I had heard the same thing till I bought my EGC. After 13,000 miles in all kinds of conditions including high winds, I can honestly tell you that stories of "instability" are greatly exagerrated if not completely made up. You will feel a little bit of wallowing through the bars in heavy wind simply because of the fact that the Batwing is mounted on the forks. Not much different than a sheild on a Road King. I have also had various Japaneese bikes in the past that I have installed plexiglass shields on and experienced the same thing. You know it's there, but it is not likely to become a problem. Of course if you were to ride at extreme speeds, that would be a different story. The frame mounted fairing on the Road Glide is without a doubt the better of the two. But I just love the classic look of the Bat, and since there are really no control issues I'm perfectly comfortable with it. But if you like the look of the Shark Nose than that is the way you ought to go.
As for engine longevity, I'm on my first Harley so time will tell. But I have met a number of riders that have gone well into six digits on the odometer with few if any problems. The Harley V-Twin is legendary for it's toughness and the Twin Cam is the best ever. I don't think you will be disapointed.

 

Great read, I feel rejuvenated, and a sense of trust all over...

 

I thought a lurker was an unregistered person that just reads the posts. At least, when I've been on different forums to find information, it says welcome lurker, please register to post to the forums (or something of that nature). But what's a hijacker? [8D]

 

My '05 E-G Classic has 67,000 miles on it and is running like a champ. I've had no probs and am supremely impressed by this bike in every way.

The handling of this bike in winds is nota problem in my experience. But whatever you like or are attracted to is what's best for you so enjoy!

 

For all intents and purposes HD cycles are as reliable as any other motor vehicle on the market.
However, when it comes to warranty unless it is out and out obvious and blatant failure that HD can't deny you will experience the "it's normal, or not covered under the warranty B.S." so many have experienced.
When it would be much better business sense to take care of it and move on.
But for the last few years HD has developed a negative attitude towards it's customers.
This is my last HD. don't know what next will be.
Victory, Indian or custom from parts from various vendors.
Most likely the latter as I can build it and pay for it as I go.
From my dealings with them, independent vendors seem to be more willing to stand by the warranty and take care of the customer in some way even after it has expired, as their competition is more prevalent.

 

I have owned both a RG and an UC and the Roadie is a tad more stable at high speeds on the slab, at say, 80 and above. The UC is so much more fluid in tight twisties, that it suits me better. I spend most of my time pushing 50 in 15 mph curves that the roadie just doesnt feel as good under those conditions.


nogood o~`o

 

I agree it's all about how well you look after the bike, maintance to be schedualled around riding pattern

 

27 k this year and goin strong. LOVE IT

 

Thanks for all your responses. I was originally going to go with a SE110 big bore kit until found out the price. Allott of folks here say it's just not worth it. I will be going with the 103 kit w/ cams. I'm still making the decision on the upgraded heads for right away. Budget may not allow it. I will be buying a Road Glide comespring if everything goes right. I agree it's all in your maintenance routine, and there's always going to be the odd lemon in whatever you buy.

Thanks again for all your great posts. Makes feel allott better.

 

Amen on the RG. It is amazing how easy the big bike manuvers. I love it and wouldn't be without one for serious touring.