2017 Harley-Davidson Dyna Fat Bob (FXDF)│In-Depth Review and Test Ride
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 26 เม.ย. 2017
- Full, Detailed review of the Harley-Davidson Dyna Fat Bob (FXDF) 2017 Model Year. Get all the details on this "sleeper" Dyna that isn't as popular as some of the other Dynas but is the best "all-around" dyna according to Matt Laidlaw of Laidlaw's Harley-Davidson in Baldwin Park, Ca.
www.laidlawsharley.com - ยานยนต์และพาหนะ
Matt I completely agree with you on the comfort of this bike, especially if you're taller than average. The tyres really smooth out the road and the seat is mega comfy HOWEVER (you knew that was coming right?) I own a Lowrider S and I've had a Fatbob twice as a full day loaner while mine was in getting serviced. I'm in Scotland, we don't have straight roads and I took the Fat bob from Edinburgh Harley, south to the borders for an all day blast about. Bumpy tight twisty roads, up and down like a roller-coaster. Don't get me wrong I absolutely loved it, seriously, it was awesome, but I didn't feel it changed direction as quick. It actually felt like a softer version of the Lowrider S, softer ride, softer power AND softer geometry. That's not a bad thing, it was plenty fast enough and a felt GREAT to ride.
Also, I don't know, I couldn't get past the idea that they tried to do a Triumphy Harley for the European market. I actually like the way it looks and the reason I took it twice was because out of the whole forecourt, that's the one I'd have. If I didn't already have a Lowrider S, which with forwards, is kind of a fat bob, that's also a complete lunatic.
Nigel Rennie Guys read this comment. I totally agree with this dude. You're right my friend, it doesn't change direction as fast as a low rider S. Softer then a low rider is actually a perfect description in every way. Thank you for the comment. Comment pinned.
To me the Fat bob is simply somebody wanting to take mean bobber Fat front tire and combining that with the mentality of the Dyna which makes for one of the most functional bikes.(Im getting me one next week!)
Robert Stewart good choice.
Great video man. I have had a Heritage Softail for almost 3 years and 21k miles on it, but I had the opportunity to do a road trip on a Fat Bob and really loved the sitting position, the handle bars and the general look and performance of the bike. I'm seriously thinking of maybe change my Softail for a Fat Bob, would you recommend this change?
The Fatbob is going to have a "Sportier" feeling to it. Better lean angle and snappier frame. I think if you want to ride more aggressively then this will be a good change. You'll lose some of the touring comforts like bags, windshield, passenger back rest, etc. Although. you can always add those to the FAt bob as well
I have to say, you do probably the most clear, straight forward, and honest motorcycle reviews of any I have seen. you evaluate the bike for what it is and keep bias out of it. well done sir.
Nicodemus Maximus thank you. Thanks for watching.
Nobody does a more comprehensive review than Matt! Great job as always
Why don't people like the looks of this bike?, I think it looks awesome.
I agree i was in the market for about 4 months and of all the bikes i looked at i just kept coming back to this one for its overal look.
Only wild mens, girl have this type!!! If you're here, you are a man of good taste
I own one and generally love it, but the headlamps bug me. On low beam (which is permanently on), only one is fully lit, and the second has a very dim lamp. Full beam looks a little better, but you can't ride around on high beam all the time.
Same! Harley people bitch about EVERYTHING haha.
I walked in and out of my Harley dealer for over a year, every time, I ended up sitting on that Fat Bob. It just attracted me - BECAUSE it looked just a bit unique. It was clearly a Dyna, but just a little different. Once I rode it, there was no question.
I like it: It looks like an motorcycle version of a Muscle Car!
