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Buying bike for son

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Old Apr 28, 2012 | 07:07 AM
  #11  
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Looking to be adopted...Will mow lawn, take out garbage, feed dog, etc....
 
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Old Apr 28, 2012 | 07:09 AM
  #12  
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demo ride. find a dealer that is doing demo rides and let him try different models then let him decide based on what is comfortable to him.
 
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Old Apr 28, 2012 | 07:17 AM
  #13  
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Originally Posted by PhoneGuy-MI
Looking to be adopted...Will mow lawn, take out garbage, feed dog, etc....
can I call you dad now........lol!
 
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Old Apr 28, 2012 | 07:37 AM
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Originally Posted by z71_fourwheelin
Those bikes are really underwhelming. You should look at a Fatboy or Softail of some sort, if you can't afford a SG,EG, RG. If it's not a surprise take him up there and have him test ride one of the bikes your suggesting. I have seen so many people buy bikes that fit them at their current riding style/ability, and 6-10 months later are trying to sell it or trade it in for something bigger.
The Slim is a Softail of some sort. http://www.harley-davidson.com/en_US...tail-slim.html
 
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Old Apr 28, 2012 | 07:45 AM
  #15  
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I'm an orphan...you looking to adopt?
 
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Old Apr 28, 2012 | 07:52 AM
  #16  
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No disrespect but I'd have to know a lot more before suggesting anything.
 

Last edited by Ronp42; Apr 28, 2012 at 10:41 AM.
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Old Apr 28, 2012 | 08:03 AM
  #17  
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The Switcback will let him enjoy life in both worlds. The price is reasonable too.
 
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Old Apr 28, 2012 | 08:39 AM
  #18  
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Originally Posted by crackers
Looking at the new Slim, Switchback and Wide Glide. Son may be close to 5'8 so these should set well. Any thought on any of these as I started with the Ultra's.
Which bike does HE want/like? Most dealers have demo's/loaners/rentals, that can be tried out any time, not just on demo days. That's how i do my test riding.
Regardless of which bike he'll get, have him sign up for training even if he been riding for a while and especially if he's new at riding...best present you can give.
 
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Old Apr 28, 2012 | 09:13 AM
  #19  
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Originally Posted by PhoneGuy-MI
Looking to be adopted...Will mow lawn, take out garbage, feed dog, etc....
Me too, LOL.

I think it is all personal preference. Ride 'em all and see what he likes best. Personally, I feel the Dyna's suspensions (switchback and wide glide) provide a better ride. But that is just me, they are all fine bikes.

Enjoy getting a new riding buddy!
 
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Old Apr 28, 2012 | 09:30 AM
  #20  
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I'm 53, made the mistake of buying a starter bike (Vulcan 900) if you will. Took a little bath on the trade for the UC. My son made the same mistake, picked up an 883 Sporty for first bike, 6 months later, took a bath on a trade. What an awesome dad, wish mine was around to share these experiances with.
 
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