All touring models share the same frame?
Intermediate
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 44
Likes: 4
From: Washington State
I really appreciate all the info on the touring models. I plan on taking some test rides over the next month or so. The plan is to test ride the different models back to back so I can get a good feel for them. Like all the other bikes I've owned the one that feels the best will be the obvious choice. I am concerned about things like wind buffeting. I'm 6'2 and a little on the heavy side. Good suspension is a must as well with-out being too firm. I test road a few victory's at a demo event and noticed some wind issues at highway speeds. Everything else seemed good as far as comfort goes. The vic guys say this can all be eliminated by getting a taller windshield. Have not ridden any Harley's yet so I'm hoping for a better experience.
My next bike will be an American made scoot just got to narrow down the options!
My next bike will be an American made scoot just got to narrow down the options!
For a big bike +700 lbs these things handle like a sport bike (it was long overdue )
If you are a person that takes to the road for touring it is a no brainer .
With the variety Harley has in the touring bike line you will not have a problem finding one you like.
PS: (personal preference warning here) Stay with the batwing or a Road King I did not like the wind buffering that i got on the 2008 Road Glide I had .They say (whoever theyare ) that the road glide handles better because of the fixed fairing .I have noticed zero difference
with the bat wing verses the shark nose
Last edited by blacktopr; May 20, 2013 at 06:14 PM.
Road Warrior
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 1,951
Likes: 33
From: Upstate NY
I am going to give you the same advice I keep giving others......go rent what you want to ride. You will be putting a good chunk of change in to a touring bike so it just makes sense to rent the models you may consider and just ride them. I am not talking a ten minute test ride. I am saying rent for a day or a weekend and just ride it. The seat of your pants will let you know which one suits your riding style and needs.
Road Warrior
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 1,951
Likes: 33
From: Upstate NY
I agree with you Joe, I just was making a point to any new readers that renting will give you a better perspective than just a test ride. The OP made his decision based on his rides. Thats why we have so many different makes and models to choose from. Anyway, your point is well taken.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2012
Posts: 6,154
Likes: 2,561
From: CT/FL
I agree with you Joe, I just was making a point to any new readers that renting will give you a better perspective than just a test ride. The OP made his decision based on his rides. Thats why we have so many different makes and models to choose from. Anyway, your point is well taken.
Road Warrior
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 1,510
Likes: 23
From: Connecticut
Free2Ride wrote:
"I am concerned about things like wind buffeting"
Be aware that if you test ride the Street Glide or the Road Glide, the factory windshields are designed for "profiling", and NOT for actual "wind protection".
You're going to need a taller shield with either of these bikes.
You might even find the standard Road King shield too low...
"I am concerned about things like wind buffeting"
Be aware that if you test ride the Street Glide or the Road Glide, the factory windshields are designed for "profiling", and NOT for actual "wind protection".
You're going to need a taller shield with either of these bikes.
You might even find the standard Road King shield too low...
Road Master
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 908
Likes: 96
From: Red Deer, AB
Yes 07 and 08 are the same swing arm. But 25mm wheel bearings vs 1 inch of you are also changing rims.
HD Forum Stories
The Best of Harley-Davidson for Lifelong Riders
7 Surprising Harley-Davidson Products that Are Not Motorcycles
Verdad Gallardo
8 Best Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
10 Worst Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
Killer Custom's Jail Break Is The Breakout That Refused to Blend In
Verdad Gallardo
Crazy Bunderbike Build Looks Amazing, But Is It Impossible to Ride?
Verdad Gallardo
Harley-Davidson Reveals Super Cool Cafe Racer Concept
Verdad Gallardo
Engraved Rebellion: Inside Bundnerbike's Glam Rock II
Verdad Gallardo
10 Motorcycles You Should Never Buy
Joe Kucinski
10 Things Harley-Davidson Needs to Fix in 2026
Verdad Gallardo
Road Warrior
Joined: Sep 2014
Posts: 1,271
Likes: 246
From: Columbia SC
Im more interested in the material the frames are made of. Having a hard time finding it on the net.
I THOUGHT I have read the frames on the fairing models are aluminum and the Road King steal. But just doesnt sound right.
Can ANYONE point to actual facts on the frame material of late touring models?
I am pretty good at searching for things but this one has got me. I guess no one else cares.
I THOUGHT I have read the frames on the fairing models are aluminum and the Road King steal. But just doesnt sound right.
Can ANYONE point to actual facts on the frame material of late touring models?
I am pretty good at searching for things but this one has got me. I guess no one else cares.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 11,471
Likes: 2,998
From: Charleston, SC
Im more interested in the material the frames are made of. Having a hard time finding it on the net.
I THOUGHT I have read the frames on the fairing models are aluminum and the Road King steal. But just doesnt sound right.
Can ANYONE point to actual facts on the frame material of late touring models?
I am pretty good at searching for things but this one has got me. I guess no one else cares.
I THOUGHT I have read the frames on the fairing models are aluminum and the Road King steal. But just doesnt sound right.
Can ANYONE point to actual facts on the frame material of late touring models?
I am pretty good at searching for things but this one has got me. I guess no one else cares.