HARLEY-DAVIDSON FAT BOY (1989 - 1999) Review

Version: Special

Year: 2010

Highly reccomended

Buying experience: Highly reccomended , try the dealers first you won't go elsewhere

As a "dyed in the wool" sportsbike rider for the last 40 years, I was somewhat underwhelmed when my mate said he had a new fatboy on loan if I would like to borrow it for the weekend to "see what Harleys are about". It was a new '08 with the addition of very - very loud Vance & Hines slash cut pipes. My first impression was it was heavy (I ride a ZX9R E1 and TDM850)but was suprisingly easy to manoeuvre at low speed. I soon got the hang of slowing down (considerably) for bends, not because of stability, which was fine, but there is no ground clearance and I could only imagine how much the footplates would cost me to replace if I ground them away! I rode on motorway, A and B roads, The engine torque combined with the loud pipes was addictive, the ride is vibrating and rather harsh compared to a modern sportsbike, and anything above 80mph is just too uncomfortable, about 60 - 70mph was the optimum speed, to ride in relative comfort. I found the bike turned heads(probably due to the incredible noise from the pipes) and drew admirers whenever I parked up. It had a "presence" on the road which I have not experienced on a bike before. All in all I rather enjoyed it, However I must say that when I got back on my ZX9 to ride home my first thought was how comfortable and easy to ride it felt after the Harley. All in all, I can see some of what the Harley is about, but it's far too uncomfortable and too much like hard work for me! As for paying £13,000 for one ......!

The Fat Boy brings a smile to your face, every time you ride it. The ride is fine, as long as you treat it with respect. I have been over the Cat and Fiddle many times and the torque from the engine makes it a breeze. The attention the bike gets is unbelievable, with many asking to photograph it. Its a real coversation starter. That never happened with my BMW GS or Triumph Speedtriple. The weight of the bike is so low down, slow speed manouvers are a doddle. Fit and finish are excellant. The paint is very thick with lots of clear coat. Makes cleaning a treat and not a chore. Overall, I am over the moon with mine. Its stopped me from losing my licence, as high speed riding is a none starter.I`ve had more fun riding this at 60 then when ringing the neck out of my old Yamaha Thunderace. Recommended.