Harley-Davidson FLSTSC Softail Springer Classic reviews

In 2005, I paid off my car and was looking to get a new car. I stopped by my local Harley dealership to get a part for my dad & saw the Springer Classic. I've always liked the Springers & decided that I was gonna get one. The older style ones always turned me off due to all the fringe on the bags etc., but this one caught my eye due to the 1940s styling(& the fact that my dream bike is a 48 panhead). It's based of the pan head so I said, why not pick it up? It took me about 800 miles to really get comfortable w/ the bike. I came from a Sportster so the bigger bike was intimidating at 1st but when I got used to it, it was awesome. The bike handles great. I love twisty curvy roads so when I ride I need a good handling bike. My only problem in this end, is the fact that the floorboards occaisonally drag. It's not a big deal for me but it can scare people. There is plenty of power from the 88 in twin cam V Twin. It accelerates well and with the stage 1 kit & screaming eagle pipes it has a throaty roar that isn't too annoying but will definitely let people know you are coming. My only major beef about the bike period, is the headlight. The light isn't very bright; in fact it's downright dim. It's also rubber mounted so it bounces like crazy. I got the auxillary head lamp kit which makes a world of difference ( it looks great too). Overall, this is a great bike. It's actually quite rare. You don't see very many of them on the road, and it always gets looks and waves. It's a great conversation starter at rallys or by the side of the road on a break. This is honestly one of the most beautiful bikes that Harley has ever made. I have almost 6K on it and look forward to tons more miles! Show less

Hi! I have taken a test ride on both bikes. The Softail Deluxe handles better overall like modern jap bikes.Can hardly feel any bumps on the road.Being fairly short,I had also better reach of the controls. There is more bling bling on this bike. Its really a great show bike to impress the ladies. The Springer on the other hand looks like an industrial project in the 50s. Less chrome, and more feedback from road elements. The springer front end is very sensititive, and doesnt take bumps too well. Place the 2 bikes side by side and somehow the eyes will be drawn to the Deluxe. The brighter finishes and chrome makes it more attractive. However spend 1 hour gawking, and somehow you will be more drawn to the Springer. There is just so much hidden details and character. I bought the Springer in the end, when I was initially a Road King fan. It reminds me of an era when things are not perfect and motorcycles were built with more ride(not polishing) time in mind. Its also bound to turn more heads as very few new Harleys are built with such nostalgia. Go to any Harley meet and the springer classic is always found to be a delightful suprise, with most riders turning up in Fatboys,RoadKings & Sporters. There is also more potential in the way that you can customise the bike. As for the short comings I have mentioned on the Springer. Truthfully, you can spend a half your dole comparatively on a Jap bike, and receive twice the comfort.I think the Japs make great bikes,but I WANT A HARLEY!!!! If not for bumping into the Springer Classic, I would be equally elated with the Road King or Deluxe. But given a choice, stick to the option where your heart remains undecided. I am glad I now own something where simplicity truimphs, and the ride becomes the journey. Show less

I only have 400 miles on my Classic and I can already say that I will never part with this beauty. It turns heads of all ages. I like the ride even better now that I changed the handlebars to the fatter & wider "new" beach bars. Show less

Great styling, and factory paint is rich (have the red/black). Surprisingly agile, particularly considering the weight and suspension (and I'm coming from sport-tourer's). Engine pulls strongly, despite weight has no problems keeping up with other big twins. Stock mirrors give superb view. Stock seat is comfy! Riding position may not be good for those with lower back problems... or you may want to invest in a windshield/backrest. Fuel injection is well done and recommended! As other reviewers note, having the crossover duals instead of the staggered duals affects the "Harley" sound a bit, but I think the sound is great (have the stage I kit with screaming eagle exhaust). Passing (aka Highway) lamps recommended, as headlamp is a little weak. Plus they look great on this bike. Show less

At first I wanted a Road King. So when I went into the dealership to buy one they conveniently were out of them at the moment. So I walked passed this Springer Classic and thought it was some kind of custom until the salesman told me otherwise. I ended up buying that bike and boy to I love it!! I recommend it to all of those out there who are looking for the next big thing and a whole new deffinition of cool. Show less

The bike is a real head turner. I get all kinds of looks and questions. Most are questions of the year of the bike. As far as the ride - Very smooth and no problems braking or cornering. Only one draw back is that I am 6'2" and I end up a bit cramped. The guys at my local dealer are working on a new seat set up to get me a few more inches of room. The bike has good power and is a pleasure on the open road. I do wish it sounded more Harley like. I can't wait for next month's ride to Americaid (Lake George N.Y.). Overall I would recommend this fine throw-back cruiser, especially if you are 6'0" or less. Show less