all,

My name is Joe and I ride a 93 Sportster 883 that I bought new. It's great for a short ride to work or around town but I have always wanted a Softail Springer so I figured no time like the present. Unfortunately all the CVO models that I like are no where near my location so I can't easily set up a test ride.

I've also heard negative comments about the ride, suspension, etc., on the Springer.

Can I have some feedback from current and past Springer owner/riders? How do you rate the ride?


Thanks

 

I've got a 2000 softail springer. My only complaint about the ride is the rear shocks are too stiff. As far as the springer front end handling and ride.... well let's just say that a springer is the only bike I'll own

 

I have a 2008 Crossbones and handling is fine. Just make sure the front end has had regular maintenance and is set up correctly.

It should track straight with zero vibration.

 

Crossbones owner here too and my only complaint about my springer is that I don't get to ride it as much as I'd like because of the cold weather here

 

I commute daily on my Softail Springer, and have no complaints. I have also done two advanced riding courses at a nearby military facility where the conditions really test both rider and bike, and even then the Springer held up nicely.

I am not saying that it is as good as conventional suspension, but it sure is good enough for me.

Cheers

KC

 

Chalk me up as a Springer fan. I have an 2009 CrossBones and the ride is as smooth as any bike I've ever ridden. Per the manual, head bearings should be lubricated every 2,500 miles.

I've never ridden an old Springer, circa 1930s, and have noticed the newer HD versions including the CrossBones have a single front shock absorber in-between the springs, whereas the old-time machines didn't have one (they were hardtails as well). Would love to ride those old machines someday just to see what's like.

If you're ever up this way (SE PA) drop me a line and you can test ride my CrossBones.

 

The springer front end on the Cross Bones will seem heavy compared to what you're used to, but it's been a great bike for me so far!

 

I always wanted one, and bought an 09 two years ago. I kept it for less than a month...I hated it!

I went on a LEO sponsored ride, and I was begging people to ride it home for me. It killed my back, and I just couldn`t get comfortable on it. The lady I sold it to changed the seat (twice) and the bars, and she kept it less than six months.

I still love the look, but I hate the ride.

 

I've had my 05 FL Springer going on eight years now and 71,000 miles and still love it. Gives a good ride and handles just fine as far as I'm concerned.

 

When riding a Springer for the first time, it feels a bit strange compared to a typical FL front end. But you get used to it over time. I don't regret buying one.