The Harleys are okay. But if you are looking for smooth power and great brakes, you should get more familiar with the BMW K1200LT. It's an in-line water cooled four, fuel injected, dry clutch, with shaft drive. It's a heavy bike, but smooth as silk. The brakes on my 2002 are servo controlled power brakes with ABS. They are so powerful it took me some getting used to to keep from launching myself over the handlebars. Easily the best brakes I've ever had on a bike.x01660 wrote:The K1200 is the twin, right? . . . . . . Or is it not that bad? Also, handling is a big concern. And especially stopping. How do the HD full dressers stop?
The best part of the LT is it's a German version of the Goldwing. Lots of storage and lots of farkles. I have 20 bikes, and the K1200LT is the one that all passengers prefer to ride on the back of. Heated seats, heated grips, power adjustable windshield, four speaker stereo, wired for CB and intercom, reverse gear, and the ones built after 2005 even have a power center stand.
The K1600 was BMW's replacement for the K1200LT. Since the LT is no longer "new" technology, the prices have dropped considerably. Recent listings on CL are in the $3000-8000 range for an incredibly equipped motorcycle.
I'm starting to sound like a BMW salesman . . . sorry about that. But you should check them out before you make a decision on a Harley, or any other touring bike for that matter. If you don't mind a heavy bike, it's one of the best values out there right now.