I just joined the Forum and post it in the new member area but figured I would drop in over here as well and ask my question. I just test ride a 2018 fat boy and really enjoyed it. I like The Fat Boy a lot and I'm trying to decide between a new one with the M8 versus an older one probably with the 110. The bigger factor for me at this point is cost. I would really like to hear any opinions you guys have

 

A lot of it comes down to looks as well.

I personally like the look of the 2018 Fat Boy over the older ones.

 

The 110 kicks out a lot of heat. I had a '16 FLSS before my '17 SGS and the FLSS was almost unbearable to ride when stuck in traffic.

 

If you're considering the '18 then it's apparently within budget, so go for the '18. It comes with a 2-year factory warranty, it gets better mileage, and the serviceability is improved, which reduces labor hours when working on it. All of these save you money. Plus it performs a heck of a lot better, so you'll be very happy with it for a long time and not feel as though you need to spend more on suspension mods which will never add-up to what the new bike can do. The '18 may cost more up front, but it will save you in the long run and be worth more at resale. IMO, your timing is perfect to get the next-gen motorcycle, which is a huge step forward in a number of areas. I personally held off to see the new bikes before I made my decision. The new bikes made my decision for me. That 110 is not going to ride at all like the '18 you tried. Good luck and enjoy either way!

 

I got a 2016 Fat Boy S with the 110" I'll sell ya!

 

I think you'll like the new one if you like the styling. Since you're a newbie you might as well just start enjoying the updates. I bought one and it's the best Harley I've bought since my '92 Evo. I have a '09 Twin Cam too which I like quite a bit, but unless you're already in love with older Harley's (and even if you are) the M8 is a no brainer.

If you decide to go Twin Cam, I'd recommend avoiding the 110 and 103 for a nice used '08 - '13 with the 96" motor. About half the cost of a new bike, and the 96" runs strong enough with much cooler engine temps than the 103 or 110. I had a '16RK that I will not repeat, but an '09 Dyna I'll never sell.

Test ride whatever you're going to buy.

 

Tells us what you experienced when you rode the 110 compared to the M8.
IMHO Budget can play a big part in how you perceive the differences.

I owned a 2016 FLSS and now own a 2017 FLHSX. I know the difference.

 

have not seen/found a 110 yet...was saying that I may consider that route before I even know what is available! silly I guess. I am having fun reading this forum, so I may just park myself in front of the computer and read these many threads to get a pulse whats happening

 

I love my Fat Boy S with the 110" motor. The stage 1 with the FP3 really helped reduced the heat. Plus it pulls strong as hell! Not sure how it compares to the M8 as I have no seat time on a M8. However...I am trading my Fat Boy S in on a 115th Anniversary Street Glide when they hit the dealer floors.

 

I havent read all the responses. The only one who can make the decision is you.

But, What I will say is that you should research and read here and on other forums thoroughly before making your decision.