Harley-davidson Dyna Fat Bob Review

Used Buyer Review

The Fat Bob is one of Dyna's most characterful machines — that wide 21-inch front wheel and dual headlights give it a genuinely menacing street presence that ages well. The Twin Cam 96 or 103 engine is bulletproof if it's been maintained, and most Fat Bobs have seen decent miles without drama. Check the cam chain tensioners on pre-2006 bikes though — that's the one known Achilles heel that can turn into an expensive rebuild if ignored. Riding position is aggressive for a Harley, feet forward but not stupidly so, and the thing actually handles reasonably well for something this heavy. Don't expect sporting dynamics, but it won't embarrass you on twisty roads either. Vibration through the pegs is real above 70mph — that's not a fault, that's a Dyna. Budget for new tires almost immediately on anything used, and inspect the rear isolator mounts religiously. They crack silently and the handling goes sideways fast.