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Thinkin about tradin my cruiser for an Ultra

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Old Feb 3, 2010 | 06:05 PM
  #1  
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Default Thinkin about tradin my cruiser for an Ultra

I found an Ultra, same year as my cruiser, rebuilt 3k or so ago, nice condition. Straight trade with private owner who wants a softail. I know this will be a big change as far as feel and ride but I'm hoping I take to it well. What I don't like is the tank and the height so I will want to lower it and would like to do something different with the tank (fatbob) if I can find a feasible way to do it. The other thing is the rubber mounted bars and cushiony ride which is almost on the other side of the planet from a softail. Not sure what I can do about that or if I will even want to do anything about it once I get used to it but if you all have any good insight on performing these mods, do's and dont's etc... feel free to chime in.

 
Old Feb 3, 2010 | 06:33 PM
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Went from softail (Heritage) to an Ultra. Ultra is taller but it sure can dig into the corners a lot better than the Heritage. Took me about 3 weeks to finally get used to the weight and handleing. I did not lower it, just got used to it. Have not looked back, but I still got the Heritage for the boys runs.
Ultra is for Keeping Momma happy, she happy
 
Old Feb 3, 2010 | 06:38 PM
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Hmmm, wonder why the Ultra corners better? Good to hear.
 
Old Feb 3, 2010 | 08:16 PM
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Originally Posted by bfgoodmudder
Hmmm, wonder why the Ultra corners better? Good to hear.
Suspension, weight distribution and seating position. IMO all the other families Harley makes have an edge in handling over the Softails.
I'll add that I do want to add a Springer to the garage.
 
Old Feb 3, 2010 | 09:18 PM
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Gotta love that cushy ride and the cruise.
 
Old Feb 3, 2010 | 09:38 PM
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Does the 87 have a cruise?
 
Old Feb 3, 2010 | 09:46 PM
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Originally Posted by piasspj
Suspension, weight distribution and seating position. IMO all the other families Harley makes have an edge in handling over the Softails.
I'll add that I do want to add a Springer to the garage.

Interesting, I've been browsing the web for info on why certain harleys handle the way they do and haven't found much yet. I rode an Electra last summer and it just didn't feel right after getting off my softail. Part of it could of been that particular bike because it was a potential trade that I passed on because it wasn't what the guy made it out to be, but I'm gonna try it again. Different bike this time of course. Funny though, both the bagger I passed on, and the one I'm aiming at are the same year as mine....What are the ods? I like having my feet further out in front of me too so some modifications might be in order. I never thought I would feel cramped on a bigger bike. Not sure if lowering is a good idea or not yet. I'm easy on the corners so it might not be a problem. Some getting used to will do the trick I'm sure. Ditto on the springer. Don't know much about them or the way they handle, but have always liked that look. I have heard stories of guys getting hit in the face by them. Either way, I'm getting itchy to ride. Go away winter! Damn groundhog!
 

Last edited by bfgoodmudder; Feb 3, 2010 at 09:54 PM.
Old Feb 3, 2010 | 10:00 PM
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Originally Posted by bfgoodmudder
I found an Ultra, same year as my cruiser, rebuilt 3k or so ago, nice condition. Straight trade with private owner who wants a softail. (cut some)
I don't know how long you've been at it, but, when you have one you wish you had the other, when you have the other you wish you hadn't made the change. Kinda like a merry-go-round. I went through that myself and found the only answer is to have both...
 
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Old Feb 3, 2010 | 11:18 PM
  #9  
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That's a good answer.....Few more years on the clock and I might get to it. I been ridin offroad since I was a kid. My buddies dad was the pres. of a regional MCC so that was my first exposure to the lifestyle. When my buddy let me ride his ironhead I was hooked. Don't like the japanese street bikes so 15 years I waited to afford a harley. I hear ya though, and I do get trade happy sometimes. I'll be pretty happy on either one I think, and of course, will slow down for the curves and ride it like I stole it on the straight aways...lol.
 
Old Feb 4, 2010 | 10:52 AM
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Your thread begs the question...why do you want to trade? It sounds like
you might have to do a lot of mods to get it to where you "think" you want it.

You didn't mention what is driving this? I sold my Fatboy for an Ultra because:

1. I wanted to be able to carry a lot more with me when traveling.
2. I wanted the cruise control and radio/cb
3. I wanted the 6-spd tranny and 96" engine
4. I wanted the footboards and full fairing with lower legs for better
protection
5. I wanted the rubber-mounted engine which to be is much smoother at higher RPM than my Fatboy
6. I wanted a better seat/position for my wife (much more comfortable for her).

Those were my reasons.
 



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