Wildguzzi.com
General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: vstevens on March 02, 2019, 06:41:24 PM
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Anyone ride one, own one?
I went to a local HD dealership and sat on a few - too rainy for test drives - they feel balanced and light(er) compared to the previous models. Once the weather allows, I may have to test ride a couple of the softail lineup. The heritage classic is gorgeous (to me), and the street bob feels good too from the saddle... of course that may all change once I have them on the road.
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I've ridden most of them already, a few multiple times. I'm very VERY happy with them. I always HATED the Harley Softails, but I can see owning one of these eventually.
Especially the Heritage or Sport Glide.
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I've ridden most of them already, a few multiple times. I'm very VERY happy with them. I always HATED the Harley Softails, but I can see owning one of these eventually.
Especially the Heritage or Sport Glide.
Kev I didn't see the sport glide but will check one out when I can. I was shocked at how easily I could move around the heritage. I also sat on the road king for comparison- it is VERY noticeably heavier, I love the RK but it's just too heavy for me. I wasnt thinking Harley might be my next (perhaps my last) bike. But I might be willing to go into debt for a softail heritage.
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Yeah, I really love my RK but it is BIG, even moreso with the 31" seat height on my Police model. That plus 800# wet can be a handful when stopped or pushing around the garage.
The Heritage sits lower, turns pretty well, moves pretty quick all things considered. But it feels even more than the 100# lighter it is than the RK.
And that M8 motor is sweet.
I would either want a Heritage with sealed tubeless wheels or a Sport Glide plus floor boards.
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The new Softail line replaced the old ST and the Dyna series. It's supposed to be much sportier while retaining the ST appearance.
I haven't ridden one but it seems to make sense.
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Last year I bought an 07soft tail deluxe for my son, who is very challenged, height wise. With its 28" seat height it fits him perfectly. That bike is a pleasure to ride, even if it is a Harley. I can imagine how a new one would be.
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Last year I bought an 07soft tail deluxe for my son, who is very challenged, height wise. With its 28" seat height it fits him perfectly. That bike is a pleasure to ride, even if it is a Harley. I can imagine how a new one would be.
Dan,
There's really very little in common between the pre-18 and the new Softail, other than the names of some models and some looks.
The new chassis is tighter, lighter, better sprung. The new powertrain is more powerful, slicker, and by all measures improved.
It's a leap forward that changed everything for me with regards to the whole platform.
I can't overstate this...
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Dan,
There's really very little in common between the pre-18 and the new Softail, other than the names of some models and some looks.
The new chassis is tighter, lighter, better sprung. The new powertrain is more powerful, slicker, and by all measures improved.
It's a leap forward that changed everything for me with regards to the whole platform.
I can overstate this...
Yea I've heard the new bikes are a totally new creature. If they are that much better than the 07 we have it must be a killer mechine!!
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Bought a 2018, Heritage last Aug. put front crash bars, saddle bag guards and a seat with a backrest. I really like it. but I only have 4500 miles on it. but if you ride a Littel aggressive in the mounton’s you will ware the rub guard off on the floor boards. That’s the only negative I got. When you drop it (when stopped) get you a 2 ft. Pice of cord to put on saddle bag crash bar to lift the bike, when you put your back into it and grab the handle bar with one hand then nothing to grab with the other hand to lift the bike. One thing the Dealer told me 3500 rpm and up don’t lug the engine, with so much power you will want to run 2000 rpm.rudyr
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Oh Heck, I'm a liar.
I rode Rudy's bike around the parking lot at Dusty's Talimena Rally.
Thanks Rudy.
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kev is spot on
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We've owned a couple of Heritage Softail bikes and currently have a 2017 model and have been happy with all of them.
By all accounts, this new crop is even better in terms of performance and handling as compared to the previous year models.
Take an extended test ride - or (better yet) rent one for a day - but don't forget to come back and tell us what you found out.
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(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4213/35510080920_9366757002_b.jpg)
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kev is spot on
Agree 100% :wink: :thumb: :cool: Many people poo-poo Harley's, but anyone that has ever owned / ridden a modern one will tell you otherwise.
I have 250,000+ miles on four Big Twin HD's - 2 Electra Glide Sports (FLH-S) and 2 Road Kings (FLHR)- and they are excellent open highway, long distance, touring bikes. :cool: :thumb: ...and forget all that poser HD scene / images - the bikes themselves are fine. Best of all - dealers / parts / service EVERYWHERE... :wink:
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Agree 100% :wink: :thumb: :cool: Many people poo-poo Harley's, but anyone that has ever owned / ridden a modern one will tell you otherwise.
I have 250,000+ miles on four Big Twin HD's - 2 Electra Glide Sports (FLH-S) and 2 Road Kings (FLHR)- and they are excellent open highway, long distance, touring bikes. :cool: :thumb: ...and forget all that poser HD scene / images - the bikes themselves are fine. Best of all - dealers / parts / service EVERYWHERE... :wink:
I have not ridden a new HD in many years, but know many who have them.. Really the last 10-20 years they have built a real nice bike. Most of the flack came from the 70's and most was well deserved. The big twins are not really my thing, but really I wouldnt mind building up a sporty one day..
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I have not ridden a new HD in many years, but know many who have them.. Really the last 10-20 years they have built a real nice bike. Most of the flack came from the 70's and most was well deserved. The big twins are not really my thing, but really I wouldnt mind building up a sporty one day..
If I bought another Harley today, I also really like the 2019 Softail Slim picture here at a dealership in Las Vegas. Very low and retro! Just add a small touring windscreen and hard bags and off you go to your next adventure!
(https://i.ibb.co/jk52Hxk/IMG-E7812.jpg) (https://ibb.co/jk52Hxk)
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If I bought another Harley today, I also really like the 2019 Softail Slim picture here at a dealership in Las Vegas. Very low and retro! Just add a small touring windscreen and hard bags and off you go to your next adventure!
(https://i.ibb.co/jk52Hxk/IMG-E7812.jpg) (https://ibb.co/jk52Hxk)
I chased one of them down in the Pinelands a month or so ago. I didn't realize that's what it was until I was up close.
Man it really looks like an old bike in both form and size.
I like it more than I should.
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I chased one of them down in the Pinelands a month or so ago. I didn't realize that's what it was until I was up close.
Man it really looks like an old bike in both form and size.