Thanks Matt for a great in depth review. I've owned a fatbob vivid black for a couple months. I too find it very comfortable to ride at 6' 4". I swapped out the stock exhaust with S&S slip ons along with a stealth air cleaner. After that I had it remapped because of de-accelerating engine popping. The mechanic took it out for a ride to make sure it ran good. He was gone for 30 minutes and I was wondering where the hell he went. Turns out it was the first time for him on a fatbob and he found the bike fantastic to drive. Once people drive this bike, they will absolutely love it.
Great review, I bought a Fat Bob earlier this week, absolutely love it. I'm a new rider (if you don't count my on/off road 100cc Kawasaki 20 years ago) and I don't think its a bad bike to start off on if you have the patience AND you live in an area where you can easily choose back roads over highways while getting used to it. I opted for this over a Sportster because I felt this is the bike I would want to upgrade to in 2 years or less. It handles great and I'm a fan of the styling, have been since I first saw it.
I think off road riding is 1000% the best experience to have .
Man that was a quick turnaround since the Street Bob review. You're true to your word.
This happens to be my favorite Harley. When you see it up close though it's a really big and imposing bike.
I own a 14’ fxdf, I’m 5’6”. The forward controls are a bit of a reach but it’s not too bad. I upgraded my seat for a le pera Daytona with the flat track stitch and gel pad. The seat greatly improved the comfort and being able to adjust on the seat for better reach while still having support. I just swing my legs back on the passenger pegs when they get tired or from the wind in the highway to reduce that fatigue. I love the bike. Don’t let being short scare you from forward controls or this bike.
They also sell reduced reach hardware, it brings it back an inch or so. But to each their own. I love it, I wouldn’t trade the bike for anything else harley offers.
Matt, you hit every point on this review dead on. I appreciate the objective and in depth look at a product you could easily throw a spin on. I had a chance to ride this, an Iron, and a Softail Slim S at a demo ride in Arizona recently and man, as a new-to-Harley rider this bike was what really made me want to own a Harley. This thing tucks into corners great, it rides straight and smooth with more than enough pulling power on the highway. If it was in my budget, it would be in my garage in a heartbeat.
Thanks again and great job with the videos!
Get it, this bike is awesome
Matt that was an Awesome Review of the Dyna I own. I sell Harleys in Valparaiso Indiana and you are 100 percent correct about this in every way. It sells the least and rides the best , every customer I've sold one to Absolutely loves it, problem is they also have to like the unique styling of the Fat Bob to buy one. Keep up all the Great Reviews, This Dyna is a Beast on the Road.
Thanks for the comment. I'm glad I'm not alone on this one.
I just purchased my 2014 Ultra Classic from Valpo Harley. Great store great people. Give my best to David, good guy.
Just picked up my 2017 Fat bob & rode 1300 klms in 2 days .Loved every minute ,comfy seat ,handles like a dream ,not one complaint
Great review Matt! Knocked it out of the park. I actual love the fat tire fronts on these bikes. Keep up the good work!
Matt, I took the Fat Bob for a ride today. I absolutely loved it. It was the best riding bike I've ever driven! I'm with you, I love the way it looks. Best bike for the money 🤘🏻🇺🇸
When I started looking into Harleys last year, Fat Bob was in the top 3 for me. I would've been ok with the dual front light, but those rear LED circles.... I couldn't get used to them. To me it makes the whole bike look like an import.
I ended up buying a Breakout CVO last month. I love that mean kick back feeling of it, and that 110!!
Thanks for all your detailed reviews, they definitely played a huge part in my decision!
I was thinking about which Harley I should buy, since I'm 6'6 and when I saw that Fat Bob design my heart jumped. Now after your review I'm definitely going for a 2016 Fat Bob.Your reviews are honest and complete, keep up your fine work Matt!
Good review Matt. Straightforward and no BS. I own a 2014 Fat Bob and like it a lot. It amazed me at how well it handles and how steady it rides which is a lot to do with the symmetry between front and rear tires, as you were explaining.There are a few design quirks that grate like the dual lights but that can be changed. But I am 5'7'' and love those forward controls. I have no problem with them and like the straight leg riding position I have to use with this set up. Not everyone's cup of tea but it suits me.
