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Hi...1st time poster...the new 2018 Softails have me back wanting to ride after 25 years...bought 1st year Fat Boy in 1990 at age 37...now 62 and have it narrowed down to Heritage 114 or Fat Boy 114...test rode both a few days ago...looking for some insight from those with more riding experience...love the look of the Fat Boy, but a bit concerned about tire size and ability to ride...Heritage seems more practical for someone coming back to riding in their 60's...will do limited mileage, fair weather cruising...thanks in advance for your thoughts and insight.
Small world; my first Harley was also a 1990 Fatboy. Also looking to buy a new 18 Heritage Classic with the 114. Also in my 60's, main difference, I purchased another 11 new Harley's in between. ( Not so smart ).
I prefer the Heritage Classic due to the bags and windshield. Both beautiful.
The heritage. If it was my choice, it may he the lowrider in red or the white. Put a set of leatherpro bags on and call it my last bike i will ever buy.
If you don't have a strong preference for one over the other, take them both for a ride and see which rides better for you. It may be a deciding factor.
Based on your criteria it sounds like either one would work for you.
If it was me - I've loved the Fatboy since it first came out and still do but I don't own one. As I've gotten older I also look for comfort and versatility along with a look I like. If I were to pick today, it would be the Heritage. The bags are nice to have if you happen to need to stop somewhere and pick something up. You can carry stuff with you if needed, the windscreen is nice if you cruise a long distance on the highway.
Now you could add that stuff to the Fatboy if you decide you want it, BUT IMO it changes the look of the bike.
From a heritage owner if I was buying an 18 it would be the deluxe and I would add a windshield and bags and that bike is absolutely gorgeous but it's only available in a 107 so far.
I love this color too
Forward to 3:01 mark to see it with bags, tour pack and windshield. I would also add an ultimate seat w/backrest and a passenger seat.
Imho, go with the Heritage. Depending on finances, id say go with a 107. Put 1500 miles on it,get a nice set of mufflers a stage 1 air cleaner and a real dynotune. It will run as fast as a 114 as well as being cooler and more tractable. You will however forfeit your motors warranty. Upro you in the end. Good luck on your pick and welcome back to the road.
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