I like it more than I should.
It's a good thing I am"retired" now, and on a fixed income, or I would just pull the trigger and get one!! :thumb: :cool: :wink:
(https://i.ibb.co/HHkq9hp/Screen-Shot-2019-03-03-at-7-25-11-AM.png) (https://ibb.co/HHkq9hp)
(https://i.ibb.co/NNKdXDh/Screen-Shot-2019-03-03-at-7-24-48-AM.png) (https://ibb.co/NNKdXDh)
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Spensive!
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Spensive!
Yes...and like most good things in life..."If you want to PLAY...then ya gotta PAY!!" :laugh: :grin: :wink:
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I was at the local HD dealer yesterday just roaming around trying to beat my severe case of cabin fever. If I were to buy a new HD it would be the softail slim. I own three HD's 1985 being the newest. I better stay away I'm getting the itch. Probably wouldn't now how to act on that new technology!!'
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what makes a softtail a soft tail? the other bikes arent rigid?? I truly to not understand harley's model designations... they all look identical, with slight variations in how much 'bling' they have, but otherwise it's just two motors and the different bikes are all cosmetic differences? (yes i'm lumping things like different wheel sizes into the 'cosmetic' designation)
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what makes a softtail a soft tail? the other bikes arent rigid?? I truly to not understand harley's model designations... they all look identical, with slight variations in how much 'bling' they have, but otherwise it's just two motors and the different bikes are all cosmetic differences? (yes i'm lumping things like different wheel sizes into the 'cosmetic' designation)
(https://i.ibb.co/pQzdnGP/Screen-Shot-2019-03-03-at-8-56-34-AM.png) (https://ibb.co/pQzdnGP)
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(https://i.ibb.co/tY38YYb/5-BD2-D7-F4-7598-4-FC0-B861-5-D06-F45272-BA.jpg) (https://ibb.co/tY38YYb)
I had ridden Harleys before, but never wanted one. Overweight, overpriced, underpowered, etc. That was then!
A few weeks ago I stumbled across a review of the new Softail Sport Glide that said the handling had been transformed by using an upside-down Showa front and preload-adjustable monoshock. I’d already heard the frames on the new models were lighter and stiffer, and the Milwaukee 8 engine vibrated less and produced more power.
On a whim, I stopped at a nearby H-D dealer and sat on one. I was surprised at how low it carried its weight, making it easy to move around. I was offered an extended solo ride to try it on some familiar back roads.
It took me no time at all to feel comfortable and confident. I wound up buying it.
I’m still breaking it in at 800 miles, but it’s definitely a keeper. ABS, cruise control, LED lighting, keyless ignition and security system are standard, and the bags and fairing detach in seconds. Easy to ride, plenty of go, and a very high fun factor.
Here’s a link to my bike porn slideshow.
https://youtu.be/FyF6XNnxfSc (https://youtu.be/FyF6XNnxfSc)
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what makes a softtail a soft tail? the other bikes arent rigid?? I truly to not understand harley's model designations... they all look identical, with slight variations in how much 'bling' they have, but otherwise it's just two motors and the different bikes are all cosmetic differences? (yes i'm lumping things like different wheel sizes into the 'cosmetic' designation)
Well let me clear up some misconceptions.
The Softail was introduced in the 80's with a hidden suspension to look like factory hard tails of years past.
They now have been redesigned to be a more modern mono-shock chassis that maintains the classic look.
Harley currently has the following platforms:
Touring
Softail
Sportster
Street
Each actually has its own motor.
Touring - rubbermounted, single counterbalanced M8
Softail - solidmount, dual-counterbalanced M8
Sportster - 883 cc and 1200 cc unitized EVO
Street - 500cc and 750cc revolution motors (750cc in two variants)
Models made on those different chassis vary by bars, seats, wheels, bodywork, fairings, controls, etc.
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I want a Softail Slim
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Are the Milwaukee 8 engines exhibiting oil pump issues or is what I've read hyperbole?
My pal (life long Harley enthusiast) loved his M-8 Ultra Limited
until he bought a new Indian Chieftain Limited.
I could probably live with either :boozing:
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Are the Milwaukee 8 engines exhibiting oil pump issues or is what I've read hyperbole?
My pal (life long Harley enthusiast) loved his M-8 Ultra Limited
until he bought a new Indian Chieftain Limited.
I could probably live with either :boozing:
The M8 was released first for touring models in 2017, and there were some sumping issues reported. Fixed by 2018, which was when the new softail models were introduced.
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I believe the sumping issues were largely or only on highly modified motors (like Stage 3 or 4 upgrades).
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Wow, a dead of winter Harley thread with no hate? Is this the new kinder Wild Guzzi ?
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I want a Softail Slim
Me too!! :thumb: :cool: :smiley:
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Me too!! :thumb: :cool: :smiley:
Me 3
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I agree, something is amiss with this thread.
I’m going to attempt some fixing. HD are about as exciting as a 2008 Toyota Camery. Thank god I don’t have to ride one.
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Maybe...
We just need more Harley pictures
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(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4293/36030659945_bee312f00c_b.jpg)
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I agree, something is amiss with this thread.
I’m going to attempt some fixing. HD are about as exciting as a 2008 Toyota Camery. Thank god I don’t have to ride one.
Which Harley models and years have you ridden?
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Anyone ride one, own one?
I went to a local HD dealership and sat on a few - too rainy for test drives - they feel balanced and light(er) compared to the previous models. Once the weather allows, I may have to test ride a couple of the softail lineup. The heritage classic is gorgeous (to me), and the street bob feels good too from the saddle... of course that may all change once I have them on the road.
I have test ridden just about every Harley bike made in the last 6 years. The new softails are an amazing platform. My dilemma is that I like the looks of some models better than the riding position, or cornering ability. (don't like mid controls, fat rear tires) The models that handle great have looks that don't excite me. (Fat Bob, FXDR)
I will say though that if Harley comes out with a new softail slim with this paint job I will be a buyer.
(https://i.ibb.co/0VhcJK8/20190223-120704.jpg) (https://ibb.co/0VhcJK8)
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Wow, a dead of winter Harley thread with no hate? Is this the new kinder Wild Guzzi ?
Here ya go.
Before I would buy or ride a hardly, Id drink my weight in buzzard puke and die of the drizzling shitz.
