Wanted one ever since I was a kid and watched "Then Came Bronson" on television. Settled for rice burners all my life because that's what I could afford. Had to wait till I was old and retired, but in 2020, I went to the local dealer determined to come home with a Harley Davidson, and that's exactly what I did. Didn't really care what I had to pay for it.
Everything you said summed up the ones that get Harley Davidson nicely, my 1999 FXDX will see me out as I own it, maintain it and love that connection to it that is part of my life, the saying whatever makes you happy applies here.
it might still be worth some money when I decide to sell it. They are available used, lots and lots of them, and being 6' 5" with forward pegs and some risers with pull back, they actually fit this tall guy. Mid controls are miserable. It's the whole reason you see Adventure bike riders standing so much, their legs cramp up with mids.
From the UK I was so impressed to see so many 'ordinary' Americans riding Harley-Davidsons to a bar near my son's home in Indiana. Pleasant, rounded, social individuals who express themselves- in some small part- through their choice of motorcycle. And why not ? Despite many disappointments I remain a Triumph man- though oddly my favourite is the Triumph America !
My first street bike, in 1981, was a 71' 750 Bonneville. I loved it and wish I didn't have to sell it. From there it's been all Harleys. A 41' Knucklehead that I would still have if it weren't stolen in 93'. A 72' XLCH Sportster and a 2000 Heritage, both that I still have. I learned with the Bonneville, never sell a motorcycle you like.
U.K. as well, I bought a Triumph America brand new in 2003 ..... still own it! It keeps my 2007 Dyna company in the garage, both similar bikes but different in many ways. I bought the Dyna as a project that had sat for years following the previous elderly owners demise with the intentions of selling it once I'd completed it. Rode it to the MOT station, within 5 minutes I knew I'd never sell it! I love both of those bikes, I'm 66 now and they'll be my rides until my time is up! Ride safe.
I had a Triumph T140 V Bonneville in the UK, P reg I believe which would have been a 1975/ 76.. I'm American but lived 50 years in the UK ( long story ) in America now . I think my Triumph was mistreated ( i wasn't the original owner, and because the early Triumphs you practically had to be a mechanic which i didn't have the knowledge i do now ,because even though it was a good looking bike it was actually the biggest POS I've EVER owned . And that's in 47 and counting years of being in the saddle. .😎🏴🇺🇲
I hear you man, I'm with you, probably the only thing I love is my fatboy, maybe we should ride together; which brings me back to yesterday.......My friend sent me a whats 'cause he wanted to ride (he also rides a harley) so I said hell yeah man!....told this to the bitch sent her a whats......minutes later she calls me and says hey what's going on? I replied, nothing I'm just hurrying up...bam! the bitch just hanged up!.....I did not call her back just said, well well fuck it! fuck it bitch! you just can go to hell! I'm going to kick some ass down the road with my buddy!
@@johnengland8619 Things of beauty, grace and speed are usually referred to in the feminine gender, so I refer to my bike as a she or her. Minus the speed part of course. She does not have a name although that is a good idea 💡
A Harley biker buddy on the other side of the US and I just had this discussion this morning. We are devoted to our bikes because we like the feel, the history and being part of the culture, and they are our "babies," unlike all of our previous bikes. I have a 2005 Fatboy (bought used in 2015) that I had Stages 3 & 4 installed in this spring (I messaged you about that a few months ago). My non-Harley biker friends think I have been crazy to put so much money into it the last 3 years and should have just bought a new one, but I told them it faithfully got me through my 11,000-mile ride around North America last year, is my baby, and I plan on sticking with and riding it until I can't ride anymore.
For me it’s the sound of the engine and the low center of gravity that produces an awesome ride. The Harley V Twin engine is an industrial design masterpiece.
Let me start with a little history of my riding. I am 83 yrs old and have ridden quite a few bikes in my time. In 1983 I sold my '69 Honda CB750 which I had ridden for some 11 years. Never thought about riding again until 2021 when I just walked into a Harley Davidson dealership and fell in love with the Softail Standard. Had to learn to ride all over again but it didn't take long to get "back in the saddle". I made it mine with an engine guard, cruise control, Sundowner seat, Harley leather saddlebags, WindSplitter windshield, hand protectors, luggage rack and a few other little things to dress it up. The Standard comes with brush finish engine parts which I have polished to a chrome level. It's beautiful!! I have ridden it over 18,000 miles and absolutely LOVE it!! It gets me 57 - 62 MPG. Harleys have a soul....... and that's a fact. Riding a Harley is being one with the road, wind and bike. It's a unique feeling.
When I started riding they were the only big bike around. My Grandpa rode a Harley before WW1, my dad had one when I was born. I got one when I returned from the Army
I've owned all kinds of bikes but switched to HD back in 78 and won't be buying anything else from here on (I don't think). The thing I love about HD is the feeling of riding one. Between the vibration, power, and the raw sound of a HD is what keeps me on one. You just can't get those things from anything else IMO. Not only that but as you said you can make them anything you want and do it yourself. Let's say you're tired of your narrow glide sporty, you can change it to a wide glide, or a big old touring glide front end in less then a weekend without any problems. And over the winter you can make your bike recognizable to what it was. You just can't beat them. Later
I bought my first Harley in the seventies and still have it. But I can see a day in the future when I go to a lighter bike than my ultra classic. The years have been catching up to me.
2 years ago I finally bought my first Harley at the age of 43. I’ve dreamt of having one my entire life. The feeling I had of staring at that HD badge sitting in my own garage is unmatched. I live 30 minutes from the York PA plant where my 2019 Heritage was built and I’ve toured the place several times. No other motorcycle I’ve owned has provided the lasting feeling my HD has.
That’s how it felt when I got my Sportster running recently. I’m not a materialistic man by any means, but I can’t lie about how proud I was to finally own a Harley that I might be able to ride here soon. New tire, brakes and wiring and I should be ready to piss off my neighbors every morning.
In 1988, I went to dealership to buy a Yamaha XS which was a beautiful bike. However, the dealership sold Harleys on the other side of the building. The salesman showed me that all the "chrome" parts on the Japanese bike were plastic with chrome paint. The Harleys were all metal with real chrome and metal fenders, oil tanks, etc. I bought a Sportster. Since then, I've owned five HD's, and they've all been great bikes. I can't see myself riding anything else.
In a nut shell, here's my story. In '83 purchased a Honda V45. I put 300k miles on it. It was extremely reliable. Then I purchased a '98 Harley Dyna. Put 100k on the first engine, 68k on the rebuild engine. Now I have a '84 FXR I bought as a basket case but have since brought it back to life. There is just something about an HD that causes me to never return to a Metric bike. Metrics are fast, reliable, and nice riding bikes but i'll stick to my HD. HD Old School !!
Combination of a few key factors: -Family tradition (Dad, Uncle, Cousins all owned HD) -Americana (HD is inextricably linked to USA) -Heritage (HD was a part of the US military and grew as soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines returned home from the war) -Culture (Combining the above items is what made HD great and part of the fabric of this country)
I am 63 years old and still ride whenever I can. Saying that over the course of my life I have owned many motorcycles all shapes sizes and brands. I dabbled with a old xlch sportster back in the 80's. I did not have the money to make bike right, back in those days the parts counter clerks laughed at me for trying to fix up an old xlch. They would poke at me and tell me to go over to the showroom and buy a new bike until I got fed up and walked out without even buying parts. 30 years would pass before I would give Harley another chance. Of course I wanted a bike from the 80's I could not afford back then. I settled on a 1989 Heritage softail. From the time I got on that bike I knew there was something special about it. The ride, feel and sound. After having so many other bikes I noticed right away the paint, fit and finish far exceeded other bikes I owned that contained many chrome coated plastic parts. I currently own 4 Harleys ranging from 1976 to 1999. 2 are in my mancave and 2 in my garage. The 2 in the garage are my get around town and my cruiser. I have restored all my bikes and several others I sold. I was bit hard by the bug and built a Harley themed mancave and outfitted my garage the same. Harleys and working on them are what bring me joy these days. Don't get me wrong I did plenty of work on metric bike but never felt the sense of accomplishment as I do after completing a major reapair on a Harley. P.S. Shame on you Metro Harley Detroit for not helping young people with less money and knowledge get into Harley Davidisons back in the day before you got your shit together. I can tell you as years passed and my life changed for the better you lost several sales from me only to spend my money at the Honda showroom. I am glad I gave them one more chance no thanks to Metro Harley.
