The problem is that during the nineties HD squeezed out the mom & pop stores owned by people who actually rode and who lived and breathed HD. They were replaced by big money investors who at the direction of HD built big palaces, with huge overhead and many staffed by people who had never ridden. Harley also increased the number of dealerships by a large margin. Now you have big facilities with huge overhead forced to compete with another franchisee not too far away. In order to cover the overhead and make a profit it’s all about moving the iron, covering every bike with enough chrome to sink a boat and financing the bike through Harley. That’s where the money is.
The fact the Softail Standard has no bells and whistles is what makes it appealing. Doubly appealing because of the price. Enjoyed the video. Be sure to find one and try it. I'd be interested in your comments on it.
Agreed. I can't justify the cost of a Sport Glide at 18k, but for 14k I could buy one of these, and get the bags I want to make a light touring machine.
Next time your at a H-D dealer , you owe it to yourself to demo ride one . No cost , just ride , you will fall in love with Harley-Davidson . Ride safe , good luck .
@@GasWorksISO all signs point to big savings after the dealers feel the pandemic pain for long enough. Hopefully there are deals on new bikes :D love my drz but fuck it's terrible on the highway
Mate, I just stepped from a BMW S1000rr to a Street Bob and couldn't be happier. On paper it's a huge step down with the loss of cruise control, heated grips, and a myriad of other technical advantages, but I love how the Bob makes me feel, and the craftsmanship of Harley Davidson. I know you have already purchased the Bob, but being able to watch your videos and hear you openly debate to yourself the advantages/disadvantages of the bikes helped me pull the trigger on my own. Thanks
This is a great entry level bike for someone who wants to move up to the next level Harley. Or move up to the Softail line up. It’s highly customizable. And in my opinion. Great bang for your buck. Great bike . Everyone ride safe
I think the new Softail (Street Bob) looks even better than the blacked out version and it's cheaper too. I nearly brought the Street Bob but for a bit money i got the low rider, you get quite a bit more for your money. Thanks.
Hey GWG, great video on the topic of the HD Softail Standard. I’m also interested in the bike. In Australia it’s going to retail for about $19-$20k. It’s a shame you guys have to wait that long to get to see one.
I used to own a Vulcan 1500 and it was ok, but I had a chance to ride a friend's Harley Dyna super glide and man, that was great. Completely different feel from a Japanese cruiser, very solid and stable on the road, and massive torque. Plus, all the small details on the Harley were just top notch, very high end build quality, right down to the beautiful paint job. I ended up selling the Vulcan to an older guy, and bought a '14 Harley dyna low rider, which I still have. It's awesome, love it!
My father and I went to look at Harleys after liking look of Suzuki Intruder. Put money down and bought softail slim without even riding it. Love it! Done so much to it. Pillian seat, pegs, vance and hines big radius pipes and heavy breather, stage 1, daymaker headlamp. Its gun metal grey.
@@GasWorksISO i know brother. It will be my first ride with my first bike (after i got the license last year) on monday. So im pretty nervous. Its been 12 Celsius here today:D
Ditch the Vulcan. Go the the Street Bob. You want ABS. Go back to a HD Dealer around Sep-Aug (new models go on floor, dealers wanna move last years stock and HD finance is cheap too, you can save thousands). I did this and snapped up an FXDR for $7000 less, with only 1200kms on the odometer. 5yr warranty, 114 cubes, a parts catalogue with EVERYTHING in it... all at 3.99%. Buy smarter. Once you go above the 650, you’ll struggle to go back.
The streetbob is an amazing choice I bought my 2018 streetbob brand new it didnt come with alot of bell's and whistles but I can tell you it's a great choice and to me well worth the money.
Gas Works Garage if the LRS is even an option you’d be INSANE not to go for it. I can’t relay to you through a simple message how fuckin beautiful this bike is. “Straight from the mouths of babes” the 8 year old boy across the street that plays with my daughter said, “it’s like a Ferrari and a motorcycle mixed”. He’s EXACTLY right. The muscle (power/torque) and the shiny black metal... the chrome valves. It’s absolutely incredible. The brakes saved my new ass 3 times the first day. By that I mean the ABS told me I was a dumbass without dropping the bike. Mine has a stage 1 tune with TBR 2 to 1.
I’ll be shopping for a bike in the Softail lineup that has ABS. Unfortunately the Standard doesn’t come with it. Looking at the Slim, Sport Glide, Lowrider S, and the Street Bob.. decisions decisions....
I got my softtail standard a week ago and I love her. Engine is solid, I like the look of her, and I can add to her as I go. I do want a back seat for it and have to change the pipes so I can add the second saddle bag.
The reason it doesn't get more attention is this. By the time you pay freight and taxes this bike is 15k out the door. That's if the dealer does not try and charge some premium above that for being a Harley. In my case, I hate the spoke wheels and hate the overpriced options that they offer. Harley Davidson, specifically the softail is an excellent bike, but by the time I have 17-18k in it, it's still not worth it. You stated the street bob was 16,3k and yet the msrp is 14,5k. That's most likely minus tax. That in a nutshell is Harley Davidson's problem and will be until the end. The standard will be around 1k less at 15,3k and that will be minus tax. So, the 13,6k softail standard will be 16k out the door. That's completely unacceptable. IMO
I took a test ride on a 2019 Street Bob last month. I really liked the power and handling of it! The only reason I didn't buy it is because I'm waiting to have a sizable downpayment. If you buy this Standard version I don't think you would be disappointed.
As a fellow metric rider ('15 Yamaha Vstar 950) I love the idea of a Harley but the price point to move into them has always been a bit much to bite off. My bike cost me 5k with 1000 miles on it in almost brand new condition. I do like the minimalist approach to the standard, and like you said the sky's the limit for the aftermarket. I'd probably end up getting a mustang seat as those things are a world of comfort, especially with the backrest, it's like riding a ezboy haha. I'd pay extra for ABS though if I was paying over 10k for a bike these days though. You don't need it but it's something that might make the difference in a bad situation. I wish I had taken up riding when I was out in Yakima. Being in the North East all I have is snow for 6 months, it will probably be April before I can get out and ride this year.
