Hello everyone, I'm new to the forum and looking for some advice. I finally talked my wife into letting me buy a Harley, but I'm torn between which bike to buy, a switchback or a road king. My origional plane was to get a switchback, then trade it in a few years when after I moved back to the states for a bigger touring bike, but the wife says that this is the only bike I'm allowed to buy because I already have another exspensive toy (a jeep). What would yall reccomend for someone with not very much riding experience?

Cheers

 

Road King! I was in this same boat you are 345 days ago. Dealer wanted $18,999.00 OTD for a red Switchback (2012). Went to a different dealer who had a 2011 RK on the floor (left over since the new ones were out). Got it for $18,000 OTD, AND, they threw in luggage rack, back rest, heritage style bars, cruise control, low profile chrome laced wheels, and no fees.

I am so glad I didn't get the Switchback because it didn't have the features of the King, and the King is much more comfortable for the Mrs and I.

Edit: Oh, and it was the first big bike I'd had in 30 years. So I was kinda starting fresh also. Don't let it scare you. Just get used to it locally before trying any two-up or long distance riding.

 

to be honest, best to ride both and buy the one you like that fits the kind of riding you plan on doing.
If its short trips away on the occasional weekend and puttering about town, i'd go for a Switchback.
If you wanna do some more serious long distance stuff, Road king.

That said, either bike will do both comfortably and both bikes are wonderful machines so go ride 'em and see which fits you.

 

Road king without question in my opinion!

 

If you think you want to end up with the King, then get it. Also, the King comes with engine guards, you WILL miss step at a stop, parking whatever and the engine guards will protect the bike and keep it from dropping all the way to the ground.
The King will be better for two up and there's more accessories available.

 

If are not going to take long trips and be just a Blvd. Cruiser, The Switchback will be fine. But there is no contest really for ride comfort and storage. Good Luck!

 

The only one you are "allowed" to have? Ok.....

RK it is then....

Shakey

 

Road king hands down. Switch back is nice but what you get in a RK is so much more....

 

New wife. LOL

 

RK all the way...you wont regret it