That’s all the reasons I love the Road king. Just a fuel gauge, and a speedometer. When go for long rides. I don’t want to be connected to society. I don’t want to constantly monitor gauges, I don’t bring coffee makes, televisions, mattress, and computers. Most of the time. I don’t even know where I’m going.
I finally bought my first motorcycle in April of 2021....and it is a Road King. I picked the Road King for many reasons. The Road King is very versatile being it has the bagger frame for long distance, yet it is nimble for a big bike and can be cruised around town or used as a commuter. The Road King will never go out of style, being it has what you need and not everything you want. Mine is a 2005, and doesnt look much different than one from the 90's or a newer model. There is no infotainment system which will be "outdated" in a couple of years, nor does it have a bunch of other bells and whistles which could fail/break. I wear a full helmet and added a Cardo packtalk which allows me to listen to tunes if I want. The Road King is my hot rod, long distance rider, commuter, and grocery getter all rolled up in one. But to each his own....all types of bikes out there for all types of people. Keep the rubber side down! ✌️
I own a 2017 Road King and love it. The Road King was not intended to be a full bagger. It was built for us old-school riders who want to get away from all the amenities of home. I don't own or watch TV, I don't even have a radio in my home. I sure don't want one on my bike. I ride for the freedom. It is my place to get away and clear my head and get some mental and emotional therapy. I did put on a phone cradle but rarely ever use it. Most times my phone stays at home unless I am taking a multi day trip. I wired in a Garmin dock for those few times I need directions in my face because I have to be somewhere at a certain time and unfamiliar with the area but it rarely ever sees my bike. It did have a windshield when I bought it but no lowers. Lets you know you are still alive when the June bugs hit you in the shin.😁 I did upgrade and add lighting to my bike because I ride at night as well. Nothing more peaceful than taking a long night ride on country roads. Not a another vehicle in site. I did a cross country trip on my 2008 1200 Low to attend my daughter's wedding back in the day and loved it. Wouldn't trade the experience for nothing. I wouldn't trade my Road King for a full bagger no way. If need be I can get the trunk for it and take it right back off again. ✌️
Nice video. I’m 61. I’ve ridden from Atlanta, Ga to Dallas, Tx on a Softail. No problems with comfort or storage. Now I have a Road King, more comfort and storage (obviously) than the Softail. If I want a cigarette lighter or a place to store my phone, I’ll get a convertible. Love my King.
These are all the reason i love my RKS. Only radio i need is the sound of my exhaust. Plus in an endless sea of street and road glides you've got a road king. Love rolling up to rallies in a road king. You stand out.
I've had 3 Road Kings, and they are my favorites of all. Pop the shield off, you have a beach cruiser. Load up the bags and a rear pack, travel across the country to CA. I loved the RK Classic with the wires wheels and white walls. Your bike is so iconic to your branding. ✌️ Army.
Don't say "the Road King sux" everything you mentioned is what I love about the Road King... You want a bike that keeps you from the elements of riding 'a puss bike' I like the raw experence of the ride and sound, 'no damn stereo' the bike is my misic.
My first bagger was a 06 Road King with 20k miles, that I bought 7yrs ago for just under $10k so it was affordable for me as a first-time buyer. Since then I’ve added some performance upgrades and put down heavy miles on it. I got a batwing fairing w/speakers I can take on or off depending if I’m going on a long distance ride or just want to rock the vicla “cholo” style. I’m hitting 100k miles on the next oil change, so it’s definitely been tried & true.
You young guys are spoiled....The RK is a perfect for Guys who feel less is more.....PS....RK's and Heritages have been going Coast to Coast for many years without Radio's....Infotainment....and storage compartments in the fairing....
@@bradlozano2571 Recently took my 2022 Heritage from southeast Pennsylvania to Myrtle Beach bike week on the weekend of May 12 till May 15. Just a windshield in front but do have a King Tour pack on it along with a QuadLock phone mount for the handlebars to use my phone as a GPS. So, what is a Radio or Infotainment system? 😂
I like your videos- just now saw this one. And while I love your style and honesty- as a 62 year old rider who has experience with other baggers-I now only own a Road King- and I travel from state to state-old school. I guess the newer riders need the doors and AC with full electronics- but again-is that really riding? I never take loud music when I go to relax at the beach- because if I do-I’m not there to enjoy why I went there for in the first place. I ride for the wind, the openness and freedom. That is the Road King experience that I ride for. Otherwise-I would take my wife’s SUV with AC and all the seat comforts and messages. Let’s get real here. Ride on and Be safe out there-from a 62 year old Harley rider that intents to keep riding even if it it eventually on a trike.
Exactly! I'm 54 and have been loving my 2010 Road King for 13 years now... a true motorcycle experience anywhere, anytime. Road Kings are definitely for purists.
