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[RKUC]

Hello all,

I just purchased a 2008 CVO Springer and it's a bit unwieldy at low speeds.  The forward controls are just a tad bit too forward and the bars have my arms straightened out more than I'm used to.  I'm thinking this is why the bike feels so out-of-sync.  I'm 5' 6" with a 30" inseam.  Should I start with the seat first, or go straight to the bars?  Corbin will custom make a seat that sits me closer to the tank but how much help will that provide my reach to the bars?  Risers and bars aren't readily available and will require some luck and ingenuity.  If anyone else has experienced the same and overcome it, your knowledge and wisdom would be greatly appreciated.

[bad00serg]

Welcome, I have a few Springers myself but at 6' tall have not experienced this problem.  Perhaps start with some foam behind you to see what a closer seat may feel like.  The tank is where it is, so you cannot get any closer to the bars than the front of your current seat already is.  Are the current bars rotated as well as they can be to be closest to you? Wild1 makes some really nice Springer drag bars, I have a set on one of my non-CVO Springers.

[RKUC]

Thanks for the advice.  I'll try the foam experiment tomorrow, great idea.

[gmeikle]

You are correct Sir , the stock OEM bars are internally wired and in 2007/8 were model unique to FXSTSSE and FXSTSSE2

I got my 2008 in 2011, and was "gunna" change the bars to suit, going more Softail Custom mini-apes, but the combo of internal wiring and "Springer unique" meant too hard basket.

After 14 years I am well used to the bars now and quite like them. I am 5 foot 11 with 33 inch inseam.

The footpeg/rear brake/gearshift lever well they are not Springer unique, easily modded if required with "bolt on" stuff from other genuine models OR aftermarket.

Just be sure that "even further forwards" have not been put on your bike at some stage in it's journey. I have seen that on used CVO Springers imported to Australia.

Hoping that's of some help ?

[gmeikle]

PPS it is for sure a 2008 Model year and not a 2009 (which came out late 2008 !)

They have a 240 rear (2007/8 a 200) and well they can be a tad "Unwieldy" due to that fat tyre.

What colour ( sorry color haha) is the bike ?

[RKUC]

2008 Screamin Eagle Softail Springer FXSTSSE2 - Inferno Orange

[gmeikle]

It's a 2008 for sure.

Sorry for "doubting" you. It's just that I have folks coming to me all the time for service and regularly a "2011" is actually a 2010 or 2012. That's stock Harleys not CVO models.

Do check on the "further forwards" I have seen that before as I mentioned previously.

[JCZ]

I believe that with the springer (softail) frame and your short inseam....the further forward you go, the further "up" you go......due to the frame design.  So I would certainly check that with the foam behind your back before you pull the trigger on that.

My experience over the years, decades, any bike that's new to you is going to take some time before you'll feel like one with your bike.  Of course there are things that you can do, adjustments, etc......to make it fit you better.  But only time and miles will allow it to feel like one with you.  Go pound down a couple of thousand miles on back roads and you'll return much more in tune with your bike.

[gmeikle]

Another thing worth trying is a stock OEM FXSTC Softail custom seat and stock sissy bar ( you need both or the seat dont fit/work). 2007 to 2010

Fits right on to the 2007/2008 Springer CVO with no mods required, just a bit of labour around the fender mounting screws.

Changes the seating position a fair bit and is the most comfortable Softail seat to boot.

Fairly easy to find on ebay at fair money, just check Ronnies HD site for part numbers

[RKUC]

I'm experimenting with a make-shift cushion.  First 4" thick, then 3, now down to 2.5.  It's much easier to ride and control.  I tried just now, riding without the cushion and have confirmed I do need to sit closer to the tank for overall balance and control.  As soon as I determine the best distance from the front of the seat to the backrest, I will be ordering a custome seat.  I'm currently leaning towards Corbin.  I like the solo saddle the best, but I need the back seat to use as a luggage rack, so I'll probably go with the classic touring.  I don't really like that look, but I'm not into saddle bags.  Any recommendations?

[gmeikle]

Sorry if maybe I missed it earlier but the seat in your photo is not the stock CVO seat.

That stock seat was model unique, but will and does fit any other 200 rear Softail.

See if you can "borrow" a stock FXSTC Softail Custom seat for a try on. Way cheaper than any Corbin or Mustang bought new for the bike

[RKUC]

Not a whole lot of CVO Springers around here that I know of, but it's a good idea to try... better than dropping $1,200 plus for something I can pick up for less than a third of that.  Thanks

[gmeikle]

Stock CVO Springer seat is the same 2007 and 2008. They will be hard to find.

Stock FXSTC Softail Custom seat will be way easier to find, MUCH higher production numbers and made from 2007 to 2010 inclusive.

[gmeikle]

These only work as a pair. You can also get a twisted metal sissy bar that works. I have had mates here in Australia put them on CVO Springers 2007 and 2008

[gmeikle]

Looks like this mounted up