This question is for thous of you that have a lot of touring bike experience.
If you where currently in the market for a touring bike, what would you purchase and why?


I know this probably has been asked to death, but I am curious to know what the current opinions are.

 

I'm happy with my 2009 FLHTC- it does everything I want and is a real value compared to the FLHTCU/ FLHTK models which have expensive geegaws I'd never use.

I think the technology is in flux- i would not be quick to jump on a 2014 model

minor consideration, but the 49 State 2009 has no cat and is not subject to same "tampering" penalties

Mike

 

You asking year or model or both? Model depends on what you're going to be doing with it, example, if you need a tourpak or not, etc.

 

I'm asking both.. What year, model, and anything else that would influence your opinion..

 

2010 FLTRU (Ultra Road Glide) gives you the benefits of the ultra and the benefits of the roadie

 

I like the RoadKing. It has bags to store things so I can travel. I really like the ability to take the windshield off for around town riding.
Personally I do not like the batwing or the tour pack.
I traveled for years on a BMW and never had the Givi trunk. Just never saw the need for it. I went all over the country and never felt like I could not pack enough in the saddlebags or a small duffle bungeed on the back seat. I rode alone so that has way different implications on choice of bike than if I had a rider YMMV

 

Two up riding, a 2014 Ultra Limited hands down.
Solo, a 2014 Streetglide Special.

I rode both at the 110th party and then rode a 2013 rental through the Black Hills. Those Rushmore bikes are that good!

 

As stated, it really depends on what type of riding you do. That being said, If I were to buy a new bike tomorrow, I would go with a Road Glide custom and add a Tourpak and QD hardware. Reason i would go with the custom is purely looks, much sportier, and IMO better more simple colors. The Big Blue pearl for 13 or Chrome Yellow for 12.

 

I would go with a Road Glide, not the 2014.
You can't beat the frame-mounted fairing on the road, especially in windy conditions.

 

If it were time for a new touring motorcycle, I'd go with a Road King again. I say again because I'm on the 3rd one. I ride solo so I don't need all that comfort for the passenger that the Limited or Ultra offers. I'm half deaf so music is not an option. Besides, I like listening to the exhaust and talking to God when I ride. I had a 2011 Electra Glide Classic, but not fond of fairings and tour paks-raises the center gravity and they're not as easy to slow speed manuever as a Road King. Regarding road trips, I put on the pillion seat and a 2 up luggage rack, strap bags down and roll on. Don't need no high cost tour pak. That's just me, but you asked what and why, so there you have it.