Fat Boy instead of Rocker ??
Fat Boy instead of Rocker ??
Guys, I just got a slipped Disc and probably wont be able to ride my Rocker again.
Was thinking to buy a Fat Boy instead. Is it more comfortable ? Need opinions please.
Was thinking to buy a Fat Boy instead. Is it more comfortable ? Need opinions please.
Novice
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 22
Likes: 0
Well, you can always get an aftermarket backrest installed on a Fatboy as well, but at least a touring scoot like the Road King would provide you the rubber mounted engine with better suspension and smoother ride than you would get with a stock Fatboy. I own a Fatboy and absolutely love it, but if I had a back problem like that, I'd probably be leaning toward a Road King.
The Road King is a very big bike for me. I'm kind of small and the Rocker is already big for me !! That's why I had the Fat Boy into consideration. May be with some adjustments it could be smoother and comfortable. What do u think ?
Cruiser
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 133
Likes: 0
I ride a Fat Boy and it rides pretty well, I think. However, with back problems you're main obstacle is going to be your riding position. A Fat Boy with some pull back risers and a good seat will probably work pretty well for you. That being said, you could probably make some mods to your Rocker to get into a better riding position. Unless you absolutely think that you won't be able to stand the Rocker any more, I'd look into that before I'd look into changing bikes.
Road Warrior
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 1,381
Likes: 4
I suggest you rent one and try it out first. The FatBoy is a good bike and has a low center of gravity, but is still not the most comfortable. It is easy to handle, I'm 5'7" and weigh 160. I don't have any problems with it, but then I don't have a bad back. If you just ride locally, then it might be a good pick for you. If you plan on long rides then maybe not.
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Tourer
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 327
Likes: 0
From: Weatherford TX
The newer Fat Boys have a very smooth running engine, I'm not polished up on Harley facts just yet, but I believe it's a counter balanced engine? I agree with the backrest part. I wish I had one for solo rides, but you're looking at having to buy a new seat with a backrest. If ya get a Street Glide it has a hole in the stock seat for a driver backrest to be added. Not sure if the RK has that same style seat that a backrest can be added to easily??
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Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 5,548
Likes: 4
From: Southern California
I've got a sundowner seat for my Street Glide for the long rides when I add the back rest.
Stock SG sits lower than a stock RK btw.
I'd try out some mods on the Rocker first if $ is a consideration. Otherwise I agree you should go for one of the touring bikes.
Good Luck,
Primo
Cruiser
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 113
Likes: 1
From: Atlanta
You may not want to jump the gun on it. A lot of riders (self included) have herniated discs and are still able to ride without issue. You just have to give your self time to heal. I have 2 herniated discs and I ride a Softail.
Then again it's always nice to have an excuse to buy something new.
Then again it's always nice to have an excuse to buy something new.