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Plus one! Relax twa, the op asked for opinions, he didn’t say he wanted reasonable opinions!
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My opinion? The bike looks minimalist nice like a mild bob job Pan....But why is this modern era do some bikes weigh 200 pounds more than need to?
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My opinion? The bike looks minimalist nice like a mild bob job Pan....But why is this modern era do some bikes weigh 200 pounds more than need to?
1.75L motor
Antilock brakes
EFI
Huge wheels and tires
Wheelbase
Iron instead of aluminum (cost but also see below)
And an design/engineering principle of overbuilding both for actual strength (300# gorilla that uses the brake pedal as a still to reach a shelf in their garage) and feel (designed to feel substantial, like a freight train on the highway).
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1.75L motor
Antilock brakes
EFI
Huge wheels and tires
Wheelbase
Iron instead of aluminum (cost but also see below)
And an design/engineering principle of overbuilding both for actual strength (300# gorilla that uses the brake pedal as a still to reach a shelf in their garage) and feel (designed to feel substantial, like a freight train on the highway).
And let's not forget chromed metal instead of plasti-chrome. I've never had buzzy parts on my Haries, but have on my Japanese bikes.
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1.75L motor
Antilock brakes
EFI
Huge wheels and tires
Wheelbase
Iron instead of aluminum (cost but also see below)
And an design/engineering principle of overbuilding both for actual strength (300# gorilla that uses the brake pedal as a still to reach a shelf in their garage) and feel (designed to feel substantial, like a freight train on the highway).
Perhaps, but overbuilding does not have to mean without any concerns for vehicle weight...But I do believe you correct about the "substancial feel"...That was the old theory of US cars "Road hugging weight"...
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Perhaps, but overbuilding does not have to mean without any concerns for vehicle weight...But I do believe you correct about the "substancial feel"...That was the old theory of US cars "Road hugging weight"...
Yeah, that was the saying at the time. Four thousand pounds of road hugging weight. Harley=55 Buick. :evil:
How's that, Chad?
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Perhaps, but overbuilding does not have to mean without any concerns for vehicle weight...But I do believe you correct about the "substancial feel"...That was the old theory of US cars "Road hugging weight"...
Like I said to some extent it's a purposely sought after feel. Part of the ergonomics really.
I realize it doesn't HAVE to weigh a ton to be stable, but I do think the low center of gravity and high weights help with crosswinds on interstates. Certainly they are among the most stable bikes that I've been on when it comes to high winds, even down to tropical storms.
But as I say, I think it is a combination of design principles, materials, and cost.
BTW, I was told about the 300# gorilla and brake pedal example by a Harley brake engineer.
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The Harley Road King weighs 836 lbs and that Indian Chieftain only weighs 817 lbs
Big old fat Harleys !
:bike-037:
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The Harley Road King weighs 836 lbs and that Indian Chieftain only weighs 817 lbs
Big old fat Harleys !
:bike-037:
My Police RK was only 786# dry and 821# wet, though that was with some standard police gear I don't have. So I might be CLOSE to that 817....
...Then I sit on it and it breaks the 'ton' :shocked: (ok, actually 1/2 a real ton but .... )! :laugh:
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Yamaha put this together in an aluminum frame. Air-cooled, pushrod motor. Belt drive.
It's approx 750 lbs and then add a large windshield, lower wind deflectors, crash bar, fatso seat/backrest, sissy bar/rack, saddlebag mounts/saddlebags, etc. etc.
Maybe 800 lbs now.
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4546/37709567104_e11e9acb7c_b.jpg)
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To me, the weight of the new softails was very manageable and balanced, low center of gravity. The previous generation are heavier and not so balanced. But until you actually sit on a road king and then a new softail you can't really feel it. I do like the V9 bobber as well, it is lighter and half as expensive. But the heritage classic is gorgeous, fells substantial but easy to move around (some kind of voodoo... or engineering) and has dealers everywhere (if that matters to you). I've been perusing HD forums for info on heat output and any common issues. One thing I don't want is a bike that cooks my thighs (or my wife's)
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I haven't quite warmed up to the painted laced wheels and the new saddlebag design and the half-painted windshields and stuff on the new Heritage Softails when we were last in the market for a motorcycle. Instead, we bought the "last year's model". The ergonomics are good, as is the wind management AFTER adding a set of lower wind deflectors.
Pay no attention to that old Hippy in the tye-dye.
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(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/841/42442618274_0258411032_b.jpg)
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On the subject of weight, I will say that my 2012 Griso at 550 pounds felt heavier and took more muscle to move around the garage or parking lot than my 700-pound FLSB because the Harley has a lower seat and center of gravity. Both were weightless when moving.
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My half sister, now 90, and complaining because she had to get her first pair of glasses.. :grin: has been in every state (except Tom's) Canadian provinces, etc. on the back of a Gold Wing. The couple they used to ride with had a hawg of some kind. She said when they switched passengers she preferred the back on the Harley.
I get it. There are few bikes that are better for going places, especially on the interstate. I like the character of the engine.
Just the same, there have been a few instances in my riding career where an instant evasive maneuver kept me from being in the middle of a car sandwich. :shocked:
Give me a sporty bike with enough power, suspension, and brakes to dodge the BDCs.. <shrug> That's why they make all kinds.
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The difference between a fighter plane and a bomber!
You can have lunch in a bomber...but give me a fighter every time!
:-)
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The difference between a fighter plane and a bomber!
You can have lunch in a bomber...but give me a fighter every time!
:-)
Yeah, baby! :grin:
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The difference between a fighter plane and a bomber!
You can have lunch in a bomber...but give me a fighter every time!
:-)
Neither one is significant if one is not a pilot and can't get it off the ground:)
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Neither one is significant if one is not a pilot and can't get it off the ground:)
But if you can, in either case, you're flying... :cool:
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I’m sure they are nice machines, but if I could afford one I’d hate to think I might be accepted into the throngs of local leather clad tattoo flashing “bikers” would I have to start going to bars and frown? :angry:
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And cross your arms over your chest whenever the camera pans to you?
