There’s something heart-pounding about the idea of riding a Harley Davidson. The engine’s roar, the wind rushing past, and the feeling of freedom can spark a sense of adventure in anyone. But how difficult is it really to ride one of these machines? 

Harley Davidson Motorcycles

Harley Davidson has carved out a significant niche in the motorcycle market, particularly among cruiser lovers. It is renowned for its distinctive V-twin engines and classic styling. According to a report by the Statista Research Department, Harley-Davidson is among the top three motorcycle brands in the United States.

Harley Davidson’s Diverse Lineup  

The brand is well-known for its models, such as the Softail, which prioritizes comfort and style. Models like the Iron 883 remain a solid choice for beginners because of their weight, as The Rock Harley Davidson highlighted. With 24 models available, Harley Davidson continues to appeal to many riders.

Fat Boy and the CVO Road Glide Ultra

So, how difficult is it to ride a Harley-Davidson motorcycle? A simple search on the internet on “the most challenging Harley-Davidson bike to ride” would give you results like the Fat Boy and the CVO Road Ultra Glide. On that note, we will approach the question with both bikes in focus.

Size of the Fat Boy

Weighing around 670 pounds (305 kg), the Fat Boy’s weight is one thing that poses challenges for riders. This weight can significantly affect maneuverability, particularly for new riders struggling with balance and control at low speeds. For perspective, many sport bikes weigh less, often around 397 pounds.

Seat Height and Riding Position

Another important consideration is the seat height of the Fat Boy motorcycle. It has a seat height of 26.5 inches, which can be challenging for shorter riders who may struggle to plant both feet firmly on the ground. This can affect confidence when stopping and starting. 

Center of Gravity

CycleWorld highlights that a motorcycle’s center of gravity is important when handling it. The CVO Road Glide Ultra has a relatively low center of gravity, which can aid stability when cruising. However, this feature also means that the weight distribution can feel different than some riders might expect.

Throttle Control and Power Delivery

Throttle control is key in riding a sportbike, especially one with a powerful engine. Harley-Davidson’s 2023 Fat Boy has a Milwaukee-Eight engine and delivers 119 pound-feet of torque. Unlike many sport bikes, the torque response of Harley engines may lead to unexpected acceleration if not appropriately managed.

Handling and Suspension

Suspension setups largely influence the handling characteristics of Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Featuring a front suspension with a 49mm fork and a rear mono-shock, the Fat Boy is designed to be comfortable on long rides, but this might make the bike feel heavier and less agile in quick maneuvers.

Braking System

Riders must be familiar with braking mechanics to avoid crashing which add another complexity to riding a Harley. The CVO Road Glide Ultra’s front is equipped with dual disc brakes, while the rear features a single disc brake. Which means effective braking requires more effort due to its weight.

Gear Shifting and Clutch Control

Harley Davidson motorcycles have manual transmissions as standard, which can present a learning curve for new riders. For instance, the Fat Boy’s 6-speed transmission requires riders to develop clutch control and shifting skills. Reviews on Reddit show that new riders struggle with clutch coordination, which can lead to stalling starts.

Rider Fatigue and Comfort

Long rides on a Harley Davidson can lead to rider fatigue, mainly due to the motorcycle’s weight. With a plush seat and ample back support, the CVO Road Glide Ultra is designed for comfort, yet the overall heft of approximately 926 pounds (420 kg) can still be physically demanding.

Road Conditions and Terrain

The ability of Harley Davidson motorcycles to handle various road conditions is a key factor in the riding experience. The Fat Boy and the CVO Road Glide Ultra excel on smooth, paved roads but may struggle on rough terrain or gravel, where traction and stability can become issues. 

Weather Considerations

Weather plays a significant role in the riding experience, particularly for Harley Davidson riders. The larger windscreen on the CVO Road Glide Ultra offers protection against wind resistance, improving comfort during long rides. However, windy conditions can still pose challenges and make it difficult to maintain control. 

Rider Experience Level

Finally, a rider’s experience level is important in determining how difficult it is to ride a Harley Davidson. Novice riders might face steep learning curves when learning the complexities of larger motorcycles. For example, a new rider on Quora reports feeling overwhelmed by the Fat Boy’s weight and handling characteristics.

Final Ride

At the end of the day, riding a Harley Davidson is as much about the journey as it is about the bike. Whether you’re cruising on the agile Fat Boy or tackling long highways on the CVO Road Glide Ultra, each ride brings its own set of thrills and challenges.