Why Everyone HATES Harley Riders
HTML-код
- Опубликовано: 15 апр 2023
- Let's discuss why everyone "hates" Harley riders. What is it about Harley Davidson motorcycles and the people that ride them that creates so much controversy, drama and hate.
Emotion is an interesting energy that many don't realize is distinctly different to feeling. Don't let it destroy you.
Join me as I ride with the boys on the Harley Heaven Dandenong "shop ride" - awesome ride with great bikes and music.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you wish to support the channel please consider our merchandise...
www.oldnotdead.club/shop
Looking for Coaching / Mentoring / Help?
www.oldnotdead.club/mentorcoa...
Follow me on Instagram
/ _oldnotdead
Contact / Collaborations / Product Reviews
www.oldnotdead.club/contact
Follow me on Instagram @_OldNotDead | Check out the website for great supporter gear www.oldnotdead.club/shop
I am a 57 year old man who just bought a new H-D Street Glide. I sold my last bike (kawasaki Vulcan) 20 years ago to pay for a surgery my 1 year old daughter needed. My wife of 24 years passed away last October and I needed something to keep my mind right. I went back to what I remembered made me happy years ago and that's riding. I am in Indiana and bought my bike in February so not much riding has been done yet but I have been working/customizing on the bike since it came home with me. So I guess I fall into the middle aged just getting back into riding category. Of course new pipes were one of the first mods so it actually sounds like a Harley now. I started riding at 16 and bought my first bike at 18, a Yamaha Maxim 550. I personally don't care what bike you ride just ride. This is my first Harley Davidson and I am amazed at the family atmosphere around the brand. Joined my local HOG group and cant wait for better weather! Keep up the great vids!! Keep the shiny side up and enjoy your life no matter what brand your sitting on!!!
You are going to love the bike! What mods are you doing?
It's good to hear when somebody gets back in the saddle. Good on ya for giving your scoot some pipes so she can talk out loud!
@@OldNotDead-Club Nothing crazy.... Rinehart pipes, Klok Werks windshield, Floor boards, Saddlebag crash bars, Different grips, Live to ride fuel door, a CVO style tank badge, adjustable front brake and clutch levers, a rear soft brake pedal and a few other cosmetic pieces.
I fuckin hate the way these chopper jockeys NEED to make their shit obnoxiously loud!!! One of the biggest reasons I won't ride with them !!! My shirt reads " LOUD PIPES POOR SUBSTITUTE FOR NO SKILL " 😊😊😊😊
@Tired Patriot, sorry about ur loss, my condolences. I also live in Indiana (Vincennes), someday we can meet and ride………..🤔
I own a harley, but most harley riders have an attitude problem about its the only real bike, which is a joke
Not sure about "most" but you are correct heaps of great bikes and brands
Definitely not “most” unless you hang out with a bunch of tools. I’ve been riding Harleys for 21 years and 95% of people I met love motorcycles they just wouldn’t buy anything but a Harley.
But it is the only bike.
I think there’s huge misconceptions about harley riders, I’m not one myself (yet) I ride dirt bikes. But I have a lot come into my work place, every me has been polite and easy to get along with. Usually big gentle giants, their appearance can be intimidating and I’m sure you wouldn’t want to fuck with some of them. But all in all their just normal people just enjoying riding bikes
@@ridesingles very true and riding dirt bikes is more difficult than Harely's (just not as much fun lol)
For years I dissed Harleys. Then I bought one and realised what I had been missing. 100% bought into the Harley life and love it!
I was curious about this. As many say this same thing. So I finally bought one. A Road King. I wanted to see if I was really missing something. It didn’t happen for me. The Harley doesn’t do anything special for me compared with my other motorcycles. Just a different bike. Personally. I like all motorcycles I guess. Next up, I’m probably gonna try a Goldwing
I've had many bikes over the years, British, Japanese, German and Italian, including 7 of the new Hinckley Triumphs. I live in Scotland and love cruising round the Highlands on my Softail Custom, not racing around on a sports bike. Always been into bikes and rock music, the Harley seems to suit that lifestyle. Maybe it's an old rocker thing!
Great isn't it
…curious to know, as you’re newly 100% bought in, will you acknowledge non-HD riders with a nod or a wave, or are you HD only now?
I think you nailed why HD is not for me - "bought into the Harley life" - I enjoy riding my motorcycle, I don't want the lifestyle/image thing that goes with HD ownership
I’m gonna be honest. Nearly 30 yrs ago when I was in my 20s I always stereotyped Harley riders as aging yuppies who bought into a very commercialized brand (just count number of people who wear the t-shirt but never rode or even owned the bike). As I’ve grown and moved up from a teenager on a vesper to Japanese motorbikes to even trying expensive Italian bikes…it wasn’t until my mid 40s when I started to appreciate the zen of a Harley. It’s more than just a bike but there’s a zen quality you don’t see with other riders. The funny irony is that now I’ve built a solid life for myself, I’ve become the aging yuppie going Harley BUT I’m happier than I’ve ever been. Thanks for the video.
Great comment - you hit the nail on the head
Back in 2005'ish when everyone was wearing OCC and West coast chopper shirts I was rocking a T-shirt from Wicked Jester that read "I own a Bike not just a T-shirt" :) A bit obnoxious of me maybe. Wish I still had that shirt though.
That’s because 30 years ago, HD had a waiting list and bikes cost almost double what they should have been. Hence, mainly only Doctors and Dentists could afford them.
@@aucklandsadventures I think that didn't change, or at least here in my Country the cost is way too much even in the second head market.
@@elbowsout6301judge Harley riders to their face you’ll get smashed
The best advice I can give to both old and young riders is don't buy into the myth that chrome and loud pipes saves lives because everyone is looking at you on that shiney loud HD !! If you want to live a long life then ride the bike as if your invisible , I don't care if your best friend is hanging half way out of the car window waving his arms and calling your name don't believe he see's you as long as your feet are on the pegs no one can see you. Drive that way and you will arrive alive.
Thank you I would say both. Ride defensively with loud pipes
Agree - you want to live long as a rider, in must understand the most dangerous situations and plan for them.
Uncontrolled intersections are top issues and should have u driving Uber defensive. Then controll intersections, followed by blind spot avoidance, followed by.....you can squid out but pick the least dangerous places to have your fun.
Btw - my independent experience is not loud pipes but triangular light configuration is easier for cagers to pickup (headlight+ 2 lower fog lights). They unconsciously pick up the motorcycle while a single headlight with blinkers gets lost and not recognized by most cagers.
@@OldNotDead-Club a bit of sugar in your tank and brake fluid on the paintwork should give your poor suffering neighbours some peace for a while. FFS how old are you ?
Nobody’s jealous. Don’t flatter yourself.
But I like flattering myself, I even spend time in front of the mirror, don't you?
I am a sport bike guy. "Form follows function" is my motto. After working at at a Harley Dealership I realized that there is very little similarity between heavy cruisers and sport bikes other than they both run on two wheels. The difference between Harley and Ducati is like chalk and cheese.
Spot on, like tools for a specific job. You need both
My requirements for a bike are that it loves switch back turns , mid pegs, sits upright. Name that bike?
@@littlet-rex8839 lol low rider s, it really depends on how fast you want to make those turns heaps of bikes will do that.
@@TonyMcGurk great bike for the job 😎
Well said my learned friend!!!😊😊😊😊
My distaste for HD comes from the bikes and the riders themselves. I will say I have met some truly amazing people/riders that ride HD and I would ride with them anytime.