I have an after market air cleaner and have put on a set of Bassani Firesweep exhausts. Also have upgraded to the 255 cams so she sounds and goes very well.
If I ever traded to another Harley it would be a Breakout for looks or a Low Rider S for performance, but right now I am sticking with the Fattie and enjoying the ride.
Cheers from Sydney Australia
L D thanks for the comment. Enjoy.
I just got a 2015, I love this bike, I'm 5 ,8 I do want to change the intake too, I got it with a 2 into 1 Vance and Hines long radius exhaust, I'm trying to figure out which intake and tuner and do I want cams and all that ?
I've been riding for decades and still young. I've ridden everything from the 48 on up and the Fat Bob fits me like a fine glove. I could always upgrade the engine, but it's fine as is. I'm just short of breaking even on my current bike and will be heading out your way as soon as it's time. And yes, Matt the Red Iron color is perfect for this bike. Thanks for the great reviews.
Zev Meyers Nice, see you soon.
Been looking at a Fat Bob today. Been trawling the web and your review is brilliant. the road test was honest. I panicked when you said the rear seat was crap ... what will my wife do, then you said there are some good customs and the Dyna is a great two up bike........ Big thanks for that ..... keep doing what your doing .... really great help thanks from the UK
I absolutely love my Fat Bob. You're spot on for all points. It's super comfortable for me at 6'3, and makes for an awesome round town ride.
Traded in an '05 flstsc on a '16 Fatbob. It was like learning to ride all over again. I've ridden over 250,000 miles total on all the bikes I've owned. The Fatbob is overall, the most fun, best handling bike for me. Stay safe out there!
I have this bike and it went as a first bike and to be honest couldn't be more happier. It can ride between cars and have enough power to go to the road, and a lot of power a mean. It can be a little embarrassing when you are trying to park into a little climb because it`s heavy and for the handling, It`s so stable I don`t have to do anything . I wanted the look of the Fat Boy but a don`t wanted a softail because I live in the city, so that was the number one option for me Did not test ride or anything just paid and went. Rode everyday since I bought it !
Awesome man. Thank you for sharing hopefully other first timers will read your comment
@@MattLaidlaw Thank you man, you made this review and it was a no brainer for me. It has been almost 2 years and still the same. I did made quite a few changes in the bike tho hahah Will upload to imagur. appreciated for the intel. THANK U !
imgur.com/EOeeAK8
Matt, you were so right about the height for a rider. I got a Fat Bob barely a month ago and I already ordered the kit to relocate the rear brake pedal and shifter. Everything should work better now.
Really “GREAT” review! Your reviews are always the “best” Harley opinions on TH-cam, but this one is even better than the Low Rider S and Heritage reviews which are outstanding! Thanks for taking the time to inform someone like me.
I watched the review several times, went out and picked up a sweet 2015 with only 1000 miles on it. I'm a Triumph guy, this is my first Harley, the Fat Bob is what I needed for long freeway travel in comfort, the weight, the forward controls will do the trick and go where my Bonnie T120 isn't designed to go.
hi Matt, I like you videos a lot. And I really hope you could do some shots with people riding the bike like you did in this one (but too short). I think the riding posture is definitely one of the key factors when choosing a bike. Again, thanks a lot for the video! Good job!
I bought my 2009 Fat Bob new. I absolutely loved that bike. It rode and handled great. I used it for everything from around town to several cross country trips of around 2500 miles. I never needed to change out the factory seat. For me, it was comfortable even after a few hundred miles. Many times I did 10 hr. ride days with no need to stop longer than it took to eat or just refuel. I admit I did replace the dual headlight with an old school big round one and I put Vance & Hines Short Shots on it, but that is all I changed on it. I finally traded it for the only other Harley that ever really tempted me, a 2016 Softail Slim. The Fat Bob is a great bike that you can't go wrong with.
