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I like the Road Glide for a basic platform. I can put on the detachable back rest for me for longer rides, the detachable backrest for the passenger if I have one on board, the detachable rack if I am carrying my Dresser Bag. I can remove the windshield for easy cleaning of the front end, (I never ride without it, but that is an option).
I can install the tour pack and use that hard bag if necessary. I have avoided the fairing because I don't do alot of long distance riding. After I retire in 4 more years, I plan on getting an Ultra Glide.
I like all of the glides since a lot of the accessories are detachable. I use those on my Sporty. I also like the fact that the EG Standard is bare bones so it can be tweaked the way I like. But I also like the low-profile rear suspension of the SG. Guess I'll have to rent more than 2 bikes!
I would personally stay with 1 of the glides ESPECIALLY if you plan any trips.. The radio is a great thing to have. Also if your looking for some long distance I think you would be looking at either the Classic, Ultra or the Road Glide.
I personally don't like the look of the RoadGlide, but that's just my preference. With the Classic or Ultra you can remove the tourpack for a StreetGlide look sorta.
As stated try to rent the bikes that you mostly like and at some dealers I know they will put the money toards the pruchase of your new bike.
Take a long look at the RKC. If you don't need tunes you'll find it easy around town and good on long rides. One of the fairing bikes is probably better suited to real long distance trips but after market fairings can be had for the RKC from $600-1000.
All the rent first advice is true. Our local dealer rents for $125/day but also has an "open to close" rate of $75.00, 9:00AM-6:00PM.
Plus you can switch bikes at the halfway point if they have others available. That way you could get decent time on 4 different bikes for two rental days for $150.00 total.
Make the switch - you'll never be happier.
As many others have already said, RENT. RENT, RENT. I have rented three HD's. Super Glide, Heritage Softail Classic, and Ultra Classic. I was completely blown away at how easy the Ultra was to handle. A heavy bike for sure, but very well balanced. As for comfort, second to none. My choice in the end was the EG Classic. All the bells and whistles I wanted without going WAY over budget. But to each his own, so try em all.
Brian
I own a RoadGlide, and I switched from a Heritage. I traded bikes with a friend for a test ride and I was so impressed with the handling characteristics of the RG in the first 10 minutes that I decided, on the spot, to trade my Heritage in for one. I haven't regretted it for one second.
ORIGINAL: Grover
I like the Road Glide for a basic platform. I can put on the detachable back rest for me for longer rides, the detachable backrest for the passenger if I have one on board, the detachable rack if I am carrying my Dresser Bag. I can remove the windshield for easy cleaning of the front end, (I never ride without it, but that is an option).
I can install the tour pack and use that hard bag if necessary. I have avoided the fairing because I don't do alot of long distance riding. After I retire in 4 more years, I plan on getting an Ultra Glide.
I knew I wanted to purchase my first Harley and was seriously considering the Street Bob or Street Glide until I rented an Ultra Classic Electra Glide for 24 hours. I was hooked and didn't want to return it. Having a stereo, fairing, and cruise control was new to me in all the bikes I've owned over the years but I loved it. I have ordered my '06 Ultra and it arrives in early May so I am impatiently waiting. The small amount spent for renting compared to the cost of a new Harley is worth it for peace of mind. Good luck with your decision!
Waht are your buddies riding?? My next one will have cruise control. I do alot of trips with an Ultra next to me, trying to stay bar to bar with cruise is a pain in the wrist. I came from a Sporty last year to 96 Electra Glide Classic that is amost a Ultra. The only thing I dont have is CB or Cruise. I feel it is more nimble than my Sporty and is a dream on the Highway. Rent an Ultra first, in Vivid Black it is the best bang for the buck and you get it all and you will want for nothing. My Dad bought a 05 last spring for less than $20,000 O.T.D.
the mrs. and i have an 05 ultra and love it. it is great to run around town and we are planning some long distance trips this year. it is a couch on wheels.
that said, a road king classic would be the next choice in my opinion.
well .. now ?? i totaly agree with EVERYTHING said so far !! yes ! rent !!
myself, i LOVE my roadglide, and as im speaking ? im putting on my 'flame suit'
might even check out a 'GOLDWING' ...
they are BOTH awsome bikes !! i like em both ! course i own both of em too. so im kinda jaded..hahahaah !!
the goldwing has the reverse super eazy to use, but on the other hand my roadglide is somewhat ? eazer ? to handle at slow speeds ? maybe ? pretty close if you ask me, and they both are super comfortable on the long haul.
yup. i'ed go rent a few, but pay real close attention to how the roadglide handels, you'll find that the glide is pretty much the 'BEST' all around motorcycle there is. but thats just my opinion, goldwing is right up there too. it just kills me sometimes walking out to the barn ? which one today ?? hahahaa !!!
My next one will have cruise control. I do alot of trips with an Ultra next to me, trying to stay bar to bar with cruise is a pain in the wrist.
My RK has a cruise. Wouldn't be without it. Like Grover, I like the RK as a base platform. From that you can add if you want, or not. I have a tour pack and fairing so she looks like a Classic without the radio. Nothing negative to say about any of the touring models. Rent them until you figure it out and then ride.
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