That being said I’ve heard, “you need a real bike,” so many times it make me sick. So if loud pipes save lives image what learning how to actually ride would do. There is an arrogance that is carried which is not at all deserved. Anytime I’ve been on a larger/mixed group ride the bikes that break down and leave us working on the side of the road is always an HD.
HD is basically at this point the world’s largest cosplay company, and trust me; absolutely no one is jealous or envious of an over priced shiny marital aid that has been good at nothing but turning gasoline into noise without the side affect of power since 1903.
yeah, I am not sure why people call it jealousy. Being jealous would be wanting something that someone else has, which you cannot have yourself... I could easily get a few Harleys if I wanted them, but I do get tired of people who tell me I need to get a "real bike." Was on my Rebel 1100 and someone told me that, and that I should look at a Nightster because they are very similar... then they got mad at me when I said the Rebel was still a better bike, and the Nightster costs 150% the price, and started trying to defend everything about Harley. I'm like... ride whatever you want, I just go for what is best for me, and I don't care what anyone else thinks about me or what I ride. Wish more people were like that.
Cosplay is fun! but yeah the comment "get a real bike" is a bit too much
I absolutely agree. The arrogance is why I'll never step into a HD showroom.
@@AyaWetts I love my 1100!
It’s a shame some people need to talk down to others. A lot of the time, the ones with the arrogance only got a Harley because Grandma left them money in he will. It doesn’t make you better. The ones who truely have experienced life, and ride a Harley, are more likely to be humble, quietly spoken and reluctant to give advice. But they are often the ones who know., life is a journey, one day you’re riding a Hog, the next day you’re in the gutter penniless. Those who know, don’t judge. We are all the same, all in the road of life and we are no better than anyone else. Perhaps we’ve seen more, perhaps you have. But compassion and empathy are the currency of life. Tread softly for you don’t know what your brother has just suffered.
To set things straight I used to ride a Sportster, but was not impressed and sold it after a single Summer.
Apart from that Harley I've owned a dozen bikes from sports bikes to touring bikes. Japanese and European.
I've met a lot of bikers, all kinds.
But there's a story I have to tell.
Once I was riding with a small group of friends. Going from our machine shop to our garage. Carrying all kinds of tools and spares. All on Japanese bikes (by sheer coincidence).
We passed a Harley rider stranded by the side of the country road. Sitting on the tarmac next to his bike. We knew the area had no cell phone cover.
We turned back to give him a hand. Being sure we'd be able to help. We'll all a brotherhood of bikers, to my understanding.
I was the first of our group to get back to the guy.
As soon as I turned off the engine of my (then) Suzuki RG500 I said: "We've got all the tools, can we help you?"
His reply was not to be misunderstood: "I want no help from rice cookers." Unfortunately that was all we could offer on this particular day. So much for the brotherhood.
Saying I hate Harley riders is wrong.
But I'm not impressed with people turning down good hearted help with harsh words.
Some people are stupid assholes ... doesn't matter what they are riding or doing. Good for you guys offering to help. I stop and ask anyone on the side of the road if they need help. 👍
That's a bummer and sad for the rider who you tried to help
Man, that’s not good at all. I can assure you none of the Harley riders I ride with are like that. Please don’t let your experience tarnish your opinion on the rest of us Harley owners.
This story is the REAL reason people hate HD riders. The arrogance. I see it all the time. Yes, a small percentage will ride other brands (very small percentage) but the rest of them think they are better. F them.
@@bharrison HD riders are some of the most indifferent riders and actually think everybody else who rides made a mistake and got the wrong bike. I had one new HD (6 months) out of 50 and over the past 60 years. Will never own another one or try and ride with them.
It would be silly to judge a person on what bike they ride. I’m sure in every brand or type of bike you’ll have a cross section of characters from the salt of the earth to the anti social and a vast array of people in between. I own and love my Victory and often have fantastic conversations with Harley riders about each other’s bikes. Live and let live should be the biker way. 😊
I love "Live and let live should be the biker way." However, you will rarely hear a Harley rider compliment a sport bike riders ride. A Victory is another animal. More akin to a Harley (American, cruiser), so not as open to disdain as anyone on a Japanese bike.
That's exactly the problem. HD rider DO JUDGE other riders which why I mock them constantly. There are HD riders and then there is everyone else.
How you feel about yourself and others whatever motorcycle you or they choose to ride,says a lot about YOUR character, whether it’s “I love my Honda” or “I hate Harley riders“. Ride what you like and keep the rubber side down.
I'm a proud Harley rider. However before I got my first Harley I asked a guy about his Harley at a gas pump, I pulled up in my 1998 Honda Magna. He said to me, get one and we can talk, other than that don't talked to me. Right now I'm blessed with owning a 2014 Street Glide Special. So when a none Harley rider walks up to me, and ask me about my bike, I talk to him with respect.
Thank you i do the same - show others respect!
So, when you own a Harley, you DO look down your nose at anyone on a different bike.
@Bil Ward The reverse. I was saying when I didn't own a Harely, a guy disrespected me because I didn't own one. I now a Harley owner would never disrespect a rider who doesn't own one. It's about the ride no matter what you're riding.
He was just a dick @@
@@KeanonGilliamSlang369 that guy sound like a dick the Honda Magna was a legend not a Vmax, but it was bad a@@ I believe the 750 was built after Honda VFR sport bike motor Ill respect all riders I just may not like your flavor of motorcycle but it's a motorcycle now I do find myself looking at the sportster s lol and I did like the v rod I just wish they would do it themself they don't need Porsche lol
I started riding, finally, 6 years ago at 51. Always wanted a bike, but my dad would say “over my dead body” even till I was 30 and out on my own. Was finally able to do it and started with a smaller Honda. That lasted 7 month till I got my dream bike, a ‘18 Triumph Street Triple, which will never go away. Almost 2 years ago I got my ‘21 HD Sport Glide after decades of saying I will never buy a Harley. It’s a different vibe / feel riding it than the Triumph.
It certainly is
As a kid I couldn't get over the way Harleys looked and sounded. The beautiful paint jobs, the sound of the engine,they were works of art. The sport bikes were just plastic.
Great point
So, form before function?
@@bilward9186 I know you are not asking me - but personally I believe form is way under rated and more important to you soul than people give credit for. Just look at the most expensive products in the world. Look at the people who can afford them and could have anything - they buy form with function which is expensive.
i can see you have no clue about motors and technology or performance :))) Harley motors sounds like that just because poor design flaw , they could not design timing right :))))
I worked for Harley Davidson in Brooklyn, NY. Having gear Is to protect you from dying or being severely damaged in a crash. This is more important than looking cool or not sweating in the heat. Wearing T shirts on a bike is unwise.
That is true and many people will agree with you
And brain bucket helmets. Ridiculous how Harley riders never wear full face helmets because they think they don’t look tough. You’re not so tough when your head hits the asphalt …
I have no problem with any rider of any type of bike. But, if someone is being an ass on the road or off the road, Its more often then not a Harley rider. It seems to usually stem from me not being on a Harley. I ride a Yamaha Raider 1900, I get the rice burner comments all the time, and I get it and typically think it's funny and just laugh it off. Some of them seem to not respect me because I am on a metric bike. On the road, they will invade my personal space often. If they are next to me they will constantly be revving their engine trying to impart some kind of dominance over me, wont wave, wont let me pass, will get angry if I pass, give me rude gestures, talk shit if I am wearing any type of protection, and will just generally act juvinile. Now, I am not saying all Harley riders. You can find asses of all sorts on any type of bike. I just find it's a higher chance for it to be a Harley rider, especially if not on a Harley yourself. However, I do find it ridiculous to say anyone is jealous over someone on a Harley.