Matt as you said it's under rated and it's simply the best Dyna. I put the premium ride suspension on front and rear and it made an amazing difference.
Matt
I love my fat Bob, the comfort and handling are great I went from a Shadow 750 to a 2015 denim black and I love the fact that it doesn't look like every other guy. I'm in San Diego and I get people asking about it all the time at lights.
Great video keep up the good work
LedSled 858 Thanks. Enjoy the bike.
I bought a 2009 FXDF and I love it. The previous owner was about 5'7 and could still ride comfortably. When I test rode the bike I could immediately feel how comfortable it was. I have longer than average legs for my height (5'9) and the forward controls feel great, especially with my riding boots. This is my first bike and I have fallen in love with it. Thank you for the straightforward and honest review.
Im picking up my Fat Bob 2017 in 3 weeks cant wait ,nic review Matt
I have a 13 Fat Bob, absolutely love it as a fists in the wind short run cruiser.. I have always thought it had rather aggressive styling.. to anyone worrying about other riders and their opinions of the Fat Bob.. I get people asking about the bike all the time.. but maybe it is because I am on the other coast.. Love the videos Matt, keep them up..
I find it just a little embarrassing to think of a Harley rider choosing a "popular today" style. Harley isn't supposed to be trendy fashion it is timeless. You pick the bike that suits you best, ignore fashion.
Great review! I quite like the styling. The dual lights are a nice touch and quite practical for better night riding. I bought this as it sits well between a dyna and softail. Big enough to be a softail and practical (ride and handling) enough to be a dyna. My next upgrade would be a softail slim. Military matt green.
Gosh Matt, sure as hell hope Harley would listen to you, you're voice is louder than ours. Let me throw in. I'm 63, started riding as a kid. Bought an 08' Fat Bob. Getting a Deluxe next month, but will always keep the Bob. Matt, tell the Harley designers they screwed up. The mystery of the Fat Bob is in it's gifted engineering. In this bike, the engineers found the sweet spot for the Dyna frame. Combination of rake, wheelbase, tire sizes, weight, riding posture; forward controls, cafe bar, are what make this bike unique among Dyna's. Engineers made a Harley marvel. The style designers took a great bike and made it look barf. I personally like the dual lights. But the new tank graphics remind me of the painful AMF years. And the reason they sliced the ducktail rear fender into what they must have thought was a cheap way to mimic what many of us FB owners were doing...tossing the stock ducktail and going to the traditional fender look. Once I "fixed" the rear fender, the bike regained the "Harley look". I fear they will drop the FB from the lineup due to poor sales. And it's all the fault of poor styling. Expert riders will lose the chance to know what a Dyna frame is really capable of performing. Good job as always Matt. Ride safe all.
Tom Hughes Agreed my friend. The engineering is great on this bike. Just a few style tweaks and it could be a knock out hit.
Tom Hughes Agree 100%
After coming from ‘normal’ bikes I’m now Looking for my first Harley and this sounds perfect. Great vid
awesome video Matt, hope to see a V rod video sometime in the future. Thanks!!
Great show. I have learned a great deal from your reviews.
Another fantastic review! Keep them coming!
could be a worthy successor to my 16' Roadster .. doing a lot more long distance/highway riding this summer and I am finding the Roadster to be struggling outside of the daily city riding. great review Matt!
Excellent review....sold me....this will be my next Harley!
Hi Matt, I own a Heritage Classic, will you ever do a review of this line, I love your insight into the bikes.
Hi Matt, great review. Iv done a test ride on this machine twice. Loved it. I do have a query though regarding the 2017 colour "crushed ice denim" . . considering it a white matte finish would this be really difficult to maintain? Would it be tough to get rid of stains? Is the colour a good option to go in for?
I have a 16' Fat Bob and love it!! Great review and thanks for doing it....