I think for the extra $1000 I would just get the Street Bob with the ABS. By the time you add a few things to the Standard, you’re in the Bob range anyway.
I said I wasn’t going to pay that much for a Harley ($30K) too. So, a few years ago, I bought a Heritage. They’re high now, but they were a little more affordable back then. Then, I decided to upgrade to a Road King so my wife would be more comfortable. We rode 2 up for a couple of years and she LOVED IT. So, last year, I did exactly what I said I wouldn’t do. Except, I was able to negotiate the deal to under $30K.
Some dealerships like my local one will add on aftermarket stuff (OEM during first 60 days warrantied) to "new" models like the Electra Glide Standard, Softail Standard and sell at almost MSRP to get them on the road. May not be something you would be interested in but they are out there and provide a good platform for further customization while saving money.
I stopped back by there yesterday and the sales manager said the Standard was supposed to be here last Friday, not 90-120 days from now.. so hopefully I’ll be able to check one out sooner!
Your justifications are why I went with an Electra Glide Standard when I bought new. Granted, it was a couple more grand-but not much. I picked up a 19 leftover in August this past year. They dropped it 2 grand, and took my 02 road king classic, with 56,000 miles, for 3 grand. So, I paid 15 grand for mine, which, to me, was a steal. And, everyone said it would be cheaper to just get the street glide. They are wrong. The main difference between the two is the radio. which, the cost difference is 3 grand. I can do a good aftermarket for mine for a grand. Everything else, would have been changed anyway. Seat, slip ons, etc. Literally, the only differences are the radio and the EGS is a solo seater. Which actually looks pretty slick. So, I totally get it. I think this standard is fantastic for those who want a blank slate softail to work with. Same as the EGS in the touring world. Had this come out a year earlier, I would be making some serious comparisons between the two!!
I'm already a subscriber. You reminded me today why that's so. I too, love HD. I ride a Road King, & my last was a Heritage Softail. I think sticker shock IS their problem.
gasworks garage wanted to ask a question what is your thoughts on a air bag jacket I thought about buying one I would like to here your thoughts on one even if you don't do a review do you think there a good or bad idea thanks for the great video lynn
thanks man for your thoughts on it it wouldn't protect any one from puncher wonds but it would be a big help in inpacks against objects or I would think so thanks again
It is a beautiful machine, that's for sure. I'd say it is now a much tougher choice to go with, say an Iron 1200 vs. the Standard. Then again, you'd have to decide between the Standard and the Street Bob. I guess that comes down to whether you like the blacked-out look (which I prefer). I'd like to see you do an "alternative" cruiser video, what would you recommend to someone who wants a classic looking cruiser but doesn't want to pay the Harley tax? Vulcan Classic? Honda Shadow?
Heard about this softail standard and never seen one in a HD DEALER yet. Salesmen want to dazzle with the CVO trikes and road glides right when u walk in the door. They have the new FXBB in the back or the middle.
I think is a great option. Is the cheapest option on the softail family and it comes with a nice bar and great engine 107 so you just need to go customizing your bike as you want. It seems comfortable and nice quality so where is the problem? You can go cheaper buying the iron 1200 but for me is not something to compare. Iron is an iron... and just a toy, the softail is a real bike. You don't need the 114 of the low rider s or fat bob. I didn't tried the softail standard but I've tried the fatbob and the sportglide and I will definitely take the sportglide before the fatbob. Sportglide is 107
I have owned 7 Harley's over the last 50 years all were Flathead panhead and Shovels. I got a 2002 FLSTC and a 2001 Road King FLHRCI and are my first twin Cams and I am sorry I didn''t track down a good Evo. The Road king was wrecked when i got it and it will start right and idle even with the entire rear of it missing not so much the the FLSTC it had carburetor issues it took me a long time to work out. These bikes are not designed to work on yourself and I think I will sell both this spring.
Planning on buying one if i cant get my hand on a sport glide. And then build it out. Prob tank swap it as its first mod. Then add cruise controle. But love the styling. The tank tho.. is bs. 3.5 gallons is what is killing it's sales i reckon.
I wasn't even serious just kind of out looking around at an HD dealership. I was looking at the softail range. The sales manager walked over to the salesman and I and said $2,000 gift card if you buy one. I didn't purchase but they will come down that much I know. The only fee was a $199.00 admin fee. These dealerships are starving.
I'm still riding an older VN750 but want to step up to a new model. That soft tail is really nice but just like you, the payment is the stopper. I could almost buy a Vulcan S out right now. The HD would mean a payment on something and higher insurance while paying on it. It sucks making years of payments on something that isn't practical for year round use.
what would cool is if they made mag wheels with spokes accenting the outside of the mag... and then make the mag black and the spokes gold or silver to complement each other... Lastly the mag would stabilize the spokes better and they would last longer.... Just a cool idea
Softail standard is going to be a hot selling bike. Classic Harley looks, cheaper out the door, and mod as you want in time. Don’t pay 1k in freight and prep man.
Oh, the mileage thing. I get 50+ mpg on my Limited with the 114. That 107, lighter, Softail Standard should get better. I get that mileage as long as I am on the highways where the speed limit is 55 or 60, not the freeways running 75.
I started on a 2015 vulcan s. Loved the bike so much. Kept it for around a year, and just recently traded it in for a low rider s. I sure do miss the vulcan, I won't lie, but I've just had a blast with Harley so far. So many plans for accessories and upgrades, where I never thought about that for the vulcan other than crash bars and maybe a new seat. Definitely a money pit, but hey, that's why we buy motorcycles anyways right? To have fun. BTW - those "dust covers" are just there so they don't have to spend the extra money blacking out the forks. I think they're ugly as sin personally, would rather see all chrome forks than that.