I don't park my Harley Davidsons in the garage and admire them, I park them in my living room to do that..😊 I enjoy your channel, I'm 1 of the H-D people who enjoy several brands+types of motorcycles.
I was a Yamaha Guy for years , and one day sat on a 2008 Fat Bob and that was it. Best bike I have owned to this point . They ride a certain way and look right . There is nothing out there that has what a Harley has that's unless it's another Harley Davidson.
100% everything you said. grew up as a kid flipping through my dads old Easyriders magazines.. since a kid, all I wanted was a Harley, they are pricey, but I've been riding nothing but for along time now.... had many. Still have a few, that will probably be with me till my death... I wont sell. Alot kids want my old FXR. My oldest is an Ironhead. Culture is still alive and well, and like you said... parts are available.
As far as the "clones" go, I have an '02 Yamaha Roadstar!! Most people are surprised to learn it's a Yamaha!! You really have to listen to the pipes to hear the difference. It got a few small scratches a couple of months ago. It was an incident that would be the same, no matter what kind of bike it was. It still runs flawless even with a little cosmetic damage. As I am healing, I am gathering the necessary parts to get her back in pristine shape .
I always wanted a Harley-Davidson but could never afford one until a coworker of mine offered me a 2003 FXDL at a reasonable price. Now that I have it, I actually like it better than my 2000 V-Star 1100 Custom.
I grew up in the 60's and 98% of the bikes back then were USA made Harleys or Indians with the other 2% being Triumph Choppers. Easyrider and Biker mags shaped my vision for when I could buy one and make it my own. My first ride was a multi-year Panhead titled as a 48. If it hadn't gotten stolen, I'd still have it...😢 Plus everything you said is why I won't buy a metric...😅
I’ve owned a bunch of bikes. Honda, Suzuki, Wankel, Bultaco, Triumph, etc… Just got a Harley Road King as my first Harley. I love it. It’s the most civilized bike I’ve ever owned.
Omg... this guy sure knows what he's talking about, he's hit the nail on the head. But, for the Triumph enthusiast in UK, this is pretty much the same thing, so it seems that every country has it's brand with their fans. And then there is me, as a Brit..., since riding a Harley for the first time many years ago, i've stuck to the brand and feel exactly the same way as our GixxerFoo friend explains here.
I've owned many motorcycles since '73 but only Harley-Davidson seems to command loyalty. I ride a stock '99 Heritage Springer. Last year evolution motor is bulletproof.
62yo and been on HD's since my first as a 19yo. Had one in the garage since then along with some Japanese bikes as well. 3 hogs and 3 sporties in that time-1 of each currently. Love the rumble, the torque and the aesthetics.
Because it feels like it’s alive the clunk of the trans the vibration and torque. I started out with a vstar sewing machine, my wife got a 883 sporty with v&h short shots, it was snowing outside and I sat on it and started it and OMG it’s alive!!! Ever since I’m a Harley guy now I have a 14 flhxs with some goodies and love it couldn’t be happier.
I've lived in the Milwaukee area most of my life. I have friends that work at Harley, so when I retired and the family grew up I figured it was time with a little pushing from them. When at a bike ralley and a dealership had an 04 Heritage for sale at almost half price I went for it. Best decision I made. Bike has been good a reliable to me, have put almost 60k miles on it with just regular maintenance.
I have had a 1980 Sportster, and still ride a 1983 FXWG. I bought my FXWG while stationed on USS Midway VA-115 1981-83. Picked up Portland Motosports when transferred. Saved money buying it that way.
Good video. I paid off my bike a few years ago and started to think of a new bike. Then it hit me. I swapped out the suspension front and rear with Legends and had an S&S big bore kit installed.
I just always loved the Road King. I did a lot of touring on my Triumph, but once I took the King on a motorcycle camping trip for the first time ever it was a night and day difference. And, I love the fact that I have a quality bike that really will last forever if you take care of it. This is just the tip of the iceberg for me on reasons why I love my bike.
My pops had a ww2 army 45 an told me his one regret was having to sell it. I’m 63 it took me most of my life to get one. Then I found my 2019 107 low rider. I’ll keep it until I’m dead.
Putting power to the ground, in this context means efficiency I'd suggest. Are Harleys more efficient? Most likey with chain primary and final. Just don't try to compare that efficiency by doing a top gear roll on against that shaft drive VTX/Goldwing/Vulcan etc. Then power to the ground will mean something else entirely.
Appearance. Sound. Vibrations (feels alive). Torque. Comfort. History .Harley needs to grow up. You don't buy technologies, you buy History. It doesn't matter what year the Harley is, but the older it is, the more valuable it is.
Being that Harley is local (HQ is about 25 minutes from me) it's basically law that every biker owns at least one!!!! As someone who owns a 2011 dyna street bob AND a "modern naked" bike (2020 Kawasaki z900) the best analogy is it's like having both a 70's muscle car and a Lambo in the garage. The Kawasaki out performs the Harley in every aspect of riding but my dyna still to this day has that cool badass factor that metric bikes don't live up too!!!
I completely agree. I just can't see myself ever getting one of these ugly new "Sportsters". They went from a bike I loved to a bike I hate. I honestly don't want to hear how fast they are. I could have had a fast Honda if that's what I was looking for
Yeah I wish they kept the original sportster with the 1200 and just added the new one as well. The sportser 1200 had the last "original" harley sounding engine. It has the largest aftermarket of any motorcycle on the planet and now they stopped making it.
I own a 2003 Road King Classic, 100-Year Anniversary Edition, with the Screaming Eagle engine upgrade from an 88 V-Twin to a 95. The fast producing torque and sound is exhilarating. My Road King with its original anniversary Two-Tone Sterling Silver and Vivid Black paint colors stands out. The commemorative medallions seen throughout this classic ride's sculpted design adds to its nostalgia, mystique ,and exclusivity. The Road King is among the most elegant, stylish and archetypical Harley-Davidson motorcycles ever produced and forever etched in HD's rich history of motorcycle designs. Road King stands supreme and has no equal. The Road King is the personification of a Harley Davidson icon. Those select riders who own one are indeed privileged.
What you are describing about Harley design, took place many years ago. Now it is the history of HD that people love. The designs have not changed drastically over the years (some models have), but the main elements of this American Icon endure. The chopper element has also contributed to the Harley mystique. I bought my 1999 Harley Softail new, and very few parts that are on it now are original.
sigmund freud said that it is a genetic disorder. you either have it or you do not have "The Harley Syndrome." An inherited medical condition caused by a DNA abnormality. Ride On Ride On
for me its been a life long It's obsession growing up as a kid i hung around people that road nothing but harley's so its the I nostalgia the sound the feel the looks of them , and the versitilty of making it uniquely your own the possibilties are endless , along with keeping going for ever and ever if you choose to.
I grew up around shovelheads. Dad used to pick me up from school on his . There was things I liked about Harleys before I knew the proper names . Drag bars ,drag pipes, the engine and then big 5 gallon tanks . Outlaws do things their way and we all know that but I was just another that experienced the way they are . No fashion on main and no cops as pals . Dirty dressed and damn glad about that 💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼( i was a kid so i didnt get dirty ,then)
My grandfather rode Harley’s with friends, my dad got his first Harley about 10 years ago and then traded up for a triglide this year. He’s 75 and on his 6th bike. I have wanted a Fatboy since I was a kid, so I got one this year. Love it! For me, it’s just a strong American brand that has withstood the test of time, and that means a lot in today’s throw away world.
Harleys are mainly built for foolish men usually with this overwhelming lack of self esteem. I am more than positive that by the time they figure out that they spent three times the amount of money than the bike is worth and they still have to put ten thousand more dollars in modifications to "make it their own" that they will still have some indignant thinking that this is the right bike for them. More power to them. There is very little that is "American " about the Harley name or product in today's global market. It's not just about the money for me, its more about the attitude or the Harley riders and dealership people. There is this attitude of arrogance that they are somehow better/entitled. I enjoy going into a Harley dealership every once in awhile just to have a look around and reaffirm that I don't want to be part of these people or anything that they represent. Which is probably a good decision because they wouldn't me anyways. It's kinda like visiting a church where I feel judgements from every direction. I just want anybody on 2 wheels to enjoy the journey and please be careful and safe. Don't wait for the other person to make the wrong decision for you.
