Went with the '07 Custom myself....traded in an '04Nighttrain.....loved that bike but not as comfortable on the longer trips and for a passenger. All told I think the Custom is a far superior bike.....but then again I have never ridden a Fat Boy or Duece more than around the block. The Fat Boy does look more stable and rugged but I'm interested to know how the handling compares??? Almost bought a Fat Boy SE awhile back but just didn't close the deal for some reason......and then came the FXSTC.....96in., six speed with 200mm rear......someone was reading my mind....!!!

 

Just how is that?
I would love to know...

 

The larger engine coupled with the six-speed tranny make a world of difference. At 75-85 the Nighttrain was no where near as comfortable as the Custom. May also be magnified by the difference in the handlebars. My hands would go numb after an hour on the 'Train.....it really needed another gear in my opinion. I also was disappointed in the fact that they put the 200mm rear tire on later. First time a parked next to one I felt rather cheated. Made a world of difference in the way the rear of the bike looked. Like I said I loved that bike...but once I rode some distance on the Custom I was hooked.

 

It's the same bike there son...
Actually, the FatBoy is the same basic bike too, with some different bars fenders etc.
Isn't amazing what a new seat and a different set of bars will make you believe?
Personally, I don't know how you guys call those ape hangers comfortable, especially at speed..

 

Except for the motor and tranny...oh..... and seat and bars.....and rear tire......'xactly the same...!!! Didn't know that I would like the mini apes either....in certain corners I miss the drag bars ....but overall these are much more comfortable...I'm about 6 foot and a bit lanky so no real stretching on my part.....but that being said I wouldn't go with the 'real' apes I don't think....???

 

The tranny is nice. I drove a dealer demo for a day while my bike was waiting on a part.
I wasn't impressed with the 5th gear grinding & whining, but the shift throws were a lot smoother.

 

I have an 06 Softail Standard, with an 07 Custom Seat on it. I love my bike. I ride with a friend that has an 07 Fatboy. He loves his bike. Cut a deal with you dealer on renting each one. Give him some up front cash or an IOU and ride each bike for a day. Then decide. No matter which you pick...you will love your bike too!

 

I tossed the drag bars in the trash before I took delivery. They look cool, and the rider looks cool, but I didn't think my back would think they were cool at all!
I'm using the SE Deuce bars, and they fit my riding style like a glove.

You felt cheated?
I really didn't care about the engine (lie) because Ibuilt it up before I got it home. I'm not an interstate traveler so the 6th gear would never be used (lie), but I really LIKE the new tranny's feel with the shorter throws. I hope they get it sorted out, and my guess is that the noise is just that, only a noise.
At least I hit the 200mm tire. I would have had irreperable mental damage if I were stuck with that 160mm.. (truth)

 

Haven't had any noise or issues with my tranny.........does seem to shift a bit smoother but really can't say that I ever had any problems or complaints about the 5-speed.....other than the desire for one ...more....gear.....but isn't that always the case...???