We have all had different experiences - there is a bit of humour tucked into the video, maybe it doesn't translate well to other counties?
Once I was driving in the center of one of the most beautiful cities in the world, with magnificent architecture. At the square opposite the palace, I saw two guys on a pair of mopeds, something broke in them and they could not ride. The problem on one moped was with the carburetor, it didn’t idle. On the spot, his problem could not be solved, but I made it so that he could drive home / to the service on a moped. There are a lot of motorcycles in that place, but no one stopped except me. I can imagine how surprised the guys were that a brutal man on a Harley stopped and helped them in a couple of minutes.
Thanks for the comment. I have seen similar happen many times!
I didn't realize what a closed minded community Harley was until I switch brands - Sport Glide to Z900RS. Very happy now.
Well, bye…
I found the opposite, very open minded and welcoming. The z is a great bike got one when it came out (I'm riding one in this video) but I eventually sold it.
@@OldNotDead-Club I'm in the US, home of the culture wars and hate groups. Boycott a beer because of a marketing campaign. The country has real serious problems but the headlines are focused on everything that divides us - it sells media. Morgan Stanley just did an interview with CEO Zeitz and he embraced diversity and inclusion saying "Harley stands for we ride united, not we ride divided" if your butt is on a Harley your a member of the family. I get the feeling Zeitz doesn't get out of his office much. I used to ride with the local HOG but when I switch to the z other rides quit talking to me or made comments like "when are you coming back to the group". The message was clear, go ride someplace else. Actually I got the z when Harley didn't deliver the Bronx which is the bike I would stand in line for, but still waiting. Maybe I should just move down under.
I thoroughly Loved my 19gsxs 750z ,just wasn't practical for me to have two new bikes on DSP and a car also..What can I say tho ,,This Harley fills me with joy whether I'm just looking at it or Riding ..Ride safe bro..
Harley Davison is the best bike no doubt . I had a Flhs before and I was so nice to ride so I just stop to refill petrol or when it was time for a cup of Coffee. I think my next bike will be a Harley to hopefully a
Electrafile ultraglde classic mire Chrome mire fun . My first bike was a Suzuki 1100 EF but with that of bike made me drive faster and faster so I realised it was dangerous to me because when you ride a Harley you dont need to ride in 200 km/h or more to have fun on a bike..I must agree on ljud pipes saves life.
As a 50 year old who finally got my learners, riding a Royal Enfield ….. I can’t wait to be fully licensed so I can get a Harley…. Don’t give a stuff what others think… all I know is that I bloody want one👍😀
I did the same thing and found nothing but positive experiences with in person interactions. I think people are much more vocal in comments online than in person.
That are fun, you will love it
Thats spot on, keyboard warriors everywhere
Life is far too short to worry about what other people think about what YOU want. You're doing it right! Learn on something that you ain't skeered of laying down, then buy what YOU want! Damn the haters! And don't sell your little bike. Keep 'em all, and ride the wheels off 'em!
@@tommylitchfield3450 spot on Tommy👍
Plus my 12 year old daughter wants to ride so that bike will be hers😂
I don't hate specifically Harley Riders just motorcycle riders in general who feel the need to rev the motor continuously all the time especially when sitting at a red light
The joke is... Harley riders have to rev the engine at lights to make sure the engine doesn't die... lol
it comes from setting the idle low to get a particular sound - but it feels like the bike will stall.
Because there’re slow and get in the way on the windies
Lol you need to check out the later models, not so slow. Re in the way on the twisties - sometimes but I've seen plenty of sports bike riders in the way
The Harley crowd gives me the same fanatic vibe I dislike about most fanatic groups. Like Apple people... Those Jeep psychos... I especially enjoy how they play the I'm unique card, it's hilarious. Large Harley community here. All got their biker clubs and so on. Often snobbish. Super love it when you get one of these guys as a neighbor when you got kids in diapers. Randomly starting up the bike and throttling just enough to wake up kids in the middle of the night, then the s.o.b. doesn't even leave, goes back to bed. Yep, no idea why some don't care for the Harley folk at all!
Lol, who does that?
@@OldNotDead-Club Central Iowa, USA has quite a few of these types. Actually, I have quite a few "Harley Guys" that are good friends. But like any group there are some bad actors. Just like the import crowd, American Muscle guys, Power Rangers (hilarious, keeping it). Jerks like cars and bikes too I suppose. But seriously, this has gone on as a mystery in my own personal world. Why do so many Harley guys randomly start up the bike just to throttle it a couple times just to cut the motor and walk away? I've seen this many times and just chalked it up to neighbors being annoying.
@@jdubxi11 lol I've never seen that. Maybe if you have a visitor that says "what does your bike sound like?"
I am in my mid 60's and have been riding bikes since I was 16. I love all bikes and have found that bikers are very helpful to other riders who are having troubles with their rides. I currently ride an Ultra Limited Lo, love the bike and great on long road trips. I tend to ride mostly by myself, I enjoy the scenery and in no hurry to get anywhere... I consider it "Asphalt Theory". Enjoy yourselves on what ever brand you ride... riding is riding.
Wise words thanks
my first rides were behind my dad on a green harley with white seat and fringe all around the edge,,,,to kindergarten and then to first and second grade,,,,im 78 now
Mid 60's here and been riding since my first min-bike at age 10. I ride old Japanese bikes that I have resurrected from sitting in a barn for 20-40 years, now mostly Yamaha XS650s - love those bikes. I have 4 of them and a 99 Kawasaki ZG1000 Concours I resurrected as well. I probably have half as much money into all of them as a new HD would cost. But that's me and my individual situation. I appreciate ALL bikes, and if I found an old HD that needed my TLC for the right price, I'd buy it in a heartbeat. There is an extra thrill riding a bike that you've had in boxes and carefully assembled yourself, and then had the confidence to ride several hundred miles from home. Anyone can take out a mortgage on a new $40,000 HD or BMW or Gold Wing. And no, I'm not disparaging people who do that. You get on two wheels the best way you can, and the way that makes you happy. Making $700 payments on a motorcycle is just not my thing, I'm too damn cheap. Not everyone can take a 45 year old Japanese bike that's been sitting in a barn for 30 years, buy it for $300 and be riding it in a month or two after increasing its value by a factor of 10 just by applying hours of TLC. That's MY therapy - then riding it is a type of satisfaction that only a few of us can experience, that I cannot describe in words. I wish I could. But I promise you I have just as much fun on my $300 antique as anyone riding a new $40,000 anything. And I could not care less what others think of my bike. No, it's not shiny and perfect and new, but old timers like myself get a real kick out of seeing them still on the road. And yes, riding is riding no matter what you got between your legs, even a Can-Am 3-wheeler.
@@wirenutt57 thanks great comment
The only thing I notice is nowadays there are too many people out there on a Harley that think they're something they're not.
Interesting call, how do you tell?
@@OldNotDead-Club Guess I'm just going by now it used to be. For instance, after having a beer or 2 we used to leave a bar kind of quietly so not to draw attention from the local law. The other day we were out for a cold one and just about every bike that left the place had their bike revved right up and the stereo was blaring. It's not gonna be long before the locals are on the horn to the cops. Mostly a bunch of rubs pretending to be badasses.
@@jackrobinson8945 yeah ok i get it. As an aside, Ive had SG's for 7 or 8 years now and haven't used the stereo once - I don't get the loud music on a motorcycle thing?
