having ridden a 88ci 5 speed for years, all else aside, I'd look at 2008 and up so you get a 6 speed tranny and a 6 gallon gas tank (unless you found a super deal on something older that is).

I have a 96 and a 103, maybe its just me, but the 103 isn't a dealbreaker upgrade on the road (both have a 6 speed tranny).

As for aesthetics- many tout the Roadglide and its great handling, personally I could never digest the sharknose fairing, many cant. If you can't, it immediately leaves the list and your choice is easier.

tourpak or not will be another question. You have to add one to a Streetglide (more $$), and to some RGs not the Ultras

Yea, have to test ride.

Also, you'll prob be buying a seat...most of us do to make the bike 'fit', tack on another $500. Many dealers have loaner programs where you can check out a seat for a day to test. Well worth it.

Local bike nights at the local bar are a good place to browse models and ask questions. You can see what you like and dont' like and get info from the bike owner and not the salesman on how the bike handles etc. At least I find that useful.

Good luck.

 

I am 6'5" 250lbs. I have a 2015 road glide and it is best bike I have ever owned. I did a couple tall guys mods like extended shifter and brake controls, apes, and a lepera daddy long legs seat. It is an extremely comfortable ride and on the highway it is rock solid.

 

6'4" you must have been cramped on a Deluxe. I will also suggest Road Glide. Set yourself a budget, and research what is available within it. Every model year has it's + & -. You won't go wrong with a fugly.

 

Go wth a road king. The right windshield and a set of fangs will give you all the wind protection you need. I've got a set of 1 inch forward floorboards that are all yours if ya get a bike they fit.Thanks for your service.

 

nope. just smart

 

Went from a 2001 Heritage to a 2003 ultra. Being 6'4" I was definitely more comfortable on the Heritage, but the wifey wasn't having it anymore. I'm now on a '14 Limited and remove the trunk when not touring. This thing is awesome. I have a CVO hammock heated seat, 10" bars and highway pegs. Sun up to sun down no problem. The road glide and Electra glide are the same chassis. If you put a similar position bar on either, the fit is the same. The difference is that the RG has better storage but you have less protection from the elements. Electra glide definitely offers better protection. IMO you should just buy a '14 or newer bagger and dump the deluxe.

 

While I'm not 6'4", I've read several comments over the last year or two from tall riders. Almost every one prefers the Road Glide over the batwing models for the simple reason that the fairing is a little farther away, and they feel less cramped. One tall ride said that riding a batwing model felt like he was in a Smart Car.

However, the only solution is to ride them both and see which one feels better to you.

Regarding your budget...if you can swing it, get an '09 or newer. The frame was completely changed for that year, and it really makes it a completely different bike from the older ones.

Good luck in your search!

 

I need a low le pera seat and mini apes on the deluxe and I'm good, but I prolly look like a gorilla on a tricycle...lol

 

Thanks much to all who've answered. Ya'll are the HEET and I'm gonna talk to Bagger owners and test ride a street glide and a road glide.

 

my vote is ultra classic I love mine