springers, how do they handle?
Intermediate
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 29
Likes: 0
From: Cleveland, Ohio
The only complaint I have regarding springers (of the FXSTS type...FLs and I believe post 06 with the fatter front dont have this set up) is the fact that the front wheel is offset to the caliper side. You reall only notice this in slow speed turns- like in a parking lot or making a sharp turn from a stop. Not sure why the factory didn't set it up correctly with the appropriate spacers(?)
Other than that, they handle great. If you ever rode an old chopper with a modded springer (without a damper), you might think otherwise. The damper shock really helps.
Other than that, they handle great. If you ever rode an old chopper with a modded springer (without a damper), you might think otherwise. The damper shock really helps.
Tourer
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 273
Likes: 0
From: Milwaukee
^ That was the only thing I had to add. The springer seems a little harder to keep upright for the first 6 feet or so if turning sharp from a stop (compared to other non-springers I have ridden). I thought it might be caused by the shorter rake angle of the front end.
It also seems to do a better job of taking the smaller bumps completely out of the bars, but a large pothole that exceeds the travel limits of the suspension is considerably more 'pronounced'.
Stage II
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
From: Wisconsin
Can't say as I know if they handle better, worse, or equal to other motels. I don't think Gunmetalblue is correct in his statements but he is entitled to his thoughts. Only thing I can say is, let me take my 03 springer and gunmetal can bring whatever better performance non-nostalgic bike he wants and we will park them in a lot and see who's gets the most attention!!!
Banned
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 202
Likes: 2
I would seriously take a test ride(and ride like you normally would on the type of roads you plan to traverse mostly)though before you buy. They are sluggish feeling at low speed, and they do not handle bumps, frost heaves/potholes as well as a good cartridge/damped fork setup does. THere is alot of bias on this thread honestly. I myself have owned a number of bikes with springer front ends, they have their place, and work well for many but to others they lack in certain aspects when it comes to road handling, myself included.
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5th Gear
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 9
Likes: 0
From: North Carolina
I have an 01 Heritage Springer. It rides well and handles well, and just like another guy said they stand out in a crowd. They are beautiful bikes and when you go somewhere on it people ask you alot of questions and want to look at it. I guess its like taking a fat girl to the pool. Shes gonna turn some heads!
Cruiser
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 106
Likes: 19
From: Atlanta, GA
Springer handling depends a LOT on the type of front wheel you are running. If you are talking about a FXSTS or FXSTSB with the 21" skinny front tire, then you'll find it rides great, turns in sharp, and is pretty nice in side-to-side transitions as well. My Bad Boy rode better than my 94FLSTN I thought. Now I am on a Crossbones (Fatboy front tire) and this setup is just as stable as other springers but not nearly as quick or responsive. Great at 40-50mph in long sweepers, more of a buffalo in faster or tighter turns. I suspect it is similar to the FLSTS Heritage Springers of the early 2000's.