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The SG is about 0.2" longer (wheelbase) than the Fat Boy, and with fluids, about 72 lbs heavier. With a 180 lbs rider, the SG sits 0.9" higher.
I just traded my 06 Fat Boy in on a new 08 Street Glide, and to say the least, there are some differences:
I, for one, like the SG handlebars as the seem to be in a more neutral position that was on the FB. My hands would fall asleep after about 20 miles on the FB. This is cured with the SG.
With the fairing and a full six gallon tank, the SG definitely feels more top-heavy than the FB. I notice this the most when coming to a stop. The SG seems to be more difficult to steady with the left foot (correct stopping posture).
Another big difference is the position of the foot boards. On the FB, they were further outboard and forward, which was more comfortable for me, and at my height (5'9", so I'm no tall boy), they almost felt like forward controls. The SG's foot boards are slightly narrower and positioned more inboard toward the engine. This will take some getting used to. I know they have brackets available that changes the position of the foot boards. It may be worth a look.
Lastly, the seat is narrower at the base of the fuel tank, which gives my legs a better reach to the ground. The FB seat was wider and placed a lot of pressure on my inside mid-thigh.
I didn't write this to toot my horn, just wanted to give a perspective from a similar situation in hopes that it might help out a little. I know for me, it would be very hard getting used to a new bike while still riding the old bike a lot as well. My SG still feels awkward, but I know that will change soon.
you have to make the bike comfortable for you, but sometimes, there's no substitution for just putting miles on the bike. Good luck, I hope you find your comfort zone.
For those of you running the Wild1chubby bars on the Streetglide... Can you stillsee the stock mirrors? I noticed in the photos how much wider they are then the stock bars and it appears your hands are right in the way of the mirror view. You guys are right, they are a good looking bar and look more comfortable especially in theangle of the hands on the bars.
Welcome Roger, I'm 5'8" 145 pounds, I have an '07 SG and love it but I did make a few modifications to make it more comfortable for "ME". I changed to a mustang seat with a rider back rest and replaced the stock windshield with a recurve by Clearview, less wind and I can see over it. Other than that I think you just need to ride it more and you will see the comfort and ease of the SG. Also don't use the 6th gear when you're riding local just use it on the long stretches of highway riding or you'll start to feel the drag on the trans and have to shift more often. Good Luck
I have had many previous fatboy owers say they miss them! I haven't owned one ,I do have an ultra and an sg. You may never love your sg as your fatboy! Thats how we learn. Just good it wasnen't your lady you got rid of for another.
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