So here is my dilemma. I have not ridden a bike in over a decade. I learned to ride on my uncles old super glide, and that is the only bike I ever rode. I am thinking of getting a bike sometime in the next year as soon as finances are available. Would I be doing myself a disservice by simply getting a super glide? My problem is I don't have any friends that ride, and don't feel comfortable renting a bike or riding someone elses in the possible event of an accident(I know insurance would cover it, but i would feel bad)

Basically, would I be missing out on an awesome experience owning another bike, or is the ride not that different between models?

 

First step is take the motorcyle safety course even if you have a current motorcycle endorsement. If you don't have your licence then the course is the best way to get it. Once you have both those things, you can go to demo days and ride all the different models and decide. My local dealer lets me take any bike, at any time I want to test ride. I ended up buying a new dyna superglide and love it. I made sure I bought it from the first salesman that saw me eyeing a 26k fat bob CVO (that I told him I had no intention of buying) and pulled it off the showroom floor and told me take it for a ride.

So the bottom line...you would be doing yourself a disservice and endagering your life to take any harley out on the street after not riding for 10 years. The bike getting wrecked would just be a secondary problem...

I think the dyna line is the best handling bikes that harley make...buts that's just my opinion. It depends what you want out of a bike...

 

Oh I definitely plan on taking the riding course for several reasons. I wouldn't feel comfortable riding again after so long off a bike for one, lowering my insurance for another, and from what i have read it means i wouldn't have to take the driving part of the endorsement, which is nice because I hate the dmv. In the end I will probably wind up with a super, as there are way too many fond memories of that old bike. Unless I find something that has a superior feel and handling.

 

ride them all and you'll know which one is right for you. That's the fun part...trying and choosing

 

I agree on the course, and you should check out several bikes and pick your bike, personally I love my superglide, but that is why I bought it.

 

Love my Superglide. Had a Sportster 1200 first and it was ok, but a little rough. Got the Super and what a difference. I agree with Rooti the best handling bike I have ever owned.

 

Similar circumstances with me, too. I hadn't ridden for a number of years and got the HD fever. Took the riding course which was a must for me. But like Jeff, I bought a Sportster 883L. But after six months, it left me wanting a little more. So I traded it in for the FXDC. So glad I did.

 

Once you take your course, you should be a little more confident in your riding skills. In the mean time, you need to think about the kind of riding you will be doing. Mostly solo? Trips more than a day or two, and how many times a year? I ride solo 99.9% of the time & only take one or 2 trips a year that last 3 or 4 days. I decided on a FXDC because I liked the way it handled & how comfortable it was. Plus it takes no time to put the windshield & baggage on. If you plan on numerous trips with your wife/OL/SO, you might want to look at a Switchback. Ride them all & then decide. Good luck with your decision. Let us know what you decide on.

 

If your looking for good handling then the superglide is your best choice. Don't know how old your uncles old superglide was but these modern ones do very well.

 

Take the class and take your time choosing. You'll be happy with any Dyna because you get a lot of bike for your money. Good luck!!