Road test of Harley-Davidson1690 DYNA SWITCHBACK FLD 2014 Touring Baptism

with the test period already well underway for Oli the Belgian, this time it's my turn!
On the program, Oli offers me the opportunity to test ride the Harley-Davidson switchback 1690 Dyna.

that's so cool, it's my first ride on a Harley, as I'm usually into sporty roadsters, trail bikes and the like.
Off we go to the Harley-Davidson Mons garage.
The mechanic gave us a quick briefing to explain the various accessories and controls on the machines.
He also explains how to remove the suitcases and reminds me not to forget to lock the safety latch, so as not to lose them on the first bend!

now, the keys...
Uh, where do you put the key?
"In the pocket! Okay, there's the Smart H-D alarm system (the next-generation security system that works with a key fob to automatically activate/deactivate electronic security functions).
I press the choke and the Twin Cam 103 starts to sing, with a rather husky sound that I find discreet, thanks to the original muffler!
My first impression is one of unrivalled comfort, thanks to the two-seater saddle, which is really deep and plush.
Off I go. At the first set of traffic lights, I almost forget to put my foot down, so natural and safe is my position on the long running boards.
I get on the highway, crank up the watts (a secret power of +/- 70 bhp/din) and a smile comes to my lips as the engine's torque makes itself felt with an immediate response to every flick of the wrist.

day two, two hours of free time to discover the sensations of this "Milwaukee beauty", but today no more putting a wheel on the freeway! Let's head for the back roads!
The cycle part of this switchback has to hold its own...
When it comes to cornering, whether fast or slow, this custom has excellent roadholding.
The only downside is traffic circles, as the 110 mm ground clearance is quite low and the running boards tend to rub if you're not careful!
As for the machine's weight (+/- 330kg), it can be quite noticeable when starting or stopping!
I'd also like to single out the kickstand which, once folded, is rather difficult to access, and the neutral position which is not always easy to engage!
But then again, maybe that's just a habit.

In the same vein, I also tested the brakes, having read in certain forums that they didn't have enough bite, despite the on-board equipment featuring a fixed front disc with 4-piston caliper and a floating disc with two-piston caliper for the rear!

To find out, I took off at 160 kph on a clear road, then simulated an obstacle by braking hard 2/3 front 1/3 rear, and I can tell you that the braking is highly effective!

third day as a duo, heading for the Ardennes. Oli, the Belgian, will be riding the 2014 Harley-Davidson street glide with his wife, and I'll be riding the Dyna with my wife.
We set off and after a few kilometers, the pleasure of riding remains the same. I turn around and my wife is still there! It's a very smooth ride for both of us.
So this Dyna is also very enjoyable as a duo.
A short stop in Dinant, "apéro oblige"! I take the opportunity to do a little debriefing with our respective wives.
"What's up, girls?
First answer: our necks hurt.
Strange, though the Switchback's saddle is thick, but after a hundred kilometers or so, ouch, ouch, ouch!
Second answer: these bikes are so cool!

we covered more or less 250 kilometers that day, with lots of small roads and switchbacks galore. I'm still amazed at how easy this Harley handles, despite its weight.
For my money, the Switchback is a pretty versatile bike, whether you're riding alone or with a partner, in touring or adventure mode!
A generous engine. The air-cooled Twin Cam 103 with 103 Nm of torque is more than up to the task.
In terms of looks, with its classic, elegant styling and gleaming chrome, you won't go unnoticed, that's for sure!
I also appreciated the little Ape Hanger handlebars to get me through the urban jungle, and the gear indicator as a standard feature.

in conclusion, for my first Harley-Davidson baptism, I had the pleasure of riding this custom and thus better understanding the spirit of the brand!
With a price tag of around €17590, Harley-Davidson still has plenty to make us dream!

by Speedy
Image credit: Harley-Davidson
Video credit: Olivier Quinten