which is better
HDF Community Team
Joined: Aug 2019
Posts: 1,847
Likes: 1,948
From: Santa Ana, CA
They both have their +'s and -'s. Regarding which is better, that's highly subjective and it comes down to personal preference. The rubber mount is likely a better bike in most respects, but I prefer the solid mount.
Road Master
Joined: Feb 2018
Posts: 911
Likes: 647
From: west coast
Depends, the solid mount is about 50 lbs. lighter...however the vibration is acceptable to some and a complete deal breaker for others, you need to ride both to see for yourself. 2007+ rubber mounts have Delphi EFI which I consider to be a plus (and I do own a HD with a carb too)
If possible rent one for a full day, I did that twice before deciding that a Sportster was right for me...
If possible rent one for a full day, I did that twice before deciding that a Sportster was right for me...
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 21,081
Likes: 19,237
From: The Wasteland
I like them both. The rubber mounts are smoother riding and have fuel injection, so no long warm up. But they're also 50-75 pounds heavier than a solid mount.
The solid mounts have that raw, sporty feeling and they sound like a Harley should sound. And they just look better than the rubber mounted Sportsters, IMO. But in my experience, they can be cold blooded and require a warmup before riding them.
Both have the Evo air cooled motor, so they're practically bullet proof. I would say that you can't go wrong with either of them.
The solid mounts have that raw, sporty feeling and they sound like a Harley should sound. And they just look better than the rubber mounted Sportsters, IMO. But in my experience, they can be cold blooded and require a warmup before riding them.
Both have the Evo air cooled motor, so they're practically bullet proof. I would say that you can't go wrong with either of them.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 5,298
Likes: 2,392
From: Florida
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 10,135
Likes: 4,780
From: Sandpoint, Idaho
Depends on if you want to ride distance or not. If you do the best way to go is rubber mount. 04-06 are carbed, after that injected.
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Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 21,081
Likes: 19,237
From: The Wasteland
I have a 2007 FI Sporty now, and it does sound cool with the V&H Straight Shots, but it doesnt sound half as cool as my Ironhead or my 2000 Sporty.
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Road Captain
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 654
Likes: 734
There were three years of rubber mount, carbureted Sportsters (2004-2006). EFI came out in 2007.
