Is it too much?

1454 Views 15 Replies 15 Participants Last post by RMC_SS_LDO, Dec 7, 2005

akpackfan

Discussion Starter · Dec 6, 2005

I'm soon to be the proud owner of a 2006 EG Ultra Classic, Brandy Wine Sunglow in color (not that it matters). I am 5'7, 160lbs. I plan on installing a solow kit to lower the rear. Will I have any problem holding the bike up at stop lights, etc? How about with a passenger? What about slow speed manuvering? Is this too much bike for me? I currently own a 2004 Sportster 1200C. Any input is appreciated.

1 - 16 of 16 Posts

tlewis

· #2 · Dec 6, 2005

Assuming you've ridden that Sportster, you shouldn't have too much of a problem. Get used to the new bike some before you take on a passenger. If you've never towed anyone, do a search on some of the past threads related to passenger mounting/dismounting. Some great info there.

You didn't mention age or health but you and I are the same height. I've got a few pounds on you though.

Shouldn't be a problem assuming you are able to get around

UltraRick

· #3 · Dec 6, 2005

I would advise you to get a copy of the Ridelike a Pro video. www.ridelikeapro.com

Blue Glider

· #4 · Dec 6, 2005

Good advice above. Also, I have a friend about your size, and the only thing he mentioned was that it took him a while to get used to the difference in CG between the E-Glide and his old Dyna (the E-Glide being much more top heavy). Slow speed maueuvering became a snap once he had a little time in the saddle and had taken the MSF Experienced Rider Course. Good luck, and enjoy!

NodakGus

· #5 · Dec 6, 2005

Look, then leap

Friend, your questions are better asked, and answered, before purchasing the bike. I am sure you will do all right. There is a lady in my CMA chapter who is about 5'4" and slender and her personal ride is an Electra-Glide. Thus once you get used to a new center of balance you will have no trouble.

DaveT

· #6 · Dec 6, 2005

akpackfan,

I'm only 5'8 and I have been riding Ultras for many years. I think your inseam might have more to do with anything than actual height. My inseam is only 29 inches, so I've had to make a few adaptations along the way to insure handling the bike at stops, etc.

The big thing is getting down low enough with your feet. I have never lowered a bike, never had to. What I do is immediately get a Mustang seat because the smooth touring saddle will sit you lower, then take the new seat to a upholstery shop that I have used for years and have them take in the area on either side of the seat's tongue area. Doing that lets me get my thighs closer in, thus extending my leg reach enough that handling an Ultra is not a problem. Seat looks like it came from the factory that way, and is very comfortable for me.

Also, the rider backrest on the Mustang touring seats will allow you to sit up straighter and that also helps with extending the leg reach.

On my last Mustang seat purchase, I decided to go with the pillow look so it would match the passenger backrest on the tourpak. The pillow look does sit you up higher, so when I took it to the upholstery shop for the thigh area reduction, I also had them reduce the padding in the seat area. Works like a charm, and it all matches now.

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EZMotoTim

· #7 · Dec 6, 2005

Ditto, "Ride Like a Pro" video. I think it's a must if you are in the least bit doubtful.

G

· #8 · Dec 6, 2005

Everyone's responses are right on. You may be pleasantly surprised to find the EG is actually easier to handle that the Sportster. Although it's heavier, the weight is lower.

With a little practice you'll wonder how come you ever worried.

Harris

Low_Rider

· #9 · Dec 6, 2005

I agree with NodakGus, these are questions you should have asked (and perhaps even rented) before taking the plunge.

That being said, I have seen smaller and lighter people on EG's and RK's.

Get some solid knowledge in your head and practice, practice, practice! Sowing good habits will ensure a safe ride within your area of control!

LAF

· #10 · Dec 6, 2005

I got off the Sporty and onto my new (then) 05 Road Glide never even road a Glide before. It just called me, and I had to have it. Still I hear it from under its cover on the carport, calling me, wispering........:roflback:

Slow and easy on the break in on you, and the bike.

No worries for me except I had this problem with the faring going strait, and me, the handle bars, and the rest of the bike turning :whatever:

Go slow, and I agree with all the advice given, Safety Courses, Safety Riding books, renting one, and any others I missed.

Most of all if you rode the Sporty, really road it for some miles and experience, you can ride the bike your looking at.

Lawhogg

· #11 · Dec 7, 2005

I am barely 5'9". My first bike was/is an '05 Ultra. I took a safety course and bought Ride Like a Pro. I have no problems and can maneuver at low speeds easily. You just have to trust the bike and practice a little each Spring.

FLHRIDER

· #12 · Dec 7, 2005

I would try riding it stock before any mods. just to make shure you need them.

mwike

· #13 · Dec 7, 2005

I'm picking up an EG standard in a few weeks. I too am coming off a Sportster, had ridden sportbikes for years before the sportster.

Anyway, I'm 5'8" and when riding the EG demo, I did not have any problems. It handled suprisingly well for a bike it's size & weight. I do not plan on changing anything on mine.

msocko3

· #14 · Dec 7, 2005

akpackfan said:
I'm soon to be the proud owner of a 2006 EG Ultra Classic, Brandy Wine Sunglow in color (not that it matters). I am 5'7, 160lbs. I plan on installing a solow kit to lower the rear. Will I have any problem holding the bike up at stop lights, etc? How about with a passenger? What about slow speed manuvering? Is this too much bike for me? I currently own a 2004 Sportster 1200C. Any input is appreciated.

Nice color choice, thats the color of my 06 Ultra. These folks have given you great advice, you will be just fine holding the bike up with yourself and a passenger. I jumped from a 04 Sporty to a 05 EG Classic with no problems, the Sporty was my 1st bike and I only had it 3,000 miles when I got the EG. I actualy think the EG is easier to handle than the Sporty.

kvan

· #15 · Dec 7, 2005

I will agree with others that you can handle this just fine. I went from a Sportster to an Ultra last May. I am 5'7" and about 155 (soaking wet). I had the same concerns, but they turned out unfounded. I have not lowered the bike and have no problems.

If you do end up wanting to lower it, I would not do a lowering kit. Look into Progressive shocks instead. They will do a much better job.

Ken

RMC_SS_LDO

· #16 · Dec 7, 2005

The weight of the bike may be a little daunting at first, but you'll find it is more mind-over-matter. Bike is well balanced and handles awesome!

Just be careful where you park..... had to back up a couple hills to get out until I got it thru my thick skull it was heavier than my Fatboy! :duh?:

Allen

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