[boynton6spd]

I recently test rode a 16 Darkhorse with only 3,000 miles.
Coming off my Road King, I felt the turn in was very hard to do, almost like the bike wants to go straight.
Can a better handling tire help this?
As of now, it's keeping me from buying the bike.
Maybe I'm spoiled by my challenger....lol

 

[Buck55]

My previous rides prior to my 16DH were a Heritage Softail and a Roadking. IMO, the DH rides like the Heritage, and handles like the RK. It's easier to shuffle around the garage than either model. Maybe it's the taller and wider bars than stock, with the 16" apes? I bought it long distance without a test ride. Hands down, the best bike I've owned.

 

[rpsibew110]

I have ridden 4 RM and a Challenger and have not experienced this, all had sock tires.

 

[Norman Bloke]

After a Road King the Springfield bars do feel weird, more like a boat tiller, because they have a lot of pullback, but you adapt and get used to them quickly.

 

[Gort]

Are you sure the front tire pressure was correct? An under inflated front tire will increase the “heavy front end” feel.

 

[WillyH]

I recently test rode a 16 Darkhorse with only 3,000 miles.
Coming off my Road King, I felt the turn in was very hard to do, almost like the bike wants to go straight.
Can a better handling tire help this?
As of now, it's keeping me from buying the bike.
Maybe I'm spoiled by my challenger....lol

I don't believe a tire change will make much difference. I think the Darkhorse you rode has a 29 degree rake while the other Indian models have 25 degree rake (I think). I have a '15 Vintage with the 29* rake. Way different slow speed handling that my '12 Road King.