Grab your ticket to win this flawless Shovelhead FXR with 12k miles on it, 100% of proceeds go to Forgotten Angels to help their fight to end the cycle of abuse in the foster care sytem! rafflecreator.com/pages/47938/the-last-action-hero-1983-fxr-shovelhead
I collect watches along side motorcycles and it is the same. Quartz is more accurate, cheaper, and essentially worry free. But there is a romance involved with a mechanical piece. The idea that some guy in a workshop in the 1700s figured out how to put springs and gears together and make them tell time baffles me.
In the fall of 1981, I rode one of the first FXRs in Arkansas. A month earlier I'd bought my first HD, a 1982 FXE. It was right after the Buyback, and my dealer tried to get me to pass on the old school Super Glide, and instead go for the new Super Glide II (which had yet to debut), as the FXR was initially referred to. I'd owned three Hondas and wasn't interested in the smooth, rubber mounted, 5 speed Hog the dealer bragged about. I wanted the raw Harley experience that all the motorcycle mags railed against. Back then, all the mainstream motorcycling press hated Harleys. Only Road Rider, and Easyriders gave Harley a fair shake. I loved the hardcore FXE and thought, that, although the FXR offered a nice, smooth ride, the FXE was exactly the beast I wanted. I'd been prepared for the brutality promised by the magazines, but I was pleasantly to surprised that the FXE was like a laid back, big friendly dog. (The Harley that your parents warned you about are the 58-69 XLCH Sportsters. They are vicious pitbulls that will maim you.) AMF Harley doesn't get near enough credit for the innovations of the late 70s-earley 80s---- the rubber mounted, 5 speed, enclosed chain FLT, the belt drive Sturgis, the development of the Evo, etc. I have 2 Shovels, 2 ironheads, a 75 CB550, and a 67 Triumph T100. I like all bikes, but the pre-86 HDs offer the kind of motorcycling experience that has little to do with elapsed quarter mile times, and more to do with quality of life.
I've been a Forgotten Angels member since day 1. I don't expect to win a motorcycle. I've bought a ticket every drawing. Not because I want anything. Because I believe in what you're doing.
I was 1 of those terribly extremely abused foster kid's. I know the difference between how it feels to be whipped with a horse whip and a bull whip. Trust me I know. The Bull whip is a lot worse it's fire blood whelps of every color of the rainbow under your skin and drainage. Extreme pain I couldn't sit in my school desk seat. I was in cutoff shorts bad as my ass was imagine my poor legs. Teacher wanted to know what was wrong. I said I was alright because if my foster mother knew I told it would be worse More bullwhip. Teacher knew I was lying. I complained to government social workers get me out of that foster home. Oh kid's they lie, yeah right. State didn't want to do anything. How about being an orphan in a mission and it's winter time and your mother just got murdered in front of you. And an abusive prejudiced racist black lady stole All of our shoes. Chicago in 68 69 cold Winters. Guy's frozen to death outside many, more than you could count or keep track of. Worked like farm animals in foster care. One home fed us dog food. Shit on a shingle never allowed to take shower or bath. Yet they had a cement swimming pool. We were exploited called name's barely ate surely not enough food being hungry All the time. I could tell you so much more but I'll spare everybody it would take way too much time. We suffered to say the least. @@shadetreesurgeon
I’m a Harley only chopper/builder/rider have been for decades but I have to say I love your steak over campfire analogy!!! Absolutely spot on! Worst performance/comfort/dependability for the money but they are mechanical gritty and been pretty much unchanged since the 1930’s 74ci flatheads hit the scene 33 years after the motor company was Established. But, I know you get it 😉. Big fan of what you selflessly contribute to the two wheel world! Thanks 🙏
I journaled my cross country motorcycle trip I finished last fall. I could have journaled it on my computer, but I wanted the immediate tactile feel of writing ink on paper. It made it feel more personal, and I could scrap book leaves, postcards, and stickers in the journal pages. Sometimes ink and paper have their place.
Had a 99 Busa and 04 Busa I thought I would never ride anything else I got old Ride Harleys now Gotta appreciate old school feel But I’ll ride anything Happy New Year Sir!
I luv my old carburated sportster luv the way it sounds the way it looks and it's decently easy to work on especially with cost to bring bikes into shops for repairs, I'll stick with my simplistic tractor 🚜
I have never said I hated HD owners, but I have openly laughed at their sales staff when they suggested I trade in my Buell XB9R that I rode to their dealership to pick up a shifter seal. I could have told them I would never give up an American made sport bike that handles better, brakes better, accelerates not only better but seemingly telepathically. I could have but I chose to openly snicker at his empty marketing driven suggestion. And yes Erik is a genius.
HD doesn't make a sport bike anymore. I owned a 99 X1 Lightning, and they do handle great for a sport bike. But HD''s handle great for a cruiser, and HD's handle great for a touring bike, which is what I own now.
I have had numerous brands of ɓikes. Japanese, Italian and American bikes. Some with tech and some with none like my 74 Honda. But one bike I love to ride the most is my 2011 Sportster 1200. It gives me the feels the most.
For years I was the only Harley owner in my neighborhood and a couple of my neighbor friends would hang crap on my bikes. They have since bought their own Harleys and we all ride around together and have had a lot of good times since. Still, the brand isn’t important, if you’re having fun, that’s all that matters imo. Loved the steak analogy too!
I agree Justin. Too many folks believe a computer makes something better. Especially young Engineers. As someone whose first Motorcycle was a 200 dollar 74 cb125 that I rode on the farm, eventually going up to an ‘85 KX125 for trails and some amateur MX racing back in the day, I love the older bikes because it was a better time. Newest bike I own is a 97 FLH. Love your work Shadetree.
It's not the Harley motorcycle people hate. It's the CEO and board of directors. The company isn't even run by an American. The direction of the company is what people hate. Indian dealers have more used Harleys than Indian bikes. As far as Harley being low tech. They are low tech compared to bikes from the fab 4 in Japan, but a 20 year old Harley isn't even on the same page as a 2024 Harley. The new Breakout will give you an orgasm. Most dealers won't even touch a 20 year old Harley because they don't know how to work on them and can't accept the liability.
