In over my head? Dyna for FIRST motorcycle.
Cruiser
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 115
Likes: 1
From: Milan, Italy
I'm going to chip in here guys, as I'm in the very same situation.
Never owned a REAL bike before, only ever drove lighter bikes so I think I'm having the same thoughts.
Now I would love buying a Dyna of some sort, preferably used but if I would go for a new one I'd get the new 2010 wide glide.
Even so, I'm a bit worried, I haven't sat down on a bike for a long time and never drove anything big and heavy..
Been checking out some options, like a used Honda shadow 750 to get back in the saddle , but it would suck a bit sitting there a couple of months later regretting not going for a Harley right away!
Never owned a REAL bike before, only ever drove lighter bikes so I think I'm having the same thoughts.
Now I would love buying a Dyna of some sort, preferably used but if I would go for a new one I'd get the new 2010 wide glide.
Even so, I'm a bit worried, I haven't sat down on a bike for a long time and never drove anything big and heavy..
Been checking out some options, like a used Honda shadow 750 to get back in the saddle , but it would suck a bit sitting there a couple of months later regretting not going for a Harley right away!
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 5,384
Likes: 12
From: Out on Deranged
It won't be the power but the weightwhich will throw you off,as others have mentioned you could handle either bike super or not. after 30 years without riding I bought a sportster and was back at the dealer less than a week later throwing away money I could have spent the first time around (taxes) and depreciation to boot .
Advanced
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 55
Likes: 0
From: Montgomery, IL
Hit craigslist, find a good deal on a Honda/Yamaha cruiser and log some miles. You'll know when your ready for the Dyna.
BTW, its cheaper than buying a sportster & trading it in 1000 miles later - unless you did the "ride free" like me.
Intermediate
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 32
Likes: 0
From: Blairsville, Ga
Exact same boat
I am in the exact same boat as you are. Just bought a Dyna Wide Glide 2 weeks ago as my first bike. I have to agree with everyone else. It is the weight that freaks you out. I am still getting used to it. Stepped in gravel once when I stopped, leg came out... bike layed down...no stopping it once it goes. Just have to wipe the embassament off your face.... pick it up a go again. I find once I get it moving it does what I want. It does have a lot of power, respect it. So far I am doing well and it gets easier everytime I ride. I'm in the mountains so there are lots of stop signs on steep slopes as well. Clutch brake and gas take a bit of getting used to, but I find it is no different than getting used to a stick car. I do not reget it, especially when I'm riding with my newbie buddy who opted for a smaller non Harley because of weight and cost. He has had his bike for the same amount of time I have and he is already thinking of upgrading. I just sit back and smile!!!
Cruiser
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 115
Likes: 1
From: Milan, Italy
But I guess that in the end it all depends on what deals you can come over, It seems that where I live you can find Honda shadows and its likes for around 2500-4000€ (roughly 3500$ - 5500$) , with the price range mainly depending on what year its from!
Goes without saying that a used Dyna of any sort would go for a lot more.
Goes without saying that a used Dyna of any sort would go for a lot more.
Road Warrior
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 1,303
Likes: 2
From: Texas City, TX
My bike Is my first bike. I rode 4 wheelers and dirtbikes when I was a kid and I rode a crotch rocket drunk one time. I took it easy the first several times I rode my bike and my confidence improved each time. I wasn't going to waste money on something I didn't want.
Banned
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 1,579
Likes: 1
From: Ft. Hood, Texas
06 super glide was my first bike, bought it brand new, never saw the HD showroom, was scared shitless when i pick it up, heard about lots of people starting with sporties and switching to bigger bikes, as long as you keep it straight youll be fine.
Thread Starter
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Tourer
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 275
Likes: 0
What hits the ground if you drop it? Paint, chrome, or engine? I guess if you drop it to the right the exhaust probably hits. How expensive is it to fix?
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Elite HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 4,082
Likes: 11
From: Long Island, NY
Lot of good opinions on the matter. Why don't you take the course and decide how comfortable and confident you feel when it's completed. Ask the instructor what he or she thinks based on how you rode.
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 4,082
Likes: 11
From: Long Island, NY
If you drop it the damage can range from nothing to unfortunately quite a bit. You can damage the pegs, shifter, mirror, grips. Good chance you will dent the tank if the directional hits it.
You can also damage yourself depending on what happens. Remember it is a 600+ lb machine.
You can also damage yourself depending on what happens. Remember it is a 600+ lb machine.