Okay so I’ve been looking at this Fatboy HD for weeks now and finally got my hands on one at the dealership last Saturday. Wanna share exactly how I tested it and what really matters. Grabbed my notebook and just went straight into it.
First Impressions Setup
When I walked into the showroom, that Milwaukee-Eight engine just stares at you like some angry robot. Sales guy says “wanna fire it up?” Hell yeah I did. Turned the key and punched ignition – nearly jumped back when that V-twin roar hit me. Louder than my neighbor’s lawnmower at 7am. Took it outside to feel the vibrations properly.
Road Testing Process
Took three separate test rides to really feel it out. First ride was short – just around the block to get the seating position right. Felt like sitting in a tractor seat but way comfier? Second ride I focused hard on the handling – countersteered through some sharp turns behind the industrial park. Third ride I went full highway speed to check wind resistance. Almost lost my cap at 70mph!
- Checked seat height by flat-footing at stops – boots planted solid
- Tested brakes hard by pretending a deer jumped out (sales guy turned pale)
- Stalled deliberately twice to see how easy restart was
What Actually Matters
After all that riding and note-taking, here’s the stuff I’d tell my buddy if he asked about this bike:
1. That Chunky Front Wheel
Thought the fat tire was just for show until I hit gravel. Felt way steadier than my old Sportster when loose stones kicked up. Looks cool but actually functional.
2. Vibration Magic
At idle it shakes like a paint mixer but once you’re moving? Smoothes out crazy nice. Balanced way better than older Harleys I’ve ridden.
3. Seat & Suspension Tag Team
Hit some brutal potholes on purpose. My spine didn’t compress like a Slinky thanks to those shock absorbers. Rode 45 minutes straight without butt numbness – personal record.
4. Heavy But Handles?
Legit scared me when backing it up – weighs more than my refrigerator. But weirdly nimble when actually riding? Leans into curves easier than expected.
5. That Milwaukee-Eight Thirst
Checked the fuel gauge after hard riding. Yeah you’ll be best friends with gas station attendants. Big engine means big appetite, no surprises there.
Wrapping Up Thoughts
Kept coming back to three things while reviewing my notes: comfort for long rides, that rock-solid feeling at high speed, and how many heads it turns. Would I buy it? If I didn’t mind the gas bill and had garage space… maybe. Definitely understand the hype now though. Pass me a bandana, that test ride blew my hair everywhere.