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I’m sure they are nice machines, but if I could afford one I’d hate to think I might be accepted into the throngs of local leather clad tattoo flashing “bikers” would I have to start going to bars and frown? :angry:
Or you could just be YOU... just sayin'
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Despite my critical opinion of the weight...I would take a close look if I was in the market for such a bike.. Bike weight is an interesting topic..Those who like heavy bikes will say it's like a overweight person who can dance "they are light on their feet"..... :wink:
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I’m sure they are nice machines, but if I could afford one I’d hate to think I might be accepted into the throngs of local leather clad tattoo flashing “bikers” would I have to start going to bars and frown? :angry:
But what would summertime be with out the endless strands of gay pirates on parade? It’s all good fun!
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I am sure Harleys are great bikes but I think the Cal T 1400 is still the best of the lot. Great handling, brakes, control and engine that revs. Now, only if the Cal had mid-mounts and service in every town........
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I am sure Harleys are great bikes but I think the Cal T 1400 is still the best of the lot. Great handling, brakes, control and engine that revs. Now, only if the Cal had mid-mounts and service in every town........
I agree totally, I love my 1400 tourer and as long as continues to run good and I can manage to get it serviced and minor issues taker Care, there will not being another Harley in my stall. That being said if I had to give up my 1400 for whatever reason the Harley soft tail would be my choice of rides. I have owned several over my ridding years and no one can deny that they are not great bikes.
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But what would summertime be with out the endless strands of gay pirates on parade? It’s all good fun!
Sounds like you've been to bike nights in my town :laugh:
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I have owned several over my ridding years and no one can deny that they are not great bikes.
Oh, yeah I can. :smiley: The older softtails sucked. I rented one in Las Vegas several years ago and thought it was the poorest excuse for a motorcycle I'd ever ridden in the mountains at that time. It barely had enough power to do the speed limit climbing. Started throwing sparks at shallow lean angles. BIL Harley Bob had one, and I rode it a fair amount, too, taking kids for rides, etc. It was *not* a great bike, IMHO. The new ones are no doubt better from what I've read. <shrug>
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Oh, yeah I can. :smiley: The older softtails sucked. I rented one in Las Vegas several years ago and thought it was the poorest excuse for a motorcycle I'd ever ridden in the mountains at that time. It barely had enough power to do the speed limit climbing. Started throwing sparks at shallow lean angles. BIL Harley Bob had one, and I rode it a fair amount, too, taking kids for rides, etc. It was *not* a great bike, IMHO. The new ones are no doubt better from what I've read. <shrug>
Not sure what you tried to get the Harley soft tail to do but I own 1/2 of an 07 soft tail deluxe that I bought for my son a couple years ago. No it's not a Hot Rod road racer by no means nor is it loaded with drag racing HP. That being said, to strap a bag of duds on the luggage rack and hit the road for a 3-4 hundred mile get away, I found it to be quite pleasure to ride. However each to his own👍
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Oh, yeah I can. :smiley: The older softtails sucked. I rented one in Las Vegas several years ago and thought it was the poorest excuse for a motorcycle I'd ever ridden in the mountains at that time. It barely had enough power to do the speed limit climbing. Started throwing sparks at shallow lean angles. BIL Harley Bob had one, and I rode it a fair amount, too, taking kids for rides, etc. It was *not* a great bike, IMHO. The new ones are no doubt better from what I've read. <shrug>
Bev and I rented a Road King and rode it all over Oahu. Scraped the boards left and right just running a kink in the road.
The guy renting it was cool, warned me about the NE part of the island: "Break Your Back Beach", "Break Your Neck Beach", "Drowning Hole", all the cool stuff. He wadn't kiddin'. I'd never get out there in first place.
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Again the problem with judging even a Harley with the same name for example a "Road King" is that in the past two plus decades they came with SIX different engines (not counting EFI and carb versions of the same motors), at least four different frame variants, and FIVE different model variants (up to 3-4 in a given year) with different suspensions, cornering lean angles and ground clearances etc before modifications. And if mods are done all bets are off could be much better or much worse in lots of ways.
Similar things are true with most of the bikes in the line so riding one or two may not tell you much.
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I went on a day trip with 7 bikes last summer, all riding solo. Four of them were new or late model Harley baggers. We rode back roads and the Harleys keep up a pretty good pace on a section of bumpy pavement with moderate curves...I could pace them easily on my Ducati but they were moving faster than expected..I don't care for such large machines but they do the job within their design limits...
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I made a test ride on one of the new Softails with the optional 114CID motor a few months ago and I was very impressed. That thing would flat get up and go.
The new Softail series replaces both the previous Dyna and Softail series. Keeping the Softail name may have been a misstep. These Softails are very different from those of old. They are much more sporting in design and nature. Many folks may think the new Softail is just be a facelift of the old. They are much more.
The new Softail numbers are telling.
Front suspension travel:
- New Softail Sport Glide 5.1 inches
- Guzzi CA 1400 4.7
- Dyna FXDC 5.0
Rear Suspension travel:
- New Softail Sport Glide 3.4 inches
- Guzzi CA 1400 4.3
- Dyna FXDC 3.1
Front Trail:
- New Softail Sport Glide 5.9 inches
- Guzzi CA 1400 6.1
- Dyna FXDC 4.7
The big thing about judging a H-D is how the bike is set-up, configured and you normally have a lot of leeway there.
My Dyna FXDC is set up with performance suspension and it will run with my new BMW R1200GS on a curvy road. Not saying it will outrun the GS but it won't be far behind. However, most of the H-D market doesn't want that. They want low and loud for just cruising.
Another huge thing. Of all the brands that I've owned, the H-D's have been the lowest maintenance and most dependable by a very long shot.
H-D may not be your cup of tea and I can understand that but an open mind will find credit for them beyond what many people would expect.
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I made a test ride on one of the new Softails with the optional 114CID motor a few months ago and I was very impressed. That thing would flat get up and go.
The new Softail series replaces both the previous Dyna and Softail series. Keeping the Softail name may have been a misstep. These Softails are very different from those of old. They are much more sporting in design and nature. Many folks may think the new Softail is just be a facelift of the old. They are much more.
The new Softail numbers are telling.
Front suspension travel:
- New Softail Sport Glide 5.1 inches
- Guzzi CA 1400 4.7
- Dyna FXDC 5.0
Rear Suspension travel:
- New Softail Sport Glide 3.4 inches
- Guzzi CA 1400 4.3
- Dyna FXDC 3.1
Front Trail:
- New Softail Sport Glide 5.9 inches
- Guzzi CA 1400 6.1
- Dyna FXDC 4.7
The big thing about judging a H-D is how the bike is set-up, configured and you normally have a lot of leeway there.
