Motorcycle Safety & Driveability: driveability, harley softail standard, heritage front

Question
I have an 03 harley softail standard (FXST). I recently put an 03 Heritage front wheel and a Fatboy front fender on my bike.  I really like the looks but the handling feels sluggish in turns and just leaves something to be desired.  I was wondering if there is something that can be done to improve the handling to get it closer to the original feel, such as changing the rake or extending the forks.  If you can't help maybe you can guide me to someone that can, or should I just give up on my idea?  Thanks for your help.
         Dave

Answer
Most likely what you've done is put a bigger front tire on the bike. There is an inverse relationship between the size of the tire(s) and the ease or "lightness" of the steering input needed to turn it.

The easiest way to return to normal is to replace the tire with the original size tire. I am guessing that the reason you put the Heritage wheel on it was because you like the looks of the bigger tire, so that's probably not an option you'd want.

The other possiblity is to drop the forks in the triple, lowering the front height. This will make steering a little quicker, but may then start to compromise overal front/rear geometry. If you try this route, adjust the forks only a few millimeters (3-5) at a time, then test the ride after each adjustment. You may find that dropping the front 10-15mm will bring back the old handling feeling.

Good luck with your project, and ride safe!

Pat