Harley Culture through the Eyes of a Sportbike Rider
HTML-код
- Опубликовано: 6 авг 2024
- Support the show at yammienoob.co and get entered to win a Suzuki GSX-8R!
It may be the brand that defines motorcycling in America, but HD culture is also kind of weird, right?
Get our merch and earn chances to win our bikes: www.yammienoob.co/collections...
Grab a Cardo Communicator here: cardosystems.rfrl.co/3g1p7 - code "YNCardo" saves you 10%!
Rent a ride on Twisted Road! twistedroad.com/ref/yammie - Get a free day or 20% off!
Recommended Beginner Motorcycle Gear:
Helmet: bit.ly/Scorpion-EXO-R320
Jacket: bit.ly/REVIT-Eclipse-Jacket
Gloves: bit.ly/EVS-Assen-Street-Glove
Boots: bit.ly/Alpinestars-Sektor-Shoes
Jeans: bit.ly/Revit-Carlin-Jeans
The Gear I Personally Wear and Trust
Street Helmet: bit.ly/YN-Street-Helmet-Arai-XD4
Track Helmet: bit.ly/YN-Track-Helmet-Arai-C...
Sport Jacket: bit.ly/YN-Sport-Jacket-REVIT-...
Touring Jacket: bit.ly/YN-Touring-Jacket-REVI...
Sport Gloves: bit.ly/YN-Street-Gloves-REVIT...
Touring Gloves: bit.ly/YN-Touring-Gloves-REVI...
Pants: bit.ly/YN-Motorcycle-Pants-RE...
Boots: bit.ly/YN-Motorcycle-Boot-Alp...
FAQ:
What should my first bike be? A Turbo Hayabusa.
Very funny, no seriously. What should I get? A TURBO BUSA.
What is this channel? The premiere source of motorcycle edutainment (educational + entertainment) on RUclips. We take on everything from the best bikes you should buy all the way to praying to our lord and savior Rossi.
Why should I subscribe? Because you want the highest quality motorcycling videos on RUclips delivered to your feed every single day (seriously, we do daily uploads)
Why do you guys make these list videos? Like any good capitalist, we supply the demand the market has.
Music: amplelife.bandcamp.com
NOTICE: Elements utilized from other videos are fair use and fall under U.S. copyright law because it is transformative in nature, uses no more of the original than necessary and has no negative effect on the market for the original work. It is against the law to fraudulently claim a copyright on a video you do not own under the DMCA or to abuse RUclips’s copyright claim tool.
CHAPTERS
0:00 Intro
0:25 Personal History
4:14 Why I Won't Buy a Harley
8:01 Poor Value For Money
11:17 Comparing to Ducati
11:59 Respect for Harley Culture 
Приколы
Harley boys... Watch the whole video ;) don't just jump to the comments
oh didn't knew yammie was portuguese lol
greetings from romania
last yeat been tp portugal first time,in Armação de Pêra and IT WAS AMAZING
Anyway i can say am a cruiser guy,dream to own a Harley,even though right now I ride a Suzuki Bandit 600 which i love !!
Reason i got the Bandit cuz my previous bike the Kawasaki Vulcan 800 i got got broken beyond repair...sold it for parts
Started on a Virago 250 back in 2018 then got a Yamaha Dragstar 650 then the VN 800 and now last year got the Bandit...love it but wanna go back to a cruiser next year
Maybe a Dragstar 1100 or even a Sportster idk
but they super expensive here
you should review the buell super cruiser when you can get one. I'd like to watch your review... harleys are a culture thing and when they were the only exported usa bike for years , well that's how the usa does things even selling rice ,corn , lumber etc.. they want to control a market
lol, good one
Sportbike culture looks just as weird from the outside. When you see guys in anime costumes and bunny ears on their helmets, filming tik toks it gets kinda funny.
LOL yeah. Those are mainly the Tiktok street posers.
When I was still riding sportbikes, they were used primarily for the track.
All my stock parts were off, including the original fairings and panels, replaced by cheap and plain white race fairings. You never knew when you were gonna bin it.
Didn't ride them to so-called "biker meets" or on the streets in a huge mob for attention.
If I wanted to just go out or commute, I either used a standard/naked bike, or I drove.
Thats for the shock value and kids seem to love it and sparks their interest.
That and how they ride. Harley's mostly respect road rules. Lane splitting a little is usually most they'll do. Sport bikes are a wild card on the road and ride like they are untouchable. Until they hit a pot hole or ignorant driver at full speed, then the pavement gives a reality check.
The whole globe 7 continents 160 countries ride sport bikes dinosaur davidson is only here in America.
I have a Street Bob 114 which I have ridden across the country and ride almost every day. I love it. That being said, I have no interest in the “Harley culture”. I just like how my bike looks, sounds and feels. I understand it may not be the best at anything or the best value but we like what we like.
As long as you are happy, that's the only thing that matters.
Respect to you! This is what 2 wheels are all about.
The 114 Street Bob is no slouch - one of the best weight-to-HP ratios of the stock production bikes.
Yep, I have a 87 Softail and I'm the same.
Thanks for the positive input guys. I wish you fair weather and open roads.
The best way I can describe it is like driving an old muscle car. Yes they aren’t the fastest or the most efficient but they sound good, look good, and got that charm
Many of us Harley owners also owned muscle cars. I have had 2 60's era mustangs, a cougar, and even an M3 as well as a hemi Dodge. But when it comes to bikes, I just like to cruise. I am not a fan of the cramped and buzzy racer experience. I actually just put my Ducati monster up for sale. Just prefer my Harleys.
My little sporty gets 70 mpg. I use it as an everyday commuter. It's a 883 Sportster. It's a well built heavy bike that gets 70 mpg. It's not fast by no means but gets good gas mileage. I could get better with a Royal Enfield 350. They get 90 mpg.
Though I thought Arnie looked cool on one in terminator but to me they don't sound good
Well, yeah. Old world charm is prob the only thing you could say about a Harley.
Same thing like those retro cafe racers, and old Lambretta scooter guys.
I'm only 23, but I have 73 and 74 mopar, 78 mg midget, 2010 honda sport bike, and 93 harley softail. This guy is spot on. The throaty rumble of my 440 roadrunner clone is the same vibe as my Evo harley. The midget is small, compact, and fun like my honda. If I want comfort and big, bad ass vibes, I'll go with the harley, roadrunner, or duster. If I want cramped but quick and exciting fun, I'll go with the midget or honda. Both have their purpose, but the old cruisers and muscle cars are definitely an old soul type of thing.
I’m a black immigrant from the Bahamas and I love Harley’s but not baggers. I’ve owned an 883 and a Fat Bob. As an American citizen, I’ve never felt that American culture doesn’t belong to me or had anyone tell me I don’t belong on a Harley. I’ve lived in the melting pot of south Florida and people from all over the world ride Harley’s for the love of the bikes. The ability to customize them, personalize them and make them your own work of art. Besides, not everyone is into uncomfortably laying on your tank all day especially if you want to go on long rides. My Harley’s have been reliable and have taken me all over even on long rides and back home safely with no issues. I would never seriously bash sports bike riders. Ride and let ride.
I like cruisers; I just don't like overpriced poorly engineered ones that create noise hazards on purpose. I think that's why people crap on Harley so much: Harley champions symbolism over function.
Great comment.
Well said. This guy cringed me with his “I felt othered” cupcakery.
Ride what you love! Baggers are my thing.
Now we need a "Sportbike culture through the eyes of a Harley rider." video
Exactly. People fail to understand that everyone has differing opinions and even if the opinions others may have differ from yours, it doesn’t mean they don’t have any value.
Thing is that there is no such thing as sportbike culture. Even riders within specific sub-group of sportbike riders (track-day guys, squids etc.) are so diverse that you cannot put them into same basket.
@@u33c214yb29 You can’t put all Harley riders into this one category either though. I always wave to everyone, wear full gear, and am very respectful to others on the road. I know lots of other Harley riders like me.
That's because sportbikes are actually well engineered in a way that attracts riders across social divides; Harley Davidsons only attract riders who want into their peculiar social clique.
There's no other benefit to choosing Harley beyond "I ride a Harley".
Any other style of bike - even an other branded cruiser - strives to compete in some functional way; Harley gets by as a fashion accessory.
Harley is all about its mystique as a societal symbol, whereas other bike types are about how well that bike does what it does, thereby attracting wildly diverse ridership based on that function instead of only social cliques.
@@prophetzarquon1922 There are plenty of reasons to ride a Harley. One of them is that they are way more comfortable than sportbikes, so they are better for roadtrips and commuting. Another is that they are also loaded with torque compared to sportbikes so lots of them are more powerful in the low end. There is also the old saying that loud pipes save lives, which in my experience is true. If you think about it, every bike has a personality and a different purpose. I don’t say sportbikes are bad because they are uncomfortable, quiet, and don’t have as much low end power, but I understand that those are features of a sportbike because they were built with racing in mind. Harley’s and sportbikes are different because they were built for different purposes. Why is that so difficult for people on both sides to understand?
