New here. Have questions please....

[ParrotLady3]

Hi All:<br />
<br />
My Husband &amp; I are considering buying a HD '12 Trike. He has a Dyna Convertable 2000. We're thinking of ordering soon &amp; delaying delivery until next spring, as winter will be on us soon.<br />
<br />
I can't drive the Dyna. Reason for the Trike is my health issues. I'm hoping I can drive the Trike. I've had several hand/thumb/wrist surgeries, back &amp; neck, among a few others &amp; I have Fibromyalgia &amp; neuropathy in both feet....see why the Trike! I have only been able to be a passanger. I did ride when I was a teenager, but that was many years ago.<br />
<br />
So far we've only seen/sat on the '12 Trike at the York, PA factory. We know several who have '11's &amp; they love them.<br />
<br />
I'm putting together info so I can figure what all we'll need/want &amp; prices. I know it's often cheaper to buy/have stuff added upon delivery.

If I can drive it, we'll both be driving it. He's 5' 10" &amp; I'm, 5' 4".<br />
<br />
<u>If you don't mind I have questions:</u><br />
What should we consider buying when we order the Trike? I've tried looking on HD site, but it's a bit overwhelming as to options.<br />
<br />
I'd like it to have a nice sound, not too loud. <br />
Should we update the exhaust (does stock sound like a sewing machine?)? We put Vans Hines on the Dyna.....sweet <img src="images/smilies/smile.gif" border="0" alt="" title="Smile" class="inlineimg" />. I'd really appreciate detailed info on suggestions on everything we'd need to buy, AKA brand/model/parts if possible. Can they be purchased from HD &amp; installed upon delivery?<br />
<br />
Handlebars: Huz had buckhorns put on his Dyna. Is there a handlebar that would fit the Trike like this?<br />
<br />
Is there anything that would make it easier for me to work the throttle?<br />
<br />
I was reading thru the forum &amp; saw mention to rear lift kits. What's the purpose for this? Does HD sell them?<br />
<br />
When I sat on the Trike I couldn't see the front wheel.

Is this normal? Would I need a seat riser of some sort?<br />
<br />
Is the top luggage compartment lined or do you have to buy a liner? The one we saw was locked, so I couldn't check it.<br />
<br />
Microphone system....I wear full helmet, huz wears 3/4 with face shield....any suggestions as to what would work best? Brand, where to buy, etc.<br />
<br />
Insurance? Is the Trike considered a motorcycle or a ATV for insurance purposes?<br />
<br />
I'd appreciate any suggestions.<br />
<br />
Thanks,<br />
Feather

[TaylorMcStrat]

Feather,<br />
<br />
Most of what you asked has been dealt with in other threads. The search function will provide you lots of good leads to answer your questions. As far as options, about the only factory option on the trike is the upgraded two-tone paint for the non-black ones. After-market is another story.<br />
<br />
I don't have time to tackle every one of your questions, but I will provide you with my (and my wife's) overall impression of the trike.<br />
<br />
The Harley trike is a beast. It is heavy industrial art. Although it provides all the advantages of a trike over a motorcycle (balance and stability being the top two), it's still a big handful of motorcycle. My wife is also 5'4" and fortunately, doesn't have any health issues. She is active physically, and yet finds the trike a "big" machine. Don't get me wrong, she still loves to drive it, but it takes everything she has to stay on top of it.<br />
<br />
If you can't drive the Dyna, I am not sure how much easier the trike will be for you with your health limitations. It has the same clutch, throttle, shifter, and big twin engine along with a massive frame.<br />
<br />
They trike bikes like the Suzuki Burgman and Honda Silver Wing now, and those would be much easier to manage than the 1200 lbs. of Harley iron.

They also have automatic transmissions on some of these.<br />
<br />
Given your list of health concerns, please note that the Harley trike is still a Harley: big, heavy, and noisy. <br />
<br />
I happen to love all three, but you may want to test-drive it before plunking down that kind of money.

[Ironhorsepilot]

I drive the trike just fine. I am 5'1 with arthritis in my hands. I will say that the clutch may be hard for you. It is hard for me and I needed to get a AIM clutch pak in order to reduce the clutch effort. It helps, but my hands still get tired in stop and go traffic.<br />
<br />
Also, if you drive the trike you will probably need a motorcycle license unless you live in a state where they allow you to take the driving test on a trike. My state, you have to take the test on two wheels. If your hubby is licensed and with you all the time, you may get away with a permit and go along with the restrictions, like no interstate, no after dark driving and always have a licensed driver within 1/4 mile of you.<br />
<br />
Trike is considered a trike for insurance.<br />
<br />
Welcome to trike talk!