FXR is the best bike HD ever made, especially a Shovel! Best motorcycle ever is any airhead BMW.(my opinion) I put over 300.000 miles on a R100/7 an the person who I sold it to is still riding it. Only the diode board needed replaced.🤘🤠🤘
I have 2 gripes with Harley. 1) The way I understand it, at least one part of Harley engine design is literally 100 years old. Both cylinders on the same pin of the crank? Purposely building an off balance, mechanically inefficient engine to preserve a sound and extra vibration just for "old times sake?" I know every manufacturer milks a design for as long as they can, but damn! 2) I know every brand has their fan boys that look down on all other brands, I've been guilty of it myself. But Harley seems to have the worst. Old farts that worship outlaws who rape, murder, and push dope. Riding around on $40k bikes with huge air blocking ferrings decked out in $2k worth of leather and a $50 brain bucket. Thinking their badass because they "ain't riding no Japanese tampon!" Its that whole culture. I know it ain't you, Shadetree. I know it's not every Harley owner. I know it doesn't mean Harleys aren't decent bikes, but it turns me off from the whole brand.
We all know that Shadetree would save any woman within a half mile of the fire first. Or at least rizzing her up because he survived a fire and that she should reward him for his bravery.
Nice video Josh! I agree with a lot that you said about why a person would enjoy Harley's. I also love what you are doing with Dave and Cindy trying to help those who where in foster care! Much love!
I ride a 91 FXRS not because it's the fastest, or has all the latest tech, but because it feeds a part of my soul I didn't even know i had. The feel of the engine, the way it handles, the feeling it gives just cruising down the road. It's just exactly why I love motorcycles. I love my Intruder, I love my V-Max, but nothing feeds the soul like a Harley.
Minnesota just lost a 70 year old family dealership, mostly because A nobody can afford a new harley or B only old guys think the look is worth buying. A new harley looks like a 1998 harley. It can never produce a "retro " bike because it's never evolved. Worked for years, not any longer.
Yup , in Duluth. I drove by it last weekend. I still think it's too bad. Hate to see anyone close down..but I don't have the cash to buy one and help keep the doors open. It's Harleys fault..expensive tractors.
I had a dear friend buy me a couple of Twin Ports HD t's last week--should be in today's mail...I used to visit them in their original location on West First Street and wish I had money...
i love the fact that you mentioned the bmw boxer engine because when people give me that "i dont understand" thing, that is always my counter argument. A boxer engine is in no way beneficial or practical compared to modern engines but its just fuckin cool and the same goes for harley's pushrod engines. My 1990 evo softail gives me such a visceral, "caveman" feeling, I love that thing. What's not to understand about pure badassery? Anyway keep fighting the good fight for forgotten angels, i dont know if I (as a European) am even eligible to win but I think I'm gonna go ahead and support this next raffle. It has been amazing to see your personal growth through the years in getting to know weems, dave and cindy. See ya!
Death wobble on the GL1200 is remedied by adjusting the steering stem bearing torque. If the GL12000 you gave/lent to Spite is your baseline, we need to talk. I make my antique Goldwing dance at the track and the mini canyons of Driftless Wisconsin.
In 1982 I bought a brand new Harley FLT. Very rare the rear chain runs in the bath of oil, it's a motorcycle you want to change the rear tire on😢. Top speed was 95 mph going downhill. Buffalo full time I owned it never had a problem with it
I totally get it I have a 1985 FXWG and the experience of the low down torque,wide ratio 4 speed and raked out 4 inch over factory front end all accompanied with that Milwaukie thunder is a visceral experience.I also have a z1 and Vfr 800 which I enjoy for the different experience they provide .
I never had that death wobble issue on my 78 GL1000. The only thing I really didn't like on it was the shaft drive lift while accelerating out of a corner. I definitely enjoy riding my Ironhead more when its not broken lol.
Josh, I aways thought being into bikes was a romantic thing. Thats why I don't disparage a brothers choice in motorcycles. At 18 yrs old I was infatuated with the Norton Commando. Tried to buy a new one just as they were going (more or less) out of business. Loved the look & sound of Panhead choppers, Moto Guzzi, 1st gen Ducati 750, BSA rocket 3, etc. Ended up with the engines I loved as a baby (there is a film of my mother and I, fresh from the maternity ward) sitting next to the smoking Evinrude in our boat. LOVE the smell and sound of 2 stoke engines and had many RD's and triples. Ride what you love. You're vids always inspire BTW.!
I feel like there will always be some who look to the past for inspiration… and those who do will always stand out and inspire others! But I will say, I’m a reckless optimist so I always think it’s gonna work out fine haha
Love my Harleys. 1984 FLHTC--2005 Dyna Superglide--2005 FLHTCUI and love my Japanese stable as well. 1982 Suke GS1100E---1983GS1100E--1988 VMAX and of course my KZ 900
I enjoyed this video, You made some valid points. I'm a vintage British bike builder/rider. Your comparison to Harley vs Japanese handling is spot on with British vs Japanese handling. However, Harleys FX frame may not be as innovative as you think, when you look at the Norton Commando's Featherbed frame with Isolastic suspension. Don't forget the smell of hot Harley and British push rod engines.
I've tried for decades to explain the Harley-Davidson experience. It's more than just a motorcycle. It's visceral. If someone doesn't experience it, they'll never understand. I took my mother for her first motorcycle ride at age 75 on the back of my 2005 Softail. Short. Maybe 20 mil3s. At the end of the ride, I could see her ear-to-ear grin through the face shield. I asked her what she thought. She said "I could see everything I always see, but it was completely different ". I said "Now you get it".
This point about HD is why when I got my Road King, it’s so much of what I like. While it has TC, it still had carb on it, lol. I want to swap the wheels to HD spokes to maintain it as my retro classic, because it really is that. For a 20 yr old bike it runs well, and retromodding certain things about it, but also keeping certain feel & looks of classic appeals to the caveman in me, lol. I’ll say that same thing is why I was kinda drawn to Janus, & I’d love to see them support what you do tbh.