Dude a King is in a class of its own....I have a 2005 RoadKing I purchased brand new and have not had any issues what so ever....also have a 2014 StreetGlide purchased brand new, 2019 StreetGlide purchased brand new and a 2023 CVO RoadGlide which been in the shop already, but my RoadKing has never been in the shop only for maintenance so please don't dis the RoadKing. I will trust my King on the road for a long trip before my newer bikes. Living in Cali Ive been to 27 states on my King with no problems. Word!
For just those reasons Road King SHOULD be your FIRST bagger. New riders especially should not be messing with a radio or cigarette lighter or phone chargers. They need to concentrate on driving. Step up to the fairings and things later.
I love my Road King. Sure there are things missing like tunes, etc. But I like the old school look.... 4:47 you don't need a tach, because you can HEAR when your bike needs to shift. A windshield has a bag to store stuff, your phone can go in your pocket. Get on & ride it.
Nope. It's the opposite. The RK allows for the rider to experience the realness of riding, fully exposing one to the elements: wind, rain, dirt, rocks, bugs, etc. Being exposed fully to the elements (no screen) builds toughness and character. I got peppered to the dome, chest, and arms, by a swarm of bees the other day. It was beautiful. Being at one with your horse, feeling all, and hearing nothing but the sounds she makes, mixed with the wind, is spiritual. Now, after the blood, sweat, and tears (aka joy) spent riding miles of raw unshielded highway, RK riders earn the right to retire into the peaceful comfort of a two-wheeled car. 😉 Stay safe out there, Brother..
I think all the reasons you listed are good reasons for it to be your first bagger. You appreciate all the upgrades on the next one haha. I started on a Road King and I miss it, but it got stolen from me and I upgraded to a Road Glide. I rode the Road King 1000 mile days and it was just as comfortable as any other bike to me. I did have a windshield, deflectors, and a tour pack. With those additions it was everything I needed for sure.
Interesting. I just went and test drove my (new to me 96 Road King). I was amazed at how calm the cockpit was with just the big windshield. I can't wait to bring it home. (X-Electra Glide owner....which I loved too).
My first bagger was a 1980 Electra Glide. I took the windshield off, I took the saddlebags off, and rode it stripped down and loved it. I now ride a Wide Glide and have been riding it for years, no windshield, no bags, just a luggage rack and my whiskers following behind me. Love your channel, brother.
My first bike was the 2008 V Star 1100. It came with some hard saddle bags and that was it. No music. No screen. It did allow me to grow a deeper connection to just getting on the bike and embrace that therapy. When I got my RG tho......whew, was I blown away from all of the amenities, lol. Great video bro!
Your comparison of the difference with that wind blowing was Hilarious. In my younger days I never wanted a bagger rough it out on my V-Max everywhere. Went to a full dress 24yrs and never looked back
I constantly look for people that have owned them all. Very few have. This is exactly the kind of valuable info that I look for. Thank you for sharing this very informative, rare knowledge.
My Road King is awesome! I just went moto camping with mine. You can do anything with a Road King because it doesn't have all that princess stuff that's just going to break. Anyone on a Road King just looks badass with the headlight and passing lights. You look like you own the road.
I ride a 2014 Road King. The reason I bought this bike is because of its simplicity, its a motorcylce, no frills bells and whistles. I don't even have a cradle for my phone on the handle bars, thow it in the saddle bags. I just love looking at that big chrome headlight bezel/housing and an unobstructed view of the road before me. I love the fact that it doesnt look like a rolling piece of plastic like its big brothers do. Yeah, I love creature comforts too and when I'm heading out on a really long road trip, Its on my BMW GS Adventure, the ultimate bike. Diggin your videos, keep up the good work.
I love my RK. The only creature comfort I miss is a power port but other than that it's pretty versatile. I may end up getting a street glide eventually
1 Irrelevant 2 Get a taller windshield or one with the flip 3 Less is more Reasons to get a RK 1 It’s like a convertible when you take the windshield off; 3/4 helmets with face shield recommended 2 The front end is lighter due to no fairing, great in curves 3 suspension on the RK, not RKS is taller, for a better ride 4 Easier to swap bars etc *Chrome **Everybody and their brother got a RG or SG ***Passing lamps on the real RK
Road king was my 3 Harley. I LOVED IT!! Just like a few guys said in the comments, it’s just YOU and the road. No attachments. Just GO! I loved the openness. Went cross country with it like it was NOTHING!! I got a RG now for the highway, yes! But mannnn I will have another road king.
I ride a Roadking and absolutely love it. Took it on many long rides from SD to AZ, Nevada, and northern Cali.however, For a 1st bagger and maybe a new rider, road glide will be the best option followed by a street glide. Both has alot more features for long distance rides. Especially if your not trying to spend too much money on aftermarket parts at 1st.
Definitely an interesting take on the Road King. I’m planning on upgrading to either a Road King, Road Glide or Street Glide this spring from a VTX1300C. It’ll be not only my first Harley but also my first bagger.
