When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
I had the same questions you did not too long ago. Same rider profile, etc. Ended up with Dyna Low Rider for the mid controls.
I think you would enjoy more than 1,200 cc? I know I do. ABS can be found in the used market. Weight is about 650 pounds; to me that is heavy, but getting accustomed to it. Not so bad and helps with cross winds vs. my lighter bikes. Doubt I would ever go full touring bike, but there are options for fairings, etc to make it more comfortable on longer rides. What sold me vs the mid size 1200's including the Indian was the extra space and tq of the 103 in the event I wanted to ride two up. (Occasionally I do) So, I would say Dyna or newer Softail? Kind of depends on your budget?
Maybe consider a switchback or a newer sport glide? That way you have options? That would likely have been my choice, but really wanted mid controls and lower bars for the first Harley. An easier transition from prior bikes.
Newer Switchbacks at 14k or so, newer sport glides (used) a couple thousand more.
Bagger seems overkill for only 500 miles a month. Why carry all that extra weight around? I'd be looking at Sportsters, Street Bobs and Low Riders.
Agree.
I traded in my Street Glide for this smaller bike. I'm 65, wanted to get back to the bike(s) I had the most fun with. Go to the dealer and sit on some bikes just to size them up, it's fun.
I skipped the ABS on my Low Rider, everything is basic and simple on this bike, it stops fine without the extra maintenance.
I started on a 2011 SB which I feel was a good weight and starter bike (I know you have riding experience already). I then added cams once I was comfortable. I have recently traded it for a 2019 Street Glide. Take a look at the Street Bob.
Last edited by Studlintsean; Jan 13, 2019 at 02:23 PM.
7 Surprising Harley-Davidson Products that Are Not Motorcycles
Slideshow: The bar-and-shield logo shows up on far more than motorcycles, some of the company's most unexpected products have nothing to do with riding.
Slideshow: From the troubled AMF years to modern misfires, these bikes earned reputations for reliability issues, questionable engineering, or disappointing performance.
Crazy Bunderbike Build Looks Amazing, But Is It Impossible to Ride?
Slideshow: The Swiss custom shop has taken a Harley Softail and stretched it into something so long and low that it looks closer to a rolling sculpture than a conventional motorcycle.
Engraved Rebellion: Inside Bundnerbike's Glam Rock II
Slideshow: A standard cruiser becomes an intricate metal canvas in the hands of a Swiss custom house known for pushing Harley-Davidson platforms far beyond their factory brief.
Slideshow: Harley-Davidson's challenges aren't abstract; they show up in dropping shipments, shrinking dealer traffic, and strategic decisions that aren't yet translating into growth.