This review prompted me to buy mine in Dec 16 trading my 09 street bob. Love the bike everything said is true prob the most comfortable bike I have ever ridden. Handles really well on NZ twisty roads.
Because of that review, I'll buy the fat bob instead of the street bob. Thank you so much man! I watched all the 2017 reviews! Can't wait for other reviews
Im 6 foot and a ride an anniversary FXDL. The fron 2 up seat on the bike when I bought it is the most comfortable harley seat ive ever had. Im in northern calif and have no problem going long distance with a passenger.
I've seen the older models have a few issues, charging system, clutch, etc, but.... They really pulled through with this design with the later models like this. As a certified Harley tech Matt this is by far one of my favorite dynas next to the wide glide. You can do so much as well with the aftermarket, and upgrades. A pair of big ass T bars, fairing, tour pack, and a sissy bar, she's a beast of the Dyna world. This bike is a mean fucking machine bro
Awesome and very honest review! Completely agree with you on alot of the points Matt. I'm 5'8 with long legs so the forward controls fit me well. I have an 08 so I put the tri bar led tail light in as well as putting LEDs in all the turn signals and headlights. Also put fat mini apes and the fuel Moto 107 big bore kit on the bike. All in all, with the boost in power, the natural handling, and making the bike fit me, it's perfect for riding long distances to match the touring models. Love my FatBob after making it fit me which I would suggest to anyone that owns one.
Any issues with the tri bar tailight? I have an 08 as well, and interested in purchasing one...only thing is I am finding reviews stating that the tabs on the side of the tailight are kind of chintzy. Some suggestions have been to strengthin with jb weld before install... hope you can provide feedback, thanks.
nick schultz I heard about the aftermarket tri-bar lights off of eBay and Amazon having the tab issues. After hearing all that, I paid the extra coin for the Harley brand tri-bar and it's still tight as it was when I put it on after a couple thousand miles. All the LEDs are still functioning too. Hope this info helps.
Great looking bike. I look forward to riding one.
Matt, thank you very much for doing this one. I'm watching from Hong Kong and have ordered a FatBob Harley Davidson-Hong Kong. The FatBob will arrive in May. I can't wait, its my first Harley... I really enjoy all your videos and it has been a key factor in my decision. When I"m back to LA, I'll stop in and say "hello". I'll bring you a Pin from the HK dealer. Cheers - Jim
For what it's worth, I have a 2014 Dyna Fat Bob and it's my first motorcycle. I'm 5'8" on a good day, 40 years old, and I absolutely love it. It's a pleasure to ride and even though I'm built like a Hobbit, I can still reach the controls comfortably. It's a shame these bikes don't get the love they deserve. They're awesome; they handle superbly; they have a growl to them that you'd expect out of a Harley, and the forward controls are not an issue. If anyone doesn't want their Fat Bob, I'll happily take it off their hands! LOL
Matt I've commented before and I just watched your video again. You make so much sense the way you explain the symmetry between front and rear tyre, comparing to two other Dyna's.
Additionally a friend recently purchased a 2010? WGlide. Took it for a street burst and it was great - and from what I understood was (along with LR & FB) touted as the best handling HD. Very chuckable if you know what I mean. However my Fat Bob is more useful in its purposes - around town and a run up the highway and back. Last weekend I got to do a solo ride (my pillion was away) for 300kms and loved every second - good road & bad road.
When selecting a HD I took a Fat Boy for a run and it was "sloppy " to me if you get what I mean - not my style. The Dyna won me over immediately.
As for looks/style/appeal? I love it and my son, son-in-law and close mate love it too and claim that when they get a HD they also want a Fat Bob like mine. Maybe it's different to people here in Australia
Keep up the great vids - love them.
samuraidarryl Thank you for the comment! Enjoy the Fat Bob. I love that bike.
