Fatboy for HD newbie?

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May 13, 2018 | 08:02 PM

#11

Cal1990

Thread Starter

Stage IV

Joined: May 2018

Posts: 4

Likes: 0

From: Reno, NV

Hmmm good points about the sportster, I might well reconsider now and just look for a softail to begin with!

I presume upgrade and chrome parts are still available for the older bikes? such as Screaming eagle stuff, cam upgrades, pots & cylinders etc?

May 13, 2018 | 08:05 PM

#12

Fatdaddy2

Intermediate

Joined: Jun 2013

Posts: 28

Likes: 1

From: S. GA

I'd skip the Sportster step and go ahead and get a used Fatboy. I went that route and honestly the Fatboy/ Softail line is as easy, if not easier to ride than the Sporty.
Much more comfortable for sure and you'll save money getting the bike you actually want.

May 13, 2018 | 08:34 PM

#13

Pete3323

Road Master

Joined: Nov 2014

Posts: 777

Likes: 36

From: Woodland Hills, CA

Definitely try out a Heritage. I had a fat boy and it just always felt “heavy” with the solid wheels. LOVE my Heritage.

May 13, 2018 | 11:26 PM

#14

mmesa005

Ultimate HDF Member

Joined: Aug 2010

Posts: 5,014

Likes: 739

From: Northern California

Not clear if you have any motorcycle experience? You may wish to first go to the MSF course, get your license, and see if your passion for riding is still there? Then you could consider something even less expensive than a Sportster to further learn on. After a few 100 miles of riding you may completely change your mind as to which model of Harley you want. Best not to put the cart before the horse in my opinion.
Best of luck!

May 14, 2018 | 08:57 AM

#15

tmac00333

Seasoned HDF Member

Joined: Oct 2010

Posts: 5,287

Likes: 2,378

From: Florida

I have a Fatboy AND a sportster. Don't buy that BS about a sportster being only a beginner's bike. That's just marketing baloney. I absolutely love my sportster. I love the FB too, but there's nothing wrong with just having a sporty. Especially out west where you are, all those great mountain rides.

May 14, 2018 | 09:38 AM

#16

TeaRunner

Road Master

Joined: Nov 2014

Posts: 1,072

Likes: 212

From: Alabama

I think I'd get an Indian Scout before a Sportster these days.

May 14, 2018 | 02:20 PM

#17

Oldskewl

Seasoned HDF Member

Joined: Jul 2013

Posts: 11,185

Likes: 7,961

From: In my head

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cal1990

Don't get a friggin Sportster. Might as well buy a riding lawnmower than one those POS. Buy a big bike, grow into it or you will be right back in a year looking to buy something with more power.
Just my 2 cents

Oh, welcome to America.

May 14, 2018 | 08:33 PM

#18

txfxstrider

Ultimate HDF Member

Joined: Apr 2006

Posts: 6,913

Likes: 87

From:

Don't pay attention to the trash talking about the sportster. Some of those have never owned one. I currently have a road king custom and a sportster 48 and hopefully will soon have a new fat boy. The sportster is a blast to ride and easy to handle. IMO it is the hot rod of Harleys. Demo ride one or rent one and then decide. However. I agree that if you really want a fat boy then get that. It is an easy to ride Harley and there is no reason not to begin with what you really want.