Im 47, Im a Combat Veteran, I ride a 22' Ducati Streetfighter V2. Just today I was commuting to work and I merged onto the highway right next to a Harley guy who was younger than me and was wearing a COMBAT VETERAN leather vest. I followed him for a bit and then decided I wanted to go 75 instead of 65 mph so I got in the passing lane and proceeded to pull up next to him to pass. I slowed right next to him and looked over to give the guy a wave and he looked at me without waving at all and he just went back to eyes forward as if to snuff me off. I had on full gear and a helmet so he obviously couldn't see me. The funny thing is that I am older than him and I served my country just like him, but because I was on a Ducati sport bike and not a big Harley he 100% snubbed me off. THATS what I don't like about the Harley riders. Some of them give respect and are cool, but in my experience they are a stuck up group.
Unless he flipped you off or otherwise gestured you away, it’s a little presumptuous to assume he was snubbing you off. Perhaps he was less comfortable looking away from the road. The tribalism in this video is mind blowing. I can’t believe the assumption of racism and negative biker culture from all you metric guys. Buying a Harley is like buying a pair of redwing boots, or an American muscle car. To own a piece of history that goes back to the early 1900’s. A culture that really doesn’t care where you’ve been, but is more interested in where you’re headed.
Also a vet from down under. I find the Harley riders mostly the biggest posers there is. Old mate with the vest probably only just past recruits haha
Triumph dates back to 1902 and I wave at everyone on two or three wheels. Most Harley guys I throw duces at never wave and absolutely no smilies. I am a veteran as well and I appreciate your service to our country
Dude I'm sorry for what you've experienced but I've been riding for over 20 years and I started on a sport bike and was welcomed to ride with Harley guys, all the miles I've riden I noticed just the opposite ,the none Harley riders are a lot of the time the ones not wanting to speak! That's if I pass a person not wanting to speak, most riders speak no matter what they're riding!
Ahh, been riding since I was a pup! I’ve had BMWs, Triumphs, and Buells. There is a common brotherhood among bikers in general, but Harley riders definitely have an attitude that I think is what drove them to purchase a Harley in the first place! I have heard reports of Harley riders even taking a whiz on other bikes! I like a twin and the Buell is a lot of fun in the twisties with loads of torque!
Some people want to risk their own and everyone elses lives going 180mph. Others just want to feel the wind on their face and the rumble on their ass.
When we park up on Harleys in the UK outside a picturesque cafe it draws many admiring glances. Girls old and young line up for a photo next to the bikes, and children and adults stare in awe. When we rode sports bikes, people glared at you in dislike, and girls general didn't even notice them. Harleys have an amazing feel good factor that not many other bikes can match.
The culture is look at me ,look at me "not about if it's a good bike or not as long as it's loud, I ride a naked bike that goes and handles and it's fun
Harleys are best known for turning gasoline into noise without the added benefit of horsepower.
Overweight, underpowered, and overpriced for what you get.
@@TsugaC translation: im broke and dont know how to ride.
its about comfort on short and long rides, good handling in town and the highway, beautiful look and sound, predictable, smooth throttle response. if youre some 16 year old spec queen that likes to buy used cbr1000rrs on facebook marketplace, fine, but that shit is awful to ride anywhere other than the track and we all know its true. thats why kids are the only ones that ride sport bikes regularly.
@@astrofeeder777 after riding my bro's sportster I found it was worse at all those qualities than even my R3. Felt like the brakes pads were wood blocks, suspension just supper soft, slower than my wifes Ninja 250
And it's the largest gap possible between thinking you're badass but actually being a dork
@@astrofeeder777put down the crack pipe dude.
It can be really annoying to get stuck behind a truck hauling a camper in the twisties. It is equally annoying to get stuck behind a group of 12 Harley’s.
The slow, annoying 18 wheeled semi Tractor of the motorcycle world.
Paying 30k for a 1200cc bike to do 5 under the speed limit while breaking every noise code ever is part of the experience, brOther.
I get madder at the truck with a camper because it can actually take a turn but chooses to be slow. At least with the harley you know they are trying their best and pushing it to the limit at 35 mph
Summed it up pretty accurate. I've owned 5 Harley Davidsons they are fun if maintained reliable. If ridden proficiently fast in the twisties. I've owned goldwing Adventure bikes sport and sport touring. Started in the dirt.
Harley gets people on two wheels that's nice.
Just be you. 😊
On my Zx10R, I rarely get stuck behind anything, much less 12 Harleys!
When I was younger (I may have had my Honda Shadow at the time) an older guy told me that a Harley “feels different”. It was years later when I bought my first one at 28 that I understood what he meant. I’m 45 now and that Electra Glide is still in my garage. I also have an Evo Wide Glide (my dream Harley) that is the greatest feeling, sounding, and looking bike I’ve owned. It just makes me smile.
I'm a Harley rider, but I originally WAS attracted to sportbikes. I didn't have anyone in my family who rode and my boyfriend at the time rode a metric cruiser. I thought I'd love a sportbike, but...I'm a 5'2" woman. I'm SO short. After my MSF class on a Honda Rebel, I threw a leg over sportbikes and found all of them just SO tall and topheavy. I finally settled on cruisers. And that's what led me to Harley's in particular. After riding Hondas and looking at other metric cruisers, I finally started riding a Harley softtail slim and it was like that bike was MADE for me. 25 inch seat height stock? Hell yeah! I went briefly back to a Honda and now I'm riding a Harley lowrider ST. It has all the performance I could want and I can ride all day long in comfort. The weight on a cruiser is low which makes it easier for me to handle in slow speed maneuvers and even to back up than a taller bike with a higher center of gravity.
Since then, I have other reasons to be a Harley rider.
The quality of HD cruisers over all the metric ones I've ridden is unparalleled. On top of that, the dealer network is amazing. My bike is under warranty and I had an issue with error codes all the way out in South Dakota, a thousand miles from my home dealer. I pulled in to the dealer there, they worked me in, fixed everything and I enjoyed a nice coffee and chatted with other riders. I can stop by any dealer and get the inside scoop on local rides and feel at home. There's a big community around Harley's I don't find with any other bikes...it's like having an extended family anywhere I ride. When I hang out with sportbike riders or even diehard metric riders...it's just not the same.
I think it depends on your body type as well as the kind of riding you like to do. I'm in no hurry to get where I'm going...I like to enjoy the ride.
I was an EMT for 4 years. I saw many motorcycle accidents, but for the most part, the sport bike guys and dirt bike guys had gear, particularly helmets. So, their injuries were usually broken bones, nothing they couldn’t heal from. But the Harley accidents were always serious, always. Why? None of them had helmets on, and most of them had alcohol in their system. Sometimes alcohol and other serious drugs. Sure, my experience is anecdotal. But I probably was on scene for no less than 50 motorcycle accidents over the 4 years. Personally, I blame the culture.
It’s the same around my area. Most Harley’s are ridden a few days out of the year, and from one bar to the next. The guy that says he’s been riding them for 25 years, most likely doesn’t have more than 15,000 miles under his belt.
I was T-boned on my street Bob. The only reason I still have a leg is she hit my mustache bar and flipped the bike out from under me. I went up and over doing my best flying squirrel impression. Wearing a helmet probably kept what little brains I have from getting more than shaken and not stirred. The Harley guys I ride with wearing no gloves, helmet, or jacket I just don’t get.
Definitely anecdotal, you can easily look up the stats, sport bikes have a 4 times higher fatality rate than cruiser motorcycles. Speed and alcohol are the main contributing factors
I would think that sport bikes have the tall seat height which puts your critical areas over the hood of most vehicles. Also you sit on the bike vs “in” the bike like you do on cruisers. During our advanced rider courses the coach had a saying “survive the flight or slide and you’ll be fine”. With cruisers you become one with the accident.
In my, ahem, advanced years I see two groups wiping out most often. Young inexperienced riders on sport bikes that have way more power than their skill set can handle and old guys who haven’t ridden in 40 years who go buy a 900 touring bike who lose it with mom and enough crap for a month tour who also can’t ride or control such a behemoth bike.
I have had my Sportster for 34 years. Back in the Dream Time I rode a '41 Indian Chief for 7 years as my wheels.
You don't have to understand.
I'm not a snob - I wave to everybody on a motorcycle.
It’s best to think of Harley Davidson, as pieces of artwork in the form of a motorcycle instead of actually thinking about them as a motorcycle. Because as motorcycles, they don’t stack up, but as artwork, they’re OK.
