am not too familiar with the Softtails and have a few questions on "features" on the new models.

I have a 2006 Street Glide and thinking about picking up a new or newer Heritage Classic. I really
do not like some of the so called improvements on the touring series and am wondering if any of
these made it to other lines.

Are any of these on the Softtails?

1. Throttle by wire
2. Isolated Drive System
3. Rear Cylinder cut -off

 

only option #3 as of this time

 

I believe you have to actively have HD turn this feature on...don't you? What year models have this ability?

 

I believe option #3 was introduced in the Softail group in 09... I know my 2010 has it and yes it's an option set by your dealer if you want it..... Some dealers set it up when setting up a new bike before it hits the showroom floor. It's covered in your manual but not very deeply.

 

So Doug... do you recommend it? I never do parades, so would it be a useful feature to turn on for me 2010 Fat Boy Lo?

 

Could be wrong, but the isolated drive system either wouldn't be the same on softails or wouldn't work because of the difference in the suspension set up. I think that was a touring bike specific thing. I forget exactly what it was supposed to fix or improve.

 

I'll put it this way.... in 2008 I bought a new Ultra with all the fan-fair and the engine would just about cook my leg! I discussed the re-set with the dealer to turn off the rear cylinder during staggnent traffice etc. But, I never got around to getting it done as I sold the Ultra in Spring of 09. Hence, I would have had it done as the engine was HOT...

Went bikeless for a year then bought a new Heritage... Didn't want the Ultra as it was just a waste for my style of bike needs..... More like a fiberglass box carrier then a bike.. Perhaps all the fiberglass was keeping the bike HOT.. Anyway, back to the 2010 Heritage I now have.. Too me, the Heritage runs cooler and I haven't felt the need to have the rear cylinder reset to shut down in staggnent conditions. Depends on riding conditions and personal desires..

Isolated drive system like on the Ultra was something like a rubber shock between the metal drive pully and the hub on the wheel assy. Just took some of the jerk out of the shifting and smoothed things up a little... The fly by wire does away with the cable... Throttle is electronic... Worked good for me.. Cars have it now and there is a dummy spring in the throttle pedel (grip on the bike) to make you think you have positive feedback.

Do I recommend the cyclinder reset?! No and yes... depends on your needs.