A good friend of mine is trying to decide between the WG and the SB. I've tried to do some research, but as a newbie, it's difficult trying to decipher the lingo...and it's a pretty intimidating world of HDs out there! What are the main differences/features and pros and cons of the WG vs SB? I know a lot of it is personal preference but I've never been on one...so I don't feel like I have a lot to contribute. Even a website that simplifies everything would help me out. Thank you!

 

The main difference is the rake. It makes it handle different (or worse) at slow speeds but to me, makes it handle better at speed...They are both great bikes. Can't really go wrong...

 

Wide glide=Dyna chopper and street bob= Dyna bobber. As has already been stated the rake on the two is different giving each bike a slightly different ride. Tell your friend to take them both for a test ride and see which ridding style he likes better.

 

I rode both these models when I was buying. First off I'm 6' ~235lbs. I've been riding for about 10 yrs. I'll say that the rake makes the wide glide a little more difficult for a new rider at slow speed turns. However the trade off is superb stability at speed be it 30 mph or 90 mph. Another difference is the foot peg position. I felt cramped on the Bob with its mid controls but felt just right on the Glide with forwards. Your opinion will vary but this is mine. Even with forwards on the Glide my knees are bent at a slight angle (just right). Last but not least, handlebars. I personally am comfortable on both apes and flatter drag style bars. However I prefer the look of the wide glide's bars, So that was my choice. Ride both, get what you like/fit better. I believe in general the Wide Glide would be a more difficult bike to maneuver for a newer rider, however it is easy to learn on if you are smart and ride under your limits when first starting out on it. Also the Wide Glide will have slightly more chrome on it. Bob is more blacked out. Also consider two-up riding. The Glide will come with the seat pillion and pass. pegs. As far as I know the bob does not.

 

I'm 6'0 and I like mid controls, the guy above me is 6'0 and likes forward controls.

Your friend needs to ride them both and decide.

 

Oopsies, I managed to post this twice. Thanks so much for your insight!!

 

Also, I believe the WG has 21" front wheel and the SB has a 19".

 

Does that make a huge difference? I want to go for a ride on these to see for myself!

 

He's a rider. He's been riding for almost 10 years.