Great bikes.....it really depends what you want to do. They are a great touring bike. And if a lot of police Depts are using them..for city use...they must be good on the city streets...since those guys usually area bad A$s riders.
My personal experience....I owned brand new a 2003 Electra Glide Standard and left it basically stock. Rode it all over this great country...79300 miles and the upper 48 United States. Other than a flat tire....no reports of problems.
I have since sold it and bought a brand new 2009 Electra Glide Classic. I will use this one to tour the country more and conintue to also do some commuting with it. Just like my last one. The are big bikes and weigh a good amount. But do not let that bother you. As long as you have good riding habits etc....it works like any other bike. Then on the open highway....you are the king of the road.
Also in the US...I can say from my personal experience and word of mouth from others...most of the HD dealerships are awesome...and there lots of them near major roads...and they take care of people on the road...that is the HD way.
Ride safe....