2012 Harley-Davidson FLD 1690 Switchback – £6,995

Ready for the best of both cruising and touring? We at American Cruiser UK are excited to present this 2012 Harley-Davidson Dyna Switchback 1690 – a bike that truly offers the best of both worlds. Introduced as a versatile crossbreed between a laid-back cruiser and a capable tourer, the Switchback can transform from a nimble city ride to a highway-ready “mini bagger” in a snap. This particular example, finished in classic Vivid Black, is in excellent condition with 35,685 miles on the clock (though you’d swear it has only 10k by how it looks and rides!). And at just £6,995, this do-it-all Harley offers incredible value for an enthusiast rider.

Our 2012 Switchback in Vivid Black – shown here with its quick-detach windshield, passenger backrest, and lockable saddlebags installed. This bike’s classic lines and chrome details shine in our showroom, evoking the look of a scaled-down Road King. With the touring gear on, it’s ready for the open road; strip them off in minutes, and you’ve got a sleek cruiser for local rides.

Background: A “Two Bikes in One” Harley-Davidson

When Harley-Davidson launched the Switchback in 2012, they envisioned a motorcycle that could do it all. In fact, Harley’s own description was “easily convertible from cruising to touring, it’s like two bikes in one, with no compromises”. The Switchback (model code FLD, a nod to its touring DNA) was built on the Dyna chassis – known as the most agile of Harley’s big-twin families – but it borrowed touring elements from the larger FL bikes. The result is a machine that looks like a mini Road King, complete with a windshield and hard saddlebags, yet in a lighter and more manageable package.

The name “Switchback” says it all: with its quick-release windshield and saddlebags, this bike can switch from a weekend touring bagger to a clean, boulevard cruiser in seconds. Pop off the screen and bags, and you reveal a classic Harley cruiser with a gleaming chromed headlight nacelle and 5-spoke cast wheels. Clip them back on, and you’ve got a fully equipped tourer with floorboards and a two-up seat ready for the long haul. Reviewers have praised the Switchback’s concept and execution – Harley really “hit the nail on the head” with this versatile model, delivering a fantastic all-round street bike that’s as great for long road trips as it is for a Saturday night cruise.

Despite its touring capabilities, the FLD Switchback is noticeably lighter and more nimble than a full-dress tourer. At roughly 330 kg (718 lbs) in running order, it’s over 40 kg lighter than a Road King while sharing the same hearty Twin Cam 103 cubic-inch V-twin engine. That means you get the punchy performance (about 100 ft-lbs of torque from the 1690cc V-twin) without the heft of a large tourer. In real terms, the Switchback is easier to handle at low speeds and more responsive in corners, making it a joy to ride in various settings. It truly stands in a unique place in Harley’s lineup as a “two-in-one” machine – a brilliant choice for riders who want a comfortable tourer and a stylish cruiser in one bike.

Excellent Condition & Low-Mileage Feel

Our 2012 Switchback has 35,685 miles, but you wouldn’t know it by looking at it or riding it. The bike looks and feels like a 10,000-mile machine – a testament to meticulous care by its previous owner. The paintwork and chrome are in fantastic shape, the engine runs strong and smooth, and overall fit and finish could rival bikes with far fewer miles. If you’re wary of mileage, rest assured: this Switchback has proven its reliability on the road and has many tens of thousands of miles of adventures left to give. It’s not just about condition on the surface; mechanically, it’s fully sorted and ready to ride anywhere you want to go.

A full pre-delivery inspection and service was just completed by our technicians, so it’s up to date on fluids and adjustments. We’ve also addressed wear items – brand new front tyre and new front brake pads have been fitted, and the rear tyre is nearly new. In other words, it needs absolutely nothing aside from a new owner! Ride it away with confidence, knowing this Harley has been given all the love and attention it deserves before it hits the road with you.

Key Features & Upgrades on This Bike

This Switchback comes loaded with extras and upgrades that make it both a head-turner and a practical tourer. Here’s what’s on offer:

• Vance & Hines Exhaust: A high-quality aftermarket exhaust that gives the Twin Cam 103 that deep, classic Harley V-twin lope and rumble. It sounds fantastic – a mellow thump at idle and a purposeful growl when you roll on the throttle – without being obnoxiously loud.