Finally found a great 08 HD ultra,34,000 miles, $500.00. Guy just wanted it gone. Looks and runs great. Love the classic styling, looks a lot like ultras' from the 90s. Harleys don't change that much. Like an ole grandma, who buys new clothing, but underneath, pretty much the same. Gotta love it.
Once again a brilliant Shadetree monologue. My first ride on a HD was in 1980 on a FXD Sturgis. Cost in those days was ZAR8200.00 which was way out of my league. A GSX1100E was ZAR4200.00 so there was no contest in what to buy although I wanted a HD badly. Had to wait until 2006 to get one and have never looked back. To me they are modern dinosuars and I love them. I don't give a damn what anyone thinks.
I like to use a classic car analogy with Harley-Davidson. Sure, a brand new Porsche 911 turbo is infinitely more advanced and better to drive than a 1969 mustang fastback. But they're not the same and the mustang fastback can arguably reach prices near that 911. BUT..... If you take the beauty and body of an 1969 fastback and put updated brakes on it with ABS, updated fuel injection and fuel mapping, on board computer with independent suspension, airbag safety, seatbelts that actually work, air conditioning, and power windows and wrap that all around a monstrous old school BOSS V8 engine and keep the car looking just like it did in 1969.... The line to buy that car would be wrapped around the globe. And I think that's what Harley does. Harley just continues to make what was already great, better. Without becoming something different. You can get a Harley from 1985 and park it next to a Harley from 2020 and beyond and depending on model, they can be made to look damn near identical. And the newer one would run much better... Arguably. Hell, Gone in 60 seconds is one of my favorite movies just for the Shelby GT500. There is a company that makes a clone of that Shelby GT500. And that clone cost more than actually buying a new Shelby GT500. Harley just keeps spitting out classics. Sure the new ones are just better equipped clones of their originals, but a classic as a classic. Harley is timeless. In a day and age where each step we take towards the future is harder and more bleak, I say throwing my leg over a piece of timeless history and letting that rumble just take me back for a short time is an awesome thing. Like the most of us here, Harley is out of my budget. Even the used ones. So my cruiser of choice is a Yamaha. But without hesitation, where I able to afford a Harley, I would spend my money gladly on the Harley before I spend half that money on a brand new crotch rocket.
Thought you were talking about a different kind of "breaking the cycle" there for a second...😵💫🤔🤣...As in "Barf Party 1.0" = needed to repair the cycle afterward...Not to be confused with "braking the cycle" (Couldn't resist the "dad jokes" ...😁)
The FXDR-114, V-Rod and Sportster S were all pretty awesome and groundbreaking bikes for Harley. The Pan-Am and Sportster S are dripping technology. Some say too much, so they can’t really say Harley is behind on anything. Because people want and still buy the more simpler style bikes. But Harley gets hate because he’s t started as the bike for the every man, now they’re luxury. When you sit on these newer Harley’s it feels like you’re sitting on money. They don’t feel cheaply made at all.
Wasn't sure what I was in for when I clicked on this--but I completely agree with his analysis, and the analogies. As a published author\photographer and independent historian, I can relate to the pencil, and the microwave (I don't cook, but love a fire-cooked meal).
And, by the way, bought my second, (and final) bike last October--a mint '05 Softail Deluxe with a touch over 40K. First bike--'73 Water Buffalo that I owned for over thirty years (and nearly died on twice...)
I have owned many Harleys. Many years going through Panheads to TC 103. (never owned a shovel for some reason) Then came back to an EVO, 98 Softail Springer. When I finish a day on a road trip on this bike I remember why I started riding to begin with. I may be weird for this but it is what it is. Just a thought and I'll leave a light on for ya.
I'm HD OWN A 09 STREET GLIDE since new 176K still runs great . Would love to own FXR . 09 street glide has set wheel in 47 states all but Rhode Island. Love your shit dude hope to meet some day
Love you guys for the raffles for both the reasoning and the beauty in the bikes keep up the good work in the surgery of the motorcycle community Shadetree😉
There weren't a whole bunch of people would afford a fxr back when it came out. The metric bikes were a fraction of the cost. I feel this contributed to it taking twenty years for general public to realize how good the fzr was. Kinda relative to a fine wine. Only those who could afford knew
they can say what they want .I have the same 1979 FXS LOW RIDER SHOVELHEAD.and ride it.I also have a 1997 Heritage Springer that I rode to Sturgis 3 times and back. I always try to buy anywhere from 1-5 tickets .Every time
Well said! I started on Hondas, moved up to a Triumph, before I finally got my Harley in a basket and built it. Like all motorcycles. A guy at work did not get what I seen in my ratty looking old Harley, until he road it! Then he got it! 😊👍
Keanu Reaves loves his Norton Commando, I can totally understand why. Those 961 newish ones are really great and well sorted..I don't think you can get them outside UK which is sad. They make great flat trackers.
Honestly cannot stand the HD board of directors and CEO/Management. Between them and their idiotic leadership, and the HD mega malls, they are killing the brand. Love the bikes, hate the MoCo.
Harley's just make me feel old in general. Isn't a bad bike though. I'll take my sport tourer over it. Once i started test riding them i ended up with an S1000GT and i love it. So far i have done route 66 roundtrip on it and it was a blast!
I got my tickets Shade Tree and don’t even give a shit if I win because I think Forgotten Angels is an amazing cause! Thanks Josh I’ve always loved your videos!💪
the old tech will be missed. there's something to be said about the simplicity of it. it's a good thing to be able to easily work on your own vehicles and that's not the case with modern tech by any stretch. meanwhile if you have an old bike and it quits working, it's either air fuel or spark. clean, simple, accessible.
Agreed.. i still like all the "old technology" bikes.. But, I do enjoy the new as well. Having had Harleys and currently New and Old Guzzi's.. I like bike.. I don't judge..
