I'm an old guy (62) and mostly ride my Goldwing GL1800, but I'm looking for something more exciting, mostly around town and short rides. I test rode a 2012 Fatboy yesterday and man it was sure different from my Goldwing. I mean that in a good way. I only got to ride about seven miles and not over 50mph, but it was really fun.

Soooo, now I have a couple of questions, before I buy it. First, although I doubt I'll be riding the interstates much, how does the Fatboy handle speeds 70+ mph? Vibration, handling?

I might want to bring the handlebars back an inch or two, how much can I go up and back before I have to worry about changing cables? I don't want to change cables. The only mods I would probably add would be some Vance 2-2 pipes, some Kuryakan grips and a removable windscreen.

I'm keeping my Goldwing for the long rides and 2-up with my lady, but want the Fatboy for short distance rides and something totally different than the Wing.

Thanks,
David

 

I am not too sure about how much up and back for the cables. My 2011 Fatboy Lo runs great all day long at 75. I don't notice too much vibration. This is my first Harley, and I have no regrets. I have been riding sportbikes, for the last 20 years, I do find I drag the floorboards on every corner. I had to replace them at 2000 miles lol.

 

I put 4 inch risers on with a inch pull back, not a problem with cables at all.

It rides fine no vibration. If yours is like mine you want to add a seat.

I'm as happy as pig in a mud hole.

 

I take my 2011 fbl on short interstate runs now and than at 70+mph with no vibrations problems what so ever. The only thing i notice is at +80 it's not easy to move your feet around on the floorboards, they are pretty much planted there with the force of the speed, but you shouldn't be needing to move them around at that kind of speed anyway IMO. It's my first Harley and for cruising around town and short runs i have no regrets. I would say if you like the way it rides buy with confidence.

 

I cruise 80-90 all the time on the freeway, and the bike is very smooth. 80 mph at 2900 rpms. My Evo definitely does not feel nearly as good at speed.

 

I just put HD's six inch risers on mine with no cable or wire changes. It handles pretty good to me. I don't want to ride like a crotch rocket anyways. The engine seems pretty smooth to be with the B motor in it. As far as handling at speed it seems pretty stable with just a little bit of knocking around from the wind on my body.

 

Good answers guys! Appreciate the help.

Thanks,
David

 

First thing I did to mine was 4.5" up and 1.5" pull back risers. What a difference, don't know the brand cause I called the local Indy and he had a used pair. I put put them on the day I brought the bike home. No problems with any cables, wires or brake hose. You'll love the Fatboy, remember to post pics!

 

4" pull back risers.....big difference in the feel of the bike. no worries with cable/wire lengths.

If you do put on the risers, be sure to also get the urethane bushings to replace the factory rubber ones...another huge difference.

 

I know this is an old thread guys but those of you that put on the 4" risers do any of you have ABS. I have a 2012 Fatboy and the only cable I'm not sure about is the upper front hydrolic brake line. HD service really isn't sure if a new cable will be neede or not.

Thanks