My Dyna FXDC is set up with performance suspension and it will run with my new BMW R1200GS on a curvy road. Not saying it will outrun the GS but it won't be far behind. However, most of the H-D market doesn't want that. They want low and loud for just cruising.
Another huge thing. Of all the brands that I've owned, the H-D's have been the lowest maintenance and most dependable by a very long shot.
H-D may not be your cup of tea and I can understand that but an open mind will find credit for them beyond what many people would expect.
I actually have a good friend that offered to sell me his 2009 FXDC dyna superglide custom for 5k. It's been a good commuter and very reliable. He's the original owner. I still haven't ridden it but if it is near as manageable as the new softail heritage I will buy it.
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I’m sure they are nice machines, but if I could afford one I’d hate to think I might be accepted into the throngs of local leather clad tattoo flashing “bikers” would I have to start going to bars and frown? :angry:
If you are that easily influenced then maybe you better stick with Honda.
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Bev and I rented a Road King and rode it all over Oahu. Scraped the boards left and right just running a kink in the road.
The guy renting it was cool, warned me about the NE part of the island: "Break Your Back Beach", "Break Your Neck Beach", "Drowning Hole", all the cool stuff. He wadn't kiddin'. I'd never get out there in first place.
Do you guys that rent take the time to set the preload for you and passenger weight?
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I haven't quite warmed up to the painted laced wheels and the new saddlebag design and the half-painted windshields and stuff on the new Heritage Softails when we were last in the market for a motorcycle. Instead, we bought the "last year's model". The ergonomics are good, as is the wind management AFTER adding a set of lower wind deflectors.
Pay no attention to that old Hippy in the tye-dye.
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The new Deluxe is easily made into a chromed out Heritage.
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The new Deluxe is easily made into a chromed out Heritage.
:thumb:
Simply gorgeous. If comfortable for two and weight is well-balanced and manageable then why not. I enjoyed my V7 stone around town and the occasional weekend canyon carving. But my wife wouldn't ride with me (together, we're just too much for the V7), and long highway rides were not pleasant (to me or my wife). Perhaps a bit of 'heft' and comfort will convince her to ride with me... I'm tired of riding alone. I'd be happy with either the deluxe or heritage... or perhaps my friends 2009 FXDC if it fits the bill. The 1400 Cali just doesn't appeal to me, personally. I know its a great bike and all but it just isn't for me.
vince
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I’m sure they are nice machines, but if I could afford one I’d hate to think I might be accepted into the throngs of local leather clad tattoo flashing “bikers” would I have to start going to bars and frown? :angry:
John - you make some very good points
But, have you ever really tried it?
I mean.... you might LIKE it !
And those Harley babes ???
How can you resist ???
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John - you make some very good points
But, have you ever really tried it?
I mean.... you might LIKE it !
And those Harley babes ???
How can you resist ???
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(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4704/39763306681_76648a63f8_b.jpg)
Which "Softail" model are these? :wink:
Rick
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eeewwww..
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Or you could just be YOU... just sayin'
hey Gunther smoothface, were you born without a sense of humor or did you have it surgically removed??
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hey Gunther smoothface, were you born without a sense of humor or did you have it surgically removed??
PSSSSSSSSSSSSSSST, then next time put something there like ----> :evil: or :grin: or :laugh: so people can tell you're not another whiny little bitch.
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Gawd I detest Harley threads :rolleyes:
One question that has always bothered me , well , two actually . First , since there were like 3 Davidson boys plus their dad who provided the first shop , and only 1 Harley , why isn't the MoCo called Davidson Harley ? Second , why do so many HD riders insist on running open pipes and then turning their stereo up to the OMG THAT IS LOUD setting ?
Carry on , but do please remain somewhat civil , warmer weather is around the corner .
Dusty
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Oh , and one more little quibble , why did HD badge the 1954 models as 50th anniversary models , and then somehow magically badge the 2003 models as 100th anniversary ? Something smells fishy in Milwaukee :shocked:
Dusty
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Carry on , but do please remain somewhat civil , warmer weather is around the corner .
Dusty
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(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4881/32022915148_9afbf22222_b.jpg)
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Speaking as a motorcycle lover of all the brands and have owned most of the popular ones, unfortunately my Guzzis is not in that class of being "popular":( I think I can identify the major divide between HD and most any of the other makes. For what ever reason, possibly the lust for the Bad Boy image, most folks who ride and own a Harley tends to follow the cult of the Harley Davidson Motorcycle that includes the T shirts, leather jackets with all the patches, helmets with the insignias, etc. Also it seems necessary to take off perfectly effective quiet mufflers and add obnoxious loud pipes with the claim it adds HP, as well as other attributes that tend to annoy other brand owners. However there are many of us guys and gals out here that own and have owned HD and never felt the need to advertise for the company nor follow that Biker image, I did not. My 1400 tourer is my ride of choice at this time in my ridding career and may possibly be my last. However if the feeling ever overcomes me to own another Harley I will do so unapologetically as it very well may be the best motorcycle on the face of the planet:)
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^^^^ :laugh:
Nice picture Kevin :thumb:
Dusty
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I had one of the very first SoftTails ever made. 4 speed chain drive. I rode the crap out of it. A fantastic fun bike-but I WAS young and dumb!
Rode a new 107 last year. Very impressive motorcycle.
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PSSSSSSSSSSSSSSST, then next time put something there like ----> :evil: or :grin: or :laugh: so people can tell you're not another whiny little bitch.
surgically removed. No doubt. :wink:
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Are you selling your red 1400 T. I guess the Harley must be your favorite?
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Which "Softail" model are these? :wink:
Rick
I think those are the Wide-Glides
:laugh: :laugh: :laugh:
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Are you selling your red 1400 T. I guess the Harley must be your favorite?
That 1400T is for sale, to be sure - but if I really had to pick a bike that I am "partial to" then it would be this Versys 1000
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But, these VStar1300's are real workhorses - especially when ya gotta bring the Wife and all of HER stuff, also
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Kevin, With all your machines, you should give us the pros and cons of all the touring bikes, Harley, Yammie, Guzzi, etc.