[jfingalls]

Hello Feather, welcome to the trike Talk Forum and, as you can see from TaylorMcstrat's response, we are very friendly and knowledgeable. I think that he has provided good advice. Good luck with your decision and take a look at some of the threads in the Forum that address some of your questions.

[Cybyrd1]

I agree with the idea of test driving before you commit that much money, but don't let the size of the TG scare you off. There are aftermarket solutions that will help with the clutch, and with the heel/toe shift, changing gears should not be a problem. the TG steering is really pretty easy, as it has a hydraulic assist.

[TaylorMcStrat]

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<img src="images/misc/quote_icon.png" alt="Quote" /> Originally Posted by <strong>Cybyrd1</strong>
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<div class="message">I agree with the idea of test driving before you commit that much money, but don't let the size of the TG scare you off. There are aftermarket solutions that will help with the clutch, and with the heel/toe shift, changing gears should not be a problem. the TG steering is really pretty easy, <b>as it has a hydraulic assist</b>.</div>

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</div>Really? Which model do you have with hydraulic assist? Mine only has a steering damper.<br />
<br />
My signature says the year and make of mine.

[10rhrk]

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<img src="images/misc/quote_icon.png" alt="Quote" /> Originally Posted by <strong>ParrotLady3</strong>
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<div class="message">Hi All:<br />
<br />
My Husband &amp; I are considering buying a HD '12 Trike. He has a Dyna Convertable 2000. We're thinking of ordering soon &amp; delaying delivery until next spring, as winter will be on us soon.<br />
<br />
I can't drive the Dyna. Reason for the Trike is my health issues. I'm hoping I can drive the Trike. I've had several hand/thumb/wrist surgeries, back &amp; neck, among a few others &amp; I have Fibromyalgia &amp; neuropathy in both feet....see why the Trike! I have only been able to be a passanger. I did ride when I was a teenager, but that was many years ago.<br />
<br />
So far we've only seen/sat on the '12 Trike at the York, PA factory. We know several who have '11's &amp; they love them.<br />
<br />
I'm putting together info so I can figure what all we'll need/want &amp; prices. I know it's often cheaper to buy/have stuff added upon delivery.

If I can drive it, we'll both be driving it. He's 5' 10" &amp; I'm, 5' 4".<br />
<br />
<u>If you don't mind I have questions:</u><br />
What should we consider buying when we order the Trike? I've tried looking on HD site, but it's a bit overwhelming as to options.<br />
<br />
<font color="DarkRed">Welcome to the forum, We just bought a 2012 Triglide and love it. Go to Harleydavidson.com look at Trikes in the 2012 lineup. one of the options is </font>[COLOR="rgb(139, 0, 0)"]<font color="DarkRed">shop for accessories. It will list everything that'a available for the 2012.<br />
</font>[/COLOR]<br />
<br />
I'd like it to have a nice sound, not too loud. <br />
Should we update the exhaust (does stock sound like a sewing machine?)? We put Vans Hines on the Dyna.....sweet <img src="images/smilies/smile.gif" border="0" alt="" title="Smile" class="inlineimg" />. I'd really appreciate detailed info on suggestions on everything we'd need to buy, AKA brand/model/parts if possible. Can they be purchased from HD &amp; installed upon delivery?<br />
<br />
<font color="DarkRed">They can, but it's expensive!

We are lucky here on Triketalk. We have some knowlegeable owner's that's already done the research and knows what's best for your riding comfort. To mention two that I'm familiar with, MR Wizard. He's one of the Moderator's. OldMsocko and Msocko3</font><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Handlebars: Huz had buckhorns put on his Dyna. Is there a handlebar that would fit the Trike like this?<br />
<br />
<font color="DarkRed">You might want to try the stock bars before changing. Reason being, you don't counter steer with a Trike.</font><br />
<br />
Is there anything that would make it easier for me to work the throttle?<br />
<br />
<font color="DarkRed">Throttle is easy, you are probably referring to the clutch. My wife does not have a problem with the clutch. It's fairly easy to pull. I have arthritus in my hands too.</font><br />
<br />
I was reading thru the forum &amp; saw mention to rear lift kits.

