compared to the twin cam I had. You can ride the M8 with shorts on and have no heat roasting your thighs. Something that cant be done on a twin cam comfortably. I also prefer the lower idle of the M8.

From what I've read, the M8 has a lower AFR from the factory vs the leaner twin cam. I own a Slim and am very happy with the M8 so far. If you choose to go with them, I would recommend the 20' + as they went with a larger oil pump gear thingy. Basically it flows better. And if you love the Slim, grab one now as its rumored to be discontinued. While buying new is more expensive than say an older twin cam, your getting a much better bike in my opinion. And a 2 year warranty to boot. Keep in mind that the M8's are a ground up redesign. The engine is completely different and doesn't even run the dry sump design that previous Softails ran. The Frames are completely different, as is the suspension. Good luck in your decision

 

Thanks so far all.

Anyone go from a Slim to an M8 Slim? Or Deluxe/Heritage to M8 Deluxe/Heritage? Would love to hear some TC apple to M8 apple feedback.

I'm 90% interested in your 200-300 mile comparison thoughts. In otherwords......how did your butt, back and hands feel after said mileage on the TC Softail vs M8 Softail? I just want to make sure I don't go from one bike that beats me up to another that beats me up, just slightly less. I REALLY don't want to go bagger as I don't want to be pushing a 900lb bike around.

 

I think the buzzing you felt may have been your buddies bars and grip choice. I had some on my Nightster when I went with narrow glide apes and changed the grips.

 

I had a TC Heritage for around 40,000 miles. I bought a 2018 Heritage 114 and it was night and day better. Power, handling, feel of the motor, heat from the motor, all significantly better on the M8. I put about 20,000 trouble free miles on the ‘18 before i traded it for my 2019 Road King Special - which was also VASTLY superior to a 2016 Road King I had previously…

The only Twin Cam I’d consider buying is a 96” Dyna. They were the best of the TC bikes in my opinion - but I may be biased since I love my ‘09 Dyna Fat Bob.

That being said - The buzz in the bar you’re noticing is the nature of the counterbalanced motor. The 2018+ does have a bit once you are nearing 80mph…although it wasn’t enough to bother me. The old TC had it too. Dyna’s and touring which are rubber mounted don’t have it…they only shake at idle.

your sporty was rubber mounted if it was ‘04 or newer…but with a 5spd box they can get buzzy on the freeway, or if your motor mounts were worn out.

test ride is probably your friend….

 

I can't answer your question comparing TC and M8 Softails, however as someone with a Sportster and M8 Softail (both with apes) I can give you that comparison. The Softail feels like an upgrade, or like riding in luxury compared to my Sportster. When the buzzing gets to me, having a real cruise control is a quick fix. A mile or two on cruise and I'm good to go for another 20-30 minutes...

Although I love my 72, I love my M8 so much I'm really starting to consider a Lowrider S to replace it. If I understand correctly, any of these M8's can have OEM cruise installed. Going back to your initial statement about wanting comfort, other than cost, I do not think you would regret getting an M8 Softail over a Sportster.

 

That's very valuable info. Thanks!

 

Oops posted to wrong thread!