I've had the rice burners in the past & added upgrades to them to appear as a Harley Davidson, but in September of 2023 I bought an actual HD Heritage Classic Softail 114 & I disagree with you that there could possibly be better machines out there. When I got my HD it was smooth as ice, shifts better, clutch is better more smooth & Kawasaki & Honda didn't have the smoothness as a HD. Bikes are an image as is cars. They reflect who we are & what we stand for. HD always stood out to me as a symbol of freedom, rights with regard to our Constitution & maybe even a little rebellion & that is what I am & why I finally put more bucks to a HD. Let me know what y'all think. Safe Riding Everyone...
My grandfather rode a Harley in the war, my Dad rode a Harley up to 4 years ago when he turned 90, I’m riding my Dyna Street Bob and Harley Triglide and my son riding his Street Bob. 4 generations.
I first started riding on the road when I was 18 and I'll be turning 60 in a few months. And every bike that I owned was a metric bike until about 10 years ago when a friend of mine said to take his electra glide out for a rip. When I got onto the highway the first thing I thought was " what the f have I been riding all those years ". The next day I was at the local dealership and I bought the first of my and my wife's 4 harleydavidsons. Like you said until you ride one, you just don't know. And there is no turning back.
I’m 64 semi retired and have been on a HD since 1979. I currently work at. HD dealership in San Antonio, Tx as a parts department associate. The HD culture is awesome. The bikes the people are what I wake up to and live for everyday.
20th Century Harley Davidson is where I live. 21st Century HD is dead to me. I still buy new parts from HD when they have what I need for my Evo Softails, but as far as new bikes go, they have made nothing appealing to me since the last Evo left the assembly line. ETA: I tried to love the Twin Cam when it appeared. Even though it did not appeal to me at all. It was a Harley Davidson after all. I rode them from the showroom floor on 2 occasions and both times left me a little heart broken. They just didn't grab my soul like a Shovelhead or an Evo. It just didn't and I don't know why. But, when I left the dealership on my 84 Softail, that ol magic was there so that is where I've stayed.
I love the 20th century soundtrack. I started shopping around for a late shovel/ early evo (kick starter) earlier this year. I never pulled the trigger because they are just too expensive where I live (Australia).
I have a 2007 Night Train, and a 2016 CVO Pro Street Breakout. I love both. I could buy "faster" bikes. I could buy "sportier" bikes. I don't need or want either.
You are in the money, I love harley since I was 19 riding one , now I am turning 64, I have 5 of them in my garage, wont ride anything else, but that’s me, I was the 1st one in my family to have one, from the. My son also own and ride Harley’s too, my grandchildren will also be riding Harley’s soon, It’s a family thing for us, At 19 and in the army I went across the country on my Harley it was awesome and meeting other bikers on the way, Keep up the great videos!!!
Harley Davidson is a lifestyle! That's the reason why people buy them. Nobody buys a HondaYamaKawaZuki and dumps another $2k into them. They buy them for dependable transportation for a budget price.
Belt drive actually has significantly more parasitic loss than a chain; and that's exactly why Harley uses it. The engines have such a long stroke and so much torque on such a weak crankshaft, that if there was no buffer between the crank and the wheel, the engine would beat itself too death in short order. The compensator exists for that same reason.
I'll take that long stroke for 1 reason... torque, gobs of torque from my M8 107. When you ride a softail like a Sport Glide, and you cruise the canyons in a 4 or 5 person group ride, nothing saves you shifting like a long stroke with a little bit of grunt. Left my motor stock, and Ive never been wanting more HP. 65 years old, not much else out there cruises like a softail harley on the newer 2018 stiffened frame. No flex in the turns.
When I was eight years old the film Easy Rider was released. It wasn’t until some years later I actually saw the film but from that moment I was sold on the bike, the image, the culture. I’m 62 and I still ride a Harley and although I also have a BMW tourer my first choice out of the garage is the Harley. When I pull away for the first mile I’m Dennis Hopper on Billy’s Bike. That feeling will never fade.
I started on a Honda Rebel but after a couple of months i have two Harleys bought used in cash. One sporty and one touring. I liked the Suzukis, Hondas and the Indian but they were boring lol
I rode yamahas for years. LOVED em. 650, 750, 920 Virago, 1100 Midnight Max. Powerful and fast! I rode a few Harleys over the years but never owned one. Finally bought one about 7 years ago. I now own 5 😂 There won't be anything else in my garage from here on out 😁🤟💪
As far as motorcycles are concerned I like the Harleys the best because of the sound, the resale value, the feel, etc. I'm more old school, not real old school as I think the ahovelheads look tough but it's hard to find someone to work on them. And then newer M8 just don't sound the same, even though they have more power from the factory than the other V Twin Harleys. I think it's hard to beat a good Evo, or Twin cam, tuned right, and the right model. What sucks is how the people drive out there though, it about ruins it.
Only time I didnt ride a Harley was taking my test in the 80s. Back then in the UK, we could only ride up to a 125cc on L plates. After the test, the skies the limit. So I got me a 1988 1200cc Harley Evo Sportster. So loved that bike. But my ideal was the older 30s/40s/50s styles. But I'm no mechanic, so gonna Mock-up my current '09 sporty 883 into a 1936 EL lookalike. Why not?🤷🏼♀️
I'm an old timer and a Detroit gearhead. I grew up with Triumphs and Harleys, and I just like them. If I were younger, I would probably be more into sport bikes, but I like comfort these days.
I’m 63 and a few months ago purchased my first HD, a 2004 Fatboy. I love this bike. I cannot describe the exhilaration riding this amazing machine. Dreamt of owning a Fatboy after watching the Terminator in 91.🇦🇺
I love the black Dyna Sport that you have pictured. Why do manufacturers mess with perfection? Honda made the Valkyrie and the VTX 1800. Now they make the Monkey. Yamaha made the Warrior. Thats gone, too. I’d love to have a Dyna Sport type bike with the new frame and M-8 motor.
Like you said it's a feel no other bike manufacturers can actually clone.., We have 3 baggers in the garage, 1 95th Anniversary Dyna Wide-Glide, Sportster 1200N, and a New Pan America, they are all different, but a total blast to ride. After serving 35 years in the military, these machines are very therapeutic. Oh, and a 1986 KLR 600.., Great video!!
So, do you have six bikes? I don't really consider a wide glide, sporty or a pan america to be baggers. They may have bags on them but the term baggers are usually reserved for anything with hard bags and it's a touring model. You know, like Electras, SG, RG, or ultra glides.
@@joetroutt7425 "Yes" also a 2023 Road-glide special Baja Orange, 2014 Street- glide mysterious red, a two tone twisted cherry/ Whicked red 2018 Road-glide Ultra in my stable, between my bride, one son..,
@@kenh9097 I also have a 14 SG special. I love it. I have seen many bikes I like but not enough to trade mine for. I also have an 100th anniversary sportster that I chopped and made a bobber out of it. Very loud.
Been riding Harley-Davidson since his 1982 a 1954 FL and 1978 and a half FLH and a 2012 FLHTCI I I wouldn't even consider riding anything else you ain't got a Harley you ain't got shit
For you in US is like that because you think that USA products are the best...but as soon as you take them to some curvy and fast road in Europe you are the last one that at the destination point...not to mention the brakes,allways the worst on the market...
Exactly what you said regarding Harley’s, vs metric cruisers is why I now ride a Harley. I’ve had many bikes over the years, but Harley’s were always a bit out of reach. When I finally got to a point I could afford one, I sold my Goldwing and got my Harley CVO. Still ride it, love the hell out of it! I liken the difference between a Harley big bagger and a Goldwing like this: The Harley is like a hot rod and the Wing is like a refined sports car. Both are powerful, both will get you where you want to go, but the Harley connects with the road in ways a Wing never will. I’ve toured on both many thousands of miles, and I have to say the Harley wins in most ways, in my opinion. My wife liked the ride on the Wing better, but never refused a ride. 😉 My ‘07 CVO Ultra has 95k on the frame, with a fresh build from the crank up with less than 5k. All the necessary upgrades made and as GixxerFoo says, I made it my own. Riding through Texas Hill country later today! God is good.
Harleys are for people who like to wrench. For someone who wants a project and likes modifying bikes they're great. The Sportster chassis needed a serious upgrade though. That thing was mediocre in 1957 and seriously out of date now.
My grandpa had one about 1917. Even my dad wanted one but life was family first for him. I alway thought a roadbike said Harley Davidson so ive owned 4.
