Touring on a Springer
Touring on a Springer
So for a long time now, I have wanted to change out my current telo-forks for a quality set of all black springers. I love the look! However, I am concerned that my desire for a classic head-turning look, may ruin or cramp my favorite style of riding - Touring.
I ride long distances quite frequently several times a year, and I also ride my horse a good 4/5ths of the year as my primary mode of transportation. After searching around a bit, I have not noticed many people with springers who do the same. Most (though I am NOT saying all) that "I" have seen who frequently travel longer distances have regular forks.
Are Springers good for Touring?
- Constructive criticism, rider experience, and real working knowledge only please (no B/S, bashing, or hate mail); I am trying to ask for help in my decision based on the vast experience of members here. Thank you.
I ride long distances quite frequently several times a year, and I also ride my horse a good 4/5ths of the year as my primary mode of transportation. After searching around a bit, I have not noticed many people with springers who do the same. Most (though I am NOT saying all) that "I" have seen who frequently travel longer distances have regular forks.
Are Springers good for Touring?
- Constructive criticism, rider experience, and real working knowledge only please (no B/S, bashing, or hate mail); I am trying to ask for help in my decision based on the vast experience of members here. Thank you.
Last edited by ajpointless; Dec 20, 2010 at 02:53 PM.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 6,913
Likes: 87
From:
Hopefully, you will get a response here from IronAss. He completed the HokaHey from Key West, FL to Homer, Alaska on a Springer. I don't have any direct personal experience touring on a Springer but I have seen quite a few being used to tour. I have ridden an FX springer and I thought it rode comparable to my FXSTC which I have toured on all over the west and south.
Novice
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 20
Likes: 0
I've had an FXSTS now for a year. It's my commuter and regular business trip bike. Houston to Austin and back in a day, Corpus for a couple of days etc. (6 hrs. at most per day.) It handles just as well as any other cruiser I've had. No discomfort due to suspension, but I use a sundowner seat for the longer rides. I say they're fine for traveling.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 7,217
Likes: 3
From: Southern Ohio
I guess I missed something over the years, when did people start "touring"? I've never "toured" in my life. I've just put a lot of miles on a lot of bikes over the years, and my Train does just fine. Just sayin'. 
Trending Topics
-Moderator-"Wench with a Wrench and Queen of Quips"
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 10,252
Likes: 1,980
From: Breaux Bridge, LA
I never "toured" either....But a springer can be very comfortable for long rides.
HD Forum Stories
The Best of Harley-Davidson for Lifelong Riders
7 Surprising Harley-Davidson Products that Are Not Motorcycles
Verdad Gallardo
8 Best Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
10 Worst Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
Killer Custom's Jail Break Is The Breakout That Refused to Blend In
Verdad Gallardo
Crazy Bunderbike Build Looks Amazing, But Is It Impossible to Ride?
Verdad Gallardo
Harley-Davidson Reveals Super Cool Cafe Racer Concept
Verdad Gallardo
Engraved Rebellion: Inside Bundnerbike's Glam Rock II
Verdad Gallardo
10 Motorcycles You Should Never Buy
Joe Kucinski
10 Things Harley-Davidson Needs to Fix in 2026
Verdad Gallardo
Club Member
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 5,481
Likes: 4
From: Georgia
I'm interested in the Springer also. I always wanted an Electra Glide with a springer. The regular Harley FL Springer could undoubtedly be adapted to fit a Touring model. I have had FX Springer and an FL. Love them but like the touring layout with luggage, etc. Imho, next to the Big Twin V-twin motor the springer is the defining feature that really sets a Harley apart from the rest.
Last edited by BigGdawg; Dec 21, 2010 at 01:07 PM.