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Kevin, With all your machines, you should give us the pros and cons of all the touring bikes, Harley, Yammie, Guzzi, etc.
John -
After owning more than 80 motorcycles, I feel that I am a poor source for any type of meaningful review. It's obvious that I simply cannot make up my mind.
:grin: :grin: :grin:
Kevin
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Speaking as a motorcycle lover of all the brands and have owned most of the popular ones, unfortunately my Guzzis is not in that class of being "popular":( I think I can identify the major divide between HD and most any of the other makes. For what ever reason, possibly the lust for the Bad Boy image, most folks who ride and own a Harley tends to follow the cult of the Harley Davidson Motorcycle that includes the T shirts, leather jackets with all the patches, helmets with the insignias, etc. Also it seems necessary to take off perfectly effective quiet mufflers and add obnoxious loud pipes with the claim it adds HP, as well as other attributes that tend to annoy other brand owners. However there are many of us guys and gals out here that own and have owned HD and never felt the need to advertise for the company nor follow that Biker image, I did not. My 1400 tourer is my ride of choice at this time in my ridding career and may possibly be my last. However if the feeling ever overcomes me to own another Harley I will do so unapologetically as it very well may be the best motorcycle on the face of the planet:)
This is where stereotypes come from. Every motorcycle forum I go on takes about aftermarket pipes. Harley doesnt own that conversation.
Most motorcycle genres have their uniform whether we participate or not. SS riders with their full leathers on the street. BMW riders with their Aerostich, Klim or whatever ultra expensive gear is in favor at the time. Goldwing riders with their embroidered satin jackets, open face helmets with boom mic.
I think because Harly is the leader in sales far exceeding the others is what makes them a target. The interesting thing is that bikers are some of the most charitable people as a group that I have ever met.
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John - you make some very good points
But, have you ever really tried it?
I mean.... you might LIKE it !
And those Harley babes ???
How can you resist ???
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(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4704/39763306681_76648a63f8_b.jpg)
42-39-56 you could say she got it all! Whole lots Rosie!
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A proper two into one exhaust system can do a lot for a Harley as shown by the Sportster powered Buells. It can be loud enough to be noticed but not obnoxious. But most stick to the staggered duals and the awful agricultural noise...The stock duals with a crossover pipe are a bit better..
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I have stock exhaust systems on all 5 of our current bikes.
Even when I have run a slightly free'r flowing exhaust I normally kept it very mild. Like our Sportster used to run OEM mufflers for which I'd doubled the size of the holes in the baffle and added a few more rows, but kept the baffle plate intact. It wasn't even as loud as the "50 State Street Legal Screaming Eagle Accessory Exhaust". My Buell with their Racing SuperTrap was too loud for me even after I repacked the muffler and removed some discs. But it was making about 100 rwhp.
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This is where stereotypes come from. Every motorcycle forum I go on takes about aftermarket pipes. Harley doesnt own that conversation.
Most motorcycle genres have their uniform whether we participate or not. SS riders with their full leathers on the street. BMW riders with their Aerostich, Klim or whatever ultra expensive gear is in favor at the time. Goldwing riders with their embroidered satin jackets, open face helmets with boom mic.
I think because Harly is the leader in sales far exceeding the others is what makes them a target. The interesting thing is that bikers are some of the most charitable people as a group that I have ever met.
My intentions were not to " stereotype " any brand however it's simply a fact that it's more common to see Harley's with after market, louder than factory, pipes and mufflers than any of the other brands.
Personally I could care less what types of pipes anyone spends their hard earned money on and if their choice meets the legal decibel requirements, then all the power to you;)
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My intentions were not to " stereotype " any brand however it's simply a fact that it's more common to see a Harley's with after market, louder than factory, pipes and mufflers than any of the other brands.
Personally I could care less what types of pipes anyone spends their hard earned money on and if their choice meets the legal decibel requirements, then all the power to you;)
Aftermarket devices of silencing (play on an old Bridgestone owner's manual) are fine , it's the open pipes that are just stupid .
Dusty
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Aftermarket devices of silencing (play on an old Bridgestone owner's manual) are fine , it's the open pipes that are just stupid .
Dusty
Yeah, I live within a stones throw of a major road in Folsom and every day I hear a herd of Harleys. Weekends are unbelievable.
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dvJ1fxjR5i0/WH_bdiqj22I/AAAAAAAAUwI/AyvfIXnFOlgjKSC9_A9Fh3CyGeJpt1iSQCLcB/s1600/bikers%2Btrump.jpg)
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My intentions were not to " stereotype " any brand however it's simply a fact that it's more common to see Harley's with after market, louder than factory, pipes and mufflers than any of the other brands.
Depends on what you mean by that.
You see MORE Harleys than anything else on the road.
Therefore even if the same percentage of Harleys had louder pipes as any other brand, you'd still SEE MORE Harleys.
Now if you meant "you see a higher percentage of Harleys with louder pipes than...." I'm not sure it's completely defensible.
It might be, certainly it's more likely true when compared to say BMW....but I'm not sure how universally true it is.
That said, I do think you see more jit-bags with completely open pipes on Harley than anything else.
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Depends on what you mean by that.
You see MORE Harleys than anything else on the road.
Therefore even if the same percentage of Harleys had louder pipes as any other brand, you'd still SEE MORE Harleys.
Now if you meant "you see a higher percentage of Harleys with louder pipes than...." I'm not sure it's completely defensible.
Yea my opinion was based on percentages of each brand. It unusual to see aftermarket pipes on the other brands, as a whole. Either way it's no big deal, like I said, each to his own as to their preference.
It might be, certainly it's more likely true when compared to say BMW....but I'm not sure how universally true it is.
That said, I do think you see more jit-bags with completely open pipes on Harley than anything else.
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Gals like that are warm in the winter and you get shade in the summer...
I've run my Cal to a few local biker bars. It gets more attention...
Larry
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The old natural finish engine/trans AKA "Blonde" was my preference. Unfortunately this plain Jane option is no longer available, probably due to limited sales/popularity. In addition to being a bit less expensive they were much easier to keep clean. If there was a 2019 Heritage model with "blonde" running gear and cast wheels I'd go test ride one. Less threat to my $-flow they don't exist. :wink:
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Aftermarket devices of silencing (play on an old Bridgestone owner's manual) are fine , it's the open pipes that are just stupid .