I think for the money they could have gave a 5 gallon or 4.5 gallon tank with speedometer and fuel gauge in the tank or at least make it an upgrade option cause they were able to have those things on the dyna super glide custom that was just a little cheaper than this model
Ohhhh got cha salesman! Need to stay up on new product releases. Lets show some passion😎 never a dumb thing to trade in for a Harley, your ride will never be the same brother😎
It seems like this bike is just a Street Bob with different finishes on various parts instead of blacked out. I miss the old style Softail Standard, the bobtail rear fender, 21" front wheel, etc.
Indian just released the scout bobber sixty for much cheaper at $9k. That's probably why people arent excited about it. The scout sixty is just as fast as a softail and much cheaper. I like Harley but they still got to go even cheaper and get their new models (the bronx and 1250 custom out quicker, Indian is killing them in this department).
Hmmm I'm not a Harley fan. don't exactly know why, but I did like that street bob... What are your thoughts on Indian? The Scout Bobber is pretty nice.
Yes and it is wise to stick with what you know especially if you were learning it quite easy I do agree to buy candles quite well liens very well I like the softail standard it is a good bike I put quite a few miles on mine when I first got it I had issues with the seat I’m not too particular about the seat I am not a heavy guy and I’m an older man I said upright and you will slide back that motorcycle has a lot of power so you might wanna consider a seat with a back rest or a shell factor not a lip but a shelf because it will scare you but once you get past that it is OK it is a Bitchin bike I am very customizable
I might try one, if they would try to compete on price and quality. Sorry, but my 2017 Suzuki SV650ABS had more power, better handling, ABS as standard, a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty and cost $7349 Cdn - which is less than half what my local Harley stealership wants for a Softtail that doesn’t have ABS and produces less power. I know it isn’t a Harley, but it goes like he!!, it doesn’t leak and it ALWAYS starts.
Well John, we’ve all got our opinions I guess. I certainly should have put the power as power to weight and BTW, the 2017 SV650ABS is 75 HP not 69 (facts are such a PITA aren’t they...). Anyhow - with nearly 3X the displacement, it is indeed impressive that Harley can make as much as 5 more horsepower and 2.33 X the torque of the SV. I wonder how I am able to out-drag them anytime? As for ABS, any engineer can tell you why it is such an important safety factor for any rider - but those are just more facts I guess. Anyway - I won’t get into a wrangle on it except to say that after 40+ years on bikes, I have seen what I need to see about Harleys - old and new and it seems that the bike market has too. Even the Asian brands are selling slowly these days, but the drop off in heavy bike sales has been enormous (perhaps that is why Victory died and Harley is struggling...and just ditched their CEO). I will conclude by suggesting that if H-D wants to sell more motorcycles, they’ll need to get the price below $10K and the performance well above where it is now. Cheers and happy riding!
Yeah, however they aren’t cheap.. I was looking around on cycle trader and for around 14k I could get a used Sport Glide. Much more bike for not much more money.. I’ve got some thinking to do!
Hello Hope your doing fine Love your vídeos. Like you i Have my motorcycle drivers license since 42 years old. 🙂 I have a vulvan s since september, it is de 2020 model. I think Last friday have experienced false neutral transicion 2°to 3° gear. Have that ever happend to you on the vulcan? Have to test more... Thank you, keep UP the vídeos 👍
That makes sense. But the whole point is some people don't have a few grand more. Also harley doesn't do enough bare bones bikes in my opinion. Give me a blank canvas like any day. I'm not really interested in factory "custom" paint that several other people have. And you feel like you're doing something wrong if you paint over it.
Gamemachine it’s too raw polished aluminum never looks good especially if you going start modifying. The tank is just to small for any kind of decent ride. You can get a good used bike with low miles for this price and a new Street bob which is actually a better starting point for maybe a 30 bucks more a month in payments. I paid 12k for my King and it only had 12500 miles on it. My point is the shot them self in the foot because there are better options at this price.
@@pb6769 Yeah you make some good points. I mean I actually went with a used bike myself There are good deals on used bikes. But if you're looking for new. the bike is really not hard on the eyes at all. The only one that we got at our dealership didn't last very long in the showroom. I'm telling you close up it's a pretty nice ride for the money. I don't Think that between what you get on it and the street bob is worth paying the 30 bucks a month extra for. They are essentially the same bike.
I get about 40 mpg with a 114ci. The softail frame though rides so much smoother than the Vulcan or their sportster, both fun bikes though. Ride a 107 and 114 softail, you'll immediately understand why they cost that much.
@@GasWorksISO I just got a lowrider s. It's very similar to the street bob but a few levels of upgrades later. I was on a sportster 1200C, loved that bike, but the comfort of a softail and the lowend power of the M8 is a lot of fun. I waited months before making my decision and was originally going to buy the street bob and then looked at how much it would cost to get the bike where I want, then they came out with the lowrider s, basically everything I wanted to do to the street bob plus more. Ride a few softails just to check out if anything. My suggestions to test, street bob/standard, fat bob, lowrider and lowrider s. All fun bikes and those are the ones that made me change
It’s kind of hard to pick one! The Street Bob, Sport Glide, and the Slim are at the top of the list for me. But that could change the more I look at them...
@@GasWorksISO Have you test road any of them? I would then think about what your goal is for the bike. The slim is an awesome bike, it's a fat boy but slim, Haha. The sport glide is like a touring bike because it comes with really nice locking bags which are expensive. But it doesn't cost as much as a touring bike. I wanted something stripped down with power and that's why I ended up with the lowrider s. That bike is the closest to where I want the end bike to be for the most part.
Worse salesmen ever, knowing nothing about nothing but loves the kickstand. I also am very interested in the Softail Standard. Yes, the aftermarket for any Harley is amazing and worth a buy.
H-D CEO just decided to step down, I hope that isn't a sign of things to come. As much as I think their bikes are overpriced, I also think its in everyone's interest for motorcycle companies to succeed. I'd advise you to hold on to your Vulcan, if you trade it in, you might kick yourself in the butt later on. Yamahas, Hondas and Kawasakis are a lot less maintenance than a Harley, so there is something you may want to consider as well. I dig that little strip mall though, one stop motorcycle shopping lol.
Agreed. Perhaps someone new will take them in the right direction from here forward. There’s no doubt the price of their products have pushed a lot of people away in the last several years. This new Softail is a step in the right direction.
