Help deciding on which Softail
Help deciding on which Softail
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
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've read people say that with the floorboards they have more foot positions, and find it quite comfortable.
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 4,133
Likes: 125
From: Japan
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.
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.
Last edited by HoggyMtnBreakdown; Aug 21, 2012 at 11:29 AM.
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Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 2,298
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From: BC
If you are wanting the 200mm rear tire you need to look at 06' and up Night Trains (there are kits for pre 06')
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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.
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.
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.
Road Captain
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 507
Likes: 4
From: Wentzville, Missouri
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.