Dusty
I totally agree Dusty, heck, I'd like to get a little more rumble from my 1400 but I'm not willing to spend that much money for the after markets available silencers, I have considered punching a hole in the baffles for a little more tone. As far as the "straight pipe " issue, some of these mufflers can be almost as loud As straight pipes are, in other words obnoxiously LOUD.
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I have Vance & Hines slip-on mufflers on a Heritage Softail. They have the "quiet baffles" and I also gave them about six turns with fiberglass cloth - but they're still not quiet !
:bike-037:
Had a Cobra slip-on on a Honda VTX1800 and it sounded like a Briggs & Stratton lawnmower with the muffler cut off of it - and so the factory muffler went back on.
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I have Vance & Hines slip-on mufflers on a Heritage Softail. They have the "quiet baffles" and I also gave them about six turns with fiberglass cloth - but they're still not quiet !
:bike-037:
Had a Cobra slip-on on a Honda VTX1800 and it sounded like a Briggs & Stratton lawnmower with the muffler cut off of it - and so the factory muffler went back on.
I hear ya Kev. I had a Super Glide that had Vance and Hines when I got it. About every couple months I had to replace the fiberglass packing and even then it was to loud for my liking. It was a MUST WEAR EARPLUGS moment while riding it.
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I get tired of the way overly loud Harleys like most of us, but the absolute worst sound is from various Asian twins running open pipes, they can make me spontaneously vomit in mere seconds!😁
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I get tired of the way overly loud Harleys like most of us, but the absolute worst sound is from various Asian twins running open pipes, they can make me spontaneously vomit in mere seconds!😁
Description was a little descriptive but accurate🤮 😂
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My intentions were not to " stereotype " any brand however it's simply a fact that it's more common to see Harley's with after market, louder than factory, pipes and mufflers than any of the other brands.
Personally I could care less what types of pipes anyone spends their hard earned money on and if their choice meets the legal decibel requirements, then all the power to you;)
What pipe do I put on my bike is the most asked question on sport bike forums.
I will say though that the sport bike dealers dont push replacement pipes like Harley dealers do. They say you need stage 1 to get the bike the way it was intended before the environmental groups clamped down on emissions.
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I live on a rural road with the properties spread out...Down the road about 1000 feet is a 50 something guy who owns several open pipe Harleys and his son has an open pipe Victory..He's a really nice guy I enjoy talking to him but on the bikes he like a 16 old on a two stoke, constantly blips the throttle..I mean for it's unreal...Then he usually heads past my house ,the road is uphill so the engine makes even more noise as he blasts by with the little helmet on the back of his head ....Talk about a stereotype..I I find it interesting like a small town carnival...
I have two Ducatis, both came with aftermarket mufflers..I have a 79 Triumph with a modified exhaust...They sound quite acceptable compared loud Harleys..
With the possibility of a growing green movement pushing electric vehicles, noisy bikes and cars will attract unwanted attention from those who would like to see them banned from the road...
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I live on a rural road with the properties spread out...Down the road about 1000 feet is a 50 something guy who owns several open pipe Harleys and his son has an open pipe Victory..He's a really nice guy I enjoy talking to him but on the bikes he like a 16 old on a two stoke, constantly blips the throttle..I mean for it's unreal...Then he usually heads past my house ,the road is uphill so the engine makes even more noise as he blasts by with the little helmet on the back of his head ....Talk about a stereotype..I I find it interesting like a small town carnival...
I have two Ducatis, both came with aftermarket mufflers..I have a 79 Triumph with a modified exhaust...They sound quite acceptable compared loud Harleys..
With the possibility of a growing green movement pushing electric vehicles, noisy bikes and cars will attract unwanted attention from those who would like to see them banned from the road...
When you can't tell if it is an old Volkswagen Beetle, a pickup with a exhaust leak, or a Harley then you know they didn't bother putting a tuned exhaust on the bike.
I will never understand open pipes on any vehicle. A nicely tuned exhaust on a large displacement engine puts out a nice deep bass sound and is music to my ears. I would rather hear that than the 600cc I-4 racer wannabees with their angry mosquito exhausts or the Ricer Racer Civics with their fart cans.
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I offer this as to why the HD riders like to "blip".
The sounds that emanate from the 90 deg firing order of the 45 deg cylinder spacing has a special cadence that is addicting.
Its so unique and desirable to some that the Motor Co. tried at one time to either paten or get a trade mark for same.
They failed because it was determined that the Motor Company's was not the first to use such configuration therefore couldn't claim it as proprietary.
Harley riders (some?) can't help themselves, they have to hear that thing roar, and to some? the louder the better. Its like a right of passage, tells all that your on the real deal.
Engineering wise its not a very good configuration for any piston engine but its become what identifies a Harley Davidson. I actually like the way the power goes down on the HD its like a super single but have trouble getting around the mechanical madness.
To my knowledge there has never been a real successful (any?) HD without that cylinder spacing and timing.
Sells allot of machines.
Or not?
:-)
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The blip had a purpose.
The narrow shared intake manifold and staggered timing played hell with the idle air:fuel mixture on carbureted Harleys, especially as more and more emissions restrictions were placed on the carb settings.
Sometimes at idle the carbs would load up, backfire, and stumble as you opened the throttle and started to put a load on the motor with the clutch. It could even cut the motor sometimes.
If you instead blipped it once or twice to clear it you could then smoothly apply it as you slipped the clutch and pulled away.
As EFI was introduced this was eliminated, but I think some continued it out of habit, others out of conscious or subconscious imitation, and the rest cause they just liked the sound of their obnoxiously loud exhaust.
I confess I probably still do it as I pull away from stops even if the last carb'd Harley I owned was more than a decade ago. But as I said previously I have nothing but stock exhausts and I doubt anyone really notices.
Oh, and I guess I use it to signal a riding partner that I'm about to pull out from a stop or shoot a gap.
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Blip? ..or is it blap? Lol
I would have my bike out and my Harley buddy would show up and say "Let's go blapping".
He really got off on blapping through tunnels.
If he forget to blip/blap leaving a stop sign and stalled, I was there to yell "FLAME OUT!"
Pissed him off no end.
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The blip had a purpose.
The narrow shared intake manifold and staggered timing played hell with the idle air:fuel mixture on carbureted Harleys, especially as more and more emissions restrictions were placed on the carb settings.