I retired after 30 years of working on a ferry. We carried a lot of Harley. They weren’t the only ones who liked to rev their bikes. Harley were the most noticeable. Many of us also rode bikes, including Harleys. I guess I didn’t like inconsiderate riders.
I never had any issue with the members of a certain well known club. They were usually quite polite and respectful.
Thanks, great comment
I had my part of Harley's through 20 years. As a Harley owner, I beleived that everybody wanted one. That showed not to be the case. I sold my last one in -08 and will never look back. 20 years of constant "update" and improvements.
Those who wants one, fine with me. But for me, there's no model that can live up to what I want. And yes, the best bike is the one we have!
Wise words, not everyone wants one, all bikes are fun!
Judging by your comment, you put a lot of value on what you think other people believe about what you ride. So when you found out that what you think other people believed about your choice of bikes was not what you had always thought other people thought about the bike that you chose to ride, you no longer wanted to ride the bike that you wanted to ride because of what other people thought about what you ride. Gotcha. Maybe if you ride wtf YOU want to ride, you wouldn't have wasted so many years of your life riding something YOU didn't want to ride... Seems sus...
Honestly don’t hate Harley Riders…. What I used to not like about Harley Motorcycles was the fact that they shook like freaking crazy and parts falling off (according to a friend of mine who owns a Harley.) Bought my first American Bagger (Indian Challenger Dark Horse ) 3 weeks ago, almost bought a HD Road Glide ST, but the dealers were just too proud of the bike to actually sell it. LOL
Lol,gotta buy what makes you happy
I tease my Harley riding buddies because they are the definition of fair-weather riders. I ride a KLR 650, ZX12R, Z125, and a Yamaha 1300 vstar. Here in the States, riders tend to wave to each other, but some Harley guys only wave to other Harleys. I know this because they confuse my Vstar for one of their own.
lol, they are a pain in the but to wash - especially the chrome ones (that's why I have a vblacked out one)
I think its funny how Harley rider are so concerned what people think about them.
People dont care, unless you are a loudmouth or your bike is making their ears bleed.
I dont think Harley riders are concerned with what people think?
@@OldNotDead-Club But you made a video about it.
I know some of HD riders that are cool down to earth fun riding blokes but I also know a lot who ride one for the image and do give a shit about what people think of them they want people to admire respect and be intimidated by them ....I respect anyone that rides on 2 wheels each to their own about what they ride it's all about what that bikes Stirs in you that's all ....enjoy it my roads brothers coz the way these governments are going they won't let us get out of our driveways in the future if we all don't push back
@@James-dt7ky errr you do know this is YT and not serious lol
@@OldNotDead-Club You made 33 videos about it. That seems a bit obsessive. Just my not serious opinion. :p
First reason is WRONG! Most people DON’T envy a Harley rider. Most people put them in the same category as guys who drive huge jacked up trucks…..compensating for something lacking within themselves.
I have a big Harley, would love a big USA style truck and have a big nose too so ...?
A few years back I got into biking again. When it came time to buy a bike the first decision I made was “Anything but a Harley.”
Hate is way to strong of a word. Silly seems more appropriate.
and what do you ride that's not silly?
@@OldNotDead-Club Triumph Speedmaster and Yamaha T7. That combo allows me to do all the riding possibilities I’m interested in.
@@michaelroth6273if I had the money I might buy a pro street cvo but my Triumph gets it done in the N Georgia hills.
‘Anything but a Harley’ should be on t-shirts 😅
I am not a HD rider (own a Kawasaki Voyager 1700, very similar to a Ultraglide). I simply can't afford a HD, but love to feel and sound of the big V twins. I ride with lots of Harley guys as part of the Ulysses club. We just enjoy the ride and passion of being on the road. I like your channel and 'call it as it is' comments. Keep up the good work. 👍
Thank you
Loud pipes definitely do save lives. There is no doubt about that but some people go to a real extreme. I agree with you some exhausts are obnoxiously loud. I do like modified exhaust but not straight pipes not on a modern Harley. It is actually performance hampering.
Thanks, yeah it can be, you need the tuner to determine
The noise comes out the back, and most cages are pretty well soundproofed. Loud pipes only save lives when you're already next to them or ahead of them. When you're approaching from behind, even the loudest pipes won't do shit.
What saves lives is being aware of your surroundings and anticipating road hazards. As a bike you need your eyes on everything all the time. The wheels of the car you're next to, the approach speed of the car behind you, the distance to the car ahead of you, the condition of the road, traffic coming from side roads, animals, kids, gaps that other vehicles may want to fill. Riding demands your full attention. You need to be able to stop in time, swerve in time, or accelerate out of a dangerous situation.
@@bloodymarvelous4790 the noise is an addition to what you are talking about - not a replacement. Even an extra split second helps
If loud pipes saved lives, they’d be federally mandated.
What I don't like is - removing factory exhaust pipes/muffler, and going with illegal and excessively loud straight pipes...and, that goes for all motorcycles!!!
Thanks, one mans noise is another's music
I'm not a Harley rider, but I do have friends who work in Harley and ride Harleys.
In my experience, people judge even if you ride a bicycle!!
One thing that I always hope and think of whenever I see a Harley rider, I'm like where the F is your riding gear!!
Safety first, you're not a robot than enjoy your ride on whatever you like and appreciate for this sport, passion, art ....
God bless you brothers and sisters, one more time safety first you're not tougher than pavement
Thank you, wise words - people do judge you no matter what
I live in Illinoid and ride 1/2 time with no helmet , love it . 30 thou + miles on 650 versys small town , mostly country daily drive ! My body my choice 😂 but yeah I don't ride the same when I've got no gear.
Can’t be anything worse than having our 14 year old grandson telling me and his grandmother that we’re not cool anymore because we have Cam-Am trikes! And that they were not Harleys. He did say later that they were cool. I had to laugh at him for changing his mind.
LOL, that's a classic. You know what to do - follow his advice!
I've seen both sides as i've ridden many bikes besides HD. Some people just hate motorcycles and those who ride them. Recently I sold a BMW and purchased a Street Bob, that I enjoy immensely, when I told a guy that I've been riding with for years, he quit talking to me. I don't miss riding with him. I have no tattoos, I'm not "big", I have stock pipes because I love they way the look, and tend to ride alone and the preceding causes consternation with some Harley owners. With all that i just enjoy the ride.
Thanks, some people are funny, glad you are e joking the experience
From a riders opinion, my reason, I think eveeyone hates Harle riders is that they don't reciprocate, not even a little but, as well as other groups of motorcycle riders. One very good example is that they hardly give a "hello" signal. Of all my time riding, besides my Harley buddies, I've only encountered a handful of Harley riders that ever gave that "hello" signal. Since they didn't, eventually, I stopped giving as well. From a bystander's option, NO! I don't see any reason to hate Harley riders.😊😊😊
Harley riders are a "community"... You don't see Jeep owners or Corvette owners giving other random cars a wave.
@@bigblue3568 I think that’s just an bit unfriendly. I ride a Harley and Sport Bike - I’d even wave to a scooter.
I have found the opposite, always friendly and great community
Same as a lot of other posts here. I rode a crotch rocket as an 18 year old & trash talked Harley's (and their riders). Fast forward 30 years (of no riding) and I know I'm on an Electra Glide. Hanging out with a great chill group of (mostly) like minded individuals. We all wear the gear we're comfortable with, helmet, no helmet, full leathers, t-shirt & jeans. Nobody (almost) gives you grief about gear since you're riding your ride & they're riding theirs.