I like Harley for the sound,vibration, and mechanical eccentricities. I've got a Kingpin for the open road,and a Sportster to jet around on the backroads,and in town. It's an 87 four speed bike, so eighty for miles at a time ain't no fun. A lot of people hate Harley for the posers,and throttle whackers. A little is ok,but some guys wear the right grip out at stop lights, and in parking lots. They get all pretty in their little costumes and go play biker man,and they put about five hundred miles on a year in perfect weather. Plus you have the screwball crap the company is trying to pull right now. That's just Blackrock, and Vanguard killing the brand off. They'll get it done if something don't happen. Lastly I prefer solid mount. Give me the full experience. My next build is going to be a Shovel,or even an iron head. I'd like to go through one completely, and smooth out all the things that make them ornerous to own. Then ride it for countless miles.
i really appreciate this point of view, but more importantly i appreciate the way you approached it. I'm not sure if this is a response to Adam's response to yam's video. but it sure feels like it is' and i hated the way Adam went about it, even though i don't like Yam. You handled this so nicely. though i still thin Yam only makes those videos to excite the trolls to gather engagement, but regardless i love your stance and tact here, well done!
@@AndrewChristopherEnriquez yam def loves to get people riled up! I’ve hung out with him a few times in person and he’s honestly a really good dude (that doesn’t mean ya gotta like his content tho) but he is a genuinely nice person.
@@shadetreesurgeon hard agree on both fronts, he's local to me and his videos are NOT my jam, but Adam's response video to to yams Harley one felt like he was taking the bait...or it was also planned to get people engaging as well, i don't know Adam personally like i do yam though so i have no idea, either way you video was well done, not reactive
Got my tickets, hope to make a trip to Florida for it. Love my Harley, loved my CB750, and every other new and old machine that has carted my arse around.
Reasons why I hate Harley-Davidson: 1) Bikes are way overpriced (With a $2k increase for 2025s) 2) Overpriced bikes that come with shitty OEM parts. Windscreen, seat, suspension, for starters.. 3) Outlandish sales tactics 4) Absurd service (parts on back order for months and ridiculous hourly rates and service/maintenance fees)
You definitely have a way with words. I still have a flip phone that doesn't even receive texts, use cash 95% of the time and have a '79 FXEF shovel. I do also have fairly hi tech Japanese 4 bangers, but I love the archaic being of a big air cooled pushrod engine. I'm stuck in the stone age and like it.
I actually don't like the fxr. Compared to the Softail the fxr is worse in every way. IM STILL DONATING! I still consider Josh a personal friend but if I win, give it to someone else.
This is NOT why everyone hates Harley-Davidson. My particular beef with “the motor company” has to do with my 2002 FXSTS. I bought it brand new, and It’s been a great bike. Dependable, handles well and looks fantastic. But when it reached 20,000 miles, I parked it and bought a new Honda. I know that if I ride the FXSTS much more, the timing chain adjusters will shit the bed, sending shrapnel throughout the engine and making for a very long walk home. All the while, Harley-Davidson won’t even admit that there is a defect… after forgoing traditional timing to use a cheaper chain drive setup. Combine that with the fact that the CEO of H-D is an admitted Communist from Germany who is doing his best to get us all riding electric bikes, and yeah, it easy to see why there’s some hate going around.
Grab your ticket to win this flawless Shovelhead FXR with 12k miles on it, 100% of proceeds go to Forgotten Angels to help their fight to end the cycle of abuse in the foster care sytem! rafflecreator.com/pages/47938/the-last-action-hero-1983-fxr-shovelhead
This is the making of a great book. The book of Josh volume 1.
I got 5 so I can only hope that helps and just maybe I will win that bike
And I hope you don't put to many more miles on the old girl befor I can come pic her up lol jk but for real haha
I collect watches along side motorcycles and it is the same. Quartz is more accurate, cheaper, and essentially worry free. But there is a romance involved with a mechanical piece. The idea that some guy in a workshop in the 1700s figured out how to put springs and gears together and make them tell time baffles me.
Add guns to the list with watches and Harley’s and your me lol.
You romanticize an object that doesn't do what it's built to do well ?
@@absolutelynobody7294 it makes so much sense that the cloak and dagger division of Brap Star has a watch collection
@@low87dawg86 I am fond of guns also.
@@shadetreesurgeon we gotta know what time the shadows will disperse.
In the fall of 1981, I rode one of the first FXRs in Arkansas. A month earlier I'd bought my first HD, a 1982 FXE. It was right after the Buyback, and my dealer tried to get me to pass on the old school Super Glide, and instead go for the new Super Glide II (which had yet to debut), as the FXR was initially referred to. I'd owned three Hondas and wasn't interested in the smooth, rubber mounted, 5 speed Hog the dealer bragged about. I wanted the raw Harley experience that all the motorcycle mags railed against. Back then, all the mainstream motorcycling press hated Harleys. Only Road Rider, and Easyriders gave Harley a fair shake. I loved the hardcore FXE and thought, that, although the FXR offered a nice, smooth ride, the FXE was exactly the beast I wanted. I'd been prepared for the brutality promised by the magazines, but I was pleasantly to surprised that the FXE was like a laid back, big friendly dog. (The Harley that your parents warned you about are the 58-69 XLCH Sportsters. They are vicious pitbulls that will maim you.) AMF Harley doesn't get near enough credit for the innovations of the late 70s-earley 80s---- the rubber mounted, 5 speed, enclosed chain FLT, the belt drive Sturgis, the development of the Evo, etc. I have 2 Shovels, 2 ironheads, a 75 CB550, and a 67 Triumph T100. I like all bikes, but the pre-86 HDs offer the kind of motorcycling experience that has little to do with elapsed quarter mile times, and more to do with quality of life.
I've been a Forgotten Angels member since day 1. I don't expect to win a motorcycle. I've bought a ticket every drawing. Not because I want anything. Because I believe in what you're doing.
You rock man!