My bike is rolling American art, and it is unique, and my expression of my machine. It is comfortable and it has speaker’s in the saddle bags, so I can hear old Foghat and Steve Miller while I Cruz around the back roads. Yes I acknowledge all riders on the road, because we are the few people who have the balls to lay it on the line every time we hit the road. No one promises you will survive the trip, and it could be your last.
I call them "pretend" motorcycles. Ugly and the worst sounding
Style,class and comfort
@@roberttripp2544 I bet you ride a scooter huh?
@@jackmurphy9371 Triumph triple liter bike. Been riding 50 years
I’ve been riding seven months on my MT 07 and just because how many Harley guys have literally told me to “get a real bike” is the reason I will probably never join their brotherhood. I don’t think any Yamaha owner ever says “get a faster bike” to Harley guys.
I’m 65 and have been riding all my adult life. I’ve had dirt bikes, sport bikes and own a Haley Fatboy. I stay with the Harley as a self governing method. On the sport bike I was doing stupid shit like riding at 150 MPH. The Harleys poor speed and handling forces me to ride slow. So that’s why a Harley is a good fit for me, it’s also a lot more comfortable than the sport bike riding position.
Never on a racetrack but a menace on public roads. Sheer genius.
Thats the only one answer that make sense !!!
You should try a Moto Guzzi V7 Stone they have the same vibe, but they are much lighter and have a lower center of gravity. The cylinders are always in the wind, so no overheating.Super comfortable seat. I forgot to mention the foot position, just like the dirt bikes we rode. And a low maintenance drive shaft.
@@eggnog52 Speed KILLS !
(If you want to live forever, ride a Harley Davidson).
@@eggnog52 Somehow, I always manage to pay my speeding tickets. I don’t think that I could afford the death toll, though.
(Not even once) !
I ride a Harley because I enjoy the riding style. It’s comfortable and easy to ride.
I was a nerd before nerds were cool, when tough kids bullying nerds was normal. I’m a skinny engineer with no biceps, I have a full head of hair, I have one tattoo (a wedding ring tattoo), and I work behind a desk doing math. I don’t ride with leather and flags all over the place. I wear what’s comfortable and responsible and I probably look like a dork. But I’m fine with that.
I bought a Harley reluctantly. I was replacing my old Yamaha and tried one just because I was curious. When my wife and I walked into the Harley dealership, I found a big, comfortable bike that looked good and was fun to ride. And was easy to maintain. So, we bought it. And I love it!
I don’t really get into the culture of it, although the culture finds me whenever I’m out. And I go with the flow when I meet other Harley riders because me and a stranger can talk about something we both enjoy without any presumptions other than we both own a Harley. I can talk to a buff guy who fits the stereotype in that environment, whereas we might not have ever spoken in any other life situation. I think it makes us both better people to cross those lines.
I think most Harley riders are like me; middle aged men who want a comfortable ride from time to time. What you’re experiencing is a loud group of bike lovers (who are good people) who speak loud enough that they are perceived as the majority. Most of us…. Are weekend riders who keep a low profile.
Most Harley enthusiasts I know are some of the nicest and most generous people I know. I can't say that about other motorcycle cultures I've met. Harley riders have a look and persona that turns a lot of people off. But now that I know many of them, I am glad to be associated with them. And the bike is fun to ride too!
I CONCUR 👍🏽
As I read this, I felt like you were in my head. Techy guy (turned manager), skinny arms (big belly though). I rode Yamaha cruisers when I was young. I bought my Ultra in 2022 and absolutely LOVE it! I ride with my local HOG Chapter, but I wouldn't say I'm in the "Harley" culture. Rode what you like brother.
easy to ride until you have to turn
@@parisford2020 HARLEY DAVIDSON MOTORCYCLE SAFETY COURSE REALLY HELPED ME WITH HOW TO NAVIGATE CORNERS.💪🏽
@@parisford2020 I turn several times every time I ride my Harley, and manage to do it successfully each time.
I have ridden Harleys since I was a teenager and I always will. I own other makes as well and I don't understand the Harley culture at all either. I don't dress like a pirate when I ride, I don't care to ride from bar to bar or stand around and talk about riding. I'm a rider, not a biker. I own motorcycles to ride them, not to look cool. I make modifications to improve performance, not to add a bunch of bling. One nice benefit of the goofy culture is there are always tons of low mile used Harleys available.
I can tell you from personal experience . As a sport bike rider for over 20 years, I gave it up reluctantly. The thrill of speed Wil always remain but as a guy looking at 50. I decided I'd like to look around and see things instead of passing it by by getting there quick. I own a Goldwing and have had two Harleys. Still have 1 now. And honestly the harley is the most fun bike I've owned. But since giving up the sport bike I've ridden across country twice and seen some amazing things and met interesting people. All the while not looking over my shoulders wondering if a cops going to pull me over. You can check out some places I've been on my channel if you wish.
I own both Harley and various rice burners, the main reason I love Harley’s is until recently you could buy one in your late teens and drive it until you’re old and die. Models before 1998 are all metal and can be completely rebuilt in you backyard with few specialized tools. They kept favor in America for many years because they were built in America. The rider stereotypes shown in the video are not typical riders, the typical guy is middle aged and up, regular working class folks that simply enjoy being on two wheels, no costumes, riding safe, no stunts, seldom speeding. I usually ride around 50mph relaxed on country roads and compare the ride to meditation or prayer. Many Harley riders view sport bike guys as young punks who risk the lives of others on the road, while I know those folks exist I also know that’s not always the case. When I ride my sport bike I love the acceleration and power as well as nimble nature of the bike but that’s not always what I’m looking for when I want to ride. I don’t always want to lean forward or sit high from the ground. Many of the other brands of bikes feel cheap and fragile to me after riding 800lbs of steel and aluminum. I believe it boils down to the fact that many ride to be seen riding and their choice many times is based on whom they want to impress while those that love riding can appreciate each type of bike for what it is and find fulfillment in whatever their bike or bikes offer, personally I have a hard time disliking any bike because for years I had none and would have loved to have had anything
So true 😊👍
Mine is a 1979 FXWG with a Santee frame and a 100 CID Revtec. 6 speed gearbox, dry clutch, hydraulic. Fast, fun and good looking.
A good motorbike is the one that is closest to your heartbeat. Old Triumphs, Nortons and Harleys are great. Ducatis, BMW, KTM are great as well, but I'm getting older, so I'll stick with my Harley.
4 cylinders? Fun when I was young.
Wise words. Riding is meditation, it doesn't matter what bike you ride but rather how you ride. slow down and enjoy the ride!
Long time I heard the contempting word "rice burners". What should we call american bikes? Methburners?
@@andersjansson8577 only a democrat would give a damn what you call it.
Ducati rider here. Rode a Sportster 1200 once and I was amazed!
That raw and dirty sound, the brutal torque and the leaned back position was fascinating different.
Then came the first corner...
That was kinda fascinating too 🤪
HILARIOUS!!’🤣🤣🤣🤣
So, how did the tree taste? Lol.
@@billh.1940 😅
The difference is: If I ever wreck my antique shovelhead? People are going to stop and ask me if I am okay. They wave at me as I pass, and they assist me. I stop for a breather, and people ask if I need assistance.
If you wreck your sport bike? They're going to celebrate.
Started out on dirt bikes and once I got my MC license went to the Yamaha Virago and a couple of other cruisers along the years. I eventually left the cruises for a Honda VFR then the R6 to the R1. After riding sport bikes for over 15 years I decided on a Harley. I went with the SGS because over the years riding has changed with the growth of population and speed on our highways. Not to mention I am 55 now so much older. 90 has become the new 55 and 95 has become the cruising speed for a lot of highways. That wasn't the case in the 80's and 90's so when you are doing 95 plus with a lot of wind from trucks and cross wind the heavier Harley does much better than the lighter bikes. That and way more comfortable for longer rides. The bags are just convenient if for no other reason. I went with Harley because of the American Culture, the old school stereotype and I just wanted one. A Goldwing just comes off the same way a tesla or BMW does for me and I am just not into the sport bikes as I once was.
I am an American but I'm more of a naked bike, scrambler, or metric cruiser. If I'd go Harley it would be a Buell or older Sportster. A simple rule I've kept was always only get a bike I can pickup off myself.
