ROLLICKING ON HARLEY’S ROCKER C

I’ve enjoyed an terrific riding experience on Harley-Davidsons® new FXCW Softail Rocker C®. This was pretty much, admittedly, my first true Harley-Davidson experience, when the fact is that my riding history has mainly been that of sport bikes and off road machines (sure I’ve had a couple short stints on earlier HD models) -- the outcome? More please, indeed-- more!

This test ride came about a few weeks ago where Deeley Harley-Davidson Canada arranged for me to use their new FXCW Softail Rocker C™ in “Crimson Red Sunglo Deluxe” to attend Ontario’s famed Port Dover Friday the 13th —a sort of mini Daytona. Upon first look, the Rocker C’s fat 240 mm rear wheel, 37.5 degree raked out front end, placed it as a custom, a cruising machine —but not for me, I treated it like a sport bike and let me assure you, it performed. The Rocker C® with a total gross weight rating of 1175 lbs/533 kg’s had me beat--I weigh 51 kg yet after collecting the bike, heading down the street to a shopping mall parking lot to become acquainted with this tall drink of a machine—I accomplished slow speed small tight circles with astonishing ease, balance and maneuverability. Even later I easily walked beside it maneuvering it as a bicycle in parking spaces with little challenge!

When riding at roadway/highway speed I attacked the corners continuously with sport bike and racing mindset—its what I know and the bike responded. Admittedly when scraping the rubber off my boot heels in corners, I backed off—out of respect for its price tag and the fact it’s not the right time or place to test limits.

Additionally, I discovered an addictive delight when turning the 1584 cc, air cooled, twin cam 96B push rod operated engine over to hear it ignite to idle—yes the renowned Harley-Davidson sound. I’ve discovered I’m no different; there is something very special about it I couldn't escape. As in other motorcycles, I thrill at the acceleration sounds the MotoGP bikes make crossing the start finish line, the rumble of my own Ducati or even the sound of a military fighter jet when doing a fly by -- sounds that break barriers provoke a certain sensation in me, as did the Rocker C.

Its unique Rockertail™ suspension gave added muse when, for example, push-steering from lane to lane, and upon planting into final lane position provided a smooth 'softail' dip sensation.

I'll be providing a full test ride report shortly--check back for the details.