Sometimes at idle the carbs would load up, backfire, and stumble as you opened the throttle and started to put a load on the motor with the clutch. It could even cut the motor sometimes.
If you instead blipped it once or twice to clear it you could then smoothly apply it as you slipped the clutch and pulled away.
As EFI was introduced this was eliminated, but I think some continued it out of habit, others out of conscious or subconscious imitation, and the rest cause they just liked the sound of their obnoxiously loud exhaust.
I confess I probably still do it as I pull away from stops even if the last carb'd Harley I owned was more than a decade ago. But as I said previously I have nothing but stock exhausts and I doubt anyone really notices.
Oh, and I guess I use it to signal a riding partner that I'm about to pull out from a stop or shoot a gap.
Interesting explanation. I have never blipped a throttle, but I thought it was because of the cam change that so many do that causes it to want to stumble off idle, coupled with the extra low idle setting some think sounds cool.
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My T-3 is semi-loud in a good way with Dunstall replica mufflers. With it being a Guzzi and stopped at a stoplight I swear I get looks at times that convey amazement that I am just sitting there smoothly idling. I have seen kids that see me coming and cover their ears and as I get closer they drop their hands instead with a wave and a smile.
GliderJohn
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Interesting explanation. I have never blipped a throttle, but I thought it was because of the cam change that so many do that causes it to want to stumble off idle, coupled with the extra low idle setting some think sounds cool.
That makes it worse.
You ever hear me tell the story about the Weber-Marelli engineers when the developed the first person OEM EFI system for Harley.
They showed off the first running mule to Harley waiting for praise and instead were told it sounded wrong. Basically it idled properly (smoothly without miss).
They were told to go back and make it sound like a Harley. So they performed studies on carbed models and realized that to make it sound the same they'd need program in random misses and stumbles because of what I described earlier (that's where I first learned of it).
They told Harley no.
My 96 WM EFI RK idled completely smoothly. It was wonderful, but I won't lie, it did take some time before I got used to the sound/feel.
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That makes it worse.
You ever hear me tell the story about the Weber-Marelli engineers when the developed the first person OEM EFI system for Harley.
They showed off the first running mule to Harley waiting for praise and instead were told it sounded wrong. Basically it idled properly (smoothly without miss).
They were told to go back and make it sound like a Harley. So they performed studies on carbed models and realized that to make it sound the same they'd need program in random misses and stumbles because of what I described earlier (that's where I first learned of it).
They told Harley no.
My 96 WM EFI RK idled completely smoothly. It was wonderful, but I won't lie, it did take some time before I got used to the sound/feel.
This explanation reminds me of Honda's progression in the V-twin marketplace.
Honda had "cruiser-style" bikes with different engine configurations but in the early 80s they came out with their V-twin bikes. I owned an '85 Honda Shadow 700 and it was an amazing motorcycle for the time.
It had shaft final drive, mag wheels and fat rear tire, super smooth twin with 2 spark plugs and 3 valves per cyclinder. It also had a 6 speed transmission and dual disks up front. I bought mine brand new for $2500.
Honda couldn't figure out why they weren't gaining on Harley with such a nice cruiser offering.
Each new generation of the shadow tried to be more like Harley. They purposely added in vibration. They eventually went down to a 4-speed transmission. They even ended up going with a single pin crank to try and get the Harley sound.
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I remember a review of the Honda Shadow Ace (American Classic Edition) where the reviewer said Honda finally built a Harley, and the Harley at the time was a "better" bike (judged by the usual objective and subjective measures).
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The blip had a purpose.
The narrow shared intake manifold and staggered timing played hell with the idle air:fuel mixture on carbureted Harleys, especially as more and more emissions restrictions were placed on the carb settings.
Sometimes at idle the carbs would load up, backfire, and stumble as you opened the throttle and started to put a load on the motor with the clutch. It could even cut the motor sometimes.
If you instead blipped it once or twice to clear it you could then smoothly apply it as you slipped the clutch and pulled away.
As EFI was introduced this was eliminated, but I think some continued it out of habit, others out of conscious or subconscious imitation, and the rest cause they just liked the sound of their obnoxiously loud exhaust.
I confess I probably still do it as I pull away from stops even if the last carb'd Harley I owned was more than a decade ago. But as I said previously I have nothing but stock exhausts and I doubt anyone really notices.
Oh, and I guess I use it to signal a riding partner that I'm about to pull out from a stop or shoot a gap.
Some say it's a temporary lean condition which almost always sneezes through the carburetor.I do remember the fuel injection story ...I do it on bikes and our jeeps/trucks, all standard shifts..I don't rev it so much as a single slight increase of a few hundred RPM and let it drop down before engaging the clutch..I only do it when waiting in traffic especially on a grade...Left over habit from years of driving junker manual shift vehicles that stumbled off idle.. And of course kick start only Triumphs ....
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I love the sound of louder pipes (not too loud, but louder than quiet). I want to hear the exhaust when I am riding, not just wind noise and the tires of other vehicles.
On both of my Norges, I threw away the stock silencers and added Italian cans (Agostini and Mistral). What a glorious sound!
If I had a H-D like the one below, I would want to hear (and feel) the exhaust:
(https://www.harley-davidson.com/content/dam/h-d/images/motorcycles/my19/softail/deluxe/overview/dom/19-softail-deluxe-hero.jpg)
Someday, when everything is electric, I will miss the sound of internal combustion...
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I’ve been truly surprised at how quiet my Sport Glide is with the stock 2-into-1 exhaust. It makes less noise at idle than the Agostinis on my V9! The 107 cubic inch M8 rumbles when accelerating, but merely purrs at cruising speed.
It’s true that a lot of old school Harley guys believe loud pipes save lives. I personally think it’s more a part of the ape-hangers and half-helmet outlaw image they buy into.
As for the MoCo itself, the EPA came down hard on the practice of selling factory options that bypass noise and pollution restrictions. Screamin’ Eagle performance parts are now all 49 or 50 state compliant, and the warranty is void if you remove the cats or use a non-factory tuner.
The sound is part of the attraction for some riders, and many still slap on straight pipes even if it reduces performance. But then, those same guys like to wear stuff with skulls and flames on it and shun protective gear.
You can’t really blame the bikes for that.