Hitting a small winding road through the countryside and enjoying the scenery isn't too shabby, either. A slow-moving van looms ahead? Don't worry, the torquey engine will make short work of this dirty four-wheeler. Accelerations are always convincing yet never brutal. It's a quiet force that handles the load of the machine and its occupants without protesting.

The 2012 Dyna Switchback is no exception, winning over everyone in its path, starting with yours truly. (Photo: Sébastien D'Amour/Moto123.com)

The brakes do lack some bite when riding with a passenger, but they do a fine job when you're alone on the bike, even when pushing the latter beyond what it was initially designed for. What's more, I found them easy to modulate both on dry and wet pavement, which adds a nice feeling of safety to this sizable steed.

Bottom line
Riding a Harley-Davidson is being part of a legend – and we realize it every single time we have the opportunity to straddle one. From the basic little Sportster 883 to the outrageous Road Glide Ultra CVO, these bikes continually amaze us with their power of attraction. The 2012 Dyna Switchback is no exception, winning over everyone in its path, starting with yours truly. By far the best and most versatile Dyna ever made.

Pros
Switchback and TC103 engine are a perfect match
More user-friendly transmission and clutch
Versatility and comfort with a low rider-style bike
Detachable windshield and saddlebags

Cons
Annoying turbulence caused by the windshield at 90+ km/h
Modest range