The Community , the look , and the sound is what got me. If it was named Uncle Bobs , I would have bought it, so the HD name carries no weight in my book. I am a “customer” to HD, we conduct “business “ not friendship. Now the community…. GOOD DIVERSE GROUP! The sound, well nothing needs to be said for that head turning thump a de thump thump😁
Finally, in 2013 I bought my first HD, a SuperGlide. I was also giving the Star Raider a serious look at that time. I made my choice using basically the same reasoning talked about in this video. Have I looked back? Yes, many times. Do I bitch about Harley? Yes! All considered, would I make a different choice today? No! Why? For all the reasons talked about in this video. This video nailed everything. IMO
You cruise a Softail Milwaukee 8 107 or 114 stock motor, reasonable speeds, where your helmet isn;t a Bobble head in the wind, and 55 to 60 mpg is possible. You'll never see that on a BMW R18 Bagger or Classic. Maybe 45 to 47, under the exact same conditions. Shaft drives are very inefficient, with today's gas prices here in CA. $6 a gallon for premium 91
I own three Harley Davidsons. I bought all three of them used. Low miles, but all over 10 years old, and all carbureted. I do my own service and repairs. About the only modifications I have done are paint and more chrome. Lots of chrome. I like them for three reasons. Looks, sound (all three have aftermarket exhausts) and the feel (the Harley "shake") I think I got very good deals on all on=f them, and didn't pay "extra money". Harley Davidson hasn't done so well in the looks department lately. There is only one look. Flat black X 1000. Everything they make is flat black. I recently had my 2006 Sportster 1200L repainted. I painted the tank medium blue (non metallic) and the fenders a creme color. I replaced the black side covers with chrome. It looks like it came right out of the '50s. As for the engines, Harley Davison has already gone way to far with their engines. The EVO was the high point for Harley Davidson engines. It's all been downhill from there. I don't even consider the M8 to be a Harley engine. It is far more Japanese than Harley. I mean counterbalancers??? Really??? Shaft drive actually works very well. My fourth bike is a 1997 Kawasaki Vulcan 750. I bought it new in early '98. It has a shaft drive. It also now has 118,000 miles on it and no problems with the shaft drive. It will easily top 100 mph. My 1200 Sportster will beat it off the line, but it will soon catch up. It will run side by side with the Sportster, with just over half the displacement. The problem with it isn't performance. It just doesn't have the look, sound, and feel of the Sportster. If my Sportster will keep up with a Hyundai Accent, I'm happy with it. It's about enjoying the ride, not speed and power. If that is what is most important to you, Japan, inc. will be happy to sell you a crotch rocket that can exceed 200 mph. The rebuildability of Harley engines ended with the EVO. The Twin Cam and M8 are built like Japanese bikes. Trying to rebuild them costs more than a new engine. They were designed to be disposable. Back in the mid '90s I actually wanted to be part of the H-D scene. I was young back then, but also poor. I tried to buy a new '95 Sportster 883, which had an MSRP of around $5200. Not even close. They wanted almost twice that much, and it would take 6 months to get it. That's when I decided I wanted nothing to do with the H-D brand. I still liked the bikes, but not the company. To this day I have never bought anything with H-D on it except the bikes. And one of them has been repainted, and I chose to leave off the Harley Davidson emblems. I find it really interesting how for decades the Japanese manufacturers tried to copy Harley Davidson, with varying degrees of success. But now the tables have turned, and now Harley Davidson is copying the Japanese brands. And the Japanese manufacturers don't really make Harley copies anymore. One thing they do seem to have in common is that everything they make is FLAT BLACK.
Another cool video! I've owned 25 new bike since 2000. I've owned 7 new $$$$ Ducatis and 7 new Harleys $$$$. For me it's the classic look, solid build, and they haven't gone too modern. I love the rumble and the ride even if they're not the perfect motorcycle. McDonald's isn't a burger by any stretch but no burger taste like it (over a billion served). I believe there isn't any Harley Davidson that has a contender . Making it smoother, faster, or whatever changes the bike as you have eluded to in your video. I have gone full circle and will be a die hard HD guy until they mess up a perfect bike for me.
How come only old geezers own Harleys? If there as wonderfully awesome as Gixxer says why aren't the young guys buying them? Affordability? With the way people shop on monthly payments only and dealerships willing to stretch a loan out for 30 years you'd think the young spry men would be clamouring to get some American/Chinese/Mexican (and other global components) Thunder.
they stand for freedom, a true American bike, a piece of the rock, they're just plain cool man! they're a "say what you mean, mean what you say" personality...
Fit and finish 100%. Real chrome (or blacked out steel if that's your thing). Awesome paint. Good lines. V-twin vibration and sound. After market support. If all this matters to you, then HD is where it's at. Metrics are good, boring bikes to start on. Let the hate begin....🤣
Don't forget the feel of the locking into first gear and each gear change - tight and crisp, like calking a revolver. Something I have never felt on a metric, at least the Hondas I own.
I bought a brand new 1998 XL1200S out of curiosity after being a dirt bike guy. $11,000 in 1998, with many accessorized chrome bits and bobs on a vivid black base. It is still fantastic to sit in the garage and look at the bike, it is a piece of art. But I only have less than 10k miles on the bike after 25 years. Resale value is crap. Glad I still like the way it looks, because I can’t stand to ride it and hate to sell it for such a small price (worth what, $3k?). I’m the wrong type or person for a Harley.
Because you can buy broken ones cheap and fix them for cheap. Extremely easy to work on. Except the 2004-up rubber mount sportsters. That was a step backwards in design.
9:20 “ I know there’s probably better machines out there, but they don’t say HD on the tank.” That says it all. Brand association over performance. It’s simple.
I personally think HD should look into a small supercharger to add power and maintain Harley sound. Turbo will mute. Makes more sense to me than adding displacement until they reach 200cu inch.
My Great grandfather had a Harley Davidson with a side car. My Grand mother would ride in tandem while my Great grandmother and Great aunt rode in the side car. He would take the side car off and go hill climbing with it. He did that until he got hurt and My Great Grandmother put an end to it. That's why I got a Harley Davidson. And they're beautiful. Sound bad ass. Chicks dig them.
HD has faithfully kept the knucklehead design/look in its current range. Keeping the retro look feel & sound. It makes them distinctive and easily recognised. Unfortunately there is no reason to buy a new one for HD owners when they can bling their existing bike and smart buyers will buy a used one so new HD bike sales are dropping year by year. That's why HD has increased prices to keep the company profit high.
It is a big gamble to abandon what you have been known & respected for to start over at square one with something completely new & different. HD had never done that before, but now they are. Personally, I do not like any of their new offerings. I ride the old stuff & luckily for me when their new stuff gets old I won`t be riding any more, because I wouldn`t ride it or own it. Time will tell if "The Motor Company" can maintain their position in the market place & in the social culture psyche as they have in the past.
What makes you pay the extra money for a Harley-Davidson?
Wanted one ever since I was a kid and watched "Then Came Bronson" on television. Settled for rice burners all my life because that's what I could afford. Had to wait till I was old and retired, but in 2020, I went to the local dealer determined to come home with a Harley Davidson, and that's exactly what I did. Didn't really care what I had to pay for it.
If I didn't have a strong desire to constantly tinker and add stuff I could have settled for a Vmax back in 1985. I would have saved a fortune.....
Everything you said summed up the ones that get Harley Davidson nicely, my 1999 FXDX will see me out as I own it, maintain it and love that connection to it that is part of my life, the saying whatever makes you happy applies here.
it might still be worth some money when I decide to sell it. They are available used, lots and lots of them, and being 6' 5" with forward pegs and some risers with pull back, they actually fit this tall guy. Mid controls are miserable. It's the whole reason you see Adventure bike riders standing so much, their legs cramp up with mids.
All of the things mentioned.
From the UK I was so impressed to see so many 'ordinary' Americans riding Harley-Davidsons to a bar near my son's home in Indiana. Pleasant, rounded, social individuals who express themselves- in some small part- through their choice of motorcycle. And why not ? Despite many disappointments I remain a Triumph man- though oddly my favourite is the Triumph America !
I had a 2002 Bonneville America, damn good bike.
You can have more than one bike?
My first street bike, in 1981, was a 71' 750 Bonneville. I loved it and wish I didn't have to sell it.
From there it's been all Harleys. A 41' Knucklehead that I would still have if it weren't stolen in 93'. A 72' XLCH Sportster and a 2000 Heritage, both that I still have.
I learned with the Bonneville, never sell a motorcycle you like.