Levatich didn't volunteer to step away from $8,460,000.00 per year. New acting CEO comes from a sporting goods background and doesn't know a handlebar from a candy bar. H-D future looks bleak.
@@GasWorksISO The M8 107 has got some power, it would push that motorcycle real well...Last Friday I traded an 05 Ultra Classic that I purchased new 15 years ago, I decided to buy the E-Glide Standard...blank slate, sort of speak..making it my own....Try and test ride as many different models as you can....good luck to you....ride safe.
I think the difference is the new milwaukee 8. I know I'm sounding like the average harley fanboy. Even if it doesnt have the same acceleration as the japanese bikes, it's got a feel that you cant get out of any japanese cruiser. Some people like that feel, some dont.
I’ll give ya that the Harley Davidson brand has something to them. I was raised by a Harley man. I wanted a Harley when I decided it was time. But I also had to shop for what was within my price range. I wanted a certain look and I wanted a new bike. I didn’t particularly like the idea of buying someone else’s problem. So I went with the Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic LT. Are there things I wish it had that most if not all Harley’s have, yes. But in the end, for my first bike, I’m happy with what I have. Am I looking for my next one? Always! Am I limiting myself to a particular brand? No. I’m looking at all bikes within the cruiser/touring lines.
Total waste of time....the bike that is. 1 or 2 steps up and you have a bike that is worthy of the price. I own 2 HDs...Lack of color options and high entry price are killing sales. I paid 11k for a FLS. Better bike overall. Harley missed the mark on this one. Walk away. Grind them down on price and get a decent bike. They deserve it. Die hard HD fan here
Guy works in the dealership and didn't even know what a Softail Standard was. Didn't seem to know the answer to almost anything you asked at all and had to look at things or make something up...
I test rode it yesterday. The dealer said I was the first to ride it and they got it the prior Tuesday. It was very fast, tight, flickable, and shiny. But . . . boring. It felt and looked like all the 2018+ "Honda-Davidsons" do. Just doesn't feel like true Harley. But you're way off on the pricing compared to Sportsters. The 1200 Classic hasn't been made since 2019 and was 10,999 max. The highest priced model is actually the Roadster at 11,499. Far cry from 13,599. And my 48 is way more fun and "harley" than the Softail Standard. And whatever dealer you have is moronic. All dealers should have one by now. They all got their Eagle Eye Road Glide and 30th Fatboy on time. I hate having to teach dealers what they should be teaching me. Stay safe.
I got my softail standard on Saturday. Love the stripped down look. Torque is great. Love it
you just experienced my personal pet peeve. salesmen that know less about the bikes than the customer. drives me nuts.
Well it's the age of the internet. We are more informed than ever before. We don't even need salesmen anymore.
The problem is that during the nineties HD squeezed out the mom & pop stores owned by people who actually rode and who lived and breathed HD. They were replaced by big money investors who at the direction of HD built big palaces, with huge overhead and many staffed by people who had never ridden. Harley also increased the number of dealerships by a large margin. Now you have big facilities with huge overhead forced to compete with another franchisee not too far away. In order to cover the overhead and make a profit it’s all about moving the iron, covering every bike with enough chrome to sink a boat and financing the bike through Harley. That’s where the money is.
Very common these days
That's a short drive.
The fact the Softail Standard has no bells and whistles is what makes it appealing. Doubly appealing because of the price. Enjoyed the video. Be sure to find one and try it. I'd be interested in your comments on it.
Agreed. I can't justify the cost of a Sport Glide at 18k, but for 14k I could buy one of these, and get the bags I want to make a light touring machine.
Next time your at a H-D dealer , you owe it to yourself to demo ride one . No cost , just ride , you will fall in love with Harley-Davidson . Ride safe , good luck .
That’s true. I know I will... Must stay away until the $ is available. ☹️
@@GasWorksISO all signs point to big savings after the dealers feel the pandemic pain for long enough. Hopefully there are deals on new bikes :D love my drz but fuck it's terrible on the highway
Mate, I just stepped from a BMW S1000rr to a Street Bob and couldn't be happier.
On paper it's a huge step down with the loss of cruise control, heated grips, and a myriad of other technical advantages, but I love how the Bob makes me feel, and the craftsmanship of Harley Davidson.
I know you have already purchased the Bob, but being able to watch your videos and hear you openly debate to yourself the advantages/disadvantages of the bikes helped me pull the trigger on my own.
Thanks
I really like the HD Softtail Standard with the 107 cubic inch motor.
Me too!
This is a great entry level bike for someone who wants to move up to the next level Harley. Or move up to the Softail line up. It’s highly customizable. And in my opinion. Great bang for your buck. Great bike . Everyone ride safe
I think the new Softail (Street Bob) looks even better than the blacked out version and it's cheaper too. I nearly brought the Street Bob but for a bit money i got the low rider, you get quite a bit more for your money. Thanks.
I got the low rider too
Watching back through these videos has been like watching the steps of grief in reverse, the steps to rationalizing a Harley. Has been fun to watch.
Hey GWG, great video on the topic of the HD Softail Standard.
I’m also interested in the bike.
In Australia it’s going to retail for about $19-$20k.
It’s a shame you guys have to wait that long to get to see one.
I used to own a Vulcan 1500 and it was ok, but I had a chance to ride a friend's Harley Dyna super glide and man, that was great. Completely different feel from a Japanese cruiser, very solid and stable on the road, and massive torque. Plus, all the small details on the Harley were just top notch, very high end build quality, right down to the beautiful paint job. I ended up selling the Vulcan to an older guy, and bought a '14 Harley dyna low rider, which I still have. It's awesome, love it!
Get the Harley. They handle great and go good and look awesome. You'll have no regrets.
My father and I went to look at Harleys after liking look of Suzuki Intruder. Put money down and bought softail slim without even riding it. Love it! Done so much to it. Pillian seat, pegs, vance and hines big radius pipes and heavy breather, stage 1, daymaker headlamp. Its gun metal grey.
