2018 Heritage Classic--The Chrome Be Gone!
#62
08-24-2017, 05:02 AM
Road Captain
The word "Classic" no longer applies here. I got up at 0230 this morning because I couldn't sleep. Not because of the vomit taste in my mouth from the 2018 unveiling though. Grabbed a cup of coffee, headed downstairs to the garage, and started polishing my chrome with a new found love for it. Would love better suspension and a 107 or 114. And again technology and change passes me by. I'm not finished with my '14 yet so I will continue on my path and be glad for what I have. I'm considered old. I love chrome, leather, and studs. I yield to the future. I'll keep this
#64
08-24-2017, 06:22 AM
The 18 Heritage Classic is closer to " back in the day " than the previous generation. Harley's Classic FL's were not chromed out, they used a lotta black similar to the new 18.
I don't look at the black vs chrome as simply a style exercise. I look at it as a authentic practical build. Harley does a great job with paint, generally it's pretty durable. Its also lighter than chrome. When you chrome metal you make it heavier and actually weaker. Painted parts hold up better over time, especially in coastal regions.
Bottom line, it's not just a styling change, it's part of a update geared towards function. Building a lighter touring bike for those that don't want all the modern electronics of a ultra but still want a comfortable bike that handles and brakes well. A touring bike that is lighter and really performs well off the showroom floor.
If I were buying a new bike today it would be the 18 Heritage Classic with the 114 motor.
I don't look at the black vs chrome as simply a style exercise. I look at it as a authentic practical build. Harley does a great job with paint, generally it's pretty durable. Its also lighter than chrome. When you chrome metal you make it heavier and actually weaker. Painted parts hold up better over time, especially in coastal regions.
Bottom line, it's not just a styling change, it's part of a update geared towards function. Building a lighter touring bike for those that don't want all the modern electronics of a ultra but still want a comfortable bike that handles and brakes well. A touring bike that is lighter and really performs well off the showroom floor.
If I were buying a new bike today it would be the 18 Heritage Classic with the 114 motor.
#66
08-24-2017, 08:35 AM
The 18 Heritage Classic is closer to " back in the day " than the previous generation. Harley's Classic FL's were not chromed out, they used a lotta black similar to the new 18.
I don't look at the black vs chrome as simply a style exercise. I look at it as a authentic practical build. Harley does a great job with paint, generally it's pretty durable. Its also lighter than chrome. When you chrome metal you make it heavier and actually weaker. Painted parts hold up better over time, especially in coastal regions.
Bottom line, it's not just a styling change, it's part of a update geared towards function. Building a lighter touring bike for those that don't want all the modern electronics of a ultra but still want a comfortable bike that handles and brakes well. A touring bike that is lighter and really performs well off the showroom floor.
If I were buying a new bike today it would be the 18 Heritage Classic with the 114 motor.
I don't look at the black vs chrome as simply a style exercise. I look at it as a authentic practical build. Harley does a great job with paint, generally it's pretty durable. Its also lighter than chrome. When you chrome metal you make it heavier and actually weaker. Painted parts hold up better over time, especially in coastal regions.
Bottom line, it's not just a styling change, it's part of a update geared towards function. Building a lighter touring bike for those that don't want all the modern electronics of a ultra but still want a comfortable bike that handles and brakes well. A touring bike that is lighter and really performs well off the showroom floor.
If I were buying a new bike today it would be the 18 Heritage Classic with the 114 motor.
The following users liked this post:
Rakthi (08-24-2017)
#67
08-24-2017, 08:49 AM
You are exactly right. Maybe most of these guys think the chromed out things they saw at a show were what the stock bikes looked like. See below for historical reality. Fringes and bedazled jewels don't appeal to anyone under 50. 40 year old guys want sexy and modern (think Road Glide Special). Trying to cater to an old, dying (literally) motorcycle population isn't going to pay the bills in the long run. They need the 25-45 year olds buying new bikes and getting hooked on HD. I like what they have done, and I think the new Heritage looks better than the stale, same old same old previous version.
#68
08-24-2017, 08:52 AM
I like those wheels. Will have to see if I can put them on my FB then start shopping eBay for take offs.
#69
08-24-2017, 09:07 AM
Stellar HDF Member
I love my Fatboy and I'm not sold on the new Fatboy until I test ride one this weekend. I have to say I will be in the minority but I do love the looks of the new heritage....I am going to give it a test ride also to see how it feels...The Anniversary with the 114 could be calling my name
