Hi All,

New guy here, this is my first post.

I've been looking at the softail slim. A mate of min has a 13 Slim and I really like it. The bobber style and understated looks appeal to me. I don't like a lot of chrome and fancy trim etc.

I've been down to the dealer and checked out the new 2018 slim with it's new chassis and motor. I think the styling looks great. I like what they have done with the front forks.
The dealer has a few 2017 Slims that they are doing some runout deals on. I can get onto a 17 Slim for around $AU22K ride away. The 2018 slim is around $AU26K ride away. I also reckon a 2017 Slim S will end up similar money to the 2018 Slim. That being said the dealer seemed keen to work out a deal on a 2018 bike too (throwing in accessories and riding gear etc) I guess it's the end of the riding season here so they are keen to still move some bikes.

My dilemma is that it's hard to decide which way to go. I like the idea of the better handling and more powerful motor of the new bike but a little worried about buying the first of a new model and the possible teething problems that may occur. Or I can save a few bucks and get the previous but well sorted 2017 model.

Is the 2018 that much better than the 2017? What do you think values are going to do in coming years? I think Evo resale values took a hit once the 88B was established.

With the staff cutbacks at HD and shutting down the VRod and Dyna lines are HD in financial trouble? Is the quality still there with the 2018 models?

My heart says go with the new model with it's better handling but my head is thinking about the $$$ saving with the 2017 model.

Cheers
Mike

 

well, i cant say about prices but i bought a 2017 and love it. there are a few things on the 17 that i like better than the 18, floor boards, headlight trim, speedometer. the 18 has more features but also feels like they shaved a few $$ off the build. i would ride both and compare. ive heard a lot of great things about the 18 chassis, and motor, but i am also scared about 1st year issues. i do like the difference in weight on the 18. i don't think you can go very wrong with either. see ho good of a deal they will make on either. doesn't seem like they are trying very hard to move the 17s though

 

You'll just have to test ride and decide. I love my 18 though.

 

Get the new bike, If you can test ride both do it but the new bike is better than the old one.

 

Love my '18 Slim...

 

I'm sure you'll be happy with whichever you choose. In my opinion, the Softail Slim is one of the best looking bikes out there. Good luck, and enjoy the new ride.

 

18 all the way, for the frame and suspension alone. If they took the 2018 models away after I had ridden them, and my only choice was a 17 or prior, Id either go back to an EVO and put a 6 speed in it, (completely different direction focused on hot rodding as opposed to function, and still it would ((((SHAKE)))) or wait for the 18's to come back, or 19s etc.

There is no way I would settle on the 17 platform. Not knocking them, or anyone who owns them, but having owned and ridden both, theres no way I would settle for pre 18 frame and suspension. Even if you gave me air ride suspension for free, and 2k cash back, etc etc etc on the 17. Id still have the 18. Its just a superior bike. Far superior. No offence 17 owners, they are still cool as machine, love the look, but I been chasing a bike like the 2018 models since the last of the 99s. Connoisseur type.

Understand the concern over the M8, Thats entire other story, my experience has been overwhelmingly positive, and would not go back to a twin cam for any reason. The M8 is just so seductively GOOD! And why I did not go back to an Evo.


Good luck O.P. Im sure you will love either

 

This guy pretty well summed it up very well .

 

 

Go for the M8, mate