I have pretty much decided that for my second bike I want a Softail but I'm still a n00b at some things and would appreciate some help with the intricacies between the different models.

First thing that will play a major factor, is that I like my bike to be black. The blacker the better.

So I was considering something like a Night Train or the Cross Bones.
Are there any other models that I need to consider?
I will not be purchasing brand new if I can help it but still want a fairly new fuel injected model.

I've never ridden a bike with a springer so I don't know what to expect from the ride of a Cross Bones but they sure do look good.

Story808 has a sweet Night Train.

Are there any years that I should avoid, or any years that I should seek out specifically? The cheaper the better, so if there is an older year that still fits what I want perhaps it can be had for a better price.

Thanks

 

I went with the train and I love it. Besides the springer front end, the bones has floorboards too. Do you think you'd rather have the forward controls or the boards?

 

Good question. On my XLN I have forward controls, but do not feel like I can stretch out. Perhaps on a big twin with forwards I would feel like I could stretch a bit better.

I've read people say that with the floorboards they have more foot positions, and find it quite comfortable.

 

Bones

 

Train

 

Haha. I need some info's!

I assume that both models are rubber mounted with either the 88b or 96b engine?
Andit depends on the year as to which engine it comes with?

 

So, you're looking to buy used, right. Neither of those models are offered new anymore.

Night Train - production years '99-'09, so came in both 88 and 96 versions.
X-Bones - production years '07(?)-'11, so came in 96 version only.

Edit:
All Softails have rigid mounted motors with balancers - and therefore the "B" (88B, 96B) delegation.
'07 was the first year for 96ci motors and 6-speed transmissions. Everything before that was 88ci 5-speed.

 

If you are wanting the 200mm rear tire you need to look at 06' and up Night Trains (there are kits for pre 06')

 

Yes, I would prefer used though I did not know that they were both out of production. So the B is just a balancer and does not designate a rubber mount. Thank you for that clarification.

According to this website, it was 2006 when the Night Train went to the 96b motor. So assuming that is correct, if I look for a 2006 - 2009 I would get the "better" engine.

And it seems that the 200mm rear tire is preferred as well.

Thank you so much for the help on the Night Train.
This review I was reading basically states that the really forward controls and low seat are not very comfortable for the long haul. I could see myself doing some trips on my next bike and knowing that it's not a touring bike I could probably deal with it.

Are there any significant differences between the Cross Bones models or did HD keep it pretty much the same throughout?

Thanks again.

 

Well...if black is the real discriminator and not necessarily just the Bones and Train models, you should look at the Fatboy Low model as well. You can get them stock very "blacked out", gloss or denim finish. The have only been around a few years and come in 96" or now (2012) the 103" motors with 6 speed tranny and 200mm back tire. Do a Forum search and you'll see what I mean.