Great vid! I bet you'd enjoy the harley! There's something special about them. But those vulcans sure are a blast! Hahaha!
The Vulcan is fun, but you know, there’s just ...something missing. Lol
I was waiting for you man, to post something. I was really missing your posts kind man:)
It’s been a bit too cold to ride for my taste here lately.
@@GasWorksISO i know brother. It will be my first ride with my first bike (after i got the license last year) on monday. So im pretty nervous. Its been 12 Celsius here today:D
Ditch the Vulcan. Go the the Street Bob. You want ABS.
Go back to a HD Dealer around Sep-Aug (new models go on floor, dealers wanna move last years stock and HD finance is cheap too, you can save thousands).
I did this and snapped up an FXDR for $7000 less, with only 1200kms on the odometer. 5yr warranty, 114 cubes, a parts catalogue with EVERYTHING in it... all at 3.99%.
Buy smarter. Once you go above the 650, you’ll struggle to go back.
The soft tail standard seems to take the place of a Dyna FXD. I bought my 2010 bare so I could make it my own-like a blank canvas.
I bought one n must say what a dream nothing fancy- Just added forward control n S&s pipes wow awesome bike 2022 Harley Davidson softail standard
I just started riding, enjoying your vids. Glad to see ya back.
The streetbob is an amazing choice I bought my 2018 streetbob brand new it didnt come with alot of bell's and whistles but I can tell you it's a great choice and to me well worth the money.
I’ll be test riding one soon! Beautiful bikes. I only wish it had the tank and gauge from the Softail Slim.
I just bought one today, can’t believe they don’t have any in stock
What do you think about it?
The day this was published was the day I picked mine up...
Great Vid and nice to see you back ma bredda
Just bought my first last weekend. A 2020 Low Rider S. It’s absolutely fantastic! I’m over the moon! Learned a ton though.
I’m actually having a hard time deciding which one I want now that I’m actually looking...🤔😅
Gas Works Garage if the LRS is even an option you’d be INSANE not to go for it. I can’t relay to you through a simple message how fuckin beautiful this bike is. “Straight from the mouths of babes” the 8 year old boy across the street that plays with my daughter said, “it’s like a Ferrari and a motorcycle mixed”. He’s EXACTLY right. The muscle (power/torque) and the shiny black metal... the chrome valves. It’s absolutely incredible. The brakes saved my new ass 3 times the first day. By that I mean the ABS told me I was a dumbass without dropping the bike. Mine has a stage 1 tune with TBR 2 to 1.
I’ll be shopping for a bike in the Softail lineup that has ABS. Unfortunately the Standard doesn’t come with it. Looking at the Slim, Sport Glide, Lowrider S, and the Street Bob.. decisions decisions....
Just got a Lowrider S as well. Awesome lighter Harley with the 114ci. That and the dual front disk brakes are worth the extra from the street bob
I got my softtail standard a week ago and I love her. Engine is solid, I like the look of her, and I can add to her as I go. I do want a back seat for it and have to change the pipes so I can add the second saddle bag.
The reason it doesn't get more attention is this. By the time you pay freight and taxes this bike is 15k out the door. That's if the dealer does not try and charge some premium above that for being a Harley. In my case, I hate the spoke wheels and hate the overpriced options that they offer. Harley Davidson, specifically the softail is an excellent bike, but by the time I have 17-18k in it, it's still not worth it. You stated the street bob was 16,3k and yet the msrp is 14,5k. That's most likely minus tax. That in a nutshell is Harley Davidson's problem and will be until the end. The standard will be around 1k less at 15,3k and that will be minus tax. So, the 13,6k softail standard will be 16k out the door. That's completely unacceptable. IMO
Gotta agree with you, if the dealer adds a bunch of cost to the bike, it will drop off my radar.
Can't agree with you more I mean 4 what your getting its price point will not boost sales margins come on Harley
I took a test ride on a 2019 Street Bob last month. I really liked the power and handling of it! The only reason I didn't buy it is because I'm waiting to have a sizable downpayment. If you buy this Standard version I don't think you would be disappointed.
As a fellow metric rider ('15 Yamaha Vstar 950) I love the idea of a Harley but the price point to move into them has always been a bit much to bite off. My bike cost me 5k with 1000 miles on it in almost brand new condition. I do like the minimalist approach to the standard, and like you said the sky's the limit for the aftermarket. I'd probably end up getting a mustang seat as those things are a world of comfort, especially with the backrest, it's like riding a ezboy haha. I'd pay extra for ABS though if I was paying over 10k for a bike these days though. You don't need it but it's something that might make the difference in a bad situation. I wish I had taken up riding when I was out in Yakima. Being in the North East all I have is snow for 6 months, it will probably be April before I can get out and ride this year.
I think for the extra $1000 I would just get the Street Bob with the ABS. By the time you add a few things to the Standard, you’re in the Bob range anyway.
I said I wasn’t going to pay that much for a Harley ($30K) too. So, a few years ago, I bought a Heritage. They’re high now, but they were a little more affordable back then. Then, I decided to upgrade to a Road King so my wife would be more comfortable. We rode 2 up for a couple of years and she LOVED IT. So, last year, I did exactly what I said I wouldn’t do. Except, I was able to negotiate the deal to under $30K.
Some dealerships like my local one will add on aftermarket stuff (OEM during first 60 days warrantied) to "new" models like the Electra Glide Standard, Softail Standard and sell at almost MSRP to get them on the road. May not be something you would be interested in but they are out there and provide a good platform for further customization while saving money.
I stopped back by there yesterday and the sales manager said the Standard was supposed to be here last Friday, not 90-120 days from now.. so hopefully I’ll be able to check one out sooner!
@@GasWorksISO Well...he did know about the Street Bob's kickstand so at least he knew something...
