I'm trying to decide on my next model HD to get. Maybe some of you guys can share with me your thoughts.

In August 2015 I purchased my first bike. I had originally planned on getting 2015 Low Rider but I ended up getting a 2015 1200 Custom Sportster. Reason why I went with the XL1200C is because I live in NYC and at the time of purchase, planned on keeping my bike in the street under a cover. Now since I've owned my bike for a year, I no long keep it in the street and now garage the bike. My next bike will also be kept in the garage. Also at the time of purchase, I was more in favor of the Sportster because it's a lighter bike more, more nimble, and just felt that it was better of the city compared to a Low Rider. I also like the look for the Sportster better.

However, I now want another bike. I find myself wanting to do longer trips, specifically two up longer trips. For example, this past weekend I took my 2015 XL1200C on a trip to Niagara Falls Canada. Had put about 1000 miles on the bike over the weekend. Had my girlfriend on the bike for the entire trip and some luggage on my rack. When I get back from the weekend, I was hurting pretty bad. Ears ringing, engine was running at 4000 rpm for a few hours at a time. Our butts were also hurting, had to stop every hour or so and I did spent about $700 for an aftermarket custom seat.

So for my next bike I'm looking something good for touring, I'd like to do longer trips. Something good for 2-up, I love riding with my girl on the back.

I did HD Demo Day a few weeks ago and I really liked the Road Glide Ultra. The frame mounted fairing really helped hide the weight. Also I had configure it to have detachable tour pack if I want to take some weight off. I didn't like the Batwing bikes. Road King is also very nice. I feel that if I go Road King route though, it would be more of an all around bike good even for not touring.

 

Get your FL, keep the XL for when your GF completes her BRC. Then you'll have two Harleys in the garage!
Kinda like this~


Pay no attention to the Triumphs, they're from Hinckley!

 

You should test ride or better yet, rent a Heritage, Road King, and Switchback.

FWIW, a Street Bob will be the closest thing to a Sportster with a big twin engine.

 

Can't beat a RG for touring.

 

Have to disagree with you here. I've owned both and would say the dyna low riders is closer than the street bob. low Rider is lighter, less rake, doesn't have the skinny front tire and looks more like the 1200 custom or 883 low than the FXDB.

 

My plan is to go back to a Road King in the next 1-2 years.

 

Sounds like a Road King will fit your wants well. Also costs a little less upfront then other touring Harley's

I like that you can remove the windshield for shorter rides on a RK

 

I think this is what I want to do. Pleas share your thoughts.

If I trade my 1200 Custom in, I'll go for Road King. Good all around bike. Dealer said they will give me MSRP.

If I keep my 1200 Custom, I'll go Road Glide Ultra with detachable tour pak.

So confused.


Also I know the new engines are coming out. Not sure if I want to buy a first model year or just stick with the twin.

 

Why are you wanting to go back to a RK?

 

Lots to consider. The RK is a great bike, the windshield makes it a nice ride, but you got no tunes. You can add them later, but if you're going to be touring a lot and that's an issue, the RGU might be a better choice.


The RGU is a great bike, too, but it's about $7K more than the King. Gives you a lot more storage options and will do better for long days in the saddle, IMO.


You need to consider what kind of riding you going to do mostly and go from there. Also, you need to consider the financial aspect of it. If money is no object and you have room, I'd keep the Sporty and get the RGU for longer trips. But if you only want one bike that can do it all, the King is tough to beat.


Oh, and if you're looking for other options, the Switchback and Heritage Softail both do long trips and strip down for city rider (not to muddy the waters any more. )


But all kidding aside, the King or RGU are your best bets.