Print

Please login or register.
1 Hour 1 Day 1 Week 1 Month Forever
Login with username, password and session length

[liquid force]

Hi Guys,

 I currently own a VRSCSE2 and an 08 FXDF Fatbob, I am looking at selling the Fatbob, and buying an 08 FXSTSSE2, I haven't ridden one or a springer bike for that matter, how do they handle compared to the fatbob? I mainly ride twisty canyon style roads, I know factory brakes on the springer aren't going to be anything to write home about, but how compliant is the springer front end in the twisty stuff, and can it be set-up to handle decent or am I going to be seriously unhappy with it.

Looking at the 08 as it has the best wheel/tire combo IMHO 200mm rear 130mm front

Cheers

[shortdog]

Depending on how aggressive you ride the Springer will be a pleasant surprise in the twisties. You may be a little disappointed on long rides on straight roads as the ride is a little stiff due to the springer front end. In the curves it will take a "set" and fly. All you have to do is think about a turn and it reacts.
I previously had a Wide Glide and loved it, my first ride on the Springer and I couldn't remember her name. You will need to watch your lean angles as you can drag the jiffy stand in lefties and may smack your heel in righties. However you will always feel in control, as the front end does not dive and bounce
around. My wife went from a Blast to a Hugger 883 to a Deuce and now to a Softail Springer. Also feels it's the best bike for her! Enjoy the ride performance
and the looks you get from the jealous ones!

[IWannaChop]

Just got back from a 3100 mile ride on my fxstsse2 and have to say I love it.

[leeinmemphis]

well I happen to have a '09 fatbob with a 113" 118/143 and a FXSTSSE3 with a 113" at 112/124. The fatbob is definitely the more comfortable of the two when riding down the road and handles the curves better. To me the springer with the 240 rear tire handles a little funny in the corners. That being said I would rather ride the springer than any of the bikes I have or have ever had. I just love riding it.

[swat1]

Just rode The Tail of the Dragon on my 07 and loved it. 

[harlee79]

You won't have any complaints about the springer on the twisties.  The front ends are heavier on the springers but you don't really need to compensate for it.  It feels solid on the turns and handles nicely.  As the owner of 2 springers I'm biased but its a wonderful ride all around.  Is it a sportbike.. no but it is fun to ride.  I've never had any concerns or issues with the handling