U.K. as well, I bought a Triumph America brand new in 2003 ..... still own it! It keeps my 2007 Dyna company in the garage, both similar bikes but different in many ways. I bought the Dyna as a project that had sat for years following the previous elderly owners demise with the intentions of selling it once I'd completed it. Rode it to the MOT station, within 5 minutes I knew I'd never sell it! I love both of those bikes, I'm 66 now and they'll be my rides until my time is up! Ride safe.
I had a Triumph T140 V Bonneville in the UK, P reg I believe which would have been a 1975/ 76.. I'm American but lived 50 years in the UK ( long story ) in America now . I think my Triumph was mistreated ( i wasn't the original owner, and because the early Triumphs you practically had to be a mechanic which i didn't have the knowledge i do now ,because even though it was a good looking bike it was actually the biggest POS I've EVER owned . And that's in 47 and counting years of being in the saddle. .😎🏴🇺🇲
My 98 Harley is the only thing in my life I actually love.
I hear you man, I'm with you, probably the only thing I love is my fatboy, maybe we should ride together; which brings me back to yesterday.......My friend sent me a whats 'cause he wanted to ride (he also rides a harley) so I said hell yeah man!....told this to the bitch sent her a whats......minutes later she calls me and says hey what's going on? I replied, nothing I'm just hurrying up...bam! the bitch just hanged up!.....I did not call her back just said, well well fuck it! fuck it bitch! you just can go to hell! I'm going to kick some ass down the road with my buddy!
Amen brother.. my 05 is a bitch but she's mine and I ❤️ her
You love an inanimate object? Does it have a name and preferred pronoun?
@@johnengland8619 Things of beauty, grace and speed are usually referred to in the feminine gender, so I refer to my bike as a she or her. Minus the speed part of course. She does not have a name although that is a good idea 💡
Oh man that's sad
A Harley biker buddy on the other side of the US and I just had this discussion this morning. We are devoted to our bikes because we like the feel, the history and being part of the culture, and they are our "babies," unlike all of our previous bikes. I have a 2005 Fatboy (bought used in 2015) that I had Stages 3 & 4 installed in this spring (I messaged you about that a few months ago). My non-Harley biker friends think I have been crazy to put so much money into it the last 3 years and should have just bought a new one, but I told them it faithfully got me through my 11,000-mile ride around North America last year, is my baby, and I plan on sticking with and riding it until I can't ride anymore.
For me it’s the sound of the engine and the low center of gravity that produces an awesome ride. The Harley V Twin engine is an industrial design masterpiece.
"The Harley V Twin engine is an industrial design masterpiece" couldn't write it better
@@deckardvostok2203can't agree more, I have a WL flathead cylinder on a small pedestal in my living room and it's pretty awesome
Let me start with a little history of my riding. I am 83 yrs old and have ridden quite a few bikes in my time. In 1983 I sold my '69 Honda CB750 which I had ridden for some 11 years. Never thought about riding again until 2021 when I just walked into a Harley Davidson dealership and fell in love with the Softail Standard. Had to learn to ride all over again but it didn't take long to get "back in the saddle". I made it mine with an engine guard, cruise control, Sundowner seat, Harley leather saddlebags, WindSplitter windshield, hand protectors, luggage rack and a few other little things to dress it up. The Standard comes with brush finish engine parts which I have polished to a chrome level. It's beautiful!! I have ridden it over 18,000 miles and absolutely LOVE it!! It gets me 57 - 62 MPG. Harleys have a soul....... and that's a fact. Riding a Harley is being one with the road, wind and bike. It's a unique feeling.
When I started riding they were the only big bike around. My Grandpa rode a Harley before WW1, my dad had one when I was born. I got one when I returned from the Army
I've owned all kinds of bikes but switched to HD back in 78 and won't be buying anything else from here on (I don't think). The thing I love about HD is the feeling of riding one. Between the vibration, power, and the raw sound of a HD is what keeps me on one. You just can't get those things from anything else IMO. Not only that but as you said you can make them anything you want and do it yourself. Let's say you're tired of your narrow glide sporty, you can change it to a wide glide, or a big old touring glide front end in less then a weekend without any problems. And over the winter you can make your bike recognizable to what it was. You just can't beat them. Later
I bought my first Harley in the seventies and still have it. But I can see a day in the future when I go to a lighter bike than my ultra classic. The years have been catching up to me.
2 years ago I finally bought my first Harley at the age of 43. I’ve dreamt of having one my entire life. The feeling I had of staring at that HD badge sitting in my own garage is unmatched. I live 30 minutes from the York PA plant where my 2019 Heritage was built and I’ve toured the place several times. No other motorcycle I’ve owned has provided the lasting feeling my HD has.
That’s how it felt when I got my Sportster running recently. I’m not a materialistic man by any means, but I can’t lie about how proud I was to finally own a Harley that I might be able to ride here soon. New tire, brakes and wiring and I should be ready to piss off my neighbors every morning.
In 1988, I went to dealership to buy a Yamaha XS which was a beautiful bike. However, the dealership sold Harleys on the other side of the building. The salesman showed me that all the "chrome" parts on the Japanese bike were plastic with chrome paint. The Harleys were all metal with real chrome and metal fenders, oil tanks, etc. I bought a Sportster. Since then, I've owned five HD's, and they've all been great bikes. I can't see myself riding anything else.
In a nut shell, here's my story. In '83 purchased a Honda V45. I put 300k miles on it. It was extremely reliable. Then I purchased a '98 Harley Dyna. Put 100k on the first engine, 68k on the rebuild engine. Now I have a '84 FXR I bought as a basket case but have since brought it back to life. There is just something about an HD that causes me to never return to a Metric bike. Metrics are fast, reliable, and nice riding bikes but i'll stick to my HD. HD Old School !!
Combination of a few key factors:
-Family tradition (Dad, Uncle, Cousins all owned HD)
-Americana (HD is inextricably linked to USA)
-Heritage (HD was a part of the US military and grew as soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines returned home from the war)
-Culture (Combining the above items is what made HD great and part of the fabric of this country)
I am 63 years old and still ride whenever I can. Saying that over the course of my life I have owned many motorcycles all shapes sizes and brands. I dabbled with a old xlch sportster back in the 80's. I did not have the money to make bike right, back in those days the parts counter clerks laughed at me for trying to fix up an old xlch. They would poke at me and tell me to go over to the showroom and buy a new bike until I got fed up and walked out without even buying parts. 30 years would pass before I would give Harley another chance. Of course I wanted a bike from the 80's I could not afford back then. I settled on a 1989 Heritage softail. From the time I got on that bike I knew there was something special about it. The ride, feel and sound. After having so many other bikes I noticed right away the paint, fit and finish far exceeded other bikes I owned that contained many chrome coated plastic parts. I currently own 4 Harleys ranging from 1976 to 1999. 2 are in my mancave and 2 in my garage. The 2 in the garage are my get around town and my cruiser. I have restored all my bikes and several others I sold. I was bit hard by the bug and built a Harley themed mancave and outfitted my garage the same. Harleys and working on them are what bring me joy these days. Don't get me wrong I did plenty of work on metric bike but never felt the sense of accomplishment as I do after completing a major reapair on a Harley. P.S. Shame on you Metro Harley Detroit for not helping young people with less money and knowledge get into Harley Davidisons back in the day before you got your shit together. I can tell you as years passed and my life changed for the better you lost several sales from me only to spend my money at the Honda showroom. I am glad I gave them one more chance no thanks to Metro Harley.
Keep your evo
Took over my father's 64 back in 1977 ,arranged to have her lead my funeral possession hope he gets it started
I don't park my Harley Davidsons in the garage and admire them, I park them in my living room to do that..😊 I enjoy your channel, I'm 1 of the H-D people who enjoy several brands+types of motorcycles.
I was a Yamaha Guy for years , and one day sat on a 2008 Fat Bob and that was it. Best bike I have owned to this point . They ride a certain way and look right . There is nothing out there that has what a Harley has that's unless it's another Harley Davidson.
Hell yeah man! ride on!
100% everything you said. grew up as a kid flipping through my dads old Easyriders magazines.. since a kid, all I wanted was a Harley, they are pricey, but I've been riding nothing but for along time now.... had many. Still have a few, that will probably be with me till my death... I wont sell. Alot kids want my old FXR. My oldest is an Ironhead. Culture is still alive and well, and like you said... parts are available.
As far as the "clones" go, I have an '02 Yamaha Roadstar!! Most people are surprised to learn it's a Yamaha!! You really have to listen to the pipes to hear the difference. It got a few small scratches a couple of months ago. It was an incident that would be the same, no matter what kind of bike it was. It still runs flawless even with a little cosmetic damage. As I am healing, I am gathering the necessary parts to get her back in pristine shape .
