I am also deployed in Iraq and have purchased the 2006 Screaming agle Fatboy... Lucky for me I was able to pick mine up when I went home on R&R in Feb it was VERY cold but I still managed to get the 500 mile break in on it. As far as handeling it handles GREAT but I am also use to big tires I had a 03 Intruder with a very FAT tires and I got use to it very quickly. The Harley does handle much better than the suzuki... I know you cant wait to get home and try it out, and I will be home in 51 Days and will retire so I will ride the hell out of mine... Take Care