Picked up my new Road Glide at the dealer today and took the long way home (100km instead of the usual 27km route), riding through rain all the way. Didn't care, though, as I was one happy camper. Had the tunes blaring from the stereo as I varied the rpm's and got to know my new ride - from the first impressions I can tell you that "Bluebird" and I are going to be very happy together.
Here's my thoughts after the first ride...
Coming off the '06 Dyna Super Glide, the first thing I noticed was the lack of vibration at speed. This bike feels just like my old '04 FLHT, but more comfy. It shakes noticeably at idle, but as soon as it's put into gear and the clutch is let out she is smooth as glass. Lots of power from the new 96" mill and the gear ratios are better spaced than on the Dyna. The mufflers sound great - no need to change them at all, IMO. I was a little disappointed at the small, odd shaped fairing storage pockets. After seeing the lids in the pics on the Harley site I figured there'd be loads of room, but no. I can fit my sunglasses in one pocket and my camera in the other, though, so there's no need for a tank pouch. The handling was a real surprise; it was very windy today but the bike tracked nice and straight and the handlebars felt light as a feather - the frame mounted fairing is everything that RG owners said it would be. I think a taller windshield will be the first accessory, as I find it to be about 2" too low for my tastes (I'm 5'10"). The seat is very comfy and I don't see a need to change it to a solo just yet (the wife has her own bike), but the passenger floorboards were removed as soon as I got home. They really interfered with my legs at stoplights and when backing out of parking spots. I like the stereo, it's the first time I've ever had one on a bike. I find it easy to use, although it's a bit of a reach to the on/off button while riding. I tried the cruise control for a couple km's (keeping in mind I'm in the break-in phase for the next 700km) and couldn't help but giggle at the novelty of it all. So much better than having to fumble with that little star wheel under the throttle grip. However, the on/off switch is on the right side of the dash which makes for a bit of an awkward reach with the left hand when trying to turn it on while riding. Mine came with the accessory plug under the seat and it fit my electric vest hookup perfectly. I was surprised to find a tool roll in the saddlebag, with chrome tools no less, but I decided not to keep it on the bike. If this RG is as reliable as my FLHT was I'll never have to use it anyway.
That's about all I can think of for now. I'm off to the garage to stare at her again for awhile. Here's a pic taken at my parent's place when I stopped by there on my way home:
Mike 