What's the purpose for this? Does HD sell them?<br />
<br />
<font color="DarkRed">I'll let someone else answer this one. I don't have the lift kit.<br />
</font><br />
When I sat on the Trike I couldn't see the front wheel. Is this normal? Would I need a seat riser of some sort?<br />
<br />
<font color="DarkRed">Not seeing the front wheel while riding is normal because of the fairing. If you need to line up the wheel to pull into a wheel chock, it's easy to lean slightly to one side and look down past the gas tank to see it.</font><br />
<br />
Is the top luggage compartment lined or do you have to buy a liner? The one we saw was locked, so I couldn't check it.<br />
<br />
<font color="DarkRed">The luggage compartment and Tourpak is lined.</font><br />
<br />
Microphone system....I wear full helmet, huz wears 3/4 with face shield....any suggestions as to what would work best? Brand, where to buy, etc.<br />
<br />
<font color="DarkRed">The Triglide comes with one headset to mount to your helmet.</font><br />
<br />
Insurance? Is the Trike considered a motorcycle or a ATV for insurance purposes?<br />
<br />
<font color="DarkRed">It is insured just like a two wheel Motorcycle.</font><br />
<br />
I'd appreciate any suggestions.<br />
<br />
<font color="DarkRed">I would consider taking delivery with it stock. Ride it some and then decide what accessories you really want and need.

It varies per individual and Dealer's charge big bucks to add stuff.</font><br />
<br />
Thanks,<br />
Feather</div>

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</div>
</div>Again, welcome to you and your Husband to Triketalk...

[msocko3]

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<img src="images/misc/quote_icon.png" alt="Quote" /> Originally Posted by <strong>ParrotLady3</strong>
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<div class="message">Hi All:<br />
<br />
My Husband &amp; I are considering buying a HD '12 Trike. He has a Dyna Convertable 2000. We're thinking of ordering soon &amp; delaying delivery until next spring, as winter will be on us soon.<br />
<br />
<font color="Red">I see your from PA, who is the dealer your thinking of doing business with?</font><br />
<br />
I can't drive the Dyna. Reason for the Trike is my health issues. I'm hoping I can drive the Trike. I've had several hand/thumb/wrist surgeries, back &amp; neck, among a few others &amp; I have Fibromyalgia &amp; neuropathy in both feet....see why the Trike! I have only been able to be a passanger. I did ride when I was a teenager, but that was many years ago.<br />
<br />
<font color="Red">Smaller folks have successfully ridden the Triglide, I would ride one first to see what changes would need to be made for you. </font><br />
<br />
I'd like it to have a nice sound, not too loud. <br />
Should we update the exhaust (does stock sound like a sewing machine?)?

We put Vans Hines on the Dyna.....sweet <img src="images/smilies/smile.gif" border="0" alt="" title="Smile" class="inlineimg" />. I'd really appreciate detailed info on suggestions on everything we'd need to buy, AKA brand/model/parts if possible. Can they be purchased from HD &amp; installed upon delivery?<br />
<br />
<font color="Red">Pretty much any muffler which will fit the 2 wheel touring bikes will fit the Triglide, so you can have the dealer install what you want.</font><br />
<br />
Handlebars: Huz had buckhorns put on his Dyna. Is there a handlebar that would fit the Trike like this?<br />
<br />
<font color="Red">Harley offers as an accessory a pull back handle bar which brings the bars back towards you.</font><br />
<br />
I was reading thru the forum &amp; saw mention to rear lift kits. What's the purpose for this? Does HD sell them?<br />
<br />
<font color="Red">The Triglide is kind of a tail dragger, its back end sets low which causes the mufflers to drag on certain inclines. The lift kit is marketed by one of the forum sponsors tglidestuff.com</font><br />
<br />
When I sat on the Trike I couldn't see the front wheel. Is this normal? Would I need a seat riser of some sort?<br />
<br />
<font color="Red">Its normal to not be able to see the front wheel.</font><br />
<br />
Is the top luggage compartment lined or do you have to buy a liner? The one we saw was locked, so I couldn't check it.<br />
<br />
<font color="Red">Both the tunk and the tour-pak are lined, the trike comes with a bag for packing stuff and placing in the tour-pak, Harley also offers luggage for the trunk which you can buy from the dealer.</font><br />
<br />
Microphone system....I wear full helmet, huz wears 3/4 with face shield....any suggestions as to what would work best?

