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But ... a 3.5 gallon tank kills it for me. I'd also consider a low mileage 2014-2017 Fat Bob if they fitted the possibility of cruise control. But not on the Dyna's
The range difference between the 2018 and the 2017 is only 32 miles....165 vs 197. The Fat Bob isn't going to be a bike that someone will be touring with so a little less range won't be so bad.
The 3" foot peg extenders are on back order, as are other new-for'18 parts I ordered, but I'm looking forward to their eventual arrival to make this '18 BO more comfortable. (I'm on the taller side.) Was glad to see they offered them for this bike out the gate.
While I'm glad I waited for 2018, the included turbine wheels on the 2017 almost got me to bite. Up to the day the 2018 arrived at the dealer, I had a wait-and-see attitude. I was prepared to buy a 2017 if I didn't like it. My first long ride yesterday, and "oops!, forgot gas" before heading home, reminded me of the smaller tank I have to remember to consider.
The well-documented suspension mods for the earlier model seem easy, effective, and not too expensive. I'd have done them right away had I got the 2017, but I do thank HD for finally making that unnecessary.
Whether by preference or bank account limitations, I tend to skip product generations and get the most value from what I buy. Be it smartphones or motorcycles, I like getting the latest when it's time to buy, but then I want that to last as long as possible. The M8 is great, but just a step up from the 103, not a giant leap. (A giant leap from my old 88B though!) if I had a 103 Breakout I wouldn't go farther than admiring the new M8 bike and be happy that HD is pushing ahead in general. I hope HD keeps pushing forward and doing their best to tempt us with new products. But in reality it will be a long time before I consider a new bike again, if ever.
Mods and a better pic in the works. So happy to be back on an HD!
Dan,
What bike did you come off of? I am considering a Breakout or a Fat Bob pretty hard. I wonder what your impressions are. I have test ridden both. Both road great and the Breakout handles surprisingly well though I did scrape pegs. The FatBob definiteky gave the muscle cruiser feel. Both are easy riders and can get up and go when you want, I have ridden sport bikes in the past. What are your feelings after owning th3 bike for a while?
thanks
I love it, and it suits my style, but my height also narrowed my choice to this bike. It’s the only model that lists forward control extenders (and has the rake to go with it), a tallboy seat, and 16” apes. All 3 combine to make it much more comfortable for me. The handling is great for this style bike, but Harleys aren’t known for their lean angle (like sport bikes are) and I guess my country road riding isn’t very aggressive because, though I touch a heel on my boot now and then, I don’t hit a peg often. If I do, at least the bike remains stable. I’m considering a dual sport bike for on/off road riding but no plans for a sport bike.
In summary, it’s right for me and I like it. I lean into turns enough for me to have fun on the country roads around these parts. But it’s not for everybody, especially if you want to lean into turns like you can on a sport bike.
The range difference between the 2018 and the 2017 is only 32 miles....165 vs 197. The Fat Bob isn't going to be a bike that someone will be touring with so a little less range won't be so bad.
:-) I am going to be touring on my Fat Bob next year - all over Europe.
I am consistently averaging 46 US MPG on it, so the 3.5 gallon tank gives 150+ miles between fills. That's at least 2 hours riding and is as long as I want to ride between stops anyway. So I have no issues with distance between fill ups.
For comfort, I am going to get the quick detach windshield and the sissy bar / rack combo. I will also get the large roll along HD touring bag to sit on the rack or rears seat. That's plenty of luggage space for me as I tour solo.
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