I was 1 of those terribly extremely abused foster kid's. I know the difference between how it feels to be whipped with a horse whip and a bull whip. Trust me I know. The Bull whip is a lot worse it's fire blood whelps of every color of the rainbow under your skin and drainage. Extreme pain I couldn't sit in my school desk seat. I was in cutoff shorts bad as my ass was imagine my poor legs. Teacher wanted to know what was wrong. I said I was alright because if my foster mother knew I told it would be worse More bullwhip. Teacher knew I was lying. I complained to government social workers get me out of that foster home. Oh kid's they lie, yeah right. State didn't want to do anything. How about being an orphan in a mission and it's winter time and your mother just got murdered in front of you. And an abusive prejudiced racist black lady stole All of our shoes. Chicago in 68 69 cold Winters. Guy's frozen to death outside many, more than you could count or keep track of. Worked like farm animals in foster care. One home fed us dog food. Shit on a shingle never allowed to take shower or bath. Yet they had a cement swimming pool. We were exploited called name's barely ate surely not enough food being hungry All the time. I could tell you so much more but I'll spare everybody it would take way too much time. We suffered to say the least. @@shadetreesurgeon
I’m a Harley only chopper/builder/rider have been for decades but I have to say I love your steak over campfire analogy!!! Absolutely spot on! Worst performance/comfort/dependability for the money but they are mechanical gritty and been pretty much unchanged since the 1930’s 74ci flatheads hit the scene 33 years after the motor company was Established. But, I know you get it 😉. Big fan of what you selflessly contribute to the two wheel world! Thanks 🙏
I journaled my cross country motorcycle trip I finished last fall. I could have journaled it on my computer, but I wanted the immediate tactile feel of writing ink on paper. It made it feel more personal, and I could scrap book leaves, postcards, and stickers in the journal pages. Sometimes ink and paper have their place.
"yesterdays tech at tomorrows prices" LOL TRUTH RIGHT THERE
Whatever happened to just liking bike? keep preaching Shadetree!
Had a 99 Busa and 04 Busa
I thought I would never ride anything else
I got old
Ride Harleys now
Gotta appreciate old school feel
But I’ll ride anything
Happy New Year Sir!
I luv my old carburated sportster luv the way it sounds the way it looks and it's decently easy to work on especially with cost to bring bikes into shops for repairs, I'll stick with my simplistic tractor 🚜
I have never said I hated HD owners, but I have openly laughed at their sales staff when they suggested I trade in my Buell XB9R that I rode to their dealership to pick up a shifter seal. I could have told them I would never give up an American made sport bike that handles better, brakes better, accelerates not only better but seemingly telepathically. I could have but I chose to openly snicker at his empty marketing driven suggestion. And yes Erik is a genius.
HD doesn't make a sport bike anymore. I owned a 99 X1 Lightning, and they do handle great for a sport bike. But HD''s handle great for a cruiser, and HD's handle great for a touring bike, which is what I own now.
All these analogies here are so spot on. Amen brother. You are a gift to humanity, St. Shadetree of the Florida Order of Wizards.
I have had numerous brands of ɓikes. Japanese, Italian and American bikes. Some with tech and some with none like my 74 Honda. But one bike I love to ride the most is my 2011 Sportster 1200. It gives me the feels the most.
For years I was the only Harley owner in my neighborhood and a couple of my neighbor friends would hang crap on my bikes. They have since bought their own Harleys and we all ride around together and have had a lot of good times since. Still, the brand isn’t important, if you’re having fun, that’s all that matters imo. Loved the steak analogy too!
I agree Justin. Too many folks believe a computer makes something better. Especially young Engineers. As someone whose first Motorcycle was a 200 dollar 74 cb125 that I rode on the farm, eventually going up to an ‘85 KX125 for trails and some amateur MX racing back in the day, I love the older bikes because it was a better time. Newest bike I own is a 97 FLH. Love your work Shadetree.
Well, Indonesia has a big cb100 community, and it's basically Indonesian Harley Davidson.
It's not the Harley motorcycle people hate. It's the CEO and board of directors. The company isn't even run by an American. The direction of the company is what people hate. Indian dealers have more used Harleys than Indian bikes. As far as Harley being low tech. They are low tech compared to bikes from the fab 4 in Japan, but a 20 year old Harley isn't even on the same page as a 2024 Harley. The new Breakout will give you an orgasm. Most dealers won't even touch a 20 year old Harley because they don't know how to work on them and can't accept the liability.
FXR is the best bike HD ever made, especially a Shovel! Best motorcycle ever is any airhead BMW.(my opinion) I put over 300.000 miles on a R100/7 an the person who I sold it to is still riding it. Only the diode board needed replaced.🤘🤠🤘
"I DON'T UNDERSTAND". WHY this video doesn't have MILLIONS of views and likes yet! FFS
I love your analogies of why you love Harley-Davidson. I can relate.
I have 2 gripes with Harley. 1) The way I understand it, at least one part of Harley engine design is literally 100 years old. Both cylinders on the same pin of the crank? Purposely building an off balance, mechanically inefficient engine to preserve a sound and extra vibration just for "old times sake?" I know every manufacturer milks a design for as long as they can, but damn!
2) I know every brand has their fan boys that look down on all other brands, I've been guilty of it myself. But Harley seems to have the worst. Old farts that worship outlaws who rape, murder, and push dope. Riding around on $40k bikes with huge air blocking ferrings decked out in $2k worth of leather and a $50 brain bucket. Thinking their badass because they "ain't riding no Japanese tampon!" Its that whole culture. I know it ain't you, Shadetree. I know it's not every Harley owner. I know it doesn't mean Harleys aren't decent bikes, but it turns me off from the whole brand.
We all know that Shadetree would save any woman within a half mile of the fire first. Or at least rizzing her up because he survived a fire and that she should reward him for his bravery.
Nice video Josh! I agree with a lot that you said about why a person would enjoy Harley's. I also love what you are doing with Dave and Cindy trying to help those who where in foster care! Much love!