Brand, where to buy, etc.<br />
<br />
<font color="Red">The Triglide comes with 1 head set which will work in both a full face or 3/4 helmet, another one can be purchased from the dealer. They sound ok, not something I care to listen to good music through but works great for the CB and Intercom.</font><br />
<br />
Insurance? Is the Trike considered a motorcycle or a ATV for insurance purposes?<br />
<br />
<font color="Red">Your insurance company should recognize the Triglide or FLHTCUTG.</font></div>

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</div><font color="Red">My comments are above in red.</font>

[Mr.Wizard]

M3<br />
<br />
You like to see your name in lights, don't ya, huh, yeah, huh, don't ya?? LOL<br />
<br />
I know someone in E. TN that needs to highlight their replies also... <img src="images/smilies/grin.gif" border="0" alt="" title="big grin" class="inlineimg" /><img src="images/smilies/grin.gif" border="0" alt="" title="big grin" class="inlineimg" />

[10rhrk]

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<img src="images/misc/quote_icon.png" alt="Quote" /> Originally Posted by <strong>Mr.Wizard</strong>
<a href="showthread.php?p=79045#post79045" rel="nofollow"><img class="inlineimg" src="images/buttons/viewpost-right.png" alt="View Post" /></a>
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<div class="message">M3<br />
<br />
You like to see your name in lights, don't ya, huh, yeah, huh, don't ya?? LOL<br />
<br />
I know someone in E. TN that needs to highlight their replies also... <img src="images/smilies/grin.gif" border="0" alt="" title="big grin" class="inlineimg" /><img src="images/smilies/grin.gif" border="0" alt="" title="big grin" class="inlineimg" /></div>

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</div><img src="images/smilies/agree smilie.gif" border="0" alt="" title="Agree1" class="inlineimg" />, that makes sense, I'll have to learn how to do that..<img src="images/smilies/grin.gif" border="0" alt="" title="big grin" class="inlineimg" />

[Gorilla]

Welcome aboard feather. You have good responses to your questions all ready. Really exhaust and other accessories are a very personal preference so it is hard for anyone to say what you are going to like. Please find a dealer or a rally that is offering test rides. That will answer alot of your questions.

[msocko3]

M3

You like to see your name in lights, don't ya, huh, yeah, huh, don't ya?? LOL

I've always been a bold and flashy kind of guy.

[Roundabout]

Two accessories I consider essential for all TG owners are a trickle charger and a HD touring air pump/gauge. When you first start out you will be going on short, low speed rides and you will be wanting to try out the reverse just because it's fun. Both of these activities will quickly drain your battery. I now have nearly 8K miles on the trike and to this day I put the TG on the charger every night. No battery or starting problems since I started doing this and I believe that doing this will extend the normal life of the battery. For the air pump, don't be surprised when after taking possession of your new toy, or after a service interval you discover there is improper or even NO pressure in you rear shock. In addition you may want to change the pressure periodically depending on your load and type of road you will be riding on (straight, curvy, hilly or flat). The pump is small, accurate, easy to use and stays on my TG at all times.

[Dwight]

Feather,
Try this: EFM Auto Clutch
I think the clutch operation might be the problem area for you. Small hands are even a problem with clutch operation. I've been considering using one of these myself because of previous injuries to my left wrist. I have no experience with this product, but I think it might be worthwhile if clutch operation is a problem.

Dwight

[eagle1]

also a test ride will let you see if the catalitic converter "heat issues" will be
a deal breaker for both of you. good luck.if you can find a '09 trike; it doesn't have a CAT.

[ParrotLady3]

Thanks guys....lots of good info. I'm taking notes.

Feather

[Beorn of Ga]

I have a 2011 Triglide.
I recommend, and have the rear bumper option.

[Cybyrd1]

Sorry! Had a case of flatulence of the cerebellum. I meant to refer to the steering damper.

[Hawk05]

What?

[jimmy]

welcome. i would say go to a dealer and rent one for a day or two. practice in a parking lot for awhile. drive it before you buy it. you may find you need nothing or may find you need to mods to the clutch or seat or handlebars. they steer differant than a 2 wheeler and do require some upper body strength to push pull through the turns. make sure you are comfortable with it before makking such a big purchase.