Big Dog K9
Big Dog K9

2010 Big Dog K9

2010 Big Dog K-9 Base

The 2010 Big Dog K-9 remains a favorite among Big Dog enthusiasts, as well as the chopper purist who is under the strict belief that a real chopper needs to possess lines that are up and out. The 2010 Big Dog K-9 leaves little to be desired for anyone looking for the longest, lowest, and meanest chopper offered in the realm of production customs. Introduced in 2006, this bike measured in at over nine feet in length, and immediately became the allure of many custom fans.

Regardless of its intimidating and curiosity-evoking size, the Big Dog K-9 is one that is quite maneuverable, and easy to handle—relatively speaking.

The 2010 Big Dog K-9 remained true to its predecessors. The 39 degrees of rake found in the frame is bolstered by a few more degrees in the front fork. The pull back risers present sweeping bars that stretch farther toward an operator’s body than what might be seen at first glance.

Even with the seat height at just over 24 inches, the K-9 remains a chopper that is quite comfortable to ride.

In many ways, the K-9 is similar to its Big Dog brother, the Ridgeback, yet possesses more visible frame where the tank hugs tight. Similarly, the K-9 displays the chop fenders, and a little less width in the rear tire. The difference is negligible when viewing from a distance—the 300 rear on the K-9 is still formidable, and suggests the same attitude as the 330 found on the Ridgeback.

When it comes to sheer performance, the Big Dog K-9 excels. The looks welcome potential owners to give it a glance, but the test ride sells a hot-rod, luxury chopper performance. There are a couple of options to choose from in terms of fuel delivery.

Many love the option of a tunable carburetor, but it is hard to deny the efficiency and throttle response of an EFI injection system. To each his own—they’re both options.

Big Dog K9
Big Dog K9

What is most important is where this fuel is delivered. The 117 cubic-inch (1917cc) V-Twin is a marvel. Sheldon Coleman and the team at Big Dog were not messing around when they chose to put this team of horses in their neo-classic K-9. With a 6-speed transmission, this V-Twin is capable of rolling at mid-revving ranges, reducing vibration, and increasing the overall comfort level of the ride. As would be expected, this bike is fast.

It is quick off the line, cruises easy at 55mph in fifth, and with the twist of the throttle, the mid-range of the gear responds incredibly before it is shifted into sixth gear for more speed than is likely legal on most United States roadways.

Riding the 2010 Big Dog K-9 is an experience, and buying one is a true investment. The Big Dog line already enjoys cult status within the motorcycling community, and with no new models being released post-2011, the K-9 will become harder and harder to find as the years pass. Such an option is great for a collector, aficionado, or road warrior, but certainly not a beginner.

This bike demands respect, and plenty of veteran riding skills.

New For 2010

There are no significant changes from the 2009 Big Dog K-9 model.


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