I'm currently having a very hard time debating between a 2016 Street Glide Special and a 2017 Street Glide Special. I would love to hear from people to help with the decision. Where it comes down to is the 2016 is roughly $28 less a month then the 2017. Outside of that everything is the same, well except for the motor. Need a bit of in put from everyone
Decision time
- Thread starter nicholasa631
- Start date
Boy am I glad I got a 2016. First of all, the EPA was behind a lot of the reasons that 2017 motor came about the way it did. When they first came out, I was at a dealership and one of the new 17's rolled by, and the sales guy enthusiastically said "listen to how quiet it is!". Man, forgive me but that's not why one buys a Harley. The other thing, is that this is the first year of a major motor overhaul, and that could definitely end up having some growing pains and problems.
If you do end up with the 17, I still think you can be happy. Many are, but you're asking a great question, and I'm answering it from my experience.
If you do end up with the 17, I still think you can be happy. Many are, but you're asking a great question, and I'm answering it from my experience.
Thank you for the information. I have taken both years out for a test ride and both feel great. My only main reason for the 2016 over 2017 is that 28 dollar difference could be put towards parts rolled into the finance. On the other hand I know I would be very happy with either one and would be a big step up over my current ride
NEW: Compensator sprocket, 4 valve heads with dual spark plugs, clutch, balancer shaft, larger rod bearings, oil pump, high output alternator, larger starter motor, cam chain tensioner, knock sensors, oil breather......need I go on?
I'm upgrading all this stuff on my 2016 engine rebuild.
Very good reasons. As I'm still learning as much as I possibly can in general. Has there been any known issues on the 2017's? I know they're still very new however the one thing I've always heard from everyone is to be cautious about going with a new motor design. While I've heard that for cars I'm not sure how much that carryies over to motorcycles
The 2016 motor is proven to have issues. The 2017 has yet to prove itself, but it is off to a much better start than the twin cam ever was. The new motor is not compromised to meet emissions. If you ever want more, H-D offers a great stage IV kit for the M8 107 with over 120 HP.
Stage IV Link
Stage IV Link
$28? Don't forget the resale value on the 17 will be much better if it ever comes to that.
Noise?? You can "take the diapers" off any Harley. I have an M8-Very pleased and its very loud with my Stage 1.
M8 Engine issues??? They tested this engine for over 4 million miles before they put it into production. So far, this engine has the least problems of any Harley engine ever introduced.
Make no mistake about it, folks. The Harley M8 was designed and tested entirely during the Obama administration. Harley was also fighting with the EPA during that time, and had to pay a 15 million fine. Yes, you can get louder pipes for one, but it's not the same. The design of the heads even looks like a Japanese bike (not that there's anything wrong with that... 
The twin cam engine is the end of an era.
The twin cam engine is the end of an era.
When they say the new engine is quiet, we aren't talking about the exhaust, we talking about the mechanical noises comping from the engine. Compared to my M8, my twin cam sounds like a thrashing machine being towed behind a John Deere. The new engine is wonderful but, the '17 is more than that, the new suspension is also head and shoulders better than previous year Harleys. This new bike handles like nothing else (including FXRs) that Harley has produced.
Very good points. Thank you for the information and the in put on it. I'll know by later today what the final outcome will be and will be sure to let everyone know which direction I'm going. I will say with that little extra money I'd save with the 2016 I am very tempted to get the aux lights and have them and the headlight a Day Maker
It's both, because even with upgraded exhaust on a 17, they just sound different. Twin cam and older bikes have more of a classic Harley soul. Now, upgraded suspension would be nice, but for me - not at the expense of the other points I've brought up.
Personally, I wouldn't be too focused on the extra $28. The 2017 handles and tracks better than any previous touring model plus the M8 is a beast compared to the 103. Far more torque and HP - those of us with the 103 will spend $$$ just to keep up with our M8 buddies. You will get way better stock power and much improved handling with the 2017. Plus, as pointed out, the resale value can't be overlooked with the M8.
I too was pinched between the two as well.
After riding both years it was a no-brainer for me to go with the M8. Power difference was obvious, overall ride, and smoothness and quietness of the engine.
I really like the sound of the bike with the SE Cannons. It's your $28.00 question to answer.
After riding both years it was a no-brainer for me to go with the M8. Power difference was obvious, overall ride, and smoothness and quietness of the engine.
I really like the sound of the bike with the SE Cannons. It's your $28.00 question to answer.
Thank you all for the information and advice. The difference was a bit more and I am going with the 2016. They made the offer much better and a lower down payment which helped out as well. Again thank you all for the advice and in put
Congrats! And enjoy your new bike. Either choice is the right one!!
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