Guys, I'm new to HD motorcycles and somewhat new to motorcycling, in general (I'm 58 years old and have only been riding for about 10 years).

I recently sold my 2006 Yamaha Road Star and I am now looking for a suitable light touring replacement that can also handle 2-up riding. I'm 6'1", with a 30" inseam, and my wife is 5'8".

I have ridden the 2011 Road King (base model) and the 2011 Street Glide (base model) and I like both models very much. The SG seems to fit me better (the SG bars are closer and the seat positions me away from the tank; the RK bars are further away and the seat pushes me toward the tank). Either seat would have to go, but more on that later...

I'd like to keep the price down, but not at the expense of rideability and performance.

Are the 96 CI versions of these models worthy for 2-up riding and light touring?

Thanks, in advance, for your insights.

 

The engine is fine for 2-up riding. The Street Glide suspension may not work for you. There is about 1" less travel than the Road King. If you and your passenger are fairly light, you may not have a problem with the glide.

 

Both of them will handle it. The SG has the fairing and stereo system straight from the factory but shorter shocks.

Or look up an EGC and get the tour pack and bigger seat

 

I agree with sfchief - the 96 inch motor is very capable for two-up touring, and the additional suspension travel of the Road King would be preferable over the Street Glide. On the other hand, the fairing of the Street Glide will offer more protection than the windshield on the Road King.

I think I would be tempted to look at one of the Electra Glide models for about the same price. They aren't quite as "sporty" as the Street Glide, but offer the more suitable suspension and make a great touring platform.

 

I came from an 06 Yamaha Stratoliner. The biggest thing I noticed when I bought my 10 Electra Glide Classic was the lack of power compared to the Yamaha. I traded it in January for an 11 Ultra Limited which has the 103" motor. I'm much happier now with the bigger motor. Seems to pull harder. I'm pretty partial to the fairing bikes and the tour pack makes it very comfortable for the passenger. As far as touring, they are very capable machines. You may want to wait a few weeks for the 2012's to come out and see if there any life changing upgrades.

 

I'm 220 and the wife is about 140.

I had the shock/spring set at max on my Road Star because it bottomed out so easily. We're both used to a stiffer ride.

 

I kinda like the fairing. Those gauges would be great for monitoring the vitals and we've never had tunes.

 

I kinda like the fairing. Those gauges would be great for monitoring the vitals and we've never had tunes.

I think the EGC would be an ideal setup for us because it includes accessories that are on the SG AND RK. Unfortunately, the EGC's are scarce as hen's teeth around here!

 

Look at the Ultra, you will never look back. I would suggest renting one for a couple of days. Ride it with your wife...That is what I did before I moved up.
The dealer took the cost of the rental and put it towards my new ride when I purchased it.

 

I hear you, BUT I probably wouldn't get the same price as I would on a 2011 left-over.