I'm seriously thinking about getting a 2014 SB, but I am brand new to bikes and would like to hear from some owners about pros/ cons etc... I would ask the dealer these questions, but I prefer to get the honest perspective of those who actually own and love them.

It's an absolutely beautiful bike, but how reliable is it? Does it have any mechanical weak spots? What should I watch out for as far as wear and tear goes? How about carrying passengers on the back? Is it good for long distance riding? Should I get the ABS brakes? What other options do you recommend? Etc...

I live in Issaquah WA, which is just east of Seattle. It's only a few miles away from where "Twin Peaks" was made, to give you an idea. Though the winter weather is crappy right now, summer here is amazingly beautiful and I often see lots of bikers out on the roads enjoying some of the most scenic country in the U.S. They all have big smiles on their faces and leave a trail of happiness in their wake... And I want to be one of them!

Thanks in advance for any info/ advice!

 

Welcome. I'm jealous about Seattle living. Great city and like you said, awesome weather if you don't mind a lot of light rain. Doesn't bother me, I love the place.

First, you should know that all the Dyna models share a lot of the same mechanicals, so you can get a lot of info on the forum from any Dyna when looking at reliability. I've had mine for more than a year and haven't had reliability issues. The twin cam motor and the Dyna frame have been around for a long time, so HD has worked out most of the bugs. That said, being a new-to-HD rider, I'd recommend getting the extended warranty. It's practical and not too expensive considering the initial investment.

ABS is a personal preference. You gain some safety factor, especially for a new rider. However, some upgrades become more complicated because if the ABS system. I've had ABS on non-Harley bikes and can appreciate the function, but I didn't get it on my Street Bob due to the extra cost.

Wear and tear is subjective since almost everyone mods their bike in one way or another. Follow the maintenance requirements and you'll get what you put in it.

Recommendations. The stock seat sucks for me. Consider funds for an aftermarket seat at some point.
If you are 6' tall or more, you might like the added legroom from forward controls, but, as a new rider, mid controls are easier to learn on. Tough choice. Sit on or ride a Wide Glide to see if you like and can ride with forward controls.

Most of all, ask the forum if you don't know something or if you need help. There are a lot of great people here that will go out of their way to help. Yeah, there are a few smart asses that might throw out some sharp remarks, but they're just fooling around mostly.

Finally, take a rider safety course, then take it again or take the advanced course. Motorcycling is easy and complex at the same time. No one wants to see you get hurt or lose your confidence in the activity. It will change your life, but it's up to you to make the change positive.

Good luck on the purchase!

 

My wife has a 2011 and she just loves it.I ride it from time to time,I have a 2011 Superglide and we like to swap out now and again and I don't mind it at all,I actually like the mini apes.The only issue we had was the rear fender cracking but that has been fixed by the moco and the newer bikes have since removed the limp dick tail light which was the cause.Go ahead and get one they are a great bike and I'm sure you'll have a blast riding it.

 

I got my SB late last year and so far I couldn't be happier, I've ridden before so my views maybe a little different, but I do agree with SLV the Mid's would be better for a new rider, That is my one regret I bought a SB with Mid's and probably would have liked the forward controls better. I have the rear pinion on my bike but really have not had a rider on the bike for more then 2 miles when I took my son to the dealership to get the Sportster out of the shop. Good luck, on your decision I can say I love mine.

JR

 

Dude, buy it already. Street Bob's are awesome and easy to tailor to your liking. Plus, you just might get a better deal buying in the off season.
I love Seattle, you do have some awesome roads up there. Go do mountain loop hwy after you buy it and post some pics to make me jealous.

 

pros: your gona have fun, gona meet way more people, get places faster, overall your just gona be happier, girls love to ride, ride it properly and it'll last forever

cons: easily spend 5-10k on parts, motor, etc..., its easy to break the speed limit(so pay attention), once you get comfortable your probably gona beat on your bike, your eventually going to crash or lay it down(i hope you never do though).

wear a full face helmet a good one dont buy a 15k bike and a $80 helmet,

 

Amen

 

Buy it, ride it, make modifications slowly to your preferences.

You'll love it.

 

Welcome!
Take it! It's a beautiful bike with the least problem, so reliable! My 07 runs like new

 

The only problem I've ever had was the cracked fender... that problem has been resolved.