I always wanted a Harley-Davidson but could never afford one until a coworker of mine offered me a 2003 FXDL at a reasonable price. Now that I have it, I actually like it better than my 2000 V-Star 1100 Custom.
I will only own harleys because of the design and ability of mods
For me it's the sound. My 2005 dyna superglide custom has the sound and of course the shaking. In a nut shell character.
I grew up in the 60's and 98% of the bikes back then were USA made Harleys or Indians with the other 2% being Triumph Choppers. Easyrider and Biker mags shaped my vision for when I could buy one and make it my own. My first ride was a multi-year Panhead titled as a 48. If it hadn't gotten stolen, I'd still have it...😢 Plus everything you said is why I won't buy a metric...😅
I’ve owned a bunch of bikes. Honda, Suzuki, Wankel, Bultaco, Triumph, etc… Just got a Harley Road King as my first Harley. I love it. It’s the most civilized bike I’ve ever owned.
Omg... this guy sure knows what he's talking about, he's hit the nail on the head. But, for the Triumph enthusiast in UK, this is pretty much the same thing, so it seems that every country has it's brand with their fans. And then there is me, as a Brit..., since riding a Harley for the first time many years ago, i've stuck to the brand and feel exactly the same way as our GixxerFoo friend explains here.
I've owned many motorcycles since '73 but only Harley-Davidson seems to command loyalty. I ride a stock '99 Heritage Springer. Last year evolution motor is bulletproof.
Just bought my 1st Harley which is a Fatboy S after riding for 25 years and I get it!
62yo and been on HD's since my first as a 19yo. Had one in the garage since then along with some Japanese bikes as well. 3 hogs and 3 sporties in that time-1 of each currently. Love the rumble, the torque and the aesthetics.
Because it feels like it’s alive the clunk of the trans the vibration and torque. I started out with a vstar sewing machine, my wife got a 883 sporty with v&h short shots, it was snowing outside and I sat on it and started it and OMG it’s alive!!! Ever since I’m a Harley guy now I have a 14 flhxs with some goodies and love it couldn’t be happier.
I've lived in the Milwaukee area most of my life. I have friends that work at Harley, so when I retired and the family grew up I figured it was time with a little pushing from them. When at a bike ralley and a dealership had an 04 Heritage for sale at almost half price I went for it. Best decision I made. Bike has been good a reliable to me, have put almost 60k miles on it with just regular maintenance.
I have had a 1980 Sportster, and still ride a 1983 FXWG. I bought my FXWG while stationed on USS Midway VA-115 1981-83. Picked up Portland Motosports when transferred. Saved money buying it that way.
Good video. I paid off my bike a few years ago and started to think of a new bike. Then it hit me. I swapped out the suspension front and rear with Legends and had an S&S big bore kit installed.
Every point you made was 💯 accurate. Not even the Indian (in my opinion) measures up.
I just always loved the Road King. I did a lot of touring on my Triumph, but once I took the King on a motorcycle camping trip for the first time ever it was a night and day difference. And, I love the fact that I have a quality bike that really will last forever if you take care of it. This is just the tip of the iceberg for me on reasons why I love my bike.
So True...I'm a Harley-Davidson, person for Life...Just a what's happening...American made Bike !
My pops had a ww2 army 45 an told me his one regret was having to sell it. I’m 63 it took me most of my life to get one. Then I found my 2019 107 low rider. I’ll keep it until I’m dead.
Putting power to the ground, in this context means efficiency I'd suggest. Are Harleys more efficient? Most likey with chain primary and final.
Just don't try to compare that efficiency by doing a top gear roll on against that shaft drive VTX/Goldwing/Vulcan etc.
Then power to the ground will mean something else entirely.
Yes my first bike was 2012 roadKing and I turned it into a true touring machine with a hoppes fairing and entertainment system and tour pack
Appearance. Sound. Vibrations (feels alive). Torque. Comfort. History .Harley needs to grow up. You don't buy technologies, you buy History. It doesn't matter what year the Harley is, but the older it is, the more valuable it is.
Its like riding an unbroken lineage of motorcycle history
You can't get that with any other brand.
For me it’s that they have a vast distribution network, culture and have an American history
Being that Harley is local (HQ is about 25 minutes from me) it's basically law that every biker owns at least one!!!! As someone who owns a 2011 dyna street bob AND a "modern naked" bike (2020 Kawasaki z900) the best analogy is it's like having both a 70's muscle car and a Lambo in the garage. The Kawasaki out performs the Harley in every aspect of riding but my dyna still to this day has that cool badass factor that metric bikes don't live up too!!!
I completely agree. I just can't see myself ever getting one of these ugly new "Sportsters". They went from a bike I loved to a bike I hate. I honestly don't want to hear how fast they are. I could have had a fast Honda if that's what I was looking for
Yeah I wish they kept the original sportster with the 1200 and just added the new one as well. The sportser 1200 had the last "original" harley sounding engine. It has the largest aftermarket of any motorcycle on the planet and now they stopped making it.
eruo 5+
I own a 2003 Road King Classic, 100-Year Anniversary Edition, with the Screaming Eagle engine upgrade from an 88 V-Twin to a 95. The fast producing torque and sound is exhilarating.
My Road King with its original anniversary Two-Tone Sterling Silver and Vivid Black paint colors stands out. The commemorative medallions seen throughout this classic ride's sculpted design adds to its nostalgia, mystique ,and exclusivity.
The Road King is among the most elegant, stylish and archetypical Harley-Davidson motorcycles ever produced and forever etched in HD's rich history of motorcycle designs.
Road King stands supreme and has no equal. The Road King is the personification of a Harley Davidson icon. Those select riders who own one are indeed privileged.
What you are describing about Harley design, took place many years ago. Now it is the history of HD that people love. The designs have not changed drastically over the years (some models have), but the main elements of this American Icon endure. The chopper element has also contributed to the Harley mystique. I bought my 1999 Harley Softail new, and very few parts that are on it now are original.
sigmund freud said that it is a genetic disorder. you either have it or you do not have "The Harley Syndrome."
An inherited medical condition caused by a DNA abnormality.
Ride On
Ride On
for me its been a life long It's obsession growing up as a kid i hung around people that road nothing but harley's so its the I nostalgia the sound the feel the looks of them , and the versitilty of making it uniquely your own the possibilties are endless , along with keeping going for ever and ever if you choose to.
I grew up around shovelheads. Dad used to pick me up from school on his . There was things I liked about Harleys before I knew the proper names . Drag bars ,drag pipes, the engine and then big 5 gallon tanks . Outlaws do things their way and we all know that but I was just another that experienced the way they are . No fashion on main and no cops as pals . Dirty dressed and damn glad about that 💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼( i was a kid so i didnt get dirty ,then)
My grandfather rode Harley’s with friends, my dad got his first Harley about 10 years ago and then traded up for a triglide this year. He’s 75 and on his 6th bike. I have wanted a Fatboy since I was a kid, so I got one this year. Love it! For me, it’s just a strong American brand that has withstood the test of time, and that means a lot in today’s throw away world.
Harleys are mainly built for foolish men usually with this overwhelming lack of self esteem. I am more than positive that by the time they figure out that they spent three times the amount of money than the bike is worth and they still have to put ten thousand more dollars in modifications to "make it their own" that they will still have some indignant thinking that this is the right bike for them. More power to them. There is very little that is "American " about the Harley name or product in today's global market. It's not just about the money for me, its more about the attitude or the Harley riders and dealership people. There is this attitude of arrogance that they are somehow better/entitled. I enjoy going into a Harley dealership every once in awhile just to have a look around and reaffirm that I don't want to be part of these people or anything that they represent. Which is probably a good decision because they wouldn't me anyways. It's kinda like visiting a church where I feel judgements from every direction. I just want anybody on 2 wheels to enjoy the journey and please be careful and safe. Don't wait for the other person to make the wrong decision for you.
Why buy something that needs to be rebuilt to get performance out of it?? Buy a Yamaha or a Honda-way better
I've had the rice burners in the past & added upgrades to them to appear as a Harley Davidson, but in September of 2023 I bought an actual HD Heritage Classic Softail 114 & I disagree with you that there could possibly be better machines out there. When I got my HD it was smooth as ice, shifts better, clutch is better more smooth & Kawasaki & Honda didn't have the smoothness as a HD. Bikes are an image as is cars. They reflect who we are & what we stand for. HD always stood out to me as a symbol of freedom, rights with regard to our Constitution & maybe even a little rebellion & that is what I am & why I finally put more bucks to a HD. Let me know what y'all think. Safe Riding Everyone...