Matt, I'm a Fat Bob fan boy. I LOVE it, but as a big guy, the stock bars and pullback makes me feel like the saw guy riding his trike! But with taller bars it rides like a dream!!! Just one thing that's a easy fix. The Fat Bob is hands down my favorite Dyna of all time. Gotta get that saddlemen, Tbars, longer floorboards, fairing, pipes, it's a BEAST! Love it matt, keep the Harley love flowing!
Good review & video.
.....buy the way, Love the dual headlamp!!!
still waiting on that 48 review brother.... lol thanks trying to figure out in what direction I'll be going as far as bike
Thinking of putting 14 inch ape hangers on my 2017 Street glide. Are there any disadvantages on doing it? Thanks Matt.
I had an 04 FXD and loved it! I would pound out 800 mile days on a regular basis with a removable windshield and sissy bar for luggage. Obviously it was no touring bike but how do you think the fat bob would compare as far as long distance rideability?
Good review on the fat bob Matt👍🏻👍🏻 I'm going to have to test drive it on demo day next time....
Hey Matt I've been watching some of your videos and I'm wandering if you could give me more info on what's the big difference from a road king to like the Fat bob as far as ride and handling.. I'm looking at both but some times when I sit on the road king it seems like I'm crunched up more than the fat bob ... I'm not as tall as you but 6'2 230 ish and will. E a solo most of the time but will like to be able to have a comfy spot for my wife to ride on weekend trips or couple hr trips ... so a back rest will go on ... but any info would be great
great video Matt currently have a 217 Street Glide been riding Harley Davidson since the Shovelhead I would love to see the perspective of a young guy on driving on a highway you're very thural on motorcycles really nice to see a young man appreciate the Harley Davidson company
Just picked up the Laguna Orange with 19 miles in NYC and rode it home to Florida. I've always seen Harley Davidson as a lot of lipstick without the motorcycle function of most other manufacturers. The Dyna Fat Bob is the only Harley that doesn't drag hard parts, has the fuel and range I absolutely need, and handles very well in the twisties. Those rear shocks however are my only gripe, Ohlins on the way with 1200 miles now.
Awesome review! I'm getting the Fat Bob and I'm getting it not because it's a "Harley" or how trendy, cool looking the bike is (or untrendy as you say in the video) I'm getting it because after test riding other Harleys, the Fat Bob was the one that put a grin on my face and stayed that way!!!! Don't get me wrong, the other bikes were really good, but the Fat Bob put the smile on my face. Thoroughly enjoyed the ride, comfortable, power and a great sound. Awesome response on the throttle too, no delay. Thanks for the review, reinforced what I found out myself! Can guarantee I won't be trading it in a year or so down the track!!!!
Supa Troopa i felt the same way and love mine!!
I bought a 2014 (what I could afford that hit could I had for a bike) and you are not kidding about seat comfort! I ribbon it is more comfy than the stock seat of my '99 FLHR. I LOVE THE LOOK! It took a bit to get used to forward controls, and that I actually had a 6th gear, but I love the bike. I did a 600 mile trip over a weekend with zero butt issues. It far exceeded my comfort expectations. I watched this video MANY times when researching the available used bikes at my local HD dealer, and am very happy that you have this video as part of my research, so THANK YOU!!!
Hey Matt! I just bought one! Upgraded from a Sportster. I'm 6'2". Sportster was too small. I appreciated your review! Thanks.
Steve Frederick Nice bro. Congrats.
That was a great review and I really appreciate that you are trying to highlight the best parts of this bike.
From my experience I would like to add my comments on 2 points: 1. "not for beginners" and 2. "is not cool"
1. Before I bought the bike I saw a review and the guy was saying "it is the best Harley for beginners". I have to agree with that. The biggest problems for beginners are weight of the bike and maneuverability. At low speeds you need to learn how to handle it but this is the same as for any heavy bike but the moment you started it gives you confidence. I was a beginner and this was my first bike after taking the driving license so I can tell you, My Fat Bob taught me how to ride. The bike is also comfortable and nice to ride.
