As for the handling, the first thing I did was take the bike into my local canyon to see how well it handled some good curves. With its overall length and the chunk of 250mm rubber hanging out back, I had preconceived notions of what I could expect. But they fell to the side within the first couple of turns. Initially hitting the corners at a drastically reduced speed than I would on my Softail, running the Bear Bones in and out of the curves was as smooth as rubbing baby oil down a freshly shaved stripper's leg. The seating position and even balance of the bike encouraged me to continually increase my speed until I was leaning deep into each and every turn putting pegs to pavement.
As I mentioned earlier, BBC has a proprietary engine with S&S. BBC worked with the engine manufacturer to produce an engine that would meet its desires and requirements and the result was the 100ci Smooth engine. Delivering plenty of power and tied to the easy-shifting Baker six-speed transmission, overall the drivetrain is, well, pretty smooth.
After a couple days and a few hundred miles in the seat, it was time to let the Bear Bones roll back up the mountain, and I will say I was reluctant to let it go. There was just something about the low-slung seating position that puts you right in the heart of the bike and once you hit the road it really changes your demeanor and makes you feel like a badass outlaw (well, that's what was running through my head, I probably looked like an overweight rodeo clown holding on for dear life).
I did have some concerns/gripes about the bike, the biggest being that the finish of some of the raw and machined components was a little rough and could have used a little more attention to detail. My other complaint was the exhaust was too quiet and stuffed up. I discussed my concerns with BBC and they informed me that our bike was one of the first to roll off the line so there was still some issues with the finish that were being addressed. As for the pipe, well, that's one of the sacrifices you have to accept to build an EPA-compliant bike.
Overall I liked the bike. It's sexy but tough. Comprised of quality components with custom features, at $19,500, it's priced just right to entice those who want something more than just another bone stock Harley. For the price you are getting more power, custom looks, and sleek style.