Your justifications are why I went with an Electra Glide Standard when I bought new. Granted, it was a couple more grand-but not much. I picked up a 19 leftover in August this past year. They dropped it 2 grand, and took my 02 road king classic, with 56,000 miles, for 3 grand. So, I paid 15 grand for mine, which, to me, was a steal. And, everyone said it would be cheaper to just get the street glide. They are wrong. The main difference between the two is the radio. which, the cost difference is 3 grand. I can do a good aftermarket for mine for a grand. Everything else, would have been changed anyway. Seat, slip ons, etc. Literally, the only differences are the radio and the EGS is a solo seater. Which actually looks pretty slick.
So, I totally get it. I think this standard is fantastic for those who want a blank slate softail to work with. Same as the EGS in the touring world. Had this come out a year earlier, I would be making some serious comparisons between the two!!
You should put a deposit on one now an get the price of the standard in writing to hopefully avoid the dealer markup.
I'm already a subscriber. You reminded me today why that's so. I too, love HD. I ride a Road King, & my last was a Heritage Softail. I think sticker shock IS their problem.
gasworks garage wanted to ask a question what is your thoughts on a air bag jacket I thought about buying one I would like to here your thoughts on one even if you don't do a review do you think there a good or bad idea thanks for the great video lynn
Good question... I would like to know his thoughts on it as well...
I haven’t thought about buying one, but I’m all for anything that makes you safer. If you want to wear one, by all means go for it!
@@GasWorksISO thank you!
thanks man for your thoughts on it it wouldn't protect any one from puncher wonds but it would be a big help in inpacks against objects or I would think so thanks again
Been on Harley's for last 22 years and love them. But I do miss my 70's Kawasaki z900 and z1000. Don't miss my Fireblade or my zzr1100.❤️👊👍
i ride a harley fatboy but in the eightys i had a z1000
still love the 4 into one
toby yea, there is some thing very cool about those 70's z series🏍🏍🏍🏍👍👊
@@keithwaite5026 yepa 😊😊😊
It is a beautiful machine, that's for sure. I'd say it is now a much tougher choice to go with, say an Iron 1200 vs. the Standard. Then again, you'd have to decide between the Standard and the Street Bob. I guess that comes down to whether you like the blacked-out look (which I prefer). I'd like to see you do an "alternative" cruiser video, what would you recommend to someone who wants a classic looking cruiser but doesn't want to pay the Harley tax? Vulcan Classic? Honda Shadow?
I got the 2020 street bob and love it .... due to recent back surgery I had to downsize and traded my roadking for it
FIRE IT UP! FIRE IT UP! Lol The Crow Rocks!!!
Heard about this softail standard and never seen one in a HD DEALER yet. Salesmen want to dazzle with the CVO trikes and road glides right when u walk in the door. They have the new FXBB in the back or the middle.
Find a 2 year old Street Bob with under 1K miles for $10K and you're all set. Good video!!
The search is on....👍🏻
Almost started headbanging during the intro
Almost? Don’t hold back..🤘🏻
I think is a great option. Is the cheapest option on the softail family and it comes with a nice bar and great engine 107 so you just need to go customizing your bike as you want. It seems comfortable and nice quality so where is the problem? You can go cheaper buying the iron 1200 but for me is not something to compare. Iron is an iron... and just a toy, the softail is a real bike. You don't need the 114 of the low rider s or fat bob. I didn't tried the softail standard but I've tried the fatbob and the sportglide and I will definitely take the sportglide before the fatbob. Sportglide is 107
I have owned 7 Harley's over the last 50 years all were Flathead panhead and Shovels. I got a 2002 FLSTC and a 2001 Road King FLHRCI and are my first twin Cams and I am sorry I didn''t track down a good Evo. The Road king was wrecked when i got it and it will start right and idle even with the entire rear of it missing not so much the the FLSTC it had carburetor issues it took me a long time to work out. These bikes are not designed to work on yourself and I think I will sell both this spring.
I always buy them used lots of great low mile bikes out there. The warranty costs probably 2k so if you buy new that comes for “free”
Planning on buying one if i cant get my hand on a sport glide. And then build it out. Prob tank swap it as its first mod. Then add cruise controle.
But love the styling. The tank tho.. is bs. 3.5 gallons is what is killing it's sales i reckon.
What area are you driving through (around 1:45)? It looks like a nice place to ride.
I wasn't even serious just kind of out looking around at an HD dealership. I was looking at the softail range. The sales manager walked over to the salesman and I and said $2,000 gift card if you buy one. I didn't purchase but they will come down that much I know. The only fee was a $199.00 admin fee. These dealerships are starving.
I'm still riding an older VN750 but want to step up to a new model. That soft tail is really nice but just like you, the payment is the stopper. I could almost buy a Vulcan S out right now. The HD would mean a payment on something and higher insurance while paying on it. It sucks making years of payments on something that isn't practical for year round use.
what would cool is if they made mag wheels with spokes accenting the outside of the mag... and then make the mag black and the spokes gold or silver to complement each other... Lastly the mag would stabilize the spokes better and they would last longer.... Just a cool idea
Softail standard is going to be a hot selling bike. Classic Harley looks, cheaper out the door, and mod as you want in time. Don’t pay 1k in freight and prep man.
Oh, the mileage thing. I get 50+ mpg on my Limited with the 114. That 107, lighter, Softail Standard should get better. I get that mileage as long as I am on the highways where the speed limit is 55 or 60, not the freeways running 75.
It's a homerun for Harley Davidson
I started on a 2015 vulcan s. Loved the bike so much. Kept it for around a year, and just recently traded it in for a low rider s. I sure do miss the vulcan, I won't lie, but I've just had a blast with Harley so far. So many plans for accessories and upgrades, where I never thought about that for the vulcan other than crash bars and maybe a new seat. Definitely a money pit, but hey, that's why we buy motorcycles anyways right? To have fun.
BTW - those "dust covers" are just there so they don't have to spend the extra money blacking out the forks. I think they're ugly as sin personally, would rather see all chrome forks than that.
psst..... I test rode one today... video coming soon...😊
@@GasWorksISO Sweet, can't wait!
I think for the money they could have gave a 5 gallon or 4.5 gallon tank with speedometer and fuel gauge in the tank or at least make it an upgrade option cause they were able to have those things on the dyna super glide custom that was just a little cheaper than this model
If the bigger tank and gauge were on this model, it would be nice.
