batwing vs sharknose
Cruiser
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 233
Likes: 0
From: NB, Canada
You have to try them both, Ive owned both, and Id drive either one any day of the week. Right now I have a Shark, the next bike may be a Batwing again?? I think the Shark handles wind / buffeting better than the Bat, but just a bit better.
Tourer
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 361
Likes: 4
From:
The last 10 years I have been on a Batwing bike, both Ultras. Ive never had a problem with handling, nor passing large trucks or any of that sort of stuff. Just traded in my 2008 Ultra for a 2013 RGU and I am liking it very much. But without a doubt, the batwing offers better protection from the wind and rain than my new RGU does. But I am enjoying the handling of the RGU and do not regret my decision to get one.
Like everybody is saying, try a test ride on both, take them up to 80 or 90 and see how the experience feels to you for each one on them. Although, I doubt a test ride with answer all your questions and concerns, the test will provide you a good snap shot feel on what it is like to ride each one of them. The best news is, your going to be happy with the one you choose, trust me on this one note. Good luck.
Like everybody is saying, try a test ride on both, take them up to 80 or 90 and see how the experience feels to you for each one on them. Although, I doubt a test ride with answer all your questions and concerns, the test will provide you a good snap shot feel on what it is like to ride each one of them. The best news is, your going to be happy with the one you choose, trust me on this one note. Good luck.
Big Kahuna HDF Member
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 20,530
Likes: 2,305
From: texas panhandle
I have a sharknose. Out on the highway I think it handles turbulence much better. If you ride two up, your passenger will prefer the batwing. If you ride in slow traffic often the batwing is better. I do strictly one up touring and love the shark. I think that this is the only scenario where the shark wins out.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 34,661
Likes: 36,270
From: outskirts of ba habba
Same ol' **** rolls around a couple times a year....
Rent each one for a couple days, you'll figure out what you want....
You ain't going to drop 20k clams on a bike I recommend.....
Best of luck whittling down your choices.........
Rent each one for a couple days, you'll figure out what you want....
You ain't going to drop 20k clams on a bike I recommend.....
Best of luck whittling down your choices.........
Cruiser
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 111
Likes: 0
From: Far, Far away
I've ridden both. I personally prefer the batwing. First of all is looks. I just can't get used to the look of the sharknose. That is a personal opinion though. As for handling, I really cannot notice a difference between the two. I have a SG with a 6" windvest and my buddy has a RGU. The both handle the same to me. The RGU has a little more 'top heavy' feel to it, but that has nothing to do with the fairing. Other than the looks, the ONLY two reasons I prefer the batwing is the wind protection and how far away everything seems while riding it. With the batwing, I don't feel like I'm 'reaching' like I do with the sharknose. They are both great bikes. I'm sure you will be happy with either one... good luck.
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Elite HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 3,766
Likes: 16
From: Roseville, CA
Agreed, both great.
One thing I like about the batwing - when loading onto my dolly in the garage, I can stand up and visually place the front wheel better into the groove before rolling onto it.
One thing I like about the batwing - when loading onto my dolly in the garage, I can stand up and visually place the front wheel better into the groove before rolling onto it.
Grand HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 4,928
Likes: 285
From: Edmond Oklahoma
I went through this and after many hours of research, throwing dice and talking with psychiatrist, its the one that looks the best at the time. And what if you change your mind? Well darn, you have to trade it in for a new Harley. I hate that. Might as well try a new color too.
Burt
Burt