Harley-davidson Switchback Review

Used Buyer Review

The Switchback is one of Harley's more interesting experiments — a genuine attempt at a convertible touring bike that never quite nailed the brief. The detachable fairing and saddlebags sound clever on paper, but in practice you'll likely pick one configuration and leave it there. It's based on the Dyna platform, which actually works in its favor — the handling is more composed than the bigger tourers, and that Twin Cam 103 punches hard once it's warmed up. Just budget for a proper stage one tune because the stock fueling is frustratingly lean. Used examples are plentiful and prices have softened nicely, so you can find a clean 2013-2016 for reasonable money. Check the primary chain tensioner, inspect for leaks around the cam chest area, and test every piece of that convertible hardware — the mounting hardware loves to corrode if previous owners weren't diligent. Electrical gremlins are another watch point, particularly on earlier examples. It's not the best tourer Harley made, nor the best naked — but it's a genuinely usable all-rounder that won't embarrass you anywhere.