I LOVE my Road King, was so close to trading it for a Road Glide but decided not to pull the trigger. I am still very happy with the Road King and took it from California to Virginia beach and back. The Road King is on a touring frame. All that said, I am with you in a sense, I know I will get a Street or Road Glide one day but I will hold onto the Road King for short trips or around town. As I want to make some upgrades on it. And have the... hmmm... Road Glide for longer road trip. Let's see what the future holds. New subscriber and enjoying your content. Stay safe!
The RK is the easiest to customize. because of the points you made. also, its preference I prefer the look, it just suits my personal preference just did a trip from Houston to Flagstaff going through the Navajoe Res, up from Gallop NM round trip 3k miles creature comfort, is relative the batwing and the shark nose offer more wind protection, but the shark nose of the Road Glide doesn't cover one's hands. I added the hand guards from Memphis Shades to get the cold air off my hands and it did just fine. A lot is just preference.
That's a pretty good ride. Spring in the desert is best time to be there. West Tx gets nippy but not to bad. Once you leave Ft Stockton around the wind farms can get hairy. Enjoy the Ride@@Juan_E_Dewitt
We disagree on the Road King. I’ve ridden my 02 Police Road King Northward into Canada numerous times. I’ve also ridden her Southward into Mexico a number of times. I’ve ridden it Westward from Charleston, SC to San Diego, CA, and many roads in between. The only storage addition was a razor tour pack, which easily holds all my immediate needs. I love my Road King, and we’ve been together over 20 years.
My first bike was a wide glide. Still have it. A first bagger for a person really depends on who they are. If your focused and comfortable on a bike with the riding skills to back it up get a bike with all the bells and whistles. If your an easy person to distract then you don't need to be distracted by a button when the truck in front of you slams on brakes. Bells a whistle bikes I think are for people who have for years been comfortable on a bike and are first thinkers in safety. Some folks got enough sense to pull over and figure out something. Some do it at 70 miles an hour. Rolling dice there. Hey, great video and thanks for posting.
I think the road king is the best choice for a first bagger. The biggest reasons are, first it’s a lot lighter than the other baggers and you don’t have to contend with the extra weight of the fairing which is good if you’re upgrading from a smaller bike. Plus the road king has great maneuverability. I have a road king and an ultra limited. I can maneuver around a lot better on the king. The road king was my first bagger after coming from a sportster so I know first hand
Dumped my Ultra and went back to a King. More maneuverable, lighter--still toured all over with it. "Creature comforts"--I have my cage for that. To each his own.
I just got my first HD and yes its a Road King special. I love it. Im going to add a custom batwing! A razor! And other lil things that we all do when we buy our 1st bike. Im not triping off who do like it. Its your personal opinion and I can respect it.
@@stanleyrobinson4309 you can take the fairing on and off the road king pretty easily, it’s not as easy with a SG though and doesn’t look as good without it
Thanks for the video man. Im going to test drive 2 bikes today and after seeing this, I now see little details that slightly steer me towards getting the Street Glide as my first bagger.
As far as touring bikes are concerned, I'm happy just to have one. However, the feature I like most is a nice stereo system. One day I will get a street glide or road glide just for that. For cruising around, I prefer a V-rod or sportster. I can whip them things anywhere and have plenty of fun on them.
1994 Road King still in good shape and dependable with the original Carborator. It's been rebuilt to Weisco 88 inch now and I have always used A 29"windshield on it. Big Corbin Saddle with the removable backrest. I don't need a phone when I Ride. It's in the right saddle bag. I don't rag on it, I just ride it like I have some common sense. Like Clint Eastwood said in Magnum Force ; A man has got to know his limitations ! . If you buy a Harley Davidson to go fast you will probably learn what your limitations are Sooner or later !
Went back to the Road King from an Ultra--don't need (or like) radios, fairings, tachs, GPS...like the view of the road, lighter, better handling, ability to remove the windshield on my RC. My iPhone fits easily in my pocket. Started riding in 1964, guess it is hard to get over my old school preferences! To each his or her own.
Congrats--also got my first ride in 1964--a 1954 Triumph. Still like the feeling of riding a "real" motorcycle, which my King gives me. Reminds me of my buddy's 1954 Panhead which I rode when we switched bikes. Ride on and be safe!
I have a clip on windshield for highway driving, and the saddle bags are plenty, though I have a pouch on my windshield and a pouch on saddle bag guard. I never got the thing about having a stereo on bikes….ya, a lot of folks have them. I just like the drone of the engine myself. The RK embodies true Harley design, going back to the fifties; and the softail going back to the 1940s. I have always felt that Harley should only have two bikes, with build options. The RK would be sold as a base model, with add-ons, like the fairing etc. The Softail should be the other model. Forget the Sportster , it’s basically a metric-bike with a Harley medallion.
I love my road king Wind issue: I have a windshield that I love Phone storage: T-bags makes a nice bag that mounts perfectly behind the dash against a windshield and holds A LOT of stuff. I’ve got under glow lighting, the road king gives me the touring ride