softail engine in touring bikes?

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Jun 8, 2013 | 12:34 PM

magazine

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Cruiser

Joined: May 2012

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From: Nevada

softail engine in touring bikes?

Is there any reason other than lower hp the softail engine isn't used on the touring platform?

Jun 8, 2013 | 12:51 PM

0ldhippie

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From: Santa Cruz

Other than the counter balanced motor won't bolt in to the frame?

Jun 8, 2013 | 12:53 PM

davessworks

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From: Woodinville, WA

Quote:

Originally Posted by 0ldhippie

Other than the counter balanced motor won't bolt in to the frame?

That. A better question perhaps would be why hasn't HD produced a counter balanced engine for the Touring line. frankly I guess they don't see the need.

The counter balanced engine was produced to address a very specific challenge. How to rigid mount a vtwin in order to preserve the aesthetic qualities of the Softail line (very clean, no gaps etc) while improving the ride experience. It's simply not necessary for touring bikes.

Last edited by davessworks; Jun 8, 2013 at 12:57 PM.

Jun 8, 2013 | 01:01 PM

perki48

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From: Sandpoint, Idaho

Because they put their "better" engine in Dynas and Touring bikes...........................LOL

Jun 8, 2013 | 01:10 PM

Texas Fat Boy

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From: ST. Louis

Because the Softail B motors start to vibrate (humming sensation) at 65 mph. Not good for touring.

Jun 8, 2013 | 01:11 PM

davessworks

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From: Woodinville, WA

Quote:

Originally Posted by perki48

Because they put their "better" engine in Dynas and Touring bikes...........................LOL

Not sure I'd agree with that.

Rather, I'd say that the counter balancing requires extra parts complexity and cost and its simply not necessary on a rubber mount.

Jun 8, 2013 | 01:20 PM

dan conner

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the "b" motor is not really very smooth at 80 mph for hours at a time--and since the stock touring motor is already seriously under powered---why in the world would you want something with any less power?