I also own the softail custom. I can't say enough of how well the bike feels and rides. Good luck with your decision.

 

noise is the same on either. I've ridden softys and dynas, I took my softy from seattle to reno with on problems. 8 hours a day for four days. at the end of 8 hours I was a bit road weary, but I think that was from just riding out in the sun. the high speed vibration dosn't hit me on mine until about 85mph.
I can't see outta the mirrors on the dynas at a stop sign or stop light they vibrate so much. remember you can change out any seat and set up any windshied however you like it. the forward controls were a big selling point for me on the softy. course for a price you can have those on a dyna.

 

Can't say I've ever thought my Softail vibrated too much on the highway. Not even the Deuce I had before my Custom. I know I could ride my Custom across the country and not have a single complaint. Especially if I put the stock seat back on. This bike is the most comfortable one I've had so far.

 

Can"t go wrong on either choice, I have a dyna and a softail and like them both

 

How does the larger front tire affect the handling and ride of the Softail?

 

get the bike you like the looks of most, then customize to your comfort & liking. if you plan nto leave your new bike alone and just ride it... then ride em all to see which works for ya.

 

I'm not on a Custom, but I'm on the highways a lot with my Train, and there's no noticeable vibration at those speeds or any other...

 

after riding both, I would say no difference whatsoever.

 

My first Harley was my 07 Softail Custom. I considered the lowrider, but went with the Softail because I liked the looks of it. Other than years ago when a friend let me drive his sportster, I had never ridden a HD. I still haven't driven a lowrider.
I am very happy with everything about my FXSTC. I changed the seat so I could put a backrest on it for my wife. The stock seat was very comfortable, but I must say the new Mustang seat is better.
You asked about vibration. I can see clearly in my rearview mirrors at highway speeds and faster.
If you decide to get the Softail I am sure you will be very pleased. Its a great bike.

 

In your case I would go lowrider I just think theres to many limitations with the softails engine becasue of the counterbalancer and the dyna will sit more natuarally after coming off a dirt bike and therei funn to through around the corners. good luck