Springer riders, I need help...
 

I'd like to purchase a Springer but I don't know which one to get.

Harley offers them with either a carburetor or EFI. Which one is better? more perferable?? ...and why??? any ideas?

I appreciate any input. Thanks guys (and gals)

Springers...
 

Hello Racer X, welcome to the boards.

If you want a Heritage Springer you better get one quick, H-D will stop making them when the current 2003 production run ends.

As for the differences of the bikes. they both use the same frame, and motor, the Twin Cam 88b. The most obvious difference is the front end. The Heritage uses the FL front end with a 16 inch wheel, and much wider tire. The FX springer uses the FX front end with the "skinny" 21 inch wheel, and tire.

The FL front end will give you a much smoother ride, and is also safer, the "skinny" front tires tend to track the grooves in the pavement more, causing handling problems, and concerns.

The other obvious difference is the rear fenders, but both bikes use the same rear swing arm, wheel, and tire.

Also, the Heritage comes with bags, windshield, floorboards, and passing lamps...better for touring if that's a deciding factor.

As far as Carb vs. EFI.....The only advantage to having a Carb is you can modify the jetting, and adjust the idle. And if you desire it's easy to rebuild, or even replace a carb with another brand, or size.
I have always had Carb bikes, but have friends with EFI that love it. Rumor has it that all 2004 H-D Touring bikes will be EFI....we'll have to wait and see. My next bike will most likely be a Road King, so I will probably have an EFI bike someday. But, to me either one is a fine ride. And there are many, many people running EFI, and Carbs that will tell you it doesn't matter either way.

So, good luck with your choice......let us know what you decide.

FBR :cool:

Re: Springers...
 

Thanks FatBoyRider... I'm glad to be here.:)

A dealer told me that Harley did extend the production run for a couple more months.

One more Q?... Isn't the EFI adjustable? I know you can re-jet a carb but can the EFI be re-mapped, dyno-tuned then have a custom chip burned for the computer?... Just thinking that something will have to be done if I install aftermarket exhaust.

Good to know that either EFI or Carb is fine. Thanks for the comparison between the two models.

Thanks again!

Welcome RX, nice to have you aboard. With the fuel injected models you can re-map the computers. You can also add aftermarket accessories, like a Power Commander that give you a lot more flexibility for tuning. I got the carburated model Fatboy cause the price was right and I like to tinker, but my next HD will be injected for sure. So much easier!!! Jetting can be tricky sometimes.

As far as your first question, FBR nailed in right on. Good luck with your search, and enjoy!