Fatboy, FLSTF H-D
Written: Feb 08 '07
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Pros: It's a handsomely crafted piece of driving machine
Cons: The price tag
The Bottom Line: If you buy a Harley join the HOG (Harley Owners Group) and get active. It's a Life Changing Experience.
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| mikeh11's Full Review: 2000 Harley Davidson FLSTF |
1998 FLSTF Fatboy 1340CC carborated (Softtail)
I was second in line waiting for 5 hours to put money down on a bike and had to wait 6 months to receive it. I got a factory custom color which really helps individualize your bike.
Introduction
If your thinking about buying a bike go ride every demo bike you can. That's what I did and I'm hooked. Look closely at each bikes components, the fit, paint, bolts, chrome, engine machining and wiring. I'm a machinist/engineer and there were some bikes I rode and inspected by Japanese manufacturers that I said Thanks and left and would not consider buying.
Why? Because this is an awesome motorcycle. Arnold drove it in Terminator. I think it is one of the nicest motorcycles Harley makes. Is it the lines, the stocky appearance, the proven engine, the solid rims? Plenty of room for accessories, Bags, windshield, sissy bar, engine guard, Ape Hanger handlebars, Etc. And Harley's always coming out with new stuff. This is a Man's Man Bike.
Pros
Resale can't be beat.
The Evolution engine that was put in Harley's from the mid 80's to the end of the nineties produce a musical sound, 55 hp, and a fairly reliable history.
Harley-Davidson's are the easiest motorcycle to customize. The market is there, you just need to have the cash. You can soup up the engine, or dazzle them with the exterior. Make it more comfortable to ride, or adjust it for a cooler stance. Whichever you choose, you can do it. Many Harley parts are interchangeable with other Harley's. I had an engine leak the first year and the warranty paid for the repairs.
Gas mileage is 45-60 per gallon depending how you drive.
Cons
The price tag has to be the biggest con, If you just have to have a FatBoy (and everyone does), its easy to justify the price. Some say it vibrates too much but a Softail is a solid mounted engine bike. If you want less vibes go to a Dyna or Touring Bike.
Overall
I added Screaming Eagle pipes, a windshield, bags and a sissy bar before I took it home. After driving for three years I upgraded to the Big Bore kit which changed the bike from 1340cc to 1450cc. Besides the increase in power the bike started and idled much better when cold. A year later I changed cams for more power. By far the best thing I ever did was put on Ape Hanger handlebars. With these bars (I'm only 5''6") they are about 5 inches higher and 2 inches closer to me, this helped my riding posture by allowing my to sit in a slightly more vertical position. I've driven from Philly, PA to Milwaukee, Wis and back and as much as 538 miles in a day with no back problems. My girlfriend will tell you the back seat could be wider and softer but a sheepskin cover works well.
The Adventure
If you buy a Harley join the HOG (Harley Owners Group) and get active. It's a Life Changing Experience.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 19,000 with a lot of accessories
Condition: New
Model Year: 1998
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 19,000
Condition: New
Model Year: 1998
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Epinions.com ID:
mikeh11
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Reviews written: 8
Trusted by: 1 member
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