*Emoto rider* has left the chat
Okay, here's what you need to know. I started riding motorcycles at age 11 in 1970 (and my parents hated motorcycles). I raced motocross from 1974 to 1976. Quit riding to go to college and then to start a family from 1977 to 1992. Got back on to motorcycles in 1993 and owned a Kawasaki EX500 sport bike, and then a GPZ1100. So, I enjoyed sport bikes, but as I got into my late 30s, the hunched over posture began to disagree with my wrists. I also got tired of every 5.0 Mustang or Z28 Camaro wanting to race from a stop light. Then a semi truck back over my GPZ at a 3 way intersection. My step son had been riding a cruiser for some time, and talked me into trying one. I bought a 1999 Suzuki Marauder, which I loved. A year later I bought a 2000 Yamaha Roadstar Silverado and began to make long trips with friends. From there, I have owned a 2006 Yamaha Stratoliner, a 2010 Victory Vision, and a 2017 Harley Ultra Limited. Since 2000, I have ridden 177,000 miles on the last 4 bikes on this list. Sturgis, Daytona Bike Week, Tail of the Dragon, Beartooth Parkway, The Pig Trail, The Million Dollar Highway, and several others have been ridden on large V-Twins. I love the sound, the power pulses from the V-twins engines and the comfort these bikes provide. I guarantee, that if you ride long enough, you'll be on one of these bikes. And yes, when I was your age I hated Harleys also. But now that I am older, they are the perfect machines for older riders who stay in the game. How many 60+ year old riders do you see riding out on the open roads on a sportbike or sport touring bike? Compare that to how many 60+ year old riders you see on Harleys. The answer is that there is no comparison, the Harleys win this hands down. So enjoy your youth, and sow your wild oats. Heaven knows I did, but we'll see you on a Harley or a Goldwing soon enough!!!
THE Reason you don't see more 60+ year olds on sport bikes is......SKILLS!!!!! See, IT TAKES MORE SKILLS - and "Hardly" riders have FEW; they are involved in accidents THE most. They seem to have problems with corners, parking lots, stop signs, group rides, being passed, and passing a test on their current ride. ps: I'm 68, riding 44yr, and ALL sportbikes. I just prefer PERFORMANCE riding, to sitting in a Lazy Boy lounger.
@@tommynikon2283 bro, im in my 30s, and i love sport bikes but i will never ride them because of back, shoulder, and wrist issues form years of construction and military service. im literally a 60+yo in body and i can promise you that the majority of older riders are on cruisers/HDs for the exact same reasons, because riding hunched over with the majority of your weight on your wrists is not a comfortable position for the vast majority of people.
Everybody is different some don't care about running 100 plus mph and also doing wheelies going down the freeway!!!! We enjoy riding in the mountains and enjoying the scenery!!! And BUD THERE'S LOTS OF SPORTBIKE RIDERS HAVING ACCIDENTS !!!! JUST BECAUSE YOU RIDE A SPORTBIKE AND YOU THINK ITS GREAT DOESN'T MEAN EVERYONE ON THE PLANET THINKS SO!!!! I RODE HONDA 750, YAMAHA 750, SUZUKI 750 AND A TON OF. DIRT BIKES!!!! BEEN RIDING MOTORCYCLES SINCE 1973 AND LONG RIDES AND I HAVE NEVER HAD A ACCIDENT!!!! 65 YEARS OLD AND STILL RIDING !!!!
I’ll be 56 soon, I ride a 2015 GSXR600. I herniated a disc working out in the spring, making it hard to ride in that position. I’m considering a Harley Softail in my future.
I live in the Vancouver area of Canada. The instructor for my motorcycle course was an ex RCMP formation rider and devout harley devotee. When he overheard a couple of us deriding his beloved HD, he actually tried to tell us that there are Harley races in which the bikes are "Just as fast as MotoGP" I literally had to walk away to prevent myself laughing in his face. Great guy; seriously delusional.
I‘m hoping the „king of the bagger“ series leaks some modern tech into the factory touring market.
After the highly modified series they need a „bone stick“ series.
He might be wrong but RCMP riders can ride like crazy
You're right about that. He was one of the most impressive riders I've ever seen. Flicking his 800+ lb monster around like it was a 125 cc dirtbike.
As fast as MotoGP 😆
Thats like saying one-ton Tanya is the same as an Olympic figure skater!
It would definitely depend on the course; consider the Dakar rally, which started to get dominated by huge industrial style trucks (until they were banned for being too dangerous). The Goldwing was originally going to be a superbike until it found its niche as a tourer; not so fun in the turns, but lots of power...
Trivia: Yes, Harley asked for protection in the 80's. They also asked Reagan to stop the protection once they were able to retool and get their business back in shape.
Have you EVER heard of a company ask to have protectionist policies to stop?
In the late 70s and early 80s the Japanese overproduced motorcycles. When they didn’t sell they flooded the market with 2 and 3 year old unsold bikes at ridiculously low prices. That’s why H-D asked for the tariff.
You know... Harleys are the reason motorcycle culture took off in the US way back in the day. Motorcycling has been dying off in this day and age, and a lot of us aren't about the Harley culture or people. But sport bikes are not as popular anymore, racing isn't as popular. I talked a lot of shit about Harley people but once again they are the future of the culture. Bagger racing is really taking off and it sells where sport bike racing doesn't anymore. I had an awesome time at the kick off for the Bagger Racing League, the people are awesome, and racers are humble and the teams are making huge advancements. People are excited to watch them race, it's accessible to people who want to get into racing. The Livestream was legitimately better than Moto America. Hate it or not.. once again Harleys are the future of motorcycling in the US.
Disagree. Once Liberty invests in marketing MotoGP in the US and brings more races and events stateside, sport bikes will become popular again.
You wish. Never be as popular as Harleys on or off the racetrack.
@@kupalisky3553It's not about popularity, it's about who has money and what American culture is like. The kids are more into dirt bikes than anything because they are about 10 times cheaper than road racing machines. That's IF they are into bikes at all, nobody wants over engineered tech-heavy death machines that cost a fortune and are impossible to work on. Harley's are too expensive for what they are, but they are dime a dozen, hand-me-downs that anyone with a 4th grade education can work on.
Unless Harley comes down in pricing/makes smaller more affordable models, they are definitely not the future. Royal Enfield has been killing it in the U.S. for the last 4-6 years and there's a very good reason for that, retro looks and pricing. With the way the economy is, most people aren't paying 25-30k for a bike and if people don't vote the right way this year, the economy will be even worse. Just look at cars, people aren't buying new cars like they use to, they are keeping their cars 8-12 years longer than previous years
MY brother in law traded in his three year old Honda Magna V65 and I said why? He just wanted a Harley. Then after a year all he ever said was,” I wish I had my Magna back.” I rode both his 1200 sportster and his Heritage Soft Tail with thousands of dollars of farcals and both were very slow . I don’t get it. Heavy , slow and drags something when trying to lean more than ten degrees. Also I am not a biker. I’m a motorcycle enthusiast. My friend bought a new Harley Sportster when I bought my first Honda. A 68 Honda CL 350 scrambler . I could beat him in the quarter . 350 vs 883. His Sportster was always falling apart while riding. Something vibrating off. Once a spark plug vibrated loose and blew out while we were riding together. It took us an hour to find it. This is why I never considered a Harley for me.
"I'm a motorcyclist, not a " biker" YES! Me too!
"Bikers" to me, seem to be going for an IMAGE. Motorcyclists ride because they like riding more than being SEEN riding.
im 66 years old, i ride a kawsaki ninja 1000, a few minor performance modifications. . Im told im supposed to be riding a harley all the time. It actually confuses people when they see a 66 year old and his kawsaki 1000. The two don't go together in there mind and it takes a few for them to digest the idea in there head.. No way am I buying a 900lb motorcycle with 80 horsepower.
What a great video. I like the balanced view on Harley Davidson.
I am from the Netherlands, 26 years old and had a bunch of motorcycles. Which the last 3 where Harleys.
I respect the sportbikes for its exeptional engineering, and the riders who can tame 200hp and use it to its full potential.
But I also love my current 1979 Shovelhead with its firebreathing 65hp.
But one thing I can not deny is that the fact that I ride and work with Harleys, is one of the ways that I met some people which I can call my real friends.
It is so weird to see what "just a motorcycle brand" brought me besides motorcycles.
I bought my first Harley, just to try, and now I love everything about those motorcycles.
At the end it is all personal preference, and we share the road with everything that the world in motorcycles has to offer.
We are all motorcyclists.
the wost thing about harley davidson is that they dont have a 1300cc,300hp,turbocharged GSXR-1300 hayabusa in their lineup
lmfao
😂
I do think that was a marketing mistake
wth 😂
Fun fact, TTS makes an affordable bolt supercharger to make your softtail ACTUALLY fun to ride. Still sticking with my busa but...
I've been a motorcyclist for 48 years and have owned all types. Right now I have a 690 SM, a Road Glide ST, and a GL 1800. If it has two wheels and an engine I'll ride it.
Damn, never heard of anybody above 40 riding supermotos, Sounds pretty cool!
Thanks. 63 actually. Everytime I get on that KTM the front wheel always gets airborne. SM most FUN bike for sure.
@@coolT21323 Over 50 and I have a KLX300sm. Yes I wheelie
@@govnor1495 That´s awesome, I am 23 with a 690 SMC-R and I can´t wheelie it yet haha
I changed the gear ratio. Go with 14 front nd 45 rear and that wheel will lift in 3rd gear. Just be sure to learn to use the rear brake.
