Been with my Fatty a little over a year and a half now and I get questioned about riding with the solid wheels by new riders in our group every time its windy. My answer is very little difference if any compared to my dads 1999 heritage softail with spokes. Rear saddle bags block the majority of the rear wheel air contact so I don't even consider the rear to count for anything no matter what wheel your running. The front I never feel it try to "turn" me in high winds, I agree more experience on your bike and you will be just fine. Only once have I had a complete lane change out of my control and that was crossing Mackinack Bridge in 60+ mph wind gusts coming south from the Michigan U.P. Only steel grating for road surface on that bridge so it was a wild ride for sure. Just my .02

Doug

 

Thank you to everyone for the opinions... this is exactly what I was looking for. If I can ever figure out how to post a picture that meets the minimum size standards, I will. My bike is exactly the same, color scheme and all as the picture posted earlier by Greengoone. I think I may just roll with what I have and get some more riding in, I just purchased a light smoke, King Size 18" windshield that should be here in a couple of days. What is the best place as far as price and quality of aftermarket parts for my Fatboy?

 

You guys are absolutely right... Experience is definitely my problem. Also, you have all changed my opinion about this topic. I will just customize to my liking for looks and enjoy being a member of the "Fatboy" club. Thanks again to all who posted, I will keep this thread open, as I know I am not the first or last to run into this issue.

 

It's not the wheels it's the wind. Save your money unless you really want new wheels. Some guy proved it with some principals of physics.

 

Sounds good. I've got a few more things to get done before I change out the wheels, and I understand it will only be for looks now.

 

J&P Cycles, Dennis Kirk, ebay, are all ones that have used and have been pleased with.

 

One thing that surprised me when I upgraded my suspension is the bike tolerates the wind much better now. I wasn't expecting that....

 

Not sure if anyone is following this still, but I went ahead and got my HD 12" mini Fat Apes and aftermarket stainless cables ordered. I also received my windshield and will do the instal tomorrow. I am going to do right by my Fatty, and it is going to do right by me! Thanks again to everyone.

 

Only once have I had a complete lane change out of my control and that was crossing [I]Mackinack Bridge in 60+ mph wind gusts coming south from the Michigan U.P.

...HA HA, RacerX, this statement made me crack up. I remember crossing the tall concrete bridge leading into St. Augustine (RT 1?) on our way down to the Daytona Rally. Winds maybe at 45-50mph (less than yours) and my brother said on the far side that he thought we "should get a patch" for completing THAT crossing! ...incidently, he was on the 90Fatboy that day-solid wheels (I was on my 96Badboy).

 

It's not the wheels,JMO. I agree with the others , more time on the seat will help you feel more comfortable .