NEWB Q -- Dyna vs. Softail

[Gummiente]

Mike- it's not that I can't, but pretty likely that I won't. If I was a rich man, I'd have a lot of bikes, and a Harley would definitely be included.

I know, I was just pointing out that Harleys aren't as expensive as they used to be - at least up here in Canada, anyway. Our dollar is at its highest point since '78 and prices on some American goods have come down significantly as a result.

I'm with you on the "If I was a rich man" thing; I have an extensive motorcycle list that would require at least a six bay garage to house them all.

[jmillheiser]

harleys are as expensive as ever here. MSRP is not terribly out of whack compared to the competition but most dealers add a hefty markup.

[jmillheiser]

you can see out of your mirrors at 130kph. On my CX500 I cant see anything out of my mirrors above 100kph.

sounds like the dyna is a lot smoother than the sportster I test rode. you couldn't see out of the mirrors any speed and it had noticeable vibration at all speeds. BTW this was an '06 sportster 1200C

[saileliezer]

Mike, thank you so much for the comparison analysis. It was comprehensive and provided me with the appropriate insight to make the decision -- Looks like a Dyna Low Rider.

Venarius, I also share your viewpoint on comparison shopping. After all being a value shopper myself, I'm not thrilled at Harley's prices. In fact, if I lived in Europe I would purchase a Triumph (no questions asked). Howerer, in the States I'm skeptical about the ability of local shops to service the newer Triumph models, and not thrilled about a long trip to one of two dealers in the State. I also have a very high regard for Ducati, but they do not build a crusing bike for my taste. As far as the Japanese bikes, I've owned four (Yamaha, Kawasaki, Suzuki, and currently Honda) and don't care for their crusing bikes. Amazing race bikes, but not enough genuine character on their cruisers. It does hurt to turn away from the Japanese bikes at half the sticker price, but after all a Harley does have an allure to it that defies rational/value minded riders.

In conclusion -- Triumph in Europe and Harley in the States.

Thank you so much for your responses.

[Locopez]

make sure you do your home work when shopping for your Harley! Most dealers have some kind of mark up, and their prep fees vary from dealer to dealer. Also some dealer add extra goodies (chrome alarm system etc) to the bike and charge you for the labor...so be very aware of the differenes betweens the dealers. This can save you a few bucks....

I should know I have bought two brand new HDs in the last 4 years....

Another point to ponder in handling of a Harley or any other bike...the weight of the bike makes a hugh difference how it feels on the road.

I had a 2002 Dyna Super Glide....and currently own a 2003 FLHT Electra Glide...standard....man I love this bike....

Any way you slice it....ride safe....and smile

[Gummiente]

I should know I have bought two brand new HDs in the last 4 years....I had a 2002 Dyna Super Glide....and currently own a 2003 FLHT Electra Glide...standard....man I love this bike....

Ok, check this out - I've bought two new Harleys in the last 3 years. Had an '04 FLHT and then went to an '06 Dyna Superglide. Loved the comfort and plush ride of that big ol' FL, but I kept scraping the floorboards on my fave twisty roads and wanted something a bit more nimble. I found it on a Dyna; I love this bike!

[Venarius]

90% when someone says Harley's are the best bike...that person doesn't even ride

And 90% when someone bashes them... that person has never ridden one.

Actually I test rode Harley's before I purchased my VTX.
To each their own...but personally I think my VTX has more flavor and character than any harley I looked at. And when I park next to harley's and every one is smaller than my VTX (in braking ability, power, and front to back length)...it seems to give off plenty of character. LOL a few harley guys I rode with once jokeingly asked me to not park next to their bikes because it makes their bikes looks small. But one man's character is another mans scurge... But if Character is measured only in vibration...than no, my bike doesn't have the character of a harley.

But it seems he is set on a Harley, so it doesn't really matter.

It does hurt to turn away from the Japanese bikes at half the sticker price, but after all a Harley does have an allure to it that defies rational/value minded riders.

Couldn't have said it better myself...its one of those "If you don't understand, you never will" things...and I don't.

I wouldn't worry about owning a Triumph, but then again I live in massachusetts and there are at least 2 triumph dealers within an hour of me.

[Locopez]

Another point to think about if you are not in a hurry to buy a bike. Is most Harley dealers have rentals....rent both bike for a weekend at a time...this will help you make a informed decision. And possible in the end save you money.