First Harley

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May 28, 2007 | 09:32 PM

TJ Willy

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Tourer

Joined: May 2007

Posts: 259

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From: Wichita Falls, Texas

First Harley

...posted another version of this in another forum but learned from my neighbor that this was the best forum for HD owners. Sorry to those who might have read this already...

Hello All! (be warned -kinda long)

After a TREMENDOUS amount of debate, I settled on my 1st Harley a couple weeks back. I have been dealing with the guys at Red River HD in Wichita Falls, TX. They were EXCELLENT to deal with. Very patient and willing to answer every question I could throw at them. Being new to HD, I had plenty. Even the finance guy spent almost two hours with me talking bikes as much as talking money.

They insisted I ride bikes before making my decision. I started on an 883C, then an FXDB. 06 sporty and 07 FXDB Demo. In the end I chose the 1200N. (Nightster) The FXDB was the close second especially at just a couple more thousand. It was hard to get off that bike. They gave it to me for nearly two hours. What a great ride!

I wrestled with the decision forever. It was the raw styling, great price, mid-year production (always liked that for some reason... look at the mustang 65.5!!!), and my wife's face when they got it out of the box and rolled it over to us. She was like, "That is the one you want!!??!!". She loved it. I chose Olive Drab over Black. I spent a lot of time reading about the stigmas associated with the sporty etc... but I just bought a house in a neighborhood full of Harleys. One guy in particular (he has a bagger and a softail) schooled me in much of the Harley history, the ups and downs, rider/owner attitudes, etc. What I should expect to encounter from people no matter what I get or where I live. A real good guy. The one thing he impressed upon me was to "Ride my Ride." Not to worry about what people thought or said. "True Harley riders - the ones that matter - appreciate all HDs and know the history." He told me that the Sportster is still one of most solid and fun bikes in the Harley line-up.

From the minute I mentioned the 1200N, he was excited. None of that stupid girl bike crap. When I mentioned that to him he basically said F*** them RUBs. Ride what you like and be proud you own a HD. The first night we hung out in his garage, he broke out the map and we planned a leisurely three day ride to Four Corners out west. He even bought my bell.

I realize the Nightster is not a distance bike, but I intend to make the best of it. I am not use to comfort. I drive a lifted Jeep, no A/C in Texas. Most of the time, the Doors and top are off. My scooter won't be much different, just less sheet metal --- and probably not as rough a ride. lol. OHHH and WAY better fuel economy!

Jeepin has been good to me. Great people always willing to drink beers, talk rides and help out one another. Heres hoping the Harley family will be as welcoming.

Anyway, I have tons to learn so back to lurking...

See you on the Road!
Phil

OH Yea, I just finished my first organized ride. A Patriot Ride for a local soldier. We had nearly 80 bikes and road a little over a 100 miles. People were lined up along the interstate with American Flags and salutes. It was a sight to see.

Also my *** told me I need a different seat!
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