Harleys are fun to ride at or just above the speed limit, you get a sensation of speed. You have to do 3x the speed limit on a sports bike to get the same feeling
Been watching for a while and am sure you’ve heard this before, but I was raised on dirt bikes, grew into a couple GSXR’s, a 1200R, and eventually bought my 2003 softail standard. It’s not always about the speed or corners for me. The seat position is so perfect for my 6’3” self. The peg position is perfect, and yes, I love the torque, but I ride on streets in neighborhoods and cities with hills or on the freeway with traffic I can’t fly through…When I see your videos like, “I’ve tried em and don’t get it…” I get that. Bikes are like people in that there’s some you’ll never wanna hang with, a few you’ll fuck around and find out with, and one that will always be there for you no matter how many times you say you’re not going back. That’s what my Softail is to me…my main squeeze
Lorenzo Lamas riding that soft tail in Renegade is what went through my mind whenever ”Harley” was mentioned as a kid.
Evel Knievel on the XR-750 Harley, Robbie on the CR-500 Honda, and in Doug Danger on the XR-750 were way more cool than Lorenzo lamas.
@@dand3975 Hey man, to each their own! I wasn’t exposed to those, so I have no opinion. Me and my dad watched martial arts movies and shows. No shade, just different!
Travis Pastrana, jumped the fountains at Caesars Palace on that fast looking Indian 750 flat tracker........ You never heard of Evel Knievel or Robbie Knievel....Doug Danger, Gary Davis, Rex Blackwell, Bubba Blackwell? they were not Hollywood stooges like "Fonzie" or Lorenzo lamas.
My most intimate experience with a Harley was in 1966 in college when a friend bought a new Sportster. We all tested each other's bikes and my experience with BMWs, Bonnevilles, BSAs, Ducatis, Nortons, Yamahas, Hondas and Suzukis did not prepare me for my first ride on the Sportster. I decided to test the acceleration and rode about a quarter mile down the street that dead ended into my friend's apartment complex. I twisted the throttle open, popped the clutch and headed to George's apt. About 200 yards into my run a 1961 Ford Galaxie started backing out of their driveway. I grabbed the brakes as hard as I could and it was like squeezing a marshmallow. I whipped to my left to avoid an impact and only hit my right shin on the sharp pointy end of the passenger side fin. I thought I would pass out, but managed to stop the bike in my friend's parking lot and stay upright leaned into my left leg. I said, "George, this thing has no brakes." He said, "baloney." About a month later George hit the brakes hard to avoid rear ending a '59 Chevy and ended up over his handlebars plastered on the trunk of the car and the front fork of the bike straightened. He sold the Sportster and bought a BSA. 58 years later, I still have the dent souvenir in my right shin and I still don't trust Harleys.
I currently ride a sportster, its basically my first bike, yesterday i experienced my first "no wave back" 2 times, both were on baggers, i wave at all bikes, even Huffy and Schwinn.
I love videos like this because it makes me feel full of pride and pompousness to know that I don't care and I would happily have a garage full of all kinds of motorcycles. I love cruisers, sport bikes, adventure bikes, cafe racers, mopeds, Vespas, Super Cubs, everything.
So many memories growing up in a Harley family. It can be summed up in one, my old man and his buddies laughing at my GSXR and telling me to “get a real bike”….while loading theirs on a trailer because they didn’t want to do the 4 hour ride to Reno in perfect weather for some boomer biker event.
When you think of Sturgis or Daytona events, what occupies those places the most is chrome, HD, tats, beer, rock, and slutty women. And that's an image problem no other brand created, but which prevents generations of people from getting into motorcycles.
Not so.
Owning an H-D is like owning a personal luxury vehicle like a '77 Lincoln Continental 2-door, or a '79 Cadillac El-Dorado. It's not fast, it's not efficient, it's heavy. It's all about the experience. And it's all I will ever want.
Yeah, except you're talking about 50 year old luxury cars, not modern luxury cars
@@logangodofcandymodern luxury cars have zero character
There isnt much that is luxurious about Harleys, they are generally more crude than most other brands . You really mean expensive.
That totally makes sense. I daily drive a conversion van for those exact reasons, and I want that experience on two wheels. I just have no desire to get something that is most fun above the speed limit, and I’m ok with using more gas to drive something I like
Would it still be true 50 years later? I suppose it's just part of that "old stuff is better" syndrome. People will always complain about the present and look for answers in the past
I was out riding my Royal enfield super meteor when at a light a Harley pulled up behind me. That bike at idle was so loud I could feel my fillings coming loose. I love the sound of my Supper meteor not to loud not to quit just right. The super meteor is the Goldie lox of cruisers.
I am 60 years old and have owned around a 100 bikes street, dirt, race and all different brands. I road raced dirt tracked and even did one GNCC. I have a HD because its comfortable and sounds and looks good.
I've owned 5 Harleys. Currently have an Indian Scout, and a new 2024 Triumph Street Triple RS. What a shock it was to discover I could get a Euro bike with all the latest tech, more power, better looks, all for less than most of the Harleys I've owned. Every Harley I've own, and the Indian, required you bow to the "Harley Tax". New pipes, better air intake, ECU flash (or in the old days, new carb or rejet at minimum) etc. Everything I've done to my Triumph, I wanted to, never felt like I had to to get more more power or fix something that the factory screwed up (Indian, seat and suspension).
Honestly, I'm done with American motorcycles. I'm tired of spending more time and money getting them to a base level to be stuck with a sub-par motorcycle that cost twice as much as most Triumphs, or even Ducatis. $18k for a motorcycle sounds normal when you come from Harley-land. Ex-Harley guys like me don't bat an eye at Euro bike prices, and we're thankful for a better motorcycle than what Harley or even Indian are putting out.
BTW, my Indian is for sale... need to make room for a Panigale V2. :)
can I ask what you do for a living?? 😭🙏
@@gennynojuice He's not a majority American, financially.
So true. Always had CVOs, my last one was a Street Glide. Upgraded everything , Öhlins front and rear, Truetrack etc... and the thing was still a piece of wobbling crap, with wraped rotors in less than an eye blink. After more of 60K miles of Harley the best decision I have taken was to sell it. And for a fraction of the resale value of the Harley you can buy whatever you want, any will anyway be a better and safer bike than the Harley. Now riding a Triumph Tiger 1200, not as cool as the SG when parked, but day and night when it's about riding experience
What you're missing is that all you care about is spec sheets and performance. Which i get. Hell, I used to race superbikes like 20 years ago. Harleys have a fit and finish along with a level of "character" that's simply unmatched. As you get older, and the interest in going 150 mph everywhere starts to fade... You'll begin to understand like the rest of us old bastards that being able to get out and ride several hundred miles in a day and enjoy the ride in comfort is more enjoyable than folding yourself up and constantly trying not to get arrested. You also aren't wanting a backectomy after a long day of riding. I know there are other bikes that can accomplish this task, but none with the dealer network, the fit and finish, the comfort, the aftermarket, etc of Harley. And if you can afford it, why not?
Backectomy 😂
So, buy another brand of cruiser that costs less for more functionality? Harley doesn't have a monopoly on comfort.
@@prophetzarquon1922 you completely ignored literally everything I said except for the comfort part. Which is ENTIRELY subjective. C'mon man... At least I've actually owned most of the major makes and have formed my opinion over more than 20 years of owning and riding all kinds of bikes...
@@High_Desert_Tanner The long term manufacturer support is a _big_ deal, you're 100% right about that & you're right that I missed that point in your comment. My apologies. Honda doesn't even order parts for old Goldwings or Valkyries etc anymore!
@@prophetzarquon1922 It's the sound of the Harley engine and American made
Man I’ve been feeling the same way about these bikes after doing a bit of research. I appreciate you for having the courage to say it out loud.
I’ve had a 600 cc sports bike as my first bike and then a Harley street bob as my second bike and now i’m back on a sports bike years later. But one thing I love about Harley Davidson besides the American brand being a veteran is honestly the way the bike rumbles and shakes with the V twin.
I was born in Puerto Rico and raised in Connecticut, absolutely no one in my family rides motorcycles. I’m the first and bought a Harley just cause I wanted to cruise
It's about comfort. I started riding dirt bikes, progressed to sport bikes, then decided to pick up an 03 Sportster, I'm just pissed I let the 1%er BS stop me from experiencing comfort on such a level that made riding enjoyable again.
Why not try another brand of cruiser that costs less for a better ride? Harley has no monopoly on comfort...
@@prophetzarquon1922 In the 4 years I've owned the Sportster I've had no issues and no noticeable increased costs. Parts are only expensive if one chooses to buy expensive parts,🤷.
