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jimd4au,
Just went through the same thing between a Heritage and Fatboy three months ago. Test rode both and within 30 minutes on each had made up my mind. Agree with everyone about trying them out to save $$$$ in the future. I went with the Heritage and havn't looked back!
Everyone here could possibly tell you something different. Or you could tell us what you would like us to say. Being a virgin on your wedding night sounds like a good idea, but bikes are like women (or men)..you should feel the ride before you sign the contract. You wouldn't want to get stuck with more than you can handle. Either way, it would cost you money. But hey, life's a gamble.
These are possiblytwo of the most gorgeous bikes in the whole Harley lineup (IMO).
Though I've never road the Custom, it is one bad *** looking bike that I would like to have sitting in the garage rightbeside my Heritage.
To comment on the Heritage, as many have already commented, it is a great do it all bike. It is great in town, on the highway, and on the super slab. It loves whatever you throw at it.
300to500 mile trips are a breeze.
To the contraryto what others may perceive about the Heritage, it is not at all cumbersome or heavy feeling. It has a verylow center of gravity feel to it. It's ergonomics are excellenttoowith a great ride and bar position. The ride is both very stable andcomfortable.
I do ride alot in towntoo and it handles great.
Ipersonally likesaddle bags and the part time touring capabilities it offers. It seems like you cannever havetoo much cargospace whenever you want to go somewhere.
I am definitely not commentinghere to discourage you awayfrom the Softail Custom, but to give you the truth about the Heritage.
One should be proud to own either. Just pick out the one that suits you best.
Ahhhh The Custom , whats not to like? Ive ridden my friend Heritage and yup...its a nice bike but alas it wasnt for me.Volkdeluxe's bike is the exception , not the norm ! That bike is Kick AZZ lookin!As far as windshileds and bags go , Everyone doesnt always useor want them.I'll never use them and Ive been on plenty 400 mile + humps a day w/o them.I just use a T-Bag and if you want to tour 1-2 times a year so can you. I dont want that crap hanging off my bike every day.But I guess thats the beauty of the Heritage, you can strip it off if you dont need it.Mines a breeze in traffic and the back roads.I like youprefer the Chopper Look and you cant go wrong with either bikeIMHO.
I was looking at the Heritage, but then after riding one I went with the Custom. Although for me it was a comfort issue. i'm 6'4" and the Heritage/Fatboy's with their floorboards were just too cramped for my legs. Even the Custom I will be putting extended controls on, but I haveridden over 200mi. in a day and not had a problem with it. Both are sharp looking bikes, andI doubt you'll notice any problems either way you go.
My first bike is 06FXST/standard/carb/basic blk. Never own one before, rodeHonda Rebel 250@ MSF. And I'm getting along fine. Lowered 2" and got a Lepera barebone solo for my short legs/ 28". S.E air cleaner/ carb rejetted. Turn-run-brake module from HD installed. Dyno power slip-ons from ebay works very well. Nothing really expensive. I love it.
You are going through what I went through. The Heritage, Fat Boy and ST Custom. Took me 3 weeks to decide. The Custom was really comfortable. More than the other 2. I just really liked the fatter front tire of the Fat boy. If I had the cash I would have got all 3. I will always wonder if I made the right choice. I am jealous when I see others on the other 2.
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