Yes I know most riders seem to slowly move up if possible, even to a tour model.
I set my Street Bob up for mid-range touring but can no longer do that. My severe arthritis in the neck and both shoulders simply makes most day rides over 100 miles too unpleasant (thats REALLY putting it mild). Whatever I got it is fast moving into all other joints too. I thought that now that I am on SSDI, I could ride my *** off, but not the case.
So, it is getting hard to justify that monthly payment but I hate the idea of going bikeless or even back to a small metric.
Anyone else had to, or thought of moving down to a Sportster?

 

I moved down from a goldwing 1800 to a FXDL. There were no health reasons in my case though. The wing just sat way to high and I could never flat foot the bike while sitting on it. I was just never all that comfortable with it at a stop on a windy day or on a sandy surface since I was on the ***** of my feet. So I sold it and moved to the low rider. Best thing I ever did, the LR has a lot more character and is more fun to ride with a much lower seat height so my stubby legs can reach the ground properly. Good luck with your decision.

 

We have a few shop bikes and recently picked up a Dyna. It is smaller than all the others we have and we love it! It is comfortable (for us) and handles like a dream.

 

Not I. If it allows you to continue enjoying riding, go for it.

 

You could pick up an 883 in the $3-4,000 range. Try to get an '04 or later for the rubber mounts. Sorry about your condition and hope you come up with a solution that keeps you riding.

 

I moved from a Road King to a CVO V-Rod, and I love it. I suggest taking a V-Rod for a test ride.

 

Would a trike be more comfortable? I wonder if not having to hold the bike up would help you out some. Or is it just the pain of having your arms up that hurts you.

 

I know it's not a lot smaller but the new dyna switchback is gettting a lot of good reviews. I have a street glide but certainly will consider "downsizing" when I don't feel comfortable with the SG. Get something you can feel comfortable on.

 

RW, the difference between your Dyna Street Bob and a Sportster isn't all that much...They are very close. A Sportster's Center of Gravity is higher too making it more challenging to manuver at low speeds as it feels top heavy. Chances are the suspension on the Sportster is going to be rougher for you too so droping down "to a Sportster" may not be the answer for finding relief while riding.

Could it be riding position possibly? Maybe a seat, bars and/or risers may put you in a better, more comfortable, riding position? I'm assuming that's you in your Avitar. Would adding a windshield take some wind pressure off your upper body and let you relax your shoulders and arms more? Maybe a new bike isn't the answer.

 

Drop down in size of bike? Never! Well almost never.