Oh and I bought this bike and really love the look and feel
Ohhhh got cha salesman! Need to stay up on new product releases. Lets show some passion😎 never a dumb thing to trade in for a Harley, your ride will never be the same brother😎
It seems like this bike is just a Street Bob with different finishes on various parts instead of blacked out. I miss the old style Softail Standard, the bobtail rear fender, 21" front wheel, etc.
Your about to own a Harley it sounds like.
We got one softail standard at the shop I work at. It didn't even last long enough for me to check it out. Someone grabbed it right away.
When you said Softail Standard the salesman said they were all softails. He didn’t know what you were talking about:)
Indian just released the scout bobber sixty for much cheaper at $9k. That's probably why people arent excited about it. The scout sixty is just as fast as a softail and much cheaper. I like Harley but they still got to go even cheaper and get their new models (the bronx and 1250 custom out quicker, Indian is killing them in this department).
are the m8 engines still running a pressed crank like the twin cam time bomb engines ?
I'm eventually going to add a 119 kit to mine.
Hmmm I'm not a Harley fan. don't exactly know why, but I did like that street bob... What are your thoughts on Indian? The Scout Bobber is pretty nice.
I’d like to put my hands on a Scout, but there’s no Indian dealerships around me.
@@GasWorksISO That's to bad. That is the one drawback of Indian. They are a great ride though.
Ordered mine in June ! ETA March 2021. That's what I get for living in the EU.
Yes and it is wise to stick with what you know especially if you were learning it quite easy I do agree to buy candles quite well liens very well I like the softail standard it is a good bike I put quite a few miles on mine when I first got it I had issues with the seat I’m not too particular about the seat I am not a heavy guy and I’m an older man I said upright and you will slide back that motorcycle has a lot of power so you might wanna consider a seat with a back rest or a shell factor not a lip but a shelf because it will scare you but once you get past that it is OK it is a Bitchin bike I am very customizable
I hope you’re right about the price seems a little high to me?
I think it's a cool bike, they tried to lower the cost of their pricetag...
It’s a step in the right direction.
I bought my street bob after riding it I had no question in my mind.
I rode one today it was incredible, I think I'll buy one for my son?
Good Dad
The price of that is worth standard house and lot here in the Philippines 🇵🇭 more power and ride safe 😉
Indian Scout. 100 HP, and 11K. Thats what im upgrading to from my Rebel 500.
Your video title: lol 😂 i love it 👍🏻😍
I might try one, if they would try to compete on price and quality.
Sorry, but my 2017 Suzuki SV650ABS had more power, better handling, ABS as standard, a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty and cost $7349 Cdn - which is less than half what my local Harley stealership wants for a Softtail that doesn’t have ABS and produces less power. I know it isn’t a Harley, but it goes like he!!, it doesn’t leak and it ALWAYS starts.
Well John, we’ve all got our opinions I guess. I certainly should have put the power as power to weight and BTW, the 2017 SV650ABS is 75 HP not 69 (facts are such a PITA aren’t they...). Anyhow - with nearly 3X the displacement, it is indeed impressive that Harley can make as much as 5 more horsepower and 2.33 X the torque of the SV. I wonder how I am able to out-drag them anytime? As for ABS, any engineer can tell you why it is such an important safety factor for any rider - but those are just more facts I guess.
Anyway - I won’t get into a wrangle on it except to say that after 40+ years on bikes, I have seen what I need to see about Harleys - old and new and it seems that the bike market has too.
Even the Asian brands are selling slowly these days, but the drop off in heavy bike sales has been enormous (perhaps that is why Victory died and Harley is struggling...and just ditched their CEO). I will conclude by suggesting that if H-D wants to sell more motorcycles, they’ll need to get the price below $10K and the performance well above where it is now.
Cheers and happy riding!
OK John, whatever you say. But really, I’m not the person who’s worked up.
There are customization packages you can buy for it.
Yeah, however they aren’t cheap.. I was looking around on cycle trader and for around 14k I could get a used Sport Glide. Much more bike for not much more money.. I’ve got some thinking to do!
@@GasWorksISO The Sport Glide would be more versatile.
Ok so I bought the 2020 street bob... What is the difference between the standard and the street bob?
Chrome....that’s all.
@@GasWorksISO glad i got the street bob then...
Hello Hope your doing fine
Love your vídeos.
Like you i Have my motorcycle drivers license since 42 years old. 🙂
I have a vulvan s since september, it is de 2020 model.
I think Last friday have experienced false neutral transicion 2°to 3° gear. Have that ever happend to you on the vulcan? Have to test more...
Thank you, keep UP the vídeos 👍
It has happened. Sometimes I’ve just been a bit lazy between shifts, not being firm enough, and it happens.
Thks
Perfect bike to add to it..
Another road test done on smooth roads. I wish someone would test the suspension for those of us who don't live in a warm climate.
Looks like an unfinished street bob. Id rather pay a few grand more for a better looking bike. They cut corners and it shows in its fit and finish.
That makes sense. But the whole point is some people don't have a few grand more. Also harley doesn't do enough bare bones bikes in my opinion. Give me a blank canvas like any day. I'm not really interested in factory "custom" paint that several other people have. And you feel like you're doing something wrong if you paint over it.
Gamemachine it’s too raw polished aluminum never looks good especially if you going start modifying. The tank is just to small for any kind of decent ride. You can get a good used bike with low miles for this price and a new Street bob which is actually a better starting point for maybe a 30 bucks more a month in payments. I paid 12k for my King and it only had 12500 miles on it. My point is the shot them self in the foot because there are better options at this price.
@@pb6769 Yeah you make some good points. I mean I actually went with a used bike myself There are good deals on used bikes. But if you're looking for new. the bike is really not hard on the eyes at all. The only one that we got at our dealership didn't last very long in the showroom. I'm telling you close up it's a pretty nice ride for the money. I don't Think that between what you get on it and the street bob is worth paying the 30 bucks a month extra for. They are essentially the same bike.
