Softail vs Touring Suspension
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Cruiser
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 184
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Softail vs Touring Suspension
I did a search and didn't see anything like what I was looking for so here goes. What would be the max weight a personshould put on a Softail like a Heritage or Fatboy?
Assuming the rider was 295 plus the weight of clothes, bags etc. Would that be pushing it for a softail? I've heard the old "If itaint aTouring bike, your selling yourself short" argument a thousand times, but does it REALLY matter if95% of your riding is going to be less than 350 miles? Putting around town or country looking good is about all I'll ever do.Would you take off on a Heritage or Fatboy for 300 miles?
I've heard some people try to steer me away from a softail, but my group is pretty over-opinionated, just thought I'd ask to see what everyone else think?
Assuming the rider was 295 plus the weight of clothes, bags etc. Would that be pushing it for a softail? I've heard the old "If itaint aTouring bike, your selling yourself short" argument a thousand times, but does it REALLY matter if95% of your riding is going to be less than 350 miles? Putting around town or country looking good is about all I'll ever do.Would you take off on a Heritage or Fatboy for 300 miles?
I've heard some people try to steer me away from a softail, but my group is pretty over-opinionated, just thought I'd ask to see what everyone else think?
Tourer
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 484
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From: Indianapolis
RE: Softail vs Touring Suspension
According to the maual the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) is 1160 lb. The bike weighs 665 lbs. So the weight of the rider/riders and gear should not exceed 495 lbs.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 7,934
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From: Bloomfield, NM
RE: Softail vs Touring Suspension
A Heritage or Fat Boy is easily capable of 300 mile rides. My wife has ridden her Heritage 650 miles in a day.
At your weight you would pobably find the air adjustable shocks on the Roadking an advantage, especially if you are going to be doing any two-up riding.
Regards,
Bill
At your weight you would pobably find the air adjustable shocks on the Roadking an advantage, especially if you are going to be doing any two-up riding.
Regards,
Bill
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 2,704
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From:
RE: Softail vs Touring Suspension
btw, I'm 6'2" 260...
also, factor the weight of the bike into the equation. there can be as much as 200lbs difference between a Dyna/Softail and a Tourer. So any gains you might get in total weight can be negated by fairings, etc.
also, factor the weight of the bike into the equation. there can be as much as 200lbs difference between a Dyna/Softail and a Tourer. So any gains you might get in total weight can be negated by fairings, etc.
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Road Captain
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 546
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From: Blaine, WA
RE: Softail vs Touring Suspension
I am 225 and I went on a 425 mile ride yesterday on my FX Springer. There was two Fatboys, one Heritage Softail and a Dyna. Everyone seemed fine. The roads were two lane very twisty and some were not so well maintained. I started at 6am and I was home by 9pm (We had ferry issues). The deal is, the decision is yours!!! Dont let someone sell you something you dont want.
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Club Member
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 18,303
Likes: 26,540
From: Northwest of Los Angeles
RE: Softail vs Touring Suspension
At 180, I don't have the weight issue you do. But I wouldn't trade my Heritage Classic even if I did. Worst case, I'd fork over a few hundred dollars for a set of Progressive 440 shocks. Problem solved.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 5,256
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From: Concord, CA
RE: Softail vs Touring Suspension
I'm 320#, probably more but working on that...
Anyhow, I can ride longer than my brain can deal with it. 12+ hours.
Softail with factory lowering kit.
Loaded bags just make it ride nicer
Anyhow, I can ride longer than my brain can deal with it. 12+ hours.
Softail with factory lowering kit.
Loaded bags just make it ride nicer