The H-Decider

[the_undecider_imp]

One perk of my job at a powersports dealer is being able to borrow a bike for the weekend. Not sure why, but I decided to take one of our used Harleys. Its a 2007 Street Glide with the TC 96 and 6 speed.

It's slow, heavy, vague steering, no lean angle, brakes feel like wood, gets hot sitting at a stop, wind buffeting from the short shield, it shakes like crazy at idle, and the dang header melted part of my boot sole.

I was surprised how smooth it gets once off idle. The suspension, despite only 2 inches of travel at the rear, do a decent job of soaking bumps.

I don't see myself buying one, but I didn't have a bad time riding it. There is an appealing side of slow and low and jamming some tunes sure is nice. It was strange suddenly having ALL other Harley riders waving because I am used to only a portion waving. You feel like part of something bigger when you ride one. H-D really have created something of a cult with their bikes, and I dont mean that in a Jim Jones/ David Koresh way.

Anyway, it was a beautiful day to get out and ride, no matter what you're on. I look forward to posting more ride reports with other bikes I can get my hands on.

[url=http://s960.photobucket.com/user/Pflugerville_Bike_Guy/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20161016_101627_001_zps77vewgbk.jpg.html]

[Ron in MO_imp]

What a great perk to try out other motorcycles! My last bike before my CB1100 was a 2006 Harley Electra Glide and was an usual choice after many years of riding mostly Japanese brands. Like you, I experienced a new respect for Harley Davidson. Even while mine had older technology, it did a great job very comfortablely eating up highway miles!

I must say that HD knows their buyers and does a fantastic job marketing to them. It's kind of like a "Band of Brothers" when your riding one. My only complaints were that most HD owners didn't accept any other brands as true motorcycles and it also seemed like you were supposed to dress in all HD gear!

[the_undecider_imp]

I probably looked a little odd in my red mesh jacket, red riding shoes, and dual sport helmet. Figured I might need the right costume to get return waves from other Harley riders, haha.

While the critic is me is underwhelmed by the bike, I have to realize its nearly a decade old and I don't think it would be fair to hit it too hard. I wouldnt mind trying a new Street Glide with the new Milwaukee 8 107. I could see doing some miles with a better windscreen. It actually makes me want a Honda Goldwing F6B. The Valkyrie I demoed really turned me on to the GL1800 chassis. It did not leave me wanting for more power, handling, or ride quality.

[ss2wheels_imp]

You should ride an 09 or newer Streetglide and you will really feel a difference in overall Quality!

[TINK_imp]

I rode an Electra Glide Ultra Classic last year. Put 200 miles on her. Still can't figure out why anyone would buy an HD.

HD is a "life style", not a motorcycle. Just my opinion...

[redbirds_imp]

I think Harley makes a pretty good bike for those that like that riding style. My pet beef is the way they sound and the excessive weight and lack of suspension. Also poor cornering clearance on most models and the uncomfortable riding position. HD is making a big deal about their new 4 valve cylinder head, something the rest of the world has used for years. Had the chance to sit on a Road King that a friend owns and found the seating position and handlebar location miserable (stock BTW).
To each his own but HD simply does not make anything that interests me in the least.

[silverbub_imp]

I especially like the picture... and how you surely cropped the picture of the phrase: "UNLESS IT'S A H-D"!

[the_undecider_imp]

I especially like the picture... and how you surely cropped the picture of the phrase: "UNLESS IT'S A H-D"!

The only people there that could have said anything were fishing off that bridge right next to signs saying "no fishing from bridge."

Also, I never shiftrd my vehicle into park

[the Ferret]

I have test ridden a lot of motorcycles, but have never ridden a post 2000 HD. If I ever get the opportunity I will certainly do so. I hear they are leaps and bounds better than the pre 2000 HDs I have ridden.

[ss2wheels_imp]

HD's are much better than they were for so many years, they run better and they shift way better which makes them way better to ride. The low end grunt of a 1690 cc twin is awesome and the looks ah the looks!