I get about 40 mpg with a 114ci. The softail frame though rides so much smoother than the Vulcan or their sportster, both fun bikes though. Ride a 107 and 114 softail, you'll immediately understand why they cost that much.
Which Softail model do you ride?
@@GasWorksISO I just got a lowrider s. It's very similar to the street bob but a few levels of upgrades later. I was on a sportster 1200C, loved that bike, but the comfort of a softail and the lowend power of the M8 is a lot of fun. I waited months before making my decision and was originally going to buy the street bob and then looked at how much it would cost to get the bike where I want, then they came out with the lowrider s, basically everything I wanted to do to the street bob plus more. Ride a few softails just to check out if anything. My suggestions to test, street bob/standard, fat bob, lowrider and lowrider s. All fun bikes and those are the ones that made me change
@@GasWorksISO depends on how you ride though to when it comes to mpg, if I'm just cruising around town I get around 40 mpg
It’s kind of hard to pick one! The Street Bob, Sport Glide, and the Slim are at the top of the list for me. But that could change the more I look at them...
@@GasWorksISO Have you test road any of them? I would then think about what your goal is for the bike. The slim is an awesome bike, it's a fat boy but slim, Haha. The sport glide is like a touring bike because it comes with really nice locking bags which are expensive. But it doesn't cost as much as a touring bike. I wanted something stripped down with power and that's why I ended up with the lowrider s. That bike is the closest to where I want the end bike to be for the most part.
Worse salesmen ever, knowing nothing about nothing but loves the kickstand. I also am very interested in the Softail Standard. Yes, the aftermarket for any Harley is amazing and worth a buy.
I thought you bought a secondhand Harley Davison? Any feedback or any work done on it!?
would love to get out on the bike . Butt we just got a foot of snow
No snow here, but it’s been really cold lately.
H-D CEO just decided to step down, I hope that isn't a sign of things to come. As much as I think their bikes are overpriced, I also think its in everyone's interest for motorcycle companies to succeed. I'd advise you to hold on to your Vulcan, if you trade it in, you might kick yourself in the butt later on. Yamahas, Hondas and Kawasakis are a lot less maintenance than a Harley, so there is something you may want to consider as well. I dig that little strip mall though, one stop motorcycle shopping lol.
Agreed. Perhaps someone new will take them in the right direction from here forward. There’s no doubt the price of their products have pushed a lot of people away in the last several years. This new Softail is a step in the right direction.
Levatich didn't volunteer to step away from $8,460,000.00 per year. New acting CEO comes from a sporting goods background and doesn't know a handlebar from a candy bar. H-D future looks bleak.
look around a couple other dealers alot already have some models in stock already
The Street Bob doesn't come with ABS standard.
Take a look at the 2020 Electra Glide Standard...nice ride.
I’m eyeballing the Sport Glide. Higher cost, but comes with all the goodies.
@@GasWorksISO The M8 107 has got some power, it would push that motorcycle real well...Last Friday I traded an 05 Ultra Classic that I purchased new 15 years ago, I decided to buy the E-Glide Standard...blank slate, sort of speak..making it my own....Try and test ride as many different models as you can....good luck to you....ride safe.
$13,500 is still a bus load of dough for a bare bones bike. No match for Honda or Kawasaki.
Yeah. That will buy a real nice Japanese bike.
I think the difference is the new milwaukee 8. I know I'm sounding like the average harley fanboy. Even if it doesnt have the same acceleration as the japanese bikes, it's got a feel that you cant get out of any japanese cruiser. Some people like that feel, some dont.
Honda or Kawasaki will never have the sound , comfort. Or cool factor of a Harley. You get what you pay for . Ride safe everyone
I’ll give ya that the Harley Davidson brand has something to them. I was raised by a Harley man. I wanted a Harley when I decided it was time. But I also had to shop for what was within my price range. I wanted a certain look and I wanted a new bike. I didn’t particularly like the idea of buying someone else’s problem. So I went with the Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic LT. Are there things I wish it had that most if not all Harley’s have, yes. But in the end, for my first bike, I’m happy with what I have. Am I looking for my next one? Always! Am I limiting myself to a particular brand? No. I’m looking at all bikes within the cruiser/touring lines.
It's not missing anything that's absolutely necessary. If you test rode a Street Bob then this you wouldn't really be missing anything.
Total waste of time....the bike that is. 1 or 2 steps up and you have a bike that is worthy of the price. I own 2 HDs...Lack of color options and high entry price are killing sales. I paid 11k for a FLS. Better bike overall.
Harley missed the mark on this one. Walk away. Grind them down on price and get a decent bike. They deserve it. Die hard HD fan here
Guy works in the dealership and didn't even know what a Softail Standard was. Didn't seem to know the answer to almost anything you asked at all and had to look at things or make something up...
Funny, you didn't know that you didn't know the Harley was gonna win your heart. Haha.
I test rode it yesterday. The dealer said I was the first to ride it and they got it the prior Tuesday. It was very fast, tight, flickable, and shiny. But . . . boring. It felt and looked like all the 2018+ "Honda-Davidsons" do. Just doesn't feel like true Harley. But you're way off on the pricing compared to Sportsters. The 1200 Classic hasn't been made since 2019 and was 10,999 max. The highest priced model is actually the Roadster at 11,499. Far cry from 13,599. And my 48 is way more fun and "harley" than the Softail Standard. And whatever dealer you have is moronic. All dealers should have one by now. They all got their Eagle Eye Road Glide and 30th Fatboy on time. I hate having to teach dealers what they should be teaching me. Stay safe.
Very good video
Pretty good idea
No way would I trade Vulcan for a Harley but gd luck to you if you do😉👍🏻🏍🏍🏍
Just test ride the bobber and you'll see
have you looked at the indian scout
Would love to, but there’s no Indian dealership anywhere near me...
Isn't it just a street Bob with more chrome?
Yes. Same bike. 👍🏻
Don’t like all the chrome I would pay the extra for the st bob
Personally I think Harley screwed it up as it has nothing on the 2012 to 2015 FXST, and where’s the 200 rear....