2. The bike is cool. The bike is different from all other Harleys, I agree, but this is exactly what it makes it cool. I could list quite a few models of HD that are not for my taste but they are cool in their own stile. This bike has personality.
Anyway, the important thing is the review you made is great.
Thanks!
Dragos
Have been watching and enjoyed your videos. I was wondering if you could do a video sometime and explain the names I see like FXDF, FLHRXS , FLHXS and such. Not sure how to decipher them. Thanks
Glenn Thomas good idea. I'll add that to the list.
Awesome Review. Just bought a 08 Fat Bob and i love it. Cant beat the sure footed way this thing holds onto the road.
I live in San Diego but moving up to Northern Nevada soon and its a great place for bikes looking forward to the ride up there around 700 miles so il have a better idea of it then.
Excellent review. I just bought one of these and I agree with nearly everything stated including the "not with the current trends" comments. I to am in So Cal and I agree that every bike out there is a replica of what's trendy. That's exactly why I went with the Fat Bob; I wanted something different. In addition, I think the dual head lamps are cool as is the rear LED's. The ride is far superior than the 2007 Softail Deluxe I had and so is the comfort level even with drag bars and forward controls. The bike has got a unique attitude to the design and with that I am a bit surprised about how the sales lacked. When I saw what the 2018 Fat Bob turned into, I rushed to get the previous generation because the 2018 cafe racer looks is just not for me. The previous gen Fat Bobs are just very cool, comfortable and laid back bikes. Let the haters hate because I love my Fat Bob.
I’m looking at buying a Dyna and I very much appreciate the vids guys.
Best damn reviews on youtube, thanks matt!
captain blackbeard thank you.
What about reduced reach forward controls, I'm 5' 7? Also, can you drop the bike ?
if i live in USA I'd travel from anywhere to buy bikes from you for your honesty alone.
I watch a lot of motorcycle videos and this one was tough to beat absolutely fair and extremely well done good for you thank you
Rich Vogel Thank you and thanks for watching
Fxdf rider here. I love it.
As usual, a great review. I still think the super glide is the nicest dyna and was sad when Harley stopped making them.
Hi Matt once again great in deep review. I'm thinking in get a fat bob, but I need a confortable bike for 2 persons. Is the Softail more confortable than a fat bob for 2 passengers? Thanks in advance for the help
Matt. You are spot on all your comments. I am 6'2" 34 inseam and my 2017 Fat bob fits like a glove. I have done 300 plus mile days and the comfort blew me away. I like being unique and the more i black out the denim black, the better it looks and i get comments wherever I go. The handling is amazing, both slow and high speed. ( I am 3 for 3 in slow drag titles, 2 solo, 1 two up) Anyone who owns one or a dyna looking for a good high quality fairing for fat bobs or other dynas should check out dougz as good looking quality wind protection choices are limited.
my favorite harley - i have an 06 super glide, but am looking into modding it to look more like a fat bob
The FatBob is a nice bike, I love mine. The issue with forward control reach could be solved with the reduced reach kit, moves them back 1 1/2" I believe. Mine is an 08, factory mid controls, I switched it to forward. It does handle well, first bike I have rode that lean it into a sweeping corner and just ride it through, very minimal correction. Handles a lot like my '16 Ultra Limited, had the Bob first, Ultra to make the wife happy. I prefer the FatBob, chase the reaper and try to steal his scythe!
love the videos.
Do you recommend ABS brakes or standard? Have they always had ABS as an Option or what years did they offer ABS?
Thank you for this. I am a fat Bob lover even though I am only 5'6 I am a big gal. my current ride is a '16 iron 883. So ready for next ride with forward controls. Not a fan of mid controls...my knees hate them too.
Enjoyed the review Matt.
If a rider is shorter than the 5'9" height you mention a couple times as being the shortest rider you would recommend the F. Bob to, are there mods that you would recommend to make the F. Bob work for a shorter rider, or would you recommend another dyna or softail?