My grandfather rode a Harley in the war, my Dad rode a Harley up to 4 years ago when he turned 90, I’m riding my Dyna Street Bob and Harley Triglide and my son riding his Street Bob. 4 generations.
I first started riding on the road when I was 18 and I'll be turning 60 in a few months. And every bike that I owned was a metric bike until about 10 years ago when a friend of mine said to take his electra glide out for a rip. When I got onto the highway the first thing I thought was " what the f have I been riding all those years ". The next day I was at the local dealership and I bought the first of my and my wife's 4 harleydavidsons. Like you said until you ride one, you just don't know. And there is no turning back.
I’m 64 semi retired and have been on a HD since 1979. I currently work at. HD dealership in San Antonio, Tx as a parts department associate. The HD culture is awesome. The bikes the people are what I wake up to and live for everyday.
20th Century Harley Davidson is where I live. 21st Century HD is dead to me. I still buy new parts from HD when they have what I need for my Evo Softails, but as far as new bikes go, they have made nothing appealing to me since the last Evo left the assembly line.
ETA: I tried to love the Twin Cam when it appeared. Even though it did not appeal to me at all. It was a Harley Davidson after all. I rode them from the showroom floor on 2 occasions and both times left me a little heart broken. They just didn't grab my soul like a Shovelhead or an Evo. It just didn't and I don't know why. But, when I left the dealership on my 84 Softail, that ol magic was there so that is where I've stayed.
I'm the same as you,the new Harley's don't do it for me either.I will stick with my faithful 80 cubic inch Evo
I love the 20th century soundtrack. I started shopping around for a late shovel/ early evo (kick starter) earlier this year. I never pulled the trigger because they are just too expensive where I live (Australia).
I have a 2007 Night Train, and a 2016 CVO Pro Street Breakout. I love both. I could buy "faster" bikes. I could buy "sportier" bikes. I don't need or want either.
Ive had sport bikes,Japanese cruisers,but now own a 08 fatboy and à 16 streetglide. It's a love affair
@Gixerfoo. This video really did impress me. You were actually able to explain why people like me are wanting a Harley.
You are in the money, I love harley since I was 19 riding one , now I am turning 64, I have 5 of them in my garage, wont ride anything else, but that’s me, I was the 1st one in my family to have one, from the. My son also own and ride Harley’s too, my grandchildren will also be riding Harley’s soon,
It’s a family thing for us,
At 19 and in the army I went across the country on my Harley it was awesome and meeting other bikers on the way,
Keep up the great videos!!!
My 2013 sportster 72 us officially my second harley but 50th motorcycle I've owned.
It is my favorite!
Harley Davidson is a lifestyle! That's the reason why people buy them. Nobody buys a HondaYamaKawaZuki and dumps another $2k into them. They buy them for dependable transportation for a budget price.
Belt drive actually has significantly more parasitic loss than a chain; and that's exactly why Harley uses it. The engines have such a long stroke and so much torque on such a weak crankshaft, that if there was no buffer between the crank and the wheel, the engine would beat itself too death in short order. The compensator exists for that same reason.
I'll take that long stroke for 1 reason... torque, gobs of torque from my M8 107. When you ride a softail like a Sport Glide, and you cruise the canyons in a 4 or 5 person group ride, nothing saves you shifting like a long stroke with a little bit of grunt. Left my motor stock, and Ive never been wanting more HP. 65 years old, not much else out there cruises like a softail harley on the newer 2018 stiffened frame. No flex in the turns.
When I was eight years old the film Easy Rider was released. It wasn’t until some years later I actually saw the film but from that moment I was sold on the bike, the image, the culture. I’m 62 and I still ride a Harley and although I also have a BMW tourer my first choice out of the garage is the Harley. When I pull away for the first mile I’m Dennis Hopper on Billy’s Bike. That feeling will never fade.
I started on a Honda Rebel but after a couple of months i have two Harleys bought used in cash. One sporty and one touring. I liked the Suzukis, Hondas and the Indian but they were boring lol
I rode yamahas for years. LOVED em. 650, 750, 920 Virago, 1100 Midnight Max. Powerful and fast! I rode a few Harleys over the years but never owned one. Finally bought one about 7 years ago. I now own 5 😂 There won't be anything else in my garage from here on out 😁🤟💪
As far as motorcycles are concerned I like the Harleys the best because of the sound, the resale value, the feel, etc. I'm more old school, not real old school as I think the ahovelheads look tough but it's hard to find someone to work on them. And then newer M8 just don't sound the same, even though they have more power from the factory than the other V Twin Harleys. I think it's hard to beat a good Evo, or Twin cam, tuned right, and the right model. What sucks is how the people drive out there though, it about ruins it.
Only time I didnt ride a Harley was taking my test in the 80s. Back then in the UK, we could only ride up to a 125cc on L plates. After the test, the skies the limit. So I got me a 1988 1200cc Harley Evo Sportster. So loved that bike. But my ideal was the older 30s/40s/50s styles. But I'm no mechanic, so gonna Mock-up my current '09 sporty 883 into a 1936 EL lookalike.
Why not?🤷🏼♀️
Sounds awesome
I think its the culture of HD I had to wait a year and a week for my 03 softail I love it 😀
So it's kind of like the band, Spinal Tap, when they said, "Our audience is becoming more exclusive".
I'm an old timer and a Detroit gearhead. I grew up with Triumphs and Harleys, and I just like them. If I were younger, I would probably be more into sport bikes, but I like comfort these days.
76 bonn since i was 18 , waiting for a back rotor ,, bike is chrome ,, 4 wives later and i still got her 😍🙏
I’m 63 and a few months ago purchased my first HD, a 2004 Fatboy.
I love this bike.
I cannot describe the exhilaration riding this amazing machine.
Dreamt of owning a Fatboy after watching the Terminator in 91.🇦🇺
I love the black Dyna Sport that you have pictured. Why do manufacturers mess with perfection? Honda made the Valkyrie and the VTX 1800. Now they make the Monkey. Yamaha made the Warrior. Thats gone, too. I’d love to have a Dyna Sport type bike with the new frame and M-8 motor.
Like you said it's a feel no other bike manufacturers can actually clone.., We have 3 baggers in the garage, 1 95th Anniversary Dyna Wide-Glide, Sportster 1200N, and a New Pan America, they are all different, but a total blast to ride. After serving 35 years in the military, these machines are very therapeutic. Oh, and a 1986 KLR 600.., Great video!!
So, do you have six bikes? I don't really consider a wide glide, sporty or a pan america to be baggers. They may have bags on them but the term baggers are usually reserved for anything with hard bags and it's a touring model. You know, like Electras, SG, RG, or ultra glides.
@@joetroutt7425 "Yes" also a 2023 Road-glide special Baja Orange, 2014 Street- glide mysterious red, a two tone twisted cherry/ Whicked red 2018 Road-glide Ultra in my stable, between my bride, one son..,
@@kenh9097 I also have a 14 SG special. I love it. I have seen many bikes I like but not enough to trade mine for. I also have an 100th anniversary sportster that I chopped and made a bobber out of it. Very loud.
@@joetroutt7425 The 14 is a Street-glide special 103 H.O. fantastic bike! Love them all!! Rode today in Maine! 53 degrees and sunny..,
@@kenh9097 too bad I had to work but I will be riding Sunday. 73 degrees Tennessee
I like the look and feel of my 2009 Ultra Classic. I had a 2003 Yamaha Xvs1100 V-Star but it was not ever going to feel like a Harley.
Been riding Harley-Davidson since his 1982 a 1954 FL and 1978 and a half FLH and a 2012 FLHTCI I I wouldn't even consider riding anything else you ain't got a Harley you ain't got shit
Heritage, tradition, super coolness and longevity. Metric bikes aren't cool
For you in US is like that because you think that USA products are the best...but as soon as you take them to some curvy and fast road in Europe you are the last one that at the destination point...not to mention the brakes,allways the worst on the market...
@@radiozvrk6784 stay in Europe then
Exactly what you said regarding Harley’s, vs metric cruisers is why I now ride a Harley.
I’ve had many bikes over the years, but Harley’s were always a bit out of reach. When I finally got to a point I could afford one, I sold my Goldwing and got my Harley CVO. Still ride it, love the hell out of it!
