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I had planned on buying a softail (2006) but just read a book that said the Dynas handle much better. Is this true? If so, is it marginal or big difference? As I will need to commute this may be an issue but I would prefer a standard softail.
From: Santa Clarita, So. Cal. & Bullhead City, Az.
RE: Which bike?
I have an 03 Dyna, wife has an 04 Nightrain (Softail) I much prefer my Dyna. Steers easier, more comfortable ride. 06 Dynas come with 6 speeds, both will be injected. Softails are hard mounted engines, Dynas are rubber mounted.
I would not trade my Deluxe for anything. I love the looks, sound and ride. It is perfect for me. Only thing is if your a tall rider it may be cramped for you. I am 5'10" and I fit it perfectly. Rides beautifully IMO. I don't buy the Dyna riding better as my buddy rides a Dyna and he prefers my bike. His bike is a 100th anniversary model. Good luck with whatever you buy.
I just had the opportunity to ride a new '06 Dyna Super Glide when my father-in-law's arrived a few weeks ago. The '06 got a lighter pull clutch, a six speed, a wider rear tire, among other improvements. For the money the bike cannot be beat. Has the 88ci Evolution, same as most of the big bikes. Riding position is quite comfortable, though if you do a lot of long hauls you may want to add some highway pegs, the footpegs are in the standard position. The bike is smooth, comfortable, sounds great, looks great. Two thumbs up. The new Street Bob looks excellent in person, though I'm not sure I personally like the ape hangers.
The softies are among the few models that I don't have much experience with. My brother has a Fat Boy, maybe a '96 or so. Tough to compare to the new machines.
I suppose if some see it either way the difference can't be too huge.
I'm not so worried about a bumpier back-end, more so with cornering/steering ability.
Luckily most of my commuting is straight road though...
I like the big front tire you get on the FL models, much more stable in corners,and the classic look.the price of the bikes today you should ride both as much as you can, than decide
The advice from several to try both is sound. Don't just demo one....rent one of each for several hours. I recently moved from an '04 Superglide to a RK Custom. I love the smooth ride of the RK, especially on the slab, but the Superglide was hard to beat around town and in the twisties. I wish I could have afforded to keep both -- they're very different rides and both are more fun than is probably legal!
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