Hope to see a review on the softail heritage classic soon.
Thank you . Odd to me that such the grate Dyna today go's with such little knollage about them . Seen foreigners jump these and have a ball . Just picked up a Triumph Trophy and can find little but sound vid's out here on that fine Euro bullet .
I am 5'7' and I can shift with not problem. The air filter does bulge out and can be felt when shifting. The handling on this bike is very consistent and reliable and would encourage confidence in a newer rider or a rider coming from a smaller bike. I just bought a 2016 at Sturgis 2021 and am stoked I did it. Only 656 miles on the odometer. I am looking for the windscreen that will enhance the look of the Fat Bob and not take away the retro look. Any suggestions?
For long distance riding, would you say a fat bob is comparable to a softail at all?
thanks matt.. I think I just found my new bike.. can I put those sweet lucky Dave's handle bars on??
Awesome video as always! Any chance a 48 can get your in depth review?
just found this video. I had the 2011 FB and I now have the 2017 FB. I got them both brand new. I love them both. the only thing I didn't like about the 2017 was they didn't have the option for the Hot White Denim like the 2011. I thought that was the best color ever. The other option that hooked me was the duel headlight. I love it. As far as power goes. I'll get the engine upgrades if I decide to. I have checked out the new soft tail FatBobs and I am not a fan at all. I'll keep my Dyna as long as I can.
The exhaust header heat shield cut out pattern only apply to the rear heat shield (shown at 2:29), any reason why the cut out pattern not apply to the front heat shield?
Hey Matt. Awesome videos man! Do you think this is an ok longer distance motorcycle? Maybe with a windshield and back rest? I'm 6'2" in definite need of an upgrade from my 883 sporty. (My first bike, don't hate!)
Could you be able to do a review like this 2018 model? Thank you! Loved watching this one too.
+Jesse Lee Yes. I'll be doing reviews like this for all the new softails and a lot of the other bikes this year.
Great Harley, How much is a good late model fatbob over there/..and how much would it cost to get it shipped to New zealand?
I have a 2015 fat bob just like the one u r on same color and everything and I love it
What bike would you recommend for a new bee!
The FatBob is definitely a unique piece in the Dyna lineup. The real trendy Dyna scene will eventually get played out. But the FatBob still has that great Dyna look. If I were in the market for a Dyna i would seriously be considering the Fatbob.
I just rode the 2018 Fat BOB on Sunday,I like it , but I find at the 2016 a better fit and Believe it or not I dragged the pegs more on the 2018. The forward controls felt more cramped on the 2018. I put a Memphis Shades Bat wing on last month best money I ever spent. Glad I have the last of the Dynas! Great VID
+SNOW TROOPER The old Fatbob definitely has more leg room. That's about where the benefits stop.
Good Review Matt .... from India, i am 5.4 in height and using fwd controls with semi foot board. its lil uncomfortable. But handling, seat comfort, road presence, power, pick up, and ride is supppperbb on this bike. Dyna Fat Bob is 1 one the best bike HD has ever produced (under rated though)
I have a 2009 with Screaming Eagle stage 4 with 259 cams. Dyno at 112 HP 110 TQ. Bike really pulls and moves out nice all the way to redline. Handles and brakes great for a 700 pound cruiser.
Matt - I've watched nearly everyone of your reviews but in the last couple, you've turned LEFT out of the driveway instead of RIGHT? What gives?! I DON"T LIKE CHANGE!
All jokes aside - another excellent review!
Great video full of good information. I am 5'8" exactly. How much to have mid-controls installed? Thanks for opening my eyes to this model. Handling and performance take priority over looks. Dave did a good job.
I am a "new rider" currently dirt bike only. What I did in 1971 riding a Honda 750 around Asia doesn't count anymore. Your videos are very helpful and informative as I get back into riding. Keep up the good work.