Dude I’ve been watching your videos for years. Never realized you were Brazilian and also lived in orlando! Thats amazing
Também kkkkkkkkk
My father in law drove a black Electra glide , seeing him coming down the road blaring Metallica was so badass and I told him that , wish he was still here today so he could’ve passed the torch down 😢 R.I.P
I've owned several motorcycles and not once did I ever think hey I want to own a Harley. And the way many Harley riders treat non Harley owners was the icing on the cake.
We arent all like that, but then again im not strictly a harley rider either. I have seen what you are referring to tho amongst some of the people i ride with and discourage it every time. Its generally not hard to make an ass out of someone who is already acting an ass. Sometimes they just need someone to show them to see it. They generally change.
This comment section kinda proves that sportbike riders treat harley owners equally as bad
@@alankatb I've been to weekend biker events where the campground was "Harleys here" all others "over there."
Only one group of riders leave me hanging on the wave, they really think they're shit don't stink on their Taiwan made American assembled bikes.
@@mattman3495 "Only one group of riders leave me hanging on the wave"
I have to agree with that. 80% of the bikes I see on rides are Harleys. Rarely do I get a wave back, so I stopped. The other bikes, almost all wave back.
@@icin4d Get over it.
I don’t ever plan on flying over my handlebars at 100 mph so my slow 115hp HOG suits me just fine.
I did that. Would not recommend. Police report says 100, I said different
115?- yeah, in a STRAIGHT line. That's why they're called "HARDLY riders.....
@@tommynikon2283 LOL. Good one.
Omg I thought u were from Portugal not Brazil … I’ve watched your channel for a long time and now knowing you’re a Brazilian like me def adds to it
Yammie, this resonates with me as a Moldovan immigrant living the US since I was 6mo old. I definitely feel it’s something most guys are born into. When push came to shove I ended up with a KTM Duke 690 abs. The most fresh of the boat bike there is in my opinion!
I’ve been riding/racing for 23 years from the time I was 5 years old on a pw50 that parents got me for my birthday. I’ve rode and owned dirt bikes, supermotos, sport bikes, cruisers, baggers, mini bikes and dual sports. I’ve never understood how someone can claim to love motorcycles and simultaneously hate on any specific type of motorcycle. They’re all completely different and have different purposes. I’ve never had a bad time on ANY motorcycle. I’m a sport bike guy and a track rider myself but it literally gives me goosebumps when I ride my Indian Pursuit through a twisty mountain road here in Colorado. I take corners at ridiculous speeds, 2up with luggage and I’ve never thought, wow I wish I had more bike. Sure my R1 is great on track but it’s a steaming pile of s**t on the street. Let alone a long trip through the mountains. Plus the feel and sound of a v twin motor is and feels special. Just like when you’re wide open on a crossplane crank R1. I had a KTM dual sport and it might have been one of the most fun bikes I’ve ever owned. It blows my mind when motorcycle “enthusiasts” pick a brand or type of bike and insist it’s the only way to enjoy/ride a motorcycle. Do you even really like motorcycles? I understand preferences but I don’t like to eat chicken fingers and french fries every night for dinner. It’s nice to have variety and just enjoy things for what they are. People don’t always need to compare everything and be so critical. Rant over😂
Best comment! I am a "biker" and ALL motorcycles are cool! Some are good for cruising and some for ripping around the twisties and some for off road, but it's petty and foolish to put others down because they ride a different brand! Seriously, grow up!
Exactly my attitude. I don't care what you ride, I care that you ride.
My father was a “biker” in the 50’s and early 60’s. He drove mainly British bikes. I’ve owned dozens and dozens of bikes over the past 40+ years myself. I remember my father’s only advice regarding buying motorcycles; never buy a Harley.
He said that every guy he ever rode with that owned a Harley would be left behind at some point during their trip because of mechanical issues, or they were simply too slow. I realize that they are much better machines of late, but really their current reliability is only now in line with Japanese bikes of the 80’s.
I am a Harley guy, however I have ridden most brands so I do know where Harley lacks. I love my road king but have love for others as well. I really appreciate this video and you have done us Harley guys proud. Great job as always Yam. Harley guys listen to Yam and watch the whole video
“BROTHERrrrrr!” lol. I’m an Italian/ American, I started on a cr125 dirt bike, ride and raced gixxers in my 20’s then 4 yrs ago, bought my first Harley. Last week I got a Zx14R Ninja so I have the best of both worlds. 😅
I struck up a conversation with a US Marine during a visit to Florida from the UK. He mentioned that he was a biker and I replied that I am also. He said he rides a HD and asked about my ride. At the time I had a Kawasaki ZX-6R. He laughed and said come back once you've got a real bike. No thanks mate, based on that attitude I'll go elsewhere. Different strokes for different folks and all that....
What resolve you must have to be influenced by a single stranger.
@@dcccharles4569 Thanks for your comment. It was surprising how a single stranger could be so condescending. Luckily I work with plenty of his US colleagues, so know a bad apple when I meet one. Have a nice day!
@@meepmeep634 And you just met another condescending stranger right here on the comments!
@meepmeep634. .Ditto. I know your types too and it ain't pretty.
@@dcccharles4569 Don't worry, it's normal to fear things we can't understand . . . : )
I’m a Harley rider, and I don’t get Harley culture. The only thing I own that says Harley-Davidson is my forty-eight.
Same thing here. Got a Road King but I needed more feelings. Then I got a MT10
@@filipefumaux that sounds like the perfect mix!
You don't get how they ride for charities? Or will pull over to make sure you are okay? Or you don't get why they are like family even if they are strangers? What is it you don't get? You don't like how they will pull over and offer you a dry shirt when yours is soaking wet after a storm? You don't like how when you break down in a state you are not from, they will have you stay the night until a family member can work on your bike the following morning while their cousin's tow company tows you to the family members' shop? You don't like how if your house burns down they will unite to give you clothes, food, lodging, and cash until you get on your feet? I don't get why you are such a prick to be honest ;-)
@@699669king get off the cross we need the wood.
@@699669king WOW! All the guy says is he doesn't get the culture and you call him a prick? I actually used to own a Harley Brand bike but, because it was a Buell Sport bike even the H-D dealers treated me like 2nd class citizen and now I don't own it either because H-D just let the brand die out until someone else could support it. I recently went to a diner and there was barely any parking. A group of about 5 H-D's with older gentlemen riding them had just parked and were still getting off of their bike and removing gear. I came up on my little Honda XR150 and one of the riders had his back towards me while all the others were looking directly at me. I was trying to fit in to the one spot in between their bikes and the guy turned around and when I asked if I could park there he said I wanted to get stuck there I could. I turned around and left because they were pricks but, not all H-D riders are like that. So while yes many bike clubs do charity events, that doesn't make them Saints.
This just sealed it for me. He doesn’t know what he’s talking about in bikes. And I love both for multiple reasons and own both.
I think we’re on the same page. I currently own a hopped up Sportster XR1200X, it’s really fun to ride! I was seriously proud of Harley for making the Pan America and then disappointed that they cancelled the Bronx. That being said, if I could only keep one bike it would be my MT-09 or my FJR 1300.
I know the following about Harleys: they vibrate like a paint mixer, they're so heavy that smaller bikes are found orbiting them and cops seem to ignore the fact that they're the loudest things on the road.
Good for the cops, because the only thing that sounds better than a Harley is a large number of Harleys.
The new Harleys don't vibrate anymore though, they're pretty smooth actually.
I like the vibration, makes the ride kind of visceral. The weight is an issue, my sportster is 550lbs, an equivalent Japanese bike is 100lbs less, which would be nice.
😂
Do your research before trying to sound cool. You failed.
I've been sport bike guy since Suzuki came out with their Katana in the early eighties.
I remember seeing the first R1 in the late nineties and just being blown away.
I wanted a motorcycle when I was younger. My first bike was a 1986 shadow 500 I pulled from the weeds and got running. I liked the 750 spirits styling from Honda but couldn’t afford one at the time. I managed to snag a shadow 1100 ace with the single crank pin engine and was HOOKED. The power, sounds, everything just loved it. The Vulcan 900 was the only other Japanese cruiser I had that sounded close but lacked the power of that 1100. 60k miles later the 1100 was worn out and broke down constantly. Sold it and got a c50 Suzuki boulevard. It just didn’t have that power and sound I loved so much. Got a victory Vegas 100ci and that 1100 shadow was just a memory. The bar had been set with motorcycles for me from there forward. I was having a hard time finding another victory and found they were dropped in favor of Indian. The Indian dealer near me only had new models out of my price range and the search went to Harley. Harley had a huge selection of low mileage late models. Got my 22 heritage and been in love since. The culture is meaningless to me, I don’t do group rides, I don’t wear leather and chains, no tattoos, not a patch wearing type. Love the bike for the riding experience and enjoy being me
I think what drew me to Harley is the custom culture. Bone stock, they’re nothing much to brag about, but the aftermarket support is unmatched by any other brand. As an artist, their bikes are a blank canvas. Every rider can build their bike into something completely unique and exactly the way they want. They’re are so many different subcultures within the brand. The “hell yeah brothers” get most of the attention, but the type of people who ride Harleys are incredibly diverse. Harley has something to offer for everyone who is willing to turn a wrench and build their dream.