Thanks, familiar but great story, that's the way for many of us, ride safe
The noise - which is simple lack of respect for other people. You want people to respect you, start by showing respect for them by not roaring through residential neighborhoods. It's not jealousy, anyone can be loud. No trick to that.
The noise is so you can be heard, and noticed...so you don't get back ended at a stop sign, or get cut off, and run off the road. Have a great day 🇨🇦✌️😎
@@breakoutpete210 “Loud pipes save lives” has been repeatedly proven to be false. In fact bikers with loud bikes are statistically more likely to have accidents because they believe it and therefore drive more recklessly.
@@Drstrapps… I don’t agree, I’ve experienced everything that I’m saying… people notice me more around them when they can hear me… and I don’t ride recklessly, I take my time…
@@breakoutpete210 You can not agree, that’s fine, but the facts are the facts. “Loud pipes DON’T save lives”
@@Drstrapps… believe what you wish, still… have yourself the greatest day ever and stay safe✌️
There's certainly a "thing" to being a Harley rider. I've rode many brands of bikes over the years but for the last 10 years or so the Harley has been calling to me. I'd like to say I am a brand agnostic rider and gear, technique and the sense of being a "good" rider have always been important to me. So I figured sure, I'll be the same motorcyclist but I'll just be doing that on a Harley Davidson. I won't wear the brand gear, make pointless cosmetic mods to the bike, hang at the dealer, etc etc. But it creeps in to you. Yeah, I rock a Shoei RF1400 with an HD textile jacket. Thrashin' Supply gloves with Dianese boots. I do ride to HD dealers and buy t-shirts. People can say I've been sucked in by marketing but I really feel there is a great sense of culture and belonging with the HD crowd. Just stay true to yourself. Accept what is useful and reject what is useless. And they are damn good bikes.
Thanks, agree with you except for the Tshirts lol
Yes they're great bikes IMO. They feel solid and ride solid.
The high school tough guy mentality gets a little old.
Lol, what about if you really are tough? I found most HS tough guys aren't tough at all but that has nothing to do with Harelys
Awesome video...useful content ...well presented (as always) ..and infused with well placed humour!!! Thank you for your ongoing efforts to produce great videos!!!
Thank you that's much appreciated
I grew up with a motorcycle family…. I was taught respect and honor and discipline…. It doesn’t matter what you ride… what matters is that you ride…
Good advice, thank you
I used to think Harley's were shit bikes. My brother brought one when we were in our early 20s and I gave him hell for buying a Harley. He said take it for a spin. I now have 3 Harley's 😂
Thank you thats a common story, lol even happened to me
I ride adventure bikes, and a lot of times, I get looks from dudes on Harleys, with no gear looking at me like I'm the biggest loser on the planet. A lot of harley guys are the coolest people ever. Some though are overgrown children who never grew out of their high-school bully phase. And harley dealers are usually filled with those types.
Interesting perspective, thanks
Nothing puts a smile on your face like Harley and good friends.
Spot on
Who would know what deep thoughts would come from a motorcycle channel... ???
Truly impressive to hear the thoughts from another older rider in a different country.
Big thumbs up for the channel...
😎👍
Thank you very much, that's appreciated
I got my first Harley at 50.....been riding like yourself for over 35 years, mainly sport bikes and dirt bikes. Most people i come across are usually positive towards me and the bike. Is it loud? Yep and i like it! At the end of the day, if people want to complain about bikes and noise, then they need to have a really good look around their neighborhoods. I'm pretty sure those 2 wide burnout tire marks on the roads weren't put there by a Harley rider!!!! 😎
Right on!
"Hates" is a bit strong. Loved Peter Fonda's character and chopper in Easy Rider. He was cool, man. And number 1. issue with Harley Davidson to my mind, is the deliberate loud noise created to attract attention, you know, like children do sometimes, except children are not THAT loud. "An empty drum makes the most noise", was the saying I was told when I was younger.
Great movie - that's an oldie.
Bikes are fun. I'm just watching content. Absolutely love group riding. I like seeing people out being adventurous. It costs me 13 cents a minute to enjoy too. 2000 electra glide slightly modified with aftermarket accessories.
Thanks great bike
I am a Harley rider and have been for 43 years and have owned 10 Harley bikes. I currently ride a 03 Ultra Classic Anniversary. 😊 My bike is my only mode of transport. On this bike I have 48,678 miles on it .
Thanks for watching
Thanks. Enjoyed the video. In my opinion it’s Envy/Unrealized dreams or aspirations that make some people hate us, non-riders and riders of other brands alike. But I’m speculating. I’ve had 9 bikes so far, on my 3rd Harley now, a Fat Bob, and love the brand. I almost always try to positively represent the Harley community when I am on my bike, mostly by having good situational awareness and showing respect to cagers, cyclists, pedestrians, etc. but there are exceptions where I am shaking my head at the occasional animosity I see and feel when I’m out on the road
Thanks much appreciated
In your post, you have shown how much respect you show to "cagers". A slur for sure.
I am a 75 year old Harley Rider, I don't ride as often as I should but I have had bikes since age 16, which was a 500 cc Matchless. I still love to ride but not as fast as before. I feel OLD sometimes but when I hop on my FXSTC I feel younger and enjoy myself a lot.
Thank you you are an inspiration riding at 75
@@OldNotDead-Club This 74-year-old just traded in my 2012 BMW R1200RT (my 29th bike!) on a HD Milwaukee 8 Road King
Road it Seattle to Chicago and back to see my grandkids.
And at every gas station people came up to me - saying they wish they could what I was doing.
Whereas on my BMW I was invisible. HD's are people magnets.
Wonderful! Best bike I ever had. And I've had em all.
Why did it take me so long to realize what it was all about eh?
@@DennisMerwood-xk8wp you are spot on with this comment - and also inspiring that you are riding at 74
Great video brother. Stay safe.
Im the easy happy harley rider. Nothing like a Harley in the wind. God bless all the brothers on the road.
Thanks much appreciated
Working at a hospital I can tell you that wearing protective gear can be the difference between a minor and major injury especially skin grafts and an open fracture and with the helmet you are wearing you are in line for severe disfiguring injuries since the point of impact will be on your chin and facial areas a large amount of times It might be the end of your passion due to being blaze
Thanks for the advice
Loved the intricate story why people should at least "respect" Harley"s even if they don"t want to own one ! . But as a [very] old biker who started riding at the end of the golden years for bikes and mostly rode old British bikes starting with sidecars because in the U.K. you could ride one whatever the size as a learner at 16 and I never liked motorcycle tiddlers .Had a Triumph 500cc 5t Speedtwin at 16 and a B.S.A. 500 cc A7 with sport sidecar that I passed my test on age 17 . I had a very generous Ma and most of my immediate family were bikers and nobody in our home owned a car . My Dad , Grandfather and a Cousin were killed in bike accidents ,but it never put anybody off and nobody spoke of it while in my teens . Not many adventures with Harley"s till a mate owned a grotty ,oily ex - W.D. Flathead in 1967 ,I suppose he paid the equivalent of $ 10 Dollars for it then ?. Got my first Harley in a deal for a " newish" Triumph Bonneville for a Iron head Sportster 1000 which a mate bought new from a visit to the states but hated ,so we did a deal ,but I only owned it a few weeks cos a Guy offered me money for it I couldn"t refuse . A old Glide in the late 70s and then just about every 2 wheeled & three wheeled machine ,till today and I am now left with a Kawasaki Chips ex Highway Patrol 1000 ,a Honda Vt 800 ,XVs Wildstar 1600 cc Yamaha and my late wife"s Harley Sporster 1200 which I now ride due to my age and I love as it"s 22 year old and looks & rides like a new bike ,not as reliable as the Wildstar but is a much smoother and nicer bike to ride . My oldest son thinks I am nuts and wont go near a Harley although he admits he likes the looks ,surprising really as he is 55 y.o the perfect age for Sunday cruising on a big twin ?. I rarely break down ,but it"s nearly always a Harley rider + his friends that stop to assist at the side of the road - no matter what bike I am on ,never a bad word from me about H.D.s or the owners - safe & happy riding ! .
