I test rode a 2014 base model FLHX yesterday for chits and giggles at my local stealer. I wanted to take a quick minute to share.
Good:
-#1 thing that stood out was the immediate notice of a significant power band increase. The motor really ran hard and I was very surprised especially considering it had yet to have a stage 1. Unbelievable, they did a super job.
-The new bags are very handy. When they first came out, I hated the look but it has grown on me and the convenience of the ability to open with 1 hand was nice.
-The new dash layout is nice. I love technology so I enjoyed the new radio and layout. The speakers were much clearer due to the new baffles behind the fairing cover, impressed.
-The bike handled very well, enjoyed the new forks very much.
-The new handlebars are wider at the base and for the first time on a stock street glide I was comfortable with the bars. I think I could keep them stock and be comfy.
-There is a significantly reduced amount of wire loom on the neck going under the tank for a cleaner look.
-The new vent in the fairing works, I hit the highway and tried it and when opened it significantly reduced buffeting. However, my 12 CVO SG has less buffeting with my wings and LRS Ultra 7" recurve so one would still have to upgrade the stock windshield.
-Pricing. My dealer is selling the black Street Glide Special for 22,499 and no prep and freight was added. My uncle is trading his 01 Heritage for this bike.
Bad:
-The stock seat still blows. I only rode a few miles and my ass was already upset.
-Not bad for me but my uncle rode with me to get my front tire replaced for the 3rd time this summer under warranty and he test drove the same bike as me to kill time. He ended up trading his 01 Heritage for the black SGS LMAO. He bitched all the way home because the last time he rode with me he bought a $550 leather jacket!
While I am not moved enough to trade my beautiful 12 FLHXSE3 for obvious reasons, these are great bikes and they handle well with a hard running 103 and some nice technological advances. If you are on an older bike, I'd say 11 or older I wouldn't hesitate to trade up. Hell, if you have a 12 or 13 and get out from under it without taking a bath, I say go for it!