- Joined
- Jul 2, 2007
- Messages
- 5,294
Some may or may not recall a summer time topic I started about trying to decide between a Ducati and Suzuki. I have not moved on anything yet other than to drop the Suzuki FA1250 sport tourer from the choice and spend a long hot summer and short autumn working extra and continueing to re-adjust to life without my beloved bride of 24 yrs who passed in March. Most of that took the wind out of my sails but now I'm back to prepping for getting back in the saddle for the first time in about 12 years (since having owned a bike). Foreword and prelude done, now to the matter. I was bored a couple weeks ago and so stopped by the local Harley Davidson dealership to just look, since our prior bikes were an XL1200 Sportster for me and an 883 for her back in the day. I immediately took notice of the Dyna FLD Switchback due to its dual role for light touring and around town work. Stirred an old affection for HD's. And so, it weirded-up my decision making process since the two bikes, the FLD and the Duc Multistrada are divergent, and completely at opposite ends of the spectrum so to speak. I see the Multistrada as hi-tech (especially the 2013 w/ the Skyhook active suspenstion) and loaded with complexity yet a unique mounnt that will be a great ride and can be wicked quick when you want or need it (150hp/86 lb-ft @ 476 lbs wet). But I also see a lot of plastic and composites (hence the weight or lack of) and see it as more of a disposable bike as far as longevity goes with resale value dropping fairly quickly and a less liquid market as a pre-owned. I tried on (2012 model) at the nearest Duc dealer (100 miles) and found some comfort problems related to my size 13 feet on the pegs vs controls and a tendency for my pants to bind up around my crotch/junk. Also, my orangutan 38" sleeve arms would have enjoyed a little farther back seating position vs how the bars are. The Harley Davidson FLD Switchback, however, felt like it was designed for a long armed knuckle dragger like me. The ergonomics of the riding position felt perfect, right down to the forward position of the boards (instead of pegs). OMG does this mean I am getting old (50 in couple months)? I also see the Harley Davidson as more Murphy's Law friendly with no oil cooler, no radiator, and much less electronic wizardry. But it is heavy and it is not a rocket. And honestly, I like to be different and let's face it, these days riding a Harley tends to class you more of a lemming than a rebel blazing his own trail. But I guess that is a matter of interpretation. The FLD has the TC 103 motor, which is good, even though its still probably a little under powered for its weight (718lbs wet). Harley Davidson I also see as better resale and lasting forever (all metal bike hence the weight).
Only like the FLD in Silver because it tones down the chrome bling and I like monochromatic anyhow. Which means a 2012 because HD dropped Silver for 2013. Might be a problem finding a remaining 2012 with ABS which is the one technology I have to have as it can be a bacon saver. The FLD could probably use a second front disc but that could be added (I think). Braking seems to be adequate but not great. Then again probably no way to add a 2nd front disc with the factory ABS unless HD sells a specific upgrade kit for it.
Yes, its a decision only I can make, but writing it up is cathartic and helps me lay out the pros and cons.
The 2013 Duc is supposed to have a revised seat and I'm going back to try it on when one gets on the floor. I like the Duc and want to make it work, but my practical side sees the HD while slower and less nimble (by a long shot, again different classes and the FLD actually leads in the cruiser class) as being less likely to strand me due to an electronic gremlin or road sharf/debris perforating the radiator or oil cooler on the Duc, or coolant or oil hose damage etc.
Short version: I love both bikes even though they are at opposite ends of the spectrum in form and function. The Harley Davidson won the first round of riding comfort position hands down, but the new seat on the 2013 Duc yet to be tried, might redeem its comfort for my junk.
Only like the FLD in Silver because it tones down the chrome bling and I like monochromatic anyhow. Which means a 2012 because HD dropped Silver for 2013. Might be a problem finding a remaining 2012 with ABS which is the one technology I have to have as it can be a bacon saver. The FLD could probably use a second front disc but that could be added (I think). Braking seems to be adequate but not great. Then again probably no way to add a 2nd front disc with the factory ABS unless HD sells a specific upgrade kit for it.
Yes, its a decision only I can make, but writing it up is cathartic and helps me lay out the pros and cons.
The 2013 Duc is supposed to have a revised seat and I'm going back to try it on when one gets on the floor. I like the Duc and want to make it work, but my practical side sees the HD while slower and less nimble (by a long shot, again different classes and the FLD actually leads in the cruiser class) as being less likely to strand me due to an electronic gremlin or road sharf/debris perforating the radiator or oil cooler on the Duc, or coolant or oil hose damage etc.
Short version: I love both bikes even though they are at opposite ends of the spectrum in form and function. The Harley Davidson won the first round of riding comfort position hands down, but the new seat on the 2013 Duc yet to be tried, might redeem its comfort for my junk.