Thanks for your comment much appreciated
Good video exposure! I’ve only had one hate incident where a bloke tried to run me into a concrete barrier, I braked to get rid of him and pulled over for a bit as my life flashed before my eyes. I’m 65 now and there’s nothing like having a Harley under your bum.
Great to see you are riding at 65 !!
First off, found your channel recently and love the videos, keep 'em coming! My wife and I just joined the "Harley Community" 2 years ago--more on her initiative than mine due to many years of family and friends telling me bikes were "too dangerous" since I was a kid. Long story short, we finally decided to stop listening and live our lives. So, here we are, riding a bit later in life, me at 54 and my wife at 48 on a '21 Sport Glide and 22 Iron 883. So far we've found the Harley and biker community in general to be very friendly and super helpful, haven't met anyone yet that has been overly obnoxious or anything and we're loving our time on the bikes. I found this particular video very interesting and couldn't wait to hear your list of reasons people hate Harley riders. Having said that, what I have seen online is a great deal of people, especially in the "new bike rider" forums who can't wait to rip Harley bikes and riders first chance they get. They'll make a post about Harley hate that wasn't even about Harleys in the first place. I always found that annoying, because I just don't see this sort of thing play out in real life. Oh well, maybe I haven't been in the biker scene long enough, haha. Anyway, thanks so much for your video and all the material you put out. I find your content both informative and amusing. I'm a proud Harley rider and fellow fitness enthusiast and I hope this note finds you well!
Thank you and welcome to the channel!
I can tell you after 41 years of riding that HD riders have made a bad reputation for themselves. A true motorcycle community has all types of bikes and brands BUT the HD community turns their back on them (in general). Ride what you like but if you think you have the best bike, I can tell you right now that you are wrong. The best bike is the one you enjoy and it has nothing to do with the brand.
@@bharrison Honestly, this is the exact kind of comment I mentioned in my prior post and it's really not called for. You're totally entitled to your opinion about Harley Motorcycles and the HD community in general, but apparently my experiences with the bikes and moreso the people have been much different than yours. I've been around hundreds of Harley riders in the past several years and more now that I actually partake in meetings, rides, outings and other things and can assure you they are the nicest, most helpful and charitable group I've ever been a part of. At the end of the day, I find Harley's to be as much of the biker community as any other brand. It's not about the brand anyway, it's about the rider. If I pass you on the road, I'd wave just like I do anyone else, I find it to be a fun and great way to communicate and respect other people on two (sometimes three) wheels. :) In closing, you are certainly entitled to your opinion and can ride whatever you like, but I can assure you I've test drove many bikes from many brands before I settled on my Sport Glide and I can tell you with no doubt in my mind that my bike is the "best bike" for ME. Nobody can tell another person what bike is best and what isn't, there is no such thing as a "best bike" as far as I'm concerned. Anyway, hope you enjoy your ride, whatever it is, congrats on your many years of riding and just enjoy! Thanks for the input, stay safe and well. :)
@@superdave013 That's a great reply to Brads comment above.
@@OldNotDead-Club Thank you Aymen, much appreciated!
It's not the bike.
It's the rider.
Every biker I encounter gives the "biker wave".
Acknowledging the other rider and recognizing that we're both Up and Out Riding, that alone is worthy of respect.
Being in traffic on two wheels regardless of make, engine size, etc.
That we recognize the risks we all take.
That we appreciate the ride and would stop to help other riders if needed.
Every rider except HD riders. No wave, no nod of recognition.
The rest of us are apparently unworthy of being recognized as part of the larger motorcycle community.
So, enjoy your exclusivity.
Travel in groups to help each other, because until you see us we won't see you.
Broken down, in the ditch, in the rain, on fire.
I ain't stopping.
Thats not my attitude, I have found the opposite, other riders don't wave back
Just started riding for the first time ever in my life a little over a year ago at 48 and my first bike is a Harley. My closest friends ride Harley’s and would give me shit if I got anything else! 😂. But honestly, I didn’t think of riding anything else and the aura that surrounds the Harley brand is strong and unmistakable. Now I know what people meant about the feeling of freedom and the wind in your face as well as the camaraderie. I also now understand the cost behind it, but think it’s all worth it to feel alive! 🤙
Thanks I agree
You’ll never experience what’s it like to really ride, bro, fast through mountain twisties …
@@ma3stro681 yeah, most likely not at this point of my life. I like to just cruise it. Be safe!
I started out on a Yamaha XV1100 and as soon as its engine caught a knock I went straight for a Road King. For me, the choice was in large part because you're almost never going to have a hard time finding parts. I still have the Yamaha, and I fiddle with it and fix it myself, but it's so difficult and pricey to find parts for it that I don't want to have it as my only bike because if something quits working and needs replacing, I might be riding in a cage for a fairly long time before I get to ride again.
Love the RK
My main issue is they don’t offer a beginners bike. Name one successful bike they’ve made in the last 20 years that’s under 1000 ccs / cubic inches I’ll wait.
Great, but that's not everyone's issue. They have just released two new small cc models
Greetings from the Pine Barrens of New Jersey USA. Love your attitude and your channel. I just watched your video where you had your friends do the pushup challenge. Like you I have been riding many bikes for many years. The last 23 years I have owned only Harleys. I now ride a 2022 street bob with the Stage 2 torque cam. When I got up this morning I was feeling like an old guy. I decided to take your challenge and get down right away and do pushups. I've been slacking for most of the winter so I was only able to do 24. Thanks to you I will be getting back in shape again. I will be 77 in September. Thanks for the push and the attitude! PS Don't grow up or you will grow old!
Thanks, that is fantastic 24 at 77 years of age!! Keep it up and ride safe.
@@OldNotDead-Club Thanks again! I should be back to 50 reps within 2-3 weeks.
ive ridden since 1950,,,,and always have found motorcycle riders to be more compassionate to others than most car or truck drivers. And when it comes to harley, the ones ive met once i grew up were even more helpful, considerate, patriotic, and strong to help others when the need arose,,,,i can see emotion is a large part of this all,,,,but ive been greatly blessed by not meeting them,,,,,
Thanks good comment
Been on a Harley since I was 19, so over 40 years. I've also owned other bikes at the same time, and I loved them too. However, there is nothing like being on a Harley.
Thanks I agree
I once had a Harley rider say to me: "See that thing over there (pointing to my Suzuki GS550)? My Harley buddies and I would burn that thing to the ground." When I inquired why he would want to burn down my bike, his false bravado shrank and he became very quiet. Want to be loved, present a loving persona. MOST Harley riders, though they may be decent humans, feel this need to project this image of being toughs and thugs. By the way, I was born and grew up in Milwaukee. I rode a Sportster exactly once and that was enough for me. Uncomfortable, unruly and damn near launched me over the bike trying to kick start it.