“Every rider can build their bike into something completely unique” and yet every single one gets turned into an identical bagger with a loud as fuck sound system, or in the case of sportsters gets turned into an identical hipster blacked out bobber with drag bars and whitewall tires. Yeah there might be the occasional truly impressive custom Harley, but 99% of them are the same bland, uninspired bolt-on special shit you see like the thousands of abandoned cafe racer builds on Craigslist with exhaust wrap and tracker seats. And it’s laughable to say that Harley’s aftermarket support is unmatched, any of the Japanese bikes have as impressive of an aftermarket as Harley. More so, actually, because unlike Harley they’re actually popular across the entire globe, and if you’re willing to pay out the ass for shipping you can get a lot of really impressive stuff from overseas for them
I own a Harley, but don't have a beard, beer gut, or tattoos. I don't own a fringed leather vest, and I always wear a helmet. I can ride at less than 10 mph without duckwalking too. And, I also own a sportbike. Yeah, I'm a fuggin' unicorn.
I’m the same🤣. Have a Z900 and a Lowrider S…could care less about culture and love both bikes for different reasons
Not so unicornly, I know two other identical men.
You totally are. In my 44 years of riding/all sport...you MAY be the ONLY one. Trust me....
SAME.
triumph street triple and a Road King. I'm in shape, always wear safety gear, no beard, zero tattoos, prefer wine and whiskey and never drink and ride. I don't fit in anywhere. LOL
One of my mom's ex-boyfriends had a Harley. He was an idiot.
Meanwhile, my Dad had a DR650 and Honda VTX1300
@@rd4k04you meet the nicest people on a honda
😂😂😂😂
You're just bitter I left for smokes and never came back 😎
I'm a complete badass, and I have a triumph. Coincidence?
I think one of the biggest pulls of a Harley is the fact that it is American made. I used to be in the same camp of why would anyone want a Harley and rode sport bikes exclusively. Now that I'm a little older and I'm not worried about all out performance, I find myself drawn to the Harley. What tech is Harley lacking? The new Sportster has a liquid cooled v twin that redlines at 9,500 rpm. It has a display with a usb port for turn by turn navigation, bluetooth, measures speed, odometer, tire pressure, fuel level, and has a gear indicator, it has adjustable ABS, traction control, drag torque slip control (slipper clutch), and three pre programmed riding modes with two custom slots. not sure how much more tech you need...
The whole point of the “outlaw biker lifestyle” only to adhere to some weird, antiquated rules and authority is pretty hilarious to me. It’s a walking oxymoron. Like passing for instance. If I’m in my lane, and they are in theirs, I’m not asking for permission to pass. As long as I do it safely, quit crying. Anyone who has a problem with that just has an ego issue and thinks they own the road.
Yeah typically Harley riders love the police and think you need to get a job where you punch in and punch out lol
@@SubvertTheState Of course they do Pookie. You want a job where you punch in and out also.........Pookie you will need social security one day. Stop working " Under the table", if you catch my drift.
Just recently watched a video along the lines of "Things not to do at a biker bar". It was full of "adults" meaning they should beat someone up for wearing the wrong shirt, cut or badge. Hilariously immature dudes.
@@699669king I'd appreciate if you didn't call me "pookie", but I won't collect social security. I'll only be expected to pay for old people's retirement for my entire life. I've also paid into old people Pension funds which I will never receive. And there are other ways to generate income, Namely conducting services and production under your own name as opposed to for someone else's company. Boomers are incentivized to enforce this system because they benefit from it. So many of you have retired at 54 and a lot of you will live into their 90s. Y'all work less than half of your lives and then try convincing young people that they should just work even harder for $12 an hour so they can split a median cost house ($427,000) with 30 other young people or rent a one room closet for $1200 a month. All to support Karen and David who need to renovate their summer home and upgrade their boat.
I'm 35, I volunteered to go to Iraq in 2009, worked in the food industry for 13 years and have put in many months working 84 hours per week. The only real leisure I've been able to buy is a tiny 125cc motorcycle, and that's because I would be able to save on gas commuting on it.
So no, I'm not lazy, pampered or cry because I have to work. I just understand economics and don't expect to borrow Trillions of dollars and kick the can down the road...Only to shame younger people into being productive in return for even less than what I was compensated.
@@699669king Watch out guys, this guy is getting really mad!
You're 100% right. As far as performance goes Harley-Davidsons are an inferior overpriced product. With that said I've owned a few and it's the ONLY motorcycle I will ever own. I currently own a Road King and a 128ci Street Glide that I'm into for well over $50k about $8K of the modifications are performance mods yet I will still be blown away by a R7. My father still rides a Harley at 80 years old, all of my family rides Harleys. It's the culture!🇺🇸
I started on a 2008 Yamaha R6. I loved that bike and i miss it to this day. However my entire family/riding group had baggers. I ended up selling my R6 and buying a 2014 Street Glide and i really enjoy that bike. I look at it like i went from a sports car to a muscle car on two wheels. Both styles are a lot of fun.
I’ve owned three Harleys over the years (Sportster 883, Softail Standard, Ultra Classic ElectraGlide) but today HDs are way too expensive (and each of mine left me stranded, broken down with mechanical issues). I had my eye on the Road King Special you mention and I could not fathom paying 24 grand for it. Instead, I bought a Triumph Speedmaster, three Yamahas (Xt250, Tenere 700, FJR 1300) and a Can Am Ryker. You cannot beat the quality of a Yamaha and that FJR is a fantastic capable bike - it just doesn’t have a radio, so that is what a helmet comms device is for. Think about it - you can buy three different brands of bikes for the price of ONE HD.
Here's a little trick do you buy used bike. People buy Harley-Davidsons and then Park them. So you can get like a 2005 with 5000 miles on it. There's a difference between people's hobbies and use it as a every day driver.
We just don't want to ride lying on our nuts. And don't want a back ache riding long distances. We want comfort.
I mean, owning both i find most cruisers less comfortable. Not being able to put weight on your legs means it all goes into your lower back. Im not a big dude either though so i guess im the size sportbikes are made for 😂
But you still don't have to have a Harley for comfort...all of the Japanese brands and others have very comfortable cruisers...for a hell of lot less too
I've been riding a sportbike for years, and last year I had to borrow my dad's cruiser for the season. I found that my tailbone and butt hurt quicker on the cruiser. It's like you said, shift weight to the legs on a sport bike relieves the tailbone and ass. As far as the back, it's about the same on both for me, as I'm a bigger than average guy.@@devo3243
Indian and triumph are a thing.
I lean forward even in a car, so getting on a sportbike was the first time ever I sort of felt good driving something. If I had to kick back and recline I'd be uncomfortable.
On my Ninja, I can't get all that low because my helmet holds me up. And as long as I'm under 100mph there's no real benefit to tucking anyway, so I don't.
They're the retiree's Buick or Lincoln of the motorcycle world. A big, slow, comfy couch to sit your wide ass on and take a leisurely drive.
as a cruiser guy, this is the truth. I want a bike that rides like a recliner.
Perfect ! My cranky old wide ass enjoys actual comfort going down the road , much nicer than unnaturally hunched over a giant heat sink that falls on it's face if you let the revs get under 6,000 .
@JMlovesDDM there's also the best of both worlds: a neutral seating position. Straight back, relaxed arms, relatively relaxed bend in the legs. Lots of naked bikes, sport tourers, and adv bikes have a pretty comfy setup for long miles.
That said, I'm not trying to yuck anybody's yum, here. I'm just trying to point out that there are lots of legit ways to motorcycle. I'd love to convince my father that Harleys aren't the only real motorcycle, in the same way that Buicks aren't the only real cars.
@@downhillupside I'm always amused to see an adventure bike rider standing on the pegs to give their backside a beak. of course, a full cruiser doesn't give that option, so there's that.
@@kenbrown2808 Really depends on the bike. Some have hard offroad focused seats, and some have big cushy molded things, closer to a Harley
got a simple club style tuned 2017 Dyna with Ohlins suspension that sits higher than normal and I can say she definitely eats on tail of the dragon but ill definitely be dipping into a sport bike in the future to see how that does.
First Harley in 1978 and continuously since. I’ve ridden many others along the way but I can’t walk away from HD.
