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Which HD to buy?

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Old Mar 5, 2006 | 01:03 PM
  #1  
dhubley's Avatar
dhubley
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From: Southeastern, PA
Default Which HD to buy?

Hi folks,

I am new to the forum and am beginning the process of purchasing my first HD. I owned a bike in the past (1985 Honda Shadow) and am ready to get back on the saddle.

I am not that familiar with the various models that HD offers. I know that I want either a Dyna or Softail (more likely a softail) but now the decision gets tougher. I would like to narrow down to 2-3 specific models before heading to the dealer.

I am a big boy at 6'4" tall and ~270 lbs. I want a bike for cruising country roads. I will occassionally ride the bike to work which is ~70% back roads and 30% highway.

Recommendations?
 
Old Mar 5, 2006 | 01:08 PM
  #2  
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navyman
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From: Cincinnati, Ohio
Default RE: Which HD to buy?

If at all possible rent the bikes you are interested in. Just sitting on them does not give you a realistic idea of fitment. Some dealers will apply the rental cost towards a new bike purchase.
 
Old Mar 5, 2006 | 01:17 PM
  #3  
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hogan27508
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Default RE: Which HD to buy?

Welcome to the forum. I too had a dilema. I am 6' and 260. I too wanted a comfortable bike. The Softail heritage worked well for me plenty of power and comfortable on my commute to work ~50 miles one way both back roads and highway. I would recommend test driving the bikes before purchase.

Thats my 2 cents worth. Either bike is a good choice.
 
Old Mar 5, 2006 | 01:25 PM
  #4  
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dhubley
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Default RE: Which HD to buy?

Thanks... the Heritage is one of the models that I am interested in. I would definetly take for a test ride or rent prior to purchase.
 
Old Mar 5, 2006 | 02:32 PM
  #5  
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MDMYMD
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Joined: Feb 2006
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From: Maryland
Default RE: Which HD to buy?

I know your dilema! I am new to motorcycling, just licensed Nov. 04'. I had no doubts about what brand motor to buy, but like you, which one? I asked and listened to some good friends who owned several types of Harleys. Bottom line is they either ended up with a Road King, or desired to get a Road King.

Unlike you, I am somewhat shorter and wanted my feet easily flat on the ground and did not want to outgrow the bike in a short period of time. I went with the Road King Custom and I have no regrets whatsoever! This bike is sporty, handles surprisingly well, and can handle any ride length or road type. I did test drive it before buying. I did not test any others, as I new this bike was for me. I also liked the looks of course. You have to like the look! Just remember, you can change any handle bar, seat, etc. to adjust to you height. OPtions are great, good luck.
 
Old Mar 5, 2006 | 02:58 PM
  #6  
Georgia Rider's Avatar
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Default RE: Which HD to buy?

I would say with your size you should look at: Dynas--Wide Glide, Softtails-Heritage Classic, Touring-any of the Road Kings or Glides.
 
Old Mar 5, 2006 | 03:03 PM
  #7  
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Terry TK
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From: San Antonio Texas
Default RE: Which HD to buy?

I have a friend about your size and his wife is a big girl too. He loves his heritage softail. You get all the goodies of a regular softail plus some good size saddlebags and a windshield. Check one out.

 
Old Mar 5, 2006 | 03:15 PM
  #8  
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Sooee
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From: Christchurch, New Zealand
Default RE: Which HD to buy?

Hi and welcome to the forum from New Zealand. [sm=welcomesign.gif]
 
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Old Mar 5, 2006 | 04:51 PM
  #9  
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Default RE: Which HD to buy?

Welcome! Have fun shopping!
 
Old Mar 5, 2006 | 06:42 PM
  #10  
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pilot1996
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Default RE: Which HD to buy?



Glad you found us, hope you enjoy the forums.

Mac
 



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