Some people are dills, and a true motorcyclist would appreciate anything on two wheels
I don't care what you ride as long as you ride safe. I ride Goldwings, 1 bike and 1 trike depending how I fell. Everyone needs to ride there own ride. Saying that I believe in ATGATT(all the gear all the time) and the importance of making sure your scene. Being loud doesn't work when you drive a tractor trailer, or other loud vehicle. Bright color jacket, extra lights, chrome makes you more visible. The only thing I notice is Harley riders usually act that like there bikes are better than all others. When in fact all I hear when I have a ride scheduled is that there bike is down. They seem to need more attention and work than my wing. The only thing I will say about a Goldwing is that they are very comfortable for long rides, very dependable, I have friends with over 200,000 miles with no issues. More than 1 friend that averages over 60,000 miles a year on there wings with only standard service. Have fun,ride safe..
Thanks
i think harley is a great alternative for those that do not like sportsbikes and i'm glad it has always been there. there are young riders like myself that don't quite like fast bikes and prefer lifestyle motorcycles. for the record i am a triumph rider and i commute to work daily with a bonneville. riding is not just for fun for me it's a necessity.
Triumph make great bikes. I had a thruxton R and it was sensational - just too small for me
The adventure bike is also another good option .I've got a triumph tiger ,good for everyday riding and comfortable on longer trips as well.
Great video, my friend!
I ride a 2006 Yamaha Stratoliner S bought new in '06. I could have bought any bike I wanted, but this is the one that called me! I like Harleys, but it seemed to me that everyone was getting them and trying to conform to the "Harley" image." Pluss I had a friend that had bought an AMC era Harley that was complete junk, so that made me wary of the quality. I say ride what makes you happy!
I do like a good exhaust note, but not obnoxiously loud exhaust! Same with riding with loud music. It always seemed to me that those that claimed " loud pipes save lives" were the folks who never wore helmets. They used this as an excuse for obnoxiously loud pipes. Ride on!
Thanks, much appreciated
I'm 27 and got my first bike in 2020. I was never interested in going hard and fast on sport bikes and wanted something I could relax on. Cruisers were it. Got my first Sportster and tinkered with it for a while until I got bored and wanted to go on longer rides. Rode it 200 miles one way for a shooting competition, ran the comp, and rode 200 miles home. Once i did that, I realized why they make big bikes and a couple months later got a second hand 2019 Electra Glide Standard (didn't care much about the head unit and speakers). Been tinkering away on that since and loving it. Everyone compares their bike to a Harley and how much Harleys are missing from the factory. Didn't care and still don't. If I wanted to go fast as possible I'd have gotten something else and modding is part of my love affair with Harley. Myself I've done the exhaust and tune, bars, LED lighting all the way around, 475 cam, oil pump, cam plate, frame mounted highway pegs, shocks, windshield, and seat. Been a ton of fun and will be for a long time. they hate us cause they aint us
Thank you, great comment and wise words
Had a harley rider stop and check that I was alright,I stopped to get a vicious bug out of my helmet.Thinking of trading Down from my hunter 350 for a forty eight or a street bob.🤔
You will love it
I got no problem with HD, I just find the Japanese bikes offer a better value.
That I agree with!
Plus better handling, acceleration, braking, cornering etc etc etc …
Thankfully I don’t care what others think. I’ve owned 9 Harley’s still have 5. In 2.5 years I’ve put over 60,000 miles w 33,300 miles alone on my 21 snake venom stage 2 Road Glide Special. Im a 5’2” older women with yes lots of tats lol. Yes I’m proud of my Harley’s pipes as loud pipes save lives. Fun to make car alarms go off lol. People don’t realize these M8 with 114 or 117 engines are not the slow Harley’s of the past.
This year I added the 23 120 anniversary Fat Boy #430 of 3000.
My Harley’s don’t sit and rarely clean as im always on them lol.
I’ll never be ashamed for owning riding and being proud of my Harley’s.
Thanks for your input, great to see some women watching the channel too. You are spot on about the M8 engine!!
Actually, I was raised on Harleys, my Mom, and Dad both owned Harleys and every year they'd get two new bikes. Moms got all white with white frame and Pops got all red with red frame! He used to say to me, "Let's see ya get a new Harley and get the frame painted the same color as the tanks and fenders for 50 bucks?! I told him, "50 wouldn't even cover the cost of paper and masking tape these days!! My first bike was an old K9 Harley that I couldn't kick over even if I had one of my friends standing on my shoulders! I had to bump start it everytime so my dad got me a Honda CB 160 that was more my size since I was only 15 years old. I rode dirt and street on the same bike for years. Then Uncle Sam called me in and when I finished my tour in the Army, then marriage, then a brand new TT500 Yamaha Thumper Cow Trailer( what a blast to ride) then my brand new Lowrider in 77. That's when I noticed the strange way people looked at me and the rest is history my Brothers
Lol that does happen, people look at you differently on a Harley
I've been riding for over 50 years and Harleys for 30 years and I've never had the felling that people hated Harleys. As for me, you will never hear me bad mouth a metric bike.
Thank you
I view Harley riders now as dentists, they're not tough, but they want the "image" of being tough and are now the only ones who can afford to buy them.
Lol they certainly are expensive, but I think they always were?
Just like you, I've had both all my life including ADV and italian...currently have a 16 heritage w that 50s look and paint.
To me, love them all for what they are. I believe all real moto fanatics love them all.❤
Thanks brother
Thanks I agree with you 100%
Great vid! Picking up my new Fatboy tomorrow 😂 I don’t care what people think, I have fun riding my Harley.
Thanks - and you will love it - Awesome bike
My '84 Sportster 1000 set off car alarms. Neighbors didn't care. I haven't really run into anyone who "hated" me for my ride. On top of that, my attitude about what people thought of me after my divorce. There are maybe 7 people whose opinion of me matters to me. If you aren't on that list, you can go pound sand with your opinion.
Thanks - that's a good way to live
I'm sure you're correct with a lot of your views. We've all heard the lines from sports bike riders, anti HD crowds etc. I used to put it down to people having a bad experience with someone riding a Harley, jealousy and the like. I've not had anyone really tell me to my face that they hate Harley riders. The opposite really. Im not intimidating by any stretch of the imagination. I very rarely take my bikes out and someone doesn't give them a compliment.
Usually from old fellas like myself but I've had ladies with kids come up to me at Woolworths and the servo and ask can they get a pic with their kid and the bikes.
I think the feeling amongst my friends (riders and non riders) is that I've worked hard for a long time to be able to buy my bikes. Good on me.
I also think that because I work away, when I come home I look forward to going for a ride but half the time the weather is shit and I don't have anyone to go riding with anyway, so the Odometer reading on my bikes are low.
Lastly as you and most of your viewers will know. If you spend 30 to 40K on any vehicle you're gonna wanna have it looking the way you want it and treat it with respect. That hurts you in the hip pocket but its all worth it when youve had a good hit out, cleared you're thoughts and got a heap of compliments about your bike along the way.
Keep up the good content.
Thank you
Most people who bag Harleys haven't ridden one. I did. Now my Road King is the only bike I own, and I love it.
Love the RK
I went from dirt bikes to a street glide , I had that for a few years the missus loved being on the back of that . I sold that for some silly reason and ended up on a sports tourer the wife hates being on the the back of that 🤣 So guess what I’ve been given the go ahead to get another Harley but it can only be a street glide ! Which I’m more than happy with 😂 it’s all about what puts a smile on ya dial !
That's exciting!
I’ve owned a couple of harleys but never bought into the culture. My general impression of Harley riders isn’t even worth mentioning. I enjoyed the bikes and had nothing to do with the posers. I now own a bmw r1250gs and trust me there are plenty of adventure posers. Again, I have nothing in common with them either. My wife and I ride alone and prefer it that way. Bikers can be a strange bunch and generally ride beyond their skill levels. I actually like harleys. The lifestyle I can do without.