I ride a 91 FXRS not because it's the fastest, or has all the latest tech, but because it feeds a part of my soul I didn't even know i had. The feel of the engine, the way it handles, the feeling it gives just cruising down the road. It's just exactly why I love motorcycles. I love my Intruder, I love my V-Max, but nothing feeds the soul like a Harley.
Minnesota just lost a 70 year old family dealership, mostly because A nobody can afford a new harley or B only old guys think the look is worth buying. A new harley looks like a 1998 harley. It can never produce a "retro " bike because it's never evolved. Worked for years, not any longer.
Yup , in Duluth. I drove by it last weekend. I still think it's too bad. Hate to see anyone close down..but I don't have the cash to buy one and help keep the doors open. It's Harleys fault..expensive tractors.
I can go get MULTIPLE good motorcycles for the same price as a Harley.
The new models do not look like a 98 at all besides the batwing fairings
I had a dear friend buy me a couple of Twin Ports HD t's last week--should be in today's mail...I used to visit them in their original location on West First Street and wish I had money...
That 'wishing' was in the mid-seventies---last October I purchased my '05 Softail Deluxe...
You can sure get a good price for old Harley technology compared to a lot of throw away bikes.
i love the fact that you mentioned the bmw boxer engine because when people give me that "i dont understand" thing, that is always my counter argument. A boxer engine is in no way beneficial or practical compared to modern engines but its just fuckin cool and the same goes for harley's pushrod engines. My 1990 evo softail gives me such a visceral, "caveman" feeling, I love that thing. What's not to understand about pure badassery?
Anyway keep fighting the good fight for forgotten angels, i dont know if I (as a European) am even eligible to win but I think I'm gonna go ahead and support this next raffle. It has been amazing to see your personal growth through the years in getting to know weems, dave and cindy. See ya!
You don’t have to convince me brother that bike is fucking awesome I would ride that baby everywhere ❤
Death wobble on the GL1200 is remedied by adjusting the steering stem bearing torque. If the GL12000 you gave/lent to Spite is your baseline, we need to talk. I make my antique Goldwing dance at the track and the mini canyons of Driftless Wisconsin.
That is one sweet Shovelhead that anyone would be proud to call their own
In 1982 I bought a brand new Harley FLT. Very rare the rear chain runs in the bath of oil, it's a motorcycle you want to change the rear tire on😢. Top speed was 95 mph going downhill. Buffalo full time I owned it never had a problem with it
I totally get it
I have a 1985 FXWG and the experience of the low down torque,wide ratio 4 speed and raked out 4 inch over factory front end all accompanied with that Milwaukie thunder is a visceral experience.I also have a z1 and Vfr 800 which I enjoy for the different experience they provide .
I never had that death wobble issue on my 78 GL1000. The only thing I really didn't like on it was the shaft drive lift while accelerating out of a corner. I definitely enjoy riding my Ironhead more when its not broken lol.
Josh, I aways thought being into bikes was a romantic thing. Thats why I don't disparage a brothers choice in motorcycles. At 18 yrs old I was infatuated with the Norton Commando. Tried to buy a new one just as they were going (more or less) out of business. Loved the look & sound of Panhead choppers, Moto Guzzi, 1st gen Ducati 750, BSA rocket 3, etc. Ended up with the engines I loved as a baby (there is a film of my mother and I, fresh from the maternity ward) sitting next to the smoking Evinrude in our boat. LOVE the smell and sound of 2 stoke engines and had many RD's and triples. Ride what you love. You're vids always inspire BTW.!
Nothin beats the smell of 927 in the morning!
Dang another post but all you have to do is ride to understand ,and even a 50 year old harley does not feel cheap
I’m stoned thinking pen and paper will soon be a thing of the past, a few more generations from now, and those kids may never learn to write
I feel like there will always be some who look to the past for inspiration… and those who do will always stand out and inspire others! But I will say, I’m a reckless optimist so I always think it’s gonna work out fine haha
Man! You are a Rad dude! Very well said!!!
When it hits the fan, a pencil & paper will be your friend.
That FXR is a "Brap Star Beauty"!
Happy New Year to you all.
Hmmm? I have a Road King and a Heritage, rubber mounted vs counterbalanced. Rubber mounted is superior...aside from having to replace them.
Love my Harleys. 1984 FLHTC--2005 Dyna Superglide--2005 FLHTCUI and love my Japanese stable as well. 1982 Suke GS1100E---1983GS1100E--1988 VMAX and of course my KZ 900
I enjoyed this video, You made some valid points.
I'm a vintage British bike builder/rider. Your comparison to Harley vs Japanese handling is spot on with British vs Japanese handling. However, Harleys FX frame may not be as innovative as you think, when you look at the Norton Commando's Featherbed frame with Isolastic suspension.
Don't forget the smell of hot Harley and British push rod engines.
I've tried for decades to explain the Harley-Davidson experience. It's more than just a motorcycle. It's visceral. If someone doesn't experience it, they'll never understand. I took my mother for her first motorcycle ride at age 75 on the back of my 2005 Softail. Short. Maybe 20 mil3s. At the end of the ride, I could see her ear-to-ear grin through the face shield. I asked her what she thought. She said "I could see everything I always see, but it was completely different ". I said "Now you get it".
I still want to ride my old Harley down to Florida for a campout even if I never win a scooter.
Come on down!
This point about HD is why when I got my Road King, it’s so much of what I like. While it has TC, it still had carb on it, lol. I want to swap the wheels to HD spokes to maintain it as my retro classic, because it really is that. For a 20 yr old bike it runs well, and retromodding certain things about it, but also keeping certain feel & looks of classic appeals to the caveman in me, lol.
I’ll say that same thing is why I was kinda drawn to Janus, & I’d love to see them support what you do tbh.
Finally found a great 08 HD ultra,34,000 miles, $500.00. Guy just wanted it gone. Looks and runs great. Love the classic styling, looks a lot like ultras' from the 90s. Harleys don't change that much. Like an ole grandma, who buys new clothing, but underneath, pretty much the same. Gotta love it.