I liken the difference between a Harley big bagger and a Goldwing like this:
The Harley is like a hot rod and the Wing is like a refined sports car. Both are powerful, both will get you where you want to go, but the Harley connects with the road in ways a Wing never will.
I’ve toured on both many thousands of miles, and I have to say the Harley wins in most ways, in my opinion. My wife liked the ride on the Wing better, but never refused a ride. 😉
My ‘07 CVO Ultra has 95k on the frame, with a fresh build from the crank up with less than 5k. All the necessary upgrades made and as GixxerFoo says, I made it my own.
Riding through Texas Hill country later today! God is good.
Harleys are for people who like to wrench. For someone who wants a project and likes modifying bikes they're great. The Sportster chassis needed a serious upgrade though. That thing was mediocre in 1957 and seriously out of date now.
My grandpa had one about 1917. Even my dad wanted one but life was family first for him. I alway thought a roadbike said Harley Davidson so ive owned 4.
The Community , the look , and the sound is what got me. If it was named Uncle Bobs , I would have bought it, so the HD name carries no weight in my book. I am a “customer” to HD, we conduct “business “ not friendship. Now the community…. GOOD DIVERSE GROUP! The sound, well nothing needs to be said for that head turning thump a de thump thump😁
Beauty is in the eye…
Look at a Triumph Bonneville
Look at a Kawasaki ZRX or old Z1
Look at an air cooled Ducati 900SS
Finally, in 2013 I bought my first HD, a SuperGlide. I was also giving the Star Raider a serious look at that time. I made my choice using basically the same reasoning talked about in this video. Have I looked back? Yes, many times. Do I bitch about Harley? Yes! All considered, would I make a different choice today? No! Why? For all the reasons talked about in this video. This video nailed everything. IMO
You cruise a Softail Milwaukee 8 107 or 114 stock motor, reasonable speeds, where your helmet isn;t a Bobble head in the wind, and 55 to 60 mpg is possible. You'll never see that on a BMW R18 Bagger or Classic. Maybe 45 to 47, under the exact same conditions. Shaft drives are very inefficient, with today's gas prices here in CA. $6 a gallon for premium 91
I own three Harley Davidsons. I bought all three of them used. Low miles, but all over 10 years old, and all carbureted. I do my own service and repairs. About the only modifications I have done are paint and more chrome. Lots of chrome. I like them for three reasons. Looks, sound (all three have aftermarket exhausts) and the feel (the Harley "shake") I think I got very good deals on all on=f them, and didn't pay "extra money".
Harley Davidson hasn't done so well in the looks department lately. There is only one look. Flat black X 1000. Everything they make is flat black. I recently had my 2006 Sportster 1200L repainted. I painted the tank medium blue (non metallic) and the fenders a creme color. I replaced the black side covers with chrome. It looks like it came right out of the '50s. As for the engines, Harley Davison has already gone way to far with their engines. The EVO was the high point for Harley Davidson engines. It's all been downhill from there. I don't even consider the M8 to be a Harley engine. It is far more Japanese than Harley. I mean counterbalancers??? Really???
Shaft drive actually works very well. My fourth bike is a 1997 Kawasaki Vulcan 750. I bought it new in early '98. It has a shaft drive. It also now has 118,000 miles on it and no problems with the shaft drive. It will easily top 100 mph. My 1200 Sportster will beat it off the line, but it will soon catch up. It will run side by side with the Sportster, with just over half the displacement. The problem with it isn't performance. It just doesn't have the look, sound, and feel of the Sportster. If my Sportster will keep up with a Hyundai Accent, I'm happy with it. It's about enjoying the ride, not speed and power. If that is what is most important to you, Japan, inc. will be happy to sell you a crotch rocket that can exceed 200 mph.
The rebuildability of Harley engines ended with the EVO. The Twin Cam and M8 are built like Japanese bikes. Trying to rebuild them costs more than a new engine. They were designed to be disposable.
Back in the mid '90s I actually wanted to be part of the H-D scene. I was young back then, but also poor. I tried to buy a new '95 Sportster 883, which had an MSRP of around $5200. Not even close. They wanted almost twice that much, and it would take 6 months to get it. That's when I decided I wanted nothing to do with the H-D brand. I still liked the bikes, but not the company. To this day I have never bought anything with H-D on it except the bikes. And one of them has been repainted, and I chose to leave off the Harley Davidson emblems.
I find it really interesting how for decades the Japanese manufacturers tried to copy Harley Davidson, with varying degrees of success. But now the tables have turned, and now Harley Davidson is copying the Japanese brands. And the Japanese manufacturers don't really make Harley copies anymore. One thing they do seem to have in common is that everything they make is FLAT BLACK.
Great video 🤘🏻💯, I absolutely agree..Harley-Davidson all the way , all the time , every day 💯🤘🏻
They have a soul!
If you want a Harley that "vibrates", you're buying used. Harleys stopped vibrating with the end of the Twin Cam and the Evolution Sportster! 😉
Another cool video! I've owned 25 new bike since 2000. I've owned 7 new $$$$ Ducatis and 7 new Harleys $$$$. For me it's the classic look, solid build, and they haven't gone too modern. I love the rumble and the ride even if they're not the perfect motorcycle. McDonald's isn't a burger by any stretch but no burger taste like it (over a billion served). I believe there isn't any Harley Davidson that has a contender . Making it smoother, faster, or whatever changes the bike as you have eluded to in your video. I have gone full circle and will be a die hard HD guy until they mess up a perfect bike for me.
What model is that Dyna-looking beauty @ 11:08? I haven't memorized the H-D alphabet, but that thing ticks a LOT of my boxes.
How come only old geezers own Harleys? If there as wonderfully awesome as Gixxer says why aren't the young guys buying them? Affordability? With the way people shop on monthly payments only and dealerships willing to stretch a loan out for 30 years you'd think the young spry men would be clamouring to get some American/Chinese/Mexican (and other global components) Thunder.
they stand for freedom, a true American bike, a piece of the rock, they're just plain cool man! they're a "say what you mean, mean what you say" personality...
Fit and finish 100%. Real chrome (or blacked out steel if that's your thing). Awesome paint. Good lines. V-twin vibration and sound. After market support. If all this matters to you, then HD is where it's at. Metrics are good, boring bikes to start on. Let the hate begin....🤣
Don't forget the feel of the locking into first gear and each gear change - tight and crisp, like calking a revolver. Something I have never felt on a metric, at least the Hondas I own.
I bought a brand new 1998 XL1200S out of curiosity after being a dirt bike guy. $11,000 in 1998, with many accessorized chrome bits and bobs on a vivid black base. It is still fantastic to sit in the garage and look at the bike, it is a piece of art. But I only have less than 10k miles on the bike after 25 years. Resale value is crap. Glad I still like the way it looks, because I can’t stand to ride it and hate to sell it for such a small price (worth what, $3k?). I’m the wrong type or person for a Harley.
Because you can buy broken ones cheap and fix them for cheap. Extremely easy to work on. Except the 2004-up rubber mount sportsters. That was a step backwards in design.
9:20 “ I know there’s probably better machines out there, but they don’t say HD on the tank.”
That says it all. Brand association over performance. It’s simple.
I personally think HD should look into a small supercharger to add power and maintain Harley sound. Turbo will mute. Makes more sense to me than adding displacement until they reach 200cu inch.
The push road engine looks are the best
My Great grandfather had a Harley Davidson with a side car. My Grand mother would ride in tandem while my Great grandmother and Great aunt rode in the side car. He would take the side car off and go hill climbing with it. He did that until he got hurt and My Great Grandmother put an end to it. That's why I got a Harley Davidson. And they're beautiful. Sound bad ass. Chicks dig them.
HD has faithfully kept the knucklehead design/look in its current range. Keeping the retro look feel & sound. It makes them distinctive and easily recognised. Unfortunately there is no reason to buy a new one for HD owners when they can bling their existing bike and smart buyers will buy a used one so new HD bike sales are dropping year by year. That's why HD has increased prices to keep the company profit high.
Actually, every new harley needs an airbox, not an air cleaner. Look at King of the Baggers bikes.
It is a big gamble to abandon what you have been known & respected for
to start over at square one with something completely new & different.
HD had never done that before, but now they are.
Personally, I do not like any of their new offerings.
I ride the old stuff & luckily for me when their new stuff gets old I won`t be riding any more, because I wouldn`t ride it or own it.
Time will tell if "The Motor Company" can maintain their position in the market place & in the social culture psyche as they have in the past.