I'm soon to be the proud owner of a 2006 EG Ultra Classic, Brandy Wine Sunglow in color (not that it matters). I am 5'7, 160lbs. I plan on installing a solow kit to lower the rear. Will I have any problem holding the bike up at stop lights, etc? How about with a passenger? What about slow speed manuvering? Is this too much bike for me? I currently own a 2004 Sportster 1200C. Any input is appreciated.

 

Welcome.

I ride an ultra and am only slightly taller (5'9"). And mine is not lowered at all.

You will be fine. It will feel quite large to start with, but you will get beyond that. Stops at lights and stop signs may require a little more dilligence from you, but the fact that you are lowering it, and will no doubt wear boots with a substantial heel should get you home.

Slow speed maneuvering is really a function of practice and ability - not of the rider's size.

You'll be fine.

Don't be afraid of the bike's size, but never forget how big it is. Does that make sense?

P.S. If you haven't taken the MSF or Rider's Edge, do so soon.

If you have taken the BRC, take the ERC with your Ultra. I took the BRC this Spring, and will take the ERC next spring on my Ultra and can't wait. Nothing adds to your enjoyment of the bike more than knowing you are in control. The MSF courses really help.

 

I used to have a Sporty and to be honest, my new Street Glide is easier to handle...better balance, lower center of gravity, and handles like a dream at slow speeds.

You shouldn't have any problems. Good luck!

 

I'm on an Ultra - 5'9" not lowered and 20# air in the rear shocks. A good pair of boots and a little respect for the weight will keep you out of trouble. I strongly agree with the MSF suggestions - nothing better to sharpen your skills. I am most careful when coming to a stop 2-up, and when backing up out of parking lots, etc. Just always be aware and you'll be fine. And at speed....your biggest problem could be pulled face muscles from smiling so much. It really does handle great at slow speeds - just get yourself a little practice and enjoy. Have fun!

 

Last year I got an EG Classic after moving up from a Suzuki Volusia. I'm 5'8", 165lbs., and have a 30" inseam. I lowered the rear with the HD shocks to get more flat footing but I really didn't have to do that. I found the bike easier to manuver and more stable despite weighing almost 250lbs. more. The low center of gravity is what makes this bike easy to handle for almost anyone. Two up riding will be an adjustment as you're stopping alot more weight but practice will take care of any concerns. My main problem when riding with a passenger is since my legs are short, they don't stradle the bike very far. When stopping, the back of my calfs are always hitting the passanger foot boards when I place my feet on the ground.

 

I have a 06 SG and I never riden a street bike before I took the MSF class and it really help me. I came from the dirt to the street and the bike handles really good a slow speeds. I'm 5"11 220. I love the bike.

 

I don't like lowering my bikes. The reduced ground clearance makes it harder for me to get the jack under the frame. I perform my own maintenance (limited) and I replace tires frequently. I'm also a fairly aggressive rider and the reduced ground clearance will get me dragging stuff way to much in the twisties.
I used to have a Mustang (Ultra) seat. But after loosing 75 lbs (210 lbs now), I found myself sitting to far back. Instead of buying another mustang seat to match my new ***, I tried HD's Reach™ Touring Seat for Electra Glide® and Road Glide® Models p/n 52544-05. Here is a quote from HD.

"Reach forward position seats are designed to move riders with shorter inseam closer to the controls and to bring the legs closer together so that feet rest firmly on the pavement. The scooped bucket-shape saddle is enhanced with added back support padding to move the rider approximately 1.5" lower and 1.5" forward. The combination positions the rider closer to the hand and foot controls to offer both comfort and confidence."

I was surprised that the seat worked for me. It isn't quit as comfortable as the Mustang, but it isn't as bad as I though it would be. Maybe, loosing 75 lbs helped? Being lowered 1.5 inches didn't hurt either. You might want to try this also. It lists for MSRP US $259.95

 

Keep in mind that your choice of seats will also have an effect on your reach to the ground. Some seats make it easier than others.

 

Great point. My most difficult time is manually backing up when the wife is on the bike because of the passenger running boards.

When I first started riding, I had her get off. Now, I am fine with the weight, so the wife stays on, but pulls the boards up with her heals so they are out of my way.

 

As far as low speed handling go to:
www.ridelikeapro.com

I was in Annapolis Md. at a Navy Football game and I witness a cop doing some pretty slick manenvers at very low speed, but his motor was a probably twice idle speed and I couldn't figure out what he was doing. Basically they are using the motor as a gyro to help hold up the bike at low speed. The video is produced by a ex-policeman (motor cop). The video is great and worth the money. "Rider like a Pro III". I have lent my video out to riders that have been on bikes for years and everyone has been impressed.
Hope this helps,
AA