I have the Crossbones as well, and IMHO the bike handles "normally". Harleys don't do tight twisties anyway because of very limited lean angles compared to the many other bikes that I have ridden.

Don't get me wrong. I love the Harley experience. But the main advantge of the springer style is looks.

 

Loved my Heritage Springer. It rode like a dream stock and I had no complaints after I put the lowering rockers on it either. I've logged several 700-plus mile days on her and will buy another one some day!!!

 

Esthetics is the biggest difference...

The Springer is for the more mechanical inclinded... meaning they like to see how things work... except for the shock itself you see what is going on with the front end as handles the road imperfection....

On a conventional frontend everything is inside the chrome sliders and stainless steel tubes... A higher "Bling" factor???

I've rode both... and as far as Harleys go... no much difference in handling that would make that much difference...

IMHO...

Charlie D.

 

I love my springer, but what does that mean? I'm not you.

My advice... go ride one! If you dont have a buddy that will let you one his, go rent one for a day. Small price to pay to make sure you are making the right purchase.

 

No issues here.

 

I couldnt tell a difference at speed between the springer front end and my deuce front end. Only one short ride on one though. However under 5mph i was having to work a lot harder. But, I'm only 150lbs and 5'6. And it wasnt my bike so maybe I was just being paranoid as I dont even like my bike at slow speed.

Looks wise it cant be beat.

 

I love my Cross Bones but the single piston front brake is crap and my local HD stealer (if ever a title was deserved it's this on) refuses to upgrade my bike because HD advise against it and "in the current climate" he would not take the risk. Apparently the slow action of the Springer front end make it dangerous to fit better brakes.

I love it for cruising but flicking it about in the twisties is not really an option, not helped by the mini apehangers.

There seem to be lots of brake upgrades out there so I'll get it done elsewhere.

 

I ride both and own a Springer. Disadvantages, none that I can think of. Advantages, retro style, good handling, not as common as hydraulic front end, looks good with or without a fender...

 

I have a X Bones and a Road King. Totally different animals, but I actually love the springer front end. Neither one is a sport bike, so I don't go crazy in the curves. Head to head though, I think I actually prefer the feel of the springer.

 

the springer front end is known to flex under heavy breaking.....straight from a hd engineer I know