Need help choosing my first bike.
 

I'm a long time car guy that's finally decided to get a bike. I've been looking around and have seen a lot of bikes that i really like but still have some questions. My taste in bikes is more along the lines of not a lot of dress and no frills. I seem to lean towards Fatboys but occasionally a Dyna or two will catch my eye. The only thing I'm sort of unsure on when it comes to Fatboys is that the rider seems to sit a bit more on top of the bike that what I like. I like the look when the top of the tank comes up to about chest height or in other words it rakes upwards. I didn't know if playing around with a different seat and possibly even a tank would get the look I like when it comes to a Fatboy or other softail model. Just trying to find a bike I'll be happy with for some time. Also, one limiting factor, as of right now my price cap for a bike will be about 15,000. Not a huge amount I realize but all I can comfortably do at the moment. I've included a couple links to some bikes that have a least the general stance and lines I like, not necessarily that exact model.

http://bigbikemotorcycles.com/big-be...der-motorcycle

http://ladiesvroom.blogspot.com/2010...n-in-pink.html

$15K is a very reasonable budget provided you aren't opposed to buying used. My suggestion would be to get your 'M' license endorsement and go ride a few...then choose the one you feel most comfortable on. The Fatboys are nice...me personally, I'm not too crazy about the Dynas.

Make sure you have good insurance.

+1
Test rides are free, if you don't mind salesmen bugging you. You might find a dresser more comfy. Also, I think depends on what type of riding you are doing. Big trips? To and from work? Around town?

Sounds like you prefer a chopper style bike, the only way your going to get that with a Harley is to cut the frame, failing that you could always get a tank lift kit that will raise the front of the tank by up to 3" which should fit a Fatboy but wether it would look right I don't know, if you like that look you'd be better off with a Nightrain or Softail custom.

In my opinion the Dynas are the best bang for your buck. With 15k you can get a new Dyna and have money left for pipes and upgrades. You cant touch a Fatboy new for 15k. The dyna also handles better and is quicker. They are also have a more comfortable stock suspension.
The upside to a Softail is all of the aftermarket parts available for them.
This is just one persons opinion. It would be best for you to ride before you buy.

I vote for the Crossbones :)

Welcome Aboard
 

Welcome to the world of biking!

This is only opinion but -
1) $15000 will buy A LOT of bike
2) Anything you buy won't end up being enough
3) Invest in training (MSF or similar), worth way more than the investment
Now, that being said -
4) Go to the dealer and sit on EVERYTHING

Enjoy your time here and more importantly stay safe out there!

Get a different seat and you will be in teh bike. The softail is a bike that really lends itself to this compared to some others. As far as price, for $15K you can get a great used softail for that price.

Drew

here

http://www.crowriverhd.com/new_vehic...38&pov=2343765