Thanks for all you do. I'm in for the raffle. One ticket is all I can afford but I'm glad to make a contribution.
Just grabbed a ticket that Bike is kick ass with a good cause 🍻
Good man!!
Thank you for helping.
Once again a brilliant Shadetree monologue. My first ride on a HD was in 1980 on a FXD Sturgis. Cost in those days was ZAR8200.00 which was way out of my league. A GSX1100E was ZAR4200.00 so there was no contest in what to buy although I wanted a HD badly. Had to wait until 2006 to get one and have never looked back. To me they are modern dinosuars and I love them. I don't give a damn what anyone thinks.
I like to use a classic car analogy with Harley-Davidson. Sure, a brand new Porsche 911 turbo is infinitely more advanced and better to drive than a 1969 mustang fastback. But they're not the same and the mustang fastback can arguably reach prices near that 911. BUT..... If you take the beauty and body of an 1969 fastback and put updated brakes on it with ABS, updated fuel injection and fuel mapping, on board computer with independent suspension, airbag safety, seatbelts that actually work, air conditioning, and power windows and wrap that all around a monstrous old school BOSS V8 engine and keep the car looking just like it did in 1969.... The line to buy that car would be wrapped around the globe. And I think that's what Harley does. Harley just continues to make what was already great, better. Without becoming something different. You can get a Harley from 1985 and park it next to a Harley from 2020 and beyond and depending on model, they can be made to look damn near identical. And the newer one would run much better... Arguably. Hell, Gone in 60 seconds is one of my favorite movies just for the Shelby GT500. There is a company that makes a clone of that Shelby GT500. And that clone cost more than actually buying a new Shelby GT500. Harley just keeps spitting out classics. Sure the new ones are just better equipped clones of their originals, but a classic as a classic. Harley is timeless. In a day and age where each step we take towards the future is harder and more bleak, I say throwing my leg over a piece of timeless history and letting that rumble just take me back for a short time is an awesome thing. Like the most of us here, Harley is out of my budget. Even the used ones. So my cruiser of choice is a Yamaha. But without hesitation, where I able to afford a Harley, I would spend my money gladly on the Harley before I spend half that money on a brand new crotch rocket.
I'm still riding my 1972 FX SUPERGLIDE and 1972 FLH ELECTRAGLIDE..🥃😎👌
Thought you were talking about a different kind of "breaking the cycle" there for a second...😵💫🤔🤣...As in "Barf Party 1.0" = needed to repair the cycle afterward...Not to be confused with "braking the cycle" (Couldn't resist the "dad jokes" ...😁)
The FXDR-114, V-Rod and Sportster S were all pretty awesome and groundbreaking bikes for Harley.
The Pan-Am and Sportster S are dripping technology. Some say too much, so they can’t really say Harley is behind on anything.
Because people want and still buy the more simpler style bikes.
But Harley gets hate because he’s t started as the bike for the every man, now they’re luxury.
When you sit on these newer Harley’s it feels like you’re sitting on money. They don’t feel cheaply made at all.
I do agree with you when it comes to a nice pen thick fine paper and cursive to express yourself
Love the shovel FXR sadly lost mine do to a divorce
Wasn't sure what I was in for when I clicked on this--but I completely agree with his analysis, and the analogies. As a published author\photographer and independent historian, I can relate to the pencil, and the microwave (I don't cook, but love a fire-cooked meal).
And, by the way, bought my second, (and final) bike last October--a mint '05 Softail Deluxe with a touch over 40K. First bike--'73 Water Buffalo that I owned for over thirty years (and nearly died on twice...)
I started coming here 'round -2015 or even maybe 2016 or so... AND I was impressed by your knowledge and opinions, then, and I still am. HAIL THE FXR!
You’re the man Derek! Hope to have a beer with ya at a campout one day!
@@shadetreesurgeon Someday. FINALLY got my license back so I'm workin' on the rest of the logistics! Blessings!
I have owned many Harleys. Many years going through Panheads to TC 103. (never owned a shovel for some reason) Then came back to an EVO, 98 Softail Springer. When I finish a day on a road trip on this bike I remember why I started riding to begin with. I may be weird for this but it is what it is. Just a thought and I'll leave a light on for ya.
Only thing I really hate about Harleys is the price tag lol. I do love my Harley though
I'm HD OWN A 09 STREET GLIDE since new 176K still runs great . Would love to own FXR . 09 street glide has set wheel in 47 states all but Rhode Island. Love your shit dude hope to meet some day
I love when you wax poetic.
HOWdy JOSH,
Let's go "SHOVELING"
but
I still the EVO better !
COOP
...
Love you guys for the raffles for both the reasoning and the beauty in the bikes keep up the good work in the surgery of the motorcycle community Shadetree😉
There weren't a whole bunch of people would afford a fxr back when it came out. The metric bikes were a fraction of the cost. I feel this contributed to it taking twenty years for general public to realize how good the fzr was. Kinda relative to a fine wine. Only those who could afford knew
they can say what they want .I have the same 1979 FXS LOW RIDER SHOVELHEAD.and ride it.I also have a 1997 Heritage Springer that I rode to Sturgis 3 times and back.
I always try to buy anywhere from 1-5 tickets .Every time
Well said! I started on Hondas, moved up to a Triumph, before I finally got my Harley in a basket and built it. Like all motorcycles. A guy at work did not get what I seen in my ratty looking old Harley, until he road it! Then he got it! 😊👍
Well put, HARLEY-DAVIDSON FOR BETTER OR WORSE, RIDE EASY. HAPPY HARLEY DAYS. 😊
I am a fan of you and your channel, forgotten, angels, and FXRs and especially shovel head FXRs.
Keanu Reaves loves his Norton Commando, I can totally understand why. Those 961 newish ones are really great and well sorted..I don't think you can get them outside UK which is sad. They make great flat trackers.
Honestly cannot stand the HD board of directors and CEO/Management. Between them and their idiotic leadership, and the HD mega malls, they are killing the brand. Love the bikes, hate the MoCo.
Harley's just make me feel old in general. Isn't a bad bike though.
