Ever tried a Harley? I hadn't either until last weekend... With the exception of the Valkyrie, which is a cruiser that's not a cruiser (if you see what I mean - 100bhp, great handling etc) ) Cruiser type bikes have never interested me much. Too many compromises of form over function leading to mobile art that looks amazing but doesn't behave well as a motorcycle. Then there's the build quality....On these bases an Explorer must be as far away from a Harley as its possible to get.. But I figured that no site about Big Bikes would be complete without a few cruiser tests, so I booked a ride on the least-cruiser like Harley I could find - a brand new 2014 Fat Bob; straight bars, minimal chrome and double disc brakes up front. Didn't like the paint job but the styling was actually pretty cool. Naked urban street fighter rather than sad sanitised custom clone. I was pleasantly surprised - in fact I was amazed. This wasn't the bad handling, under braked bag of nails I'd been led to expect by the British Motorcycle Press. You can see how I got on here: Harley Davidson Fat Bob Review - Big Bike Mad Did I buy one? Nope, not at £12,000 - for technology that is, frankly still prehistoric. But I am going back next weekend to have a go on a second hand V-Rod... 125 bhp, water cooled engine and Brembo brakes. Should be a laugh if nothing else. Book me a place at Santa Pod... And no, this has nothing to do with the medication I'm on . Ahem. :wink:
THe V Rod is meant to be ok, not my cup of tea. Would be interesting if you rode the T Bird Storm as these bikes are more or less in the same niche.
Nice review... I like the look of the Fat Bob, hopefully going to California next year, so maybe just see if I can hire one and give it a go
Rode a Fat Boy long distance Spain and back for 4 years, loved it. Don't go, don't stop, but hey the ride experience "smile", and attention from public etc was amazing. Swopped for Bonnie, no more Spain for now, but still got a really special Sporty at back of garage. Split personality..yep but got personalities down to 2 heh heh heh...
When I had the Buell I had a fat boy and a V-rod as loaner whilst mine was in for a service. different is the word I'd use. Fun I must admit but couldn't see me running one permanently (I use the GT, and used the Buell) in a all weathers (except snow LOL) and all the time (oh, and they're a bit pricey new!!) Oh, and the (rather large) rear tyre on the vrod made the handling round town very 'interesting'