Hey Yam, love your channel. I’m a soviet era refugee myself and nobody in my family even thought of riding a motorcycle, I’m the first. Currently own a 21 Harley Fat Boy, and it’s my feel-good bike. The moment you turn over the engine of a Harley you have your own personal symphony playing for you. It’s got presence, character, hell it even smells good. I rode it to Sturgis and back to San Diego. 25k miles so far and never had an issue. Love taking it in the twisties here in SoCal, it turns great btw, and I will keep shredding it till my footboards look like pringles potato chips.
You can never go wrong with a Fat Boy. A friend of mine owns a 2009 Fatboy and he states he will never part with it!
The Softail platform is great. Good handling, not to heavy, great power to weight.
Adrenaline addicts: sport bikes.
Zen meditation: Harley
Seriously, I want to relax when riding. I want to zone out. I want to forget whatever is stressing me out.
I can totally get that. I think you nailed it, we are addicted to the face first adrenaline rush. Feels like you're literally on a rocket.
I feel that. Sometimes I zone out too much and have to pull myself back in to “scan for idiots trying to kill me mode.”
Thanks for the video. This has to be said and am glad it was you. 👌
Never owned a Harley but I do own a Ducati 749s and yes it’s not as fast as an r1 but to me it’s the soul of the bike. The exhaust, the dry clutch rattle, the riding experience. The bike has character and comes alive regardless of the specs.
To me that’s a bike done right. it’s not just another ride, it makes you feel connected.
In the past 6 years I have owned a DRZ400SM, FZ09, Dyna Low Rider S, WR450F, and now a Sporster 48. The only thing I can say is that when I am on something other than a Harley I like the way the bike feels. However, when I am on a Harley I love the way I feel. At the end of the day, I think that’s how every rider determines what they are meant to ride.
Words of biker wisdom.
I find a lot of people choose Harleys because they just don’t consider other bikes as being viable. I’ve known quite a few Harley riders who found new riding life on different brands and styles.
It is funny to watch my friends age out of sport bikes. They always get Harleys afterwards
Rode Beemers for 10 years and just bought an Indian Challenger and Harley Road Glide in 2023, still have my Beemer too.
I once went to Daytona Speed Week during an 1,800 mile ride (on a borrowed Harley Heritage Softail). There were thousands of Harley's parked on the streets, but as I talked to their owners, I found that most of them had been trailered to Daytona. I came to the conclusion that most Harley owners don't much like riding, they just like to feel part of the club. These days my ride is a 1290SAS (also a V twin, but a million miles away from H-D). It has everything the Harley lacked: speed, acceleration, handling, brakes and a much better riding position. The Harley guys I rode with had to stop every hour because their tail bones were killing them.
Most people trailer because they want more than 1 change of clothes for them and the passenger. Lots don't have the time to make it a 2 week event between travel and the event. Daytona is in early march a lot of people still have snow on the ground. I'm not riding my 30k bike through road salt. its gonna be nice and safe in my trailer.
Real riders ride. Harley has become the Laywer slash doctor or dentist bike more into the scene of dress up than riding. They would be the same person who dresses up to go to a Ren fest.
I bought a sportster 1200 because I’m short and actually fit on it flat foot. And it sounds really good without baffles ;)
I would never guess you are a son of Brazilians. I've been watching your channel for a while, and I like it a lot.
I grew up with Grandparents who basically lived on their Harley. They'd be gone for weeks riding all around Canada and The US. I honestly don't think I ever saw my Grandpa drive a car; year round they'd either go around together on the bike, or my grandma would drive and my Grandpa would join later on the bike. It was awesome in summer hearing the rumble coming down the street and knowing "Grandma and Grandpa are here!". It was cool sitting on the back as grandpa took us around the block. It was cool seeing their Harley group meet ups, (we'd occasionally meet them at a diner or something). My Grandma even went for a ride on my uncle's bike for her 90th birthday.
Even at my Grandpa's funeral seeing a dozen Harleys roll through the cemetery for him was amazing, ..and yet despite all that, my brother and I have only ever had Japanese bikes, (and not cruisers). We both love the sound of Harleys and have good memories of seeing and hearing about the camaraderie of their riding groups and stuff, but beyond that they're just overweight, overpriced, inefficient, and outdated. At the end of the day it's like seeing an old guy driving a Model A; they're definitely cool, but not fit for modern daily use compared to the alternative options.
He inspired us to ride, but not Harleys. It was awesome to see Grandpa riding his, but it's not something for us.
The only thing I don't like about Harley culture is they talk about Freedom this and freedom that American flag stickers all over everything. But then they're going to tell you how to ride around them? Or you're not expected to pass them if they're doing the speed limit in the fast lane.
Right. You want to pass them so you can do illegal stuff. Both sides ( frankly all sides as there are way more than two) have their issues. Sumo guys do wheelies, sportbike guys speed, Harley guys don’t wear gear, etc. The thing is that all of these are stereotypes. Let people ride what they want to. If you don’t like it then you can ride whatever you think is better.
Thanks Herr Noob. If you gotta ask there is no telling. Blades of Glory on the song “Lady Lumps”. Nobody knows what it means! But it’s provocative. To this day I smile when I wave at a Harley rider and he refuses to wave back. Hilarious. Harley is provocative.
I would like to note that I ride Harley’s and wave at everyone no matter what they are on. Let people ride what they want to. It doesn’t matter in the end.
I'm a metric cruiser guy, own several. Took the first bike I ever bought myself, a 2002 Mean Streak, to Daytona Bike Week in an unusually excruciatingly hot year and watched all the air cooled Harley's pulled over on the side of the road from overheating in the gridlock traffic, as I rolle along with my radiator fan cooled metric - and I've never wanted a Harley since.
"Biggest Shirt seller that also sells Bikes" - well put!
I think it is fact that they make more money on clothes than the bikes themselves. Not sure any other brand can claim that.
@@RedBud315 KISS is similar, they make more money with merch than with music and concerts.
@@TripleD303 Yep. Leave it to Gene to sell Kiss coffins. I wonder what the band mates said when he spouted out that idea, lol.
Where are all the Japanese shirts? Oh,... there aren't any. Jealousy is not healthy.
I think they also prevent motorcycles from ever taking hold in America anywhere to the extent that they are in the rest of the world. They're like the emperor without clothes, bragging about how elegant and beautiful their new duds are. Look at their ridiculous prices, even on their lowest priced models. Who do they think they're going to get into the lifestyle of riding motorcycles? FOR ANYTHING? Maybe if HD went out of business once and for all, motorcycling would REALLY TAKE OFF IN AMERICA.
76yo life long motorcyclist here, proud of the fact I’ve never ridden a Harley. Even worked as a Honda mechanic for a few years.
In comparison, I'm a 74yo long time motorcyclist who has only owned one Harley as my series third ride at age 19; a AMF-era made-in-Italy '68 Aermacchi M65S (badged as a HD) which was [initially] a magneto-sparked pre-mix fuelled two-stroke with a 3-speed transmission that could wind out to a dramatic 50 mph; if the rider stayed low with chin on top of the headlight-mounted speedo - and which was a contraption that soured me from ever owning any other H-D is the years which followed.
Indeed, I was not to own a machine with more than one cylinder (engine-wise) until I briefly owned a S/H short-wheelbase BMW R50/5 (32HP and weighing 205kg, with optional electric-start) at the age of 21. My next machine is likely to be a CFMoto CL-C 450 (40HP and wet-weight of 181kg) as I prefer machinery no more than three-times my own weight (with a little leeway).
my man is a legend
Unfortunately, a lot of people live long lives and don't get to experience one of God's most common gifts to our world. Who knows if you're good man and make it to heaven, maybe God will take you for a ride on his.
@@brianstephens1488 I knew he was a Harley guy by the beard! Thanks for the reply. Ride on!
@@brianstephens1488 God rides a Silver Cloud
I grew up riding since I was 8 years old in 1975
My dad had Harley’s
I have had 22 various motorcycles in 49 years.
I have never owned a Harley & have only ridden 2.
I was innately a dual sport rider, from day one & naturally developed an intense loyalty to Kawasakis & have never had bike breakdowns.
I currently own a KLX 250, which has been to the top of many mountains & across many deserts & through many forests on highly technical trails.
I also own a Versys 650 which has seen countless Highways, back country & forest roads, all across this nation.
I set out to put together bikes that can go anywhere & I have ridden them everywhere.
I feel one develops your brand & type of bike following, based on one’s inner needs & desires based on who you are.
I’m also an avid outdoorsman who wanted to bring riding into that pursuit.
I would love a rifle scabbard on the side of my bikes. 😀
I have never been without a bike & can’t imagine a life without them.
What I don't get is why all Harley riders look so unhappy when they ride their bikes. If your ride makes you scowl, you bought the wrong bike!
Sportsbike rider here. Just wanted to drop some appreciation for B.A.C.A
Thank you
I'm hoping to become a member of my local B.A.C.A. chapter this year!
@@jauken83 Work the mission and do the classes. You'll get there. Just remember it's all about the hero's.