I'll take my sport tourer over it. Once i started test riding them i ended up with an S1000GT and i love it. So far i have done route 66 roundtrip on it and it was a blast!
usually any shadetree vid gets a like from me... but man, as soon as the typing vs. writing comparison startet I slapped that like button HARD
I got my tickets Shade Tree and don’t even give a shit if I win because I think Forgotten Angels is an amazing cause! Thanks Josh I’ve always loved your videos!💪
the old tech will be missed. there's something to be said about the simplicity of it. it's a good thing to be able to easily work on your own vehicles and that's not the case with modern tech by any stretch. meanwhile if you have an old bike and it quits working, it's either air fuel or spark. clean, simple, accessible.
Agreed.. i still like all the "old technology" bikes.. But, I do enjoy the new as well. Having had Harleys and currently New and Old Guzzi's.. I like bike.. I don't judge..
Great to see you on again, miss your vids
I like Harley for the sound,vibration, and mechanical eccentricities. I've got a Kingpin for the open road,and a Sportster to jet around on the backroads,and in town. It's an 87 four speed bike, so eighty for miles at a time ain't no fun. A lot of people hate Harley for the posers,and throttle whackers. A little is ok,but some guys wear the right grip out at stop lights, and in parking lots. They get all pretty in their little costumes and go play biker man,and they put about five hundred miles on a year in perfect weather. Plus you have the screwball crap the company is trying to pull right now. That's just Blackrock, and Vanguard killing the brand off. They'll get it done if something don't happen. Lastly I prefer solid mount. Give me the full experience. My next build is going to be a Shovel,or even an iron head. I'd like to go through one completely, and smooth out all the things that make them ornerous to own. Then ride it for countless miles.
I'll always have my Harley's, but i just bought a 2025 Royal Enfield! Lol. I love all motorcycles what can i say.
i really appreciate this point of view, but more importantly i appreciate the way you approached it. I'm not sure if this is a response to Adam's response to yam's video. but it sure feels like it is' and i hated the way Adam went about it, even though i don't like Yam. You handled this so nicely. though i still thin Yam only makes those videos to excite the trolls to gather engagement, but regardless i love your stance and tact here, well done!
@@AndrewChristopherEnriquez yam def loves to get people riled up! I’ve hung out with him a few times in person and he’s honestly a really good dude (that doesn’t mean ya gotta like his content tho) but he is a genuinely nice person.
@@shadetreesurgeon hard agree on both fronts, he's local to me and his videos are NOT my jam, but Adam's response video to to yams Harley one felt like he was taking the bait...or it was also planned to get people engaging as well, i don't know Adam personally like i do yam though so i have no idea, either way you video was well done, not reactive
Two words : Norton Commando . Check out the rear frame loop round the trans and the swinging arm either bike .
Simplicity and nostalgia and the feeling have sold more Harley motorcycles than any other thing.
I like all bikes. Do I have my preferences? Of course! Naked bikes baby! 💯
Keep going Forgotten Angels! You fckn rock!
Absolutely brilliant! Great video! Yammie Noob ain’t got nothing on you brother!
Because Shadetree is REAL. I met him at a camp out and he was eggsactly the person in the videos. Everyone I met there was not faking anything.
one of your best monologues ever, happy new year to you brother!
Got my tickets, hope to make a trip to Florida for it. Love my Harley, loved my CB750, and every other new and old machine that has carted my arse around.
You can take the boy out of the country. but it's Hell taking the country out of the boy! Shade-Tree Army, love it!
To be fair, everybody knows that shovel heads are junk. Pretty much every other motor that they made was better than the shovel head.
I have an emotional attachment to Harleys and I understand exactly why people hate them, i am more confused why so many harley guys don't get it.
This just in: For their final year of production 2025, Jochen the Destroyer is adding 4 more engine variants to the existing 39 engine variant lineup.
Reasons why I hate Harley-Davidson:
1) Bikes are way overpriced (With a $2k increase for 2025s)
2) Overpriced bikes that come with shitty OEM parts. Windscreen, seat, suspension, for starters..
3) Outlandish sales tactics
4) Absurd service (parts on back order for months and ridiculous hourly rates and service/maintenance fees)
A great friend once said to me, "If you wanna go fast get a rocket. If you want a lifestyle you get a Harley."
Keep telling it like it is brother
I love lamp
You definitely have a way with words. I still have a flip phone that doesn't even receive texts, use cash 95% of the time and have a '79 FXEF shovel. I do also have fairly hi tech Japanese 4 bangers, but I love the archaic being of a big air cooled pushrod engine. I'm stuck in the stone age and like it.
Holy Crap - you’re raffling this off. I’ll be buying some chances.
American nor Japanese is best, Italy will always be on top. That goes for cars and bikes🇮🇹❤️
love the microwave analogy! A well thought out symphony of small words even I could digest. Possibly the best explanation ever…
when is the raffle on that bike and what are options on getting possession of it if won.?
I actually don't like the fxr. Compared to the Softail the fxr is worse in every way. IM STILL DONATING! I still consider Josh a personal friend but if I win, give it to someone else.
This is NOT why everyone hates Harley-Davidson. My particular beef with “the motor company” has to do with my 2002 FXSTS. I bought it brand new, and It’s been a great bike. Dependable, handles well and looks fantastic. But when it reached 20,000 miles, I parked it and bought a new Honda. I know that if I ride the FXSTS much more, the timing chain adjusters will shit the bed, sending shrapnel throughout the engine and making for a very long walk home. All the while, Harley-Davidson won’t even admit that there is a defect… after forgoing traditional timing to use a cheaper chain drive setup. Combine that with the fact that the CEO of H-D is an admitted Communist from Germany who is doing his best to get us all riding electric bikes, and yeah, it easy to see why there’s some hate going around.
Picking up exactly what you are laying down...totally agree. Great rant!
This man has ridden an older Harley, never understood until I rode one myself.
Ever wished they'd make a modern version of an old cool muscle car? That's what Harley does w/ motorcycles.