The 2014 bikes are out. Before you go crazy looking at every model and buy a Sportster because it is the perfect size for a newcomer or become frustrated that you cannot afford the Street Glide that the salesperson told you is "THE bike for you" arrange for a test ride of a Super Glide Custom (FXDC). It is both a much better investment as well as easier to ride than a Sporty and, if you add saddle bags and a windshield, can do everything a touring bike can do (with more "spirit" in my humble opinion). The list price is a few bucks over $13,000! I wish someone would have told me this years ago as I waited 'till I could afford a Road King Custom. I missed a few good years of riding AND now that my Road King is in Hog Heaven I am on the bike I should have bought long ago. Don't get me wrong, the Harley Touring Bikes are effen AWESOME! But life isn't a dress rehearsal so don't waste time. AND the FXDC will make you smile every time your cockles vibrate. Or something like that....

 

I learned on my 2013 883 Iron. I should have got something used, should have waited and bought a bigger bike.. but I've had a lot of fun with that sucker so far. just hit 1,900mi. with it. Overall I'm happy I jumped the gun, but next summer I'll be eye ballin Dynas..

 

Harley pretty much makes different bikes for the different lengths of rides the buyer intends.

The smallest bikes are great fun on short rides, but for the open highway...not so much.

Dyna is for a bit longer ride. Can strip down for zipping around town and can fit with windshield, and some small bags, but for two up riding...not so much.

Softail is better with two aboard. Lots of room to stretch out, can carry bigger bags. Is geared better for the smoother cruising.

Road bikes can bolt on lots of bags. Easy and comfy for two up riding, even taking along a bunch of gear. Can hook up heated gear, ride comfy behind larger windshields, or even better protection from fairings. Air adjustable rear suspension, radio, full instrumentation, and that smooth rubber mounted engine. Ride all day...party all night.

Look seriously on how long a ride you would typically ride, and get the right bike for you.

 

Softail is better with two aboard. Lots of room to stretch out, can carry bigger bags. Is geared better for the smoother cruising.

I believe all Big Twin trannies are geared the same.

 

Thanks for the advice. I actually want a wide glide but not too sure about the new colors or the fact that the price jumped 800 bucks. I will try and find a 13 in the next few weeks and see if the dealers want to push them out the door if not probably be a used bike.

 

Ditto

 

Do you think the price of the WG jumped because ABS is standard now?

 

I have started out on a 1200 low Sportster and am loving it. I will be trading up in the next couple years for sure, but I dont think it would be a Dyna. To me they look just like the Sportsters. Unless there is something I am missing. I know the engine will be different, but there is plenty of power with the 1200. I will be headed to a Delux or Fat Boy!

 

It's not about the looks. Each Harley "family" of bikes rides and handles differently than the others. Be sure to ride them before making your choice.

 

I'm on my 7th bike, its an 883 and I have NO plans to upgrade, make it faster, or get a bigger bike.

Not everyone always wants bigger.

Unless of course, you are letting your belt out one notch every year, in that case, get something bigger that you will grow (or as it were, expand) into lol.