There are ton of improvements in the current LR S. Enough to have me really thinking about it.

 

 

I've had two Low Riders. A 2006 and a 2015. The 2015 is a WAY better bike because of the larger engine and dual front disc brakes. I also have ABS. The ONLY thing I don't like about the older Low Riders is the gauges on the tank. I think it makes NO sense to have to look down to see your gauges...I've had Japanese and Italian motorcycles with gauges up on the bars, and my Baggers have gauges up front and center, just where I like them...

 

Like you, I enjoy having the twin gauges on the tank. Practically, it would be better for them to be on the bars where they could be seen more easily, but there's something deeply attractive at an emotional level in having them on the tank; it just looks 'right;' and I don't ride a motorcycle just to be practical!

 

To me, it's one of the distinguishing features. They were on the tank day one in '77, although the FXR years had the mickey mouse ears there was still a console dash with the fuel gauge and gas cap, not just a strip of do nothing plastic like they are now. Are they easier to check while on the bars? Of course, but sometimes the old adage "function over fashion" doesn't apply.

 

I agree, the gauge location on the tank isn't really practical, and especially the turn signals down there. But wow is that a sexy bike. 😁 I get compliments on it everywhere I go.

 

Obviously, if a Harley model stands the test of time, as it changes through the years, it gets better tech, usually it will get a bigger engine, it will probably ride better, and be lower maintenance.....

BUT....

With Harley's, for many, it's not all about tech, speed, and/or low maintenance...

I've had three Low Riders.

My current Low Rider is a 2016. It is a really nice bike. It is far cry better, in every way than my first two.

I bought a new 1978 FXS Low Rider in May of 1978. It was my only transportation as I had just moved to SoCal. It was stolen 22 months later with 40K miles on it.

Within a month or so, I replaced it with a 1980 FXS Low Rider, that I kept for 9 years and about 85K miles (I forget exact mileage)...

But a funny thing about those AMF HD Low Riders.... They were primitive compared to my '16 Low Rider, yet I loved them to death. I also had very few problems... most of which were self-inflicted wounds.

As we speak, I have the '16 listed for sale, because I have a lead on an '81 Low Rider that is almost completely OEM, and in very good condition...

Weird eh...?

 

Why not pick the '81 up before it's gone regardless of '16 "Sold" status

 

I love my 2015 over my 2006, but I would NEVER give up a 2016 for a 1981...

 

Simple.... I need the money from the '16 to get the '81....