Is a Road King ever a first
Road Master
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 836
Likes: 230
From: Deep South
Buy a USED heritage softail
dont spend all of it on a new bike , there are 100's of very good used bikes out there already set up w/ pipes and bags and all the stuff needed .....check ebay, craig's list and any local news papers , ......then use the rest for GAS !!! !!
Road Captain
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 709
Likes: 2
From: SO Cal
Do the King and don't look back. The comfort and ride are uncomparable to any other bike, jmo. As you put time on the bike you will gain confidence and that is the only way you will gain confidence. Until you feel completly comfortable with the bike take it slow, the feeling will grow. Also if you can swing it try to get yourself into an 09 or above the frame is a lot more forgiving on the newer bikes, again I am obviously bias but just my opinion, good luck.
Advanced
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 96
Likes: 0
From: OC, CA
lots of good advice given. It is a big bike for your 1st but not impossible. If you get it, take it to a parking lot - the same one you took your course on if you can - and duplicate the class on your own with your new bike.
Remember what they told you about riding position, head and eyes - look where you want to go, NOT down at the front tire or the ground.
Do the start and stop excersices, the turning,,,,you get the jist of what I am saying.
Safe riding!!!!
Remember what they told you about riding position, head and eyes - look where you want to go, NOT down at the front tire or the ground.
Do the start and stop excersices, the turning,,,,you get the jist of what I am saying.
Safe riding!!!!
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 9,850
Likes: 220
From: Sacramento, CA.
I'm 63yo & have been ridin 47yos. BUY WHAT YOU WANT THE FIRST TIME AROUND!!!!!!!!!! It would be great to rent one first. Any of the Touring bikes are great. They have the same frames. Just do your homework. Good Luck "Young Man"
Tourer
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 269
Likes: 101
From: Southern Ont, Canada
John didn't read the whole thread , I'm 60 got my licence about 5-6 years ago , And have had 3 bikes since, seemed to just keep moving up till I got what I wanted ,
I had a Honda 500 Shadow , 1100 Yamaha V-Star , And now have a Road King Classic , Get what you want now, you will get used to it , And like I other member said Have them deliver it and take small rides till your familair with the weight and the way it handles,
I had a Honda 500 Shadow , 1100 Yamaha V-Star , And now have a Road King Classic , Get what you want now, you will get used to it , And like I other member said Have them deliver it and take small rides till your familair with the weight and the way it handles,
Tourer
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 439
Likes: 1
From: Orange Co, California
<<I've been browsing the forums for a couple of days now. I visited a dealer and my heart is set on a Road King Classic. But, I would like to ask for advice.
I'm 6', 220#, 63 years here, did the motorcycle class last month and have my license. Of course, we used small bikes and never got over 20mph. I always wanted to travel freely, camp out (just a little) and am finishing the book "The Old Man and the Harley". I can put up $15K and need to fiancé the rest. Credit score of 730. I've heard no one likes to give old men loans for motorcycles.
I'm 6', 220#, 63 years here, did the motorcycle class last month and have my license. Of course, we used small bikes and never got over 20mph. I always wanted to travel freely, camp out (just a little) and am finishing the book "The Old Man and the Harley". I can put up $15K and need to fiancé the rest. Credit score of 730. I've heard no one likes to give old men loans for motorcycles.
Cruiser
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 131
Likes: 0
From: Oklahoma City
If the RK is your dream bike, go for it! Your going to have to get used to whatever bike you buy anyway, it might as well be your dream bike. Mine was an Ultra Limited. I highly recommend getting the "Ride like a Pro" video. Once you learn the techniques, slow speed maneuvering is a breeze. Good luck, and safe riding.
Club Member
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 3,435
Likes: 28
From: Living in open carry state :D
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