Most of the time when people think of Harley Davidson bikes they think of those motorcycles from the heyday of the 1940s and 50s before the company was bought out by AMF. Some modern Harleys are built to look like these classics such as the Road King, Road Glide, and Electra Glide models. Many long-time Harley Davidson fans are also fans of these bikes, and they show their appreciation through consumer loyalty and through wearing things like motorcycle patches, logos, t-shirts, etc.
Touring models are most widely known for their rear coil suspension and the large saddlebags often used with them. Also, they rely on a frame that first came about in 1980, and it was used for nearly thirty years without much change. During this time as the company grew and changed there were only small modifications made to the lineup. People were comfortable and familiar with these bikes, and because Harley Davidson knew better than to change things that were familiar and comfortable to sellers and their client base, they did not allow for any major changes until the complete redesign of the touring bike frames in 2009.
During this model year the new bikes were introduced with a completely redesigned frame, a new swingarm, a 2-1-2 exhaust, and front wheels that measured seventeen inches. But probably one of the biggest changes was the fact that the engine mounting system in the touring bikes had been completely revised as well. Because of these changes, the bikes were able to have a larger load capacity, smoother engines, a longer range, less heat transference from the motor to the passengers, and improved handling. Although these changes were considered drastic by some true blue Harley fans, most think of them as much needed improvements.
