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Ive always loved the nostalgic look of old Harleys and choppers with the springer front end. When I got serious about getting rid of my sportster for a bigger bike, there was no doubt in my mind that I wanted an old springer. Well, since the real old Panhead and Knuck springers are hard to come by and will cost a leg, I ended looking at an 03 softail springer. At this time, everyone in my group said, springers handle like sh**, ever gone over a bump with a springer, springers are trash, too much work, Etc...
So, what did I do? I bought the friggin Springer and man what a joy it is. First off, it soaks up bumps better than my sportster ever did. Its much more comfortable, lower, and even handles better in the twisties. Of course its no Electra glide (which was my other option, but if I wanted a windshield, Id drive my car).
If you are thinking about buying a springer, I say do it. If you already have one, lets see it and hear your thoughts!!
Heres a video of me cruising in the twisties near Jerome, Az. If you would like to see how well it handles.
I bought my Springer new in 2005. I've had the stock motor rebuilt to a 96. I've got a little over 131K on it and I've never had any issues with the springer front forks. I've also heard some negativity from people about how a Springer is supposed to handle/ride but most of the ones that I've talked to have never even been on one let alone ride one so a person needs to take their thoughts with a grain of salt, sort to speak I've ridden it through the twisties, on long trips and elsewhere and it handled to my satisfaction. After having this bike for over 14 years, I can honestly say that I wouldn't trade my Springer for any other Harley made but to each their own.
I've had mine sinceI bought it new in 2011. Maintenance is a non issue. Adjust fall away and adjust the rocker tension is all the extra work required, and it's easy and has not come out of spec in that time. I've checked for and adjusted the neck bearings a couple times but it's usually good so I don't adjust it if it doesn't need it. The rockers I adjusted once at about 5k and haven't needed to adjust them since.
The ride I unbelievably nice. Love it, for short rides, twisties, and long 600 mile days for thousands of miles. I've done it. The only problem I have is, since I can ride anywhere on it, I can't convince my wife I need a Street Glide now. The Springer isn't for sale or trade.
I upgraded my brakes to PM calipers front and rear several years back. I would do it again tomorrow if I had to. It handles bumps fine. The only thing I've found it lacks was the brakes and washboard surfaces. Go slow on those. The reason the Springer feels nice is also its draw back. It doesn't react fast and washboard surfaces are "fun."
Welcome to the group of Springer owners, you'll find plenty of help here!
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Springers handle like a dream?
