Why All The Hatred ?
Grand HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 3,686
Likes: 4,294
From: Northeast, NJ
Hatred is too strong of a statement I think....
Disappointment I think more accurately hits it.
Overall, the changes in the frame, suspension and engine bring some newness/moderness to the same ole. Once could say, if the claims are true, that the spirit of the FXR is infused with the new Softails. Better handling and performance. IMHO, once you get past that, is where I see the ball being dropped. Styling, while admittedly very subjective, isn't quite there for me on all the former Dynas that carried over. Smaller gas tanks and slightly worse cornering clearances on the former Dynas aren't selling points.
I'm very hopeful that some future variants take on an identity specific to the new changes. Perhaps a Sport Glide or similar? Very curious to see what new models HD comes out with on this chasis. It has the potential to produce a model that is killer. Imagine something like what the new Fat Bob brings to table in performance, mated with a fixed fairing, touring amenities....and a 5+ gallon gas tank! In theory, that's right up my alley. And while yes, I do very much miss the visual of the dual shocks of my Dyna and I'm not thrilled with the current offerings, the potential of something really cool is there!
Disappointment I think more accurately hits it.
Overall, the changes in the frame, suspension and engine bring some newness/moderness to the same ole. Once could say, if the claims are true, that the spirit of the FXR is infused with the new Softails. Better handling and performance. IMHO, once you get past that, is where I see the ball being dropped. Styling, while admittedly very subjective, isn't quite there for me on all the former Dynas that carried over. Smaller gas tanks and slightly worse cornering clearances on the former Dynas aren't selling points.
I'm very hopeful that some future variants take on an identity specific to the new changes. Perhaps a Sport Glide or similar? Very curious to see what new models HD comes out with on this chasis. It has the potential to produce a model that is killer. Imagine something like what the new Fat Bob brings to table in performance, mated with a fixed fairing, touring amenities....and a 5+ gallon gas tank! In theory, that's right up my alley. And while yes, I do very much miss the visual of the dual shocks of my Dyna and I'm not thrilled with the current offerings, the potential of something really cool is there!
Last edited by rauchman; Aug 23, 2017 at 03:23 PM.
Road Warrior
Joined: Jul 2013
Posts: 1,561
Likes: 187
From: Florida
Pretty hard to find a 71 Super Glide, as they didn't sell worth a damn. If I remember correctly, that rear fender lasted one year.
Road Warrior
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 1,601
Likes: 679
From: San Francisco
Harley is trying to develop & innovate. The Rushmores, new engines, frames. Stuff they were being criticized for not doing. Not everyone is going to be happy. I'm sure they looked at sales & market research. My hat's off to them.
I am looking forward to this Saturday...test rides!
I was going to buy a new Dyna because I miss my 14 LR but I'll see whats up after the test rides.
I love the new CVO SG in gunship gray and matching colored wheels and the 115th ani SG in matte blue with the big winged HD graphics.
Good close up vids of the new bikes!
Last edited by HD_fan; Aug 23, 2017 at 04:23 PM.
Advanced
Joined: Aug 2017
Posts: 60
Likes: 8
From: upsate, new york
I would like to think that Harley knows most people in early 20s cannot afford, and are not looking for new Harleys. Instead, the 25-35 age market who now have a stable career, have finished schooling, and are looking to "mature", are the ones they are/should be focusing on.
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Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 9,332
Likes: 3,873
From: Upstate New York
Despite my initial dismay over some of the changes that I expressed last night, in the light of day I see many positive aspects to the new bikes (not sure if Harley even calls them "Softails" anymore). The stiffer chassis and upgraded suspension are welcome changes, and necessary for the new motor. Better cornering clearance and less weight are welcome, as the Twin Cam Softails have suffered in that respect. Moving the oil supply under the transmission removes a source of unwanted heat from the rider, and may allow better packaging of the electronics.
The new exhaust on the Deluxe might even allow one to run full size saddlebags (finally).
As always, the devil is in the details and the proof is in the riding. I'll try to reserve further judgement until I've seen them in person and ridden them.
Would I part with my old '94? No, but if the new bikes are that good, there might be another bike in the garage in a couple of years. Time will tell.
The new exhaust on the Deluxe might even allow one to run full size saddlebags (finally).
As always, the devil is in the details and the proof is in the riding. I'll try to reserve further judgement until I've seen them in person and ridden them.
Would I part with my old '94? No, but if the new bikes are that good, there might be another bike in the garage in a couple of years. Time will tell.
Club Member
Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 6,905
Likes: 4,877
From: Midwest
For $1700 more you can upgrade to the 114 on the Street Bob and Heritage. I don't like the looks but wouldn't mind riding one with a 114 and the ride is the important part. You don't have to look at it while riding. I just think they look pretty hideous, kind of like the V-Strom - a butt ugly bike but fun to ride.