Fair enough! Thanks for your comment
I looked into a sports bike a year or so ago, and I went to a place in Tampa that had about 8 of the most expensive Ducati super sport bikes available, used. Every one of them had like 600 miles, or 1100 miles but no more. I think a lot of people think they don’t like harleys but after buying a 30k$ sports bike, they find it is uncomfortable and way too fast and they regret it!
Thats spot on great comment!
Ducatis get sold early so often when people realize how expensive regular maintenance on them is. Desmodromic valve adjustment is not cheap!
@@edritchotte6659 spot on
When I was going to buy my first motorcycle in 1974 I looked at all bike Harley included. They were owned by AMF at the time and all new bikes the Showroom had foil pans under the motor to catch the leaking oil. I said to the salesman why would I buy a new bike that leaks oil? He said because it's a Harley. (that was AMFs doing). Since then I appreciate ALL riders no matter what brand they ride cause we all ride for the same reasons. I'm retired and have riden most brands and models because I custom upholster seats. I've owned kawasaki, Yamaha, BMW, Indian. Only one chain drive, others were shaftdrive or belt. I can relax and unwind, I've been in 10 major car accidents and feel safer on a bike, how messed up is that 😅
Thanks, Harley has come a long way since then
I’ve been riding bikes for 55 years, early on was a lover of Honda. When I switched My first Harley was a rattling noisy leaking bike I put 76,000 miles on. I’m on my third twin cam now, I miss my old rattler.
Thanks
I got into Harley's once I got into my 30s once I stopped caring about outright power in cars or bikes. My dad on the other hand hates them for the obnoxious noise.. haven't told him i plan on getting an exhaust for the new softy 😂
Lol, you are in trouble
Ah he'll get over it like he did with the cars when I chucked an exhaust on those too haha
Main reason. Lound bikes. For some reason, some (not all) HD riders think being loud is cool. It is not. It is just desperate. I do not agree with your comment that HD riders look scary. Fat is not scary, fat is sad. I understand many HD riders hope they are hated due to others finding them scary. But no. Most people are just laughing about men desperately trying too hard to be cool. South Park was 100% accurate.
Many people appreciate the sound of different engines.
Alot of this stuff really depends on where you live. Before I moved, while we had some really great guys on harleys, it was more often than not you would hear jearing comments about "Buy a real bike" "Buy a real mans bike" even to there own people (specifically at the sportster owners). Aside from those youd also have the suburban dads that want to cosplay as a 'badass biker' on the weekends and want to make sure you know about it. After I moved my experience completely changed. People just enjoying the ride became the norm and there was palpable respect in the air for your fellow riders.
So true, great points of view... Harleys do have a presence in whichever community you may or may not ride in.
I wouldn’t saddle up on anything else 😉
Love your gems of life wisdom along the way 🌸🙏
Thank you Claire that's much appreciated
I love Harley riders
The OG Village People and Blue Oyster Bar Boys fit well in todays Modern Pride Movement. ❤
I'm glad you guys in the gay community are welcoming us. That's appreciated.
Instead of squid, here in the states, we use the term RUB Rich Urban Biker. Which usually refers to the guys that have very new bikes and leathers that don’t have a scratch on them. They more often than not can’t really ride for shit either.
Yeah that's a good one too. I wish I was one.. I would immediately fill the garage
I was a diehrad Kawasaki rider in my youth, had a 69 -500, a 75- 500 and my favorite a 1976 - 900KZ . Loved it ...but always wanted an Electric Glide but could never afford it. Now after a 25 year pause I bought a 2013 Road King then traded that in for my present ride a 2018 Road Glide Ultra....by far I have more fun ride this bike then any of my previous ones and oh yeah it's the most comfortable. 700 hundred mile days are no problem. But ride what you can, we're all different ....just ride...safe...I'm 66 now. 74,000kms on it
Thanks and great to see you are still riding
I'm 65 now, and have ridden many brands and sizes of bikes. But that rumble of a 45° V-twin just gets into your soul. It's always been the perfect therapy for me! And you will never find a better group of people than Harley riders. They'll help anybody in need wherever, whenever, with whatever! Good neighbors! Loud or not!
Great to see you riding at 65 and wise words, thank you
I see the complete opposite , after owning harley Davidson's since 1988, I still have my first bike btw....3 years ago I bought my first non-barley, a new goldwing, and I was shocked to see how many harley owners scoff at non-barley riders. granted, most are younger, rookie harley guys who think they are some bad assers, but that to me gives harley riders a bad name. little do they know I have a 1200 sitting in my garage, and I have owned about 15 of them. as far as safety gear.....well, guilty as charged, I never wore it, and still dont. the only time I bring my full face helmet is when I am doing week or 2 trips for riding in the rain. I think I am growing into a harley dealer hater if anything. everything has gotten expensive and commercialized. the little dealers are forced out to be taken over by the multi dealer companies. competition is no longer there, bikes are being sold at list, or above list prices around here. I will say after 40 years of Harleys, I have never been stranded on one, and 30 of those years I averaged over 20k miles a year. bikes that leak oil are the ones that some assholes take apart and have no idea how to put them back together. some of the old amf shovel heads were leakers. I have to give amf some credit being the ones that really designed the evo engine. I think its one of their best engines. for now I am happy with my goldwing, if others dont like them, I can give 2 shits, I like it. good video.
Thanks much appreciated and wise words too
Yes, same here. I had a Sport Glide and now a Z900RS and after getting a hard time from the my ex-mates, I'm done with Harley. Also agree about the dealers. The local mom & pop shop was forced to close (HD want them to move to a bigger building near a highway) and the new dealer is using all kinds of tricks with added fees and financing. I didn't realize what a closed community Harley was until I switch brands.
Good assessment, I have been riding for some 55 years but have settled on a Triumph America for cruising and staying in the wind. I have owned a variety of makes and models but never HD. No particular objections to the brand, it's just that when I was in the market for a different ride the Harleys available were either too expensive, too slow or required too much maintenance. Add to that a dealership network that was arrogant, dismissive and unreliable. Not a winning combination. Many of my compatriots were HD owners and I never have had issues over brand, I parked my Valkyrie in the middle of a sea of Milwaukee iron at the Hog's Breath Saloon and got nothing but respect. I don't believe in stereotypes , give respect get respect. If you're on two wheels, you will get a nod from me.
I never had any issues with Harley riders. My one biggest thing I’ve noticed is that (I ride a KTM adv) I’ll get the wave from all other motorcyclists except most Harley riders. It’s not the bike that you wave, it’s us against the cage drivers.
Common complaint, thanks and wish it wasn't so
I'm on my second harley but also have 2 adv bikes. I'd wave at your ktm lol, and wanna see it
I think people are triggered by sport bike riders more than Harley riders. I get compliments on my Harley all the time. I do know some arrogant Harley riders but most of them are the nicest people.
Thanks, I find them the nicest people too
Don't know where you live but in Europe it's a bit of a laughing stock. And nobody is intimidated by Harley Riders. I've never seen anybody who rides a harley younger than 60 years old. Wearing leather, having tassles also just looks really gay, another reason to laugh rather than be intimidated
Lol I was walking through a shopping centre yesterday in my gay leather and tassles and plenty of people were intimidated .. not one person laughed to my face .. interesting. Perhaps Europe has less chemicals in the water?
I don't always Rev my Harley......but when I do, I'm just making sure it's still on.
Lol, oh that's what I do