Thinking of getting a softail
Road Master
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 872
Likes: 0
From: Far (FAR) West Texas
ive put 12,000 on my 2009 heritage since november 2009. I did a 1300 mile weekend and didnt have any comfort problems. I'm .... swallowing hard... middle-aged too, for what that's worth and even though I also own a Electra Glide Police, I can't fault the Heritage for comfort.
my factory seat is fine and highway pegs give me a variety for positioning my feet - something I see as critical to comfort.
my factory seat is fine and highway pegs give me a variety for positioning my feet - something I see as critical to comfort.
6th Gear
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 13
Likes: 0
I went from an 883 Sporty to a 06 Springer softail...then in 08 got a Heritage Softail-its a great bike. I like the feel of being "in" the bike instead of on top of the bike like a sporty. Also like the fact that its comes with windshield and bags, and a stock seat that is comfortable(springer stock seat was hard as a rock) Wife and I went to New England (from Illinois) last year and bike performed excellent..I would suggest getting the "wide" passenger pilion if you plan on a passenger-its wider and more comfy for your lady
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 6,975
Likes: 12
From: NJ
I have a bad back and did 1200 miles in 24 hrs on a stock Heritage seat after already being in the saddle 12hrs so that should tell you something about the touring ability of a Heritage. My typical ride limit is 300-400 miles though.
I've demoed all the Harley tourers and I haven't found a one that has given me reason to switch. The tourers certainly have some pluses such as tubeless tires and cruise but fit and comfort trumps all that imo and nothing fits my 5'8" frame like my Heritage.
But before you make a choice I'd suggest you demo one or 2 of the touring models along with the Heritage. You may find one that fits you better. Personally I like the looks of the Streetglide and RK better than my Heritage but as I said fit and comfort is more important to me.
I've demoed all the Harley tourers and I haven't found a one that has given me reason to switch. The tourers certainly have some pluses such as tubeless tires and cruise but fit and comfort trumps all that imo and nothing fits my 5'8" frame like my Heritage.
But before you make a choice I'd suggest you demo one or 2 of the touring models along with the Heritage. You may find one that fits you better. Personally I like the looks of the Streetglide and RK better than my Heritage but as I said fit and comfort is more important to me.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 2,172
Likes: 7
From: Clermont, GA, CSA
I went from a '93 1200 Sportster to a '02 Heritage Softail. I was happy with the Sportster, but when the bottom end of the motor went out I bought the Heritage.
I'd done 500 mile days on the Sportster, Myrtle Beach, Daytona, Panama City, etc., and was happy with it, or so I thought.
I'd always wanted a Heritage, and once I was 'forced' into buying one I'll never go back!
'Miss Scarlet', RIP
KISS
'02 Heritage Softail
I'd done 500 mile days on the Sportster, Myrtle Beach, Daytona, Panama City, etc., and was happy with it, or so I thought.
I'd always wanted a Heritage, and once I was 'forced' into buying one I'll never go back!
'Miss Scarlet', RIP
KISS
'02 Heritage Softail
Last edited by Mal74; Sep 20, 2010 at 10:25 PM.
Thread Starter
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Cruiser
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 155
Likes: 3
From: Adirondack Mtns., NY
Thanks to everyone for your input. This is making my decision a bit easier. My Dad has a Electra glide Ultra Classic, and I have played around a bit with it, so I have tryed the touring bikes. I just have a thing for the Heritage Softail Classic. Thanks for all of your posts.
Road Captain
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 631
Likes: 6
From: Utopia
Went from an '08 nightster to an '09 FXDC to an '03 Fatboy. I couldn't be happier with the Fatboy, smoother ride plus love the huskier feel of the bike. I did love the Dyna, but a Softail is very comfortable transition. I'd say go for it...
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Road Warrior
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 1,257
Likes: 2
From: Gastonia, NC
My Heritage has been just fine. You'll like the choice. I'd buy another one tomorrow if something happend to this one. They're very easy to handle and comfortable on trips. I've done 1100 miles in six days once this year and 900 in three days on another ride. Did 350 miles this past Saturday on a Poker Run. The best stock seat I've had on any bike.
Advanced
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 79
Likes: 1
From: Northern Ontario
Rode non-stop from Richmond,Ky to Northern Ontario my 2000 FLSTC was still comfortable even after that long in the saddle.Shoulders hurt though.(I'm no spring chicken)Put a set of 6" risers with 1 1/2" pullback and it is almost perfect now! Not the fastest ride but it gets the job done well.