• New Avon Cobra Tyres: Fresh Avon Cobra Chrome front tyre just installed; the rear tyre is almost new as well. These premium tyres offer excellent grip and handling, wet or dry, so you can corner and cruise with confidence.

• New Front Brake Pads: Stopping power is sharp and reliable thanks to new front brake pads. The Switchback’s 4-piston front caliper and 300mm disc are known for strong braking, and with new pads you’ll enjoy optimal performance.

• Quick-Release Windshield: A clear windscreen is fitted for comfortable touring, blocking the wind on those longer rides. It’s a genuine Harley quick-release windshield, meaning no tools are needed to remove it – pop it off in seconds for around-town cruising or during hot summer rides.

• Passenger Backrest & Luggage Rack: For two-up comfort and extra luggage capacity, this bike has a detachable passenger backrest with a luggage rack. Your passenger gets a secure, comfortable ride, and you get to strap an overnight bag or roll bag on the rack for weekend trips.

• Lockable, Quick-Release Saddlebags: The Switchback’s signature hard saddlebags are included, painted to match the bike. They lock for security and can also be taken off in a flash when you want a cleaner look. With the bags on, you have ample storage for gear, groceries, or road-trip essentials.

• MOT until April 2026: This motorcycle comes with a valid MOT through April next year, so you won’t have to worry about the annual test for many months. Ride with peace of mind knowing it’s road-legal and has passed its MOT recently.

• Fully Serviced & Road-Ready: As mentioned, the bike has just been serviced and inspected. All you need to do is turn the key and enjoy the ride – no immediate expenses or upkeep required. It’s fully road-ready, waiting for its next adventure.

With these features, this Switchback is set up for versatility and convenience. Whether you’re planning to commute during the week, take a leisure cruise on Sunday, or head out on a cross-country tour, this Harley can do it all. The detachable touring kit means you have the freedom to configure the bike to your needs on any given day. Few bikes can match this level of flexibility – it’s like having a cruiser and a touring bike for the price of one!

Why Buy from American Cruiser UK?

At American Cruiser UK, we’re passionate about connecting riders with their dream American motorcycles. When you buy this 2012 Harley Switchback from us, you’re not just getting a great bike – you’re also getting the support and services that make ownership easy and worry-free:

• Flexible Finance Options: We offer financing plans to suit your budget, helping you ride away on your terms. Whether you’d like to put down a deposit or not, we can tailor a finance deal that works for you.

• Nationwide Delivery: No matter where you are in the UK, we can deliver this bike to your doorstep. Our nationwide delivery service is convenient and reliable, so you don’t have to lift a finger – we’ll bring your new Switchback right to you.

• Warranty for Peace of Mind: We stand by the quality of our bikes. This Switchback comes with a warranty, giving you peace of mind after the purchase. In the unlikely event of an issue, you’re covered. (Feel free to ask us for full details on the warranty coverage.)

We pride ourselves on a friendly, knowledgeable approach – we’re riders and enthusiasts ourselves, and we love to talk bikes. American Cruiser UK is a place where you can buy with confidence, knowing you’re getting a top-quality machine and top-quality customer service to back it up.

Ready to Ride? – Contact Us Today

This beautiful 2012 Harley-Davidson Switchback is fully prepped and ready to roll. All it’s missing is you behind the bars! At £6,995, it’s an incredible deal for a Harley that can tackle long tours and laid-back cruises alike. Bikes like this – especially versatile Switchbacks in this condition – don’t come around often, so don’t miss your chance to own this two-in-one legend.

To find out more or to arrange a test ride, get in touch with us at American Cruiser UK. We’re happy to answer any questions and help you make this Switchback yours. Reach out to Roger or Adam at the numbers below, or visit our website for more details and more American v-twin goodness in stock:

• Roger: 07807 059450

• Adam: 07765 690951

• Website: www.americancruiseruk.com

We can’t wait to see this Harley find its next proud owner – and if you’re reading this, it could be you. Give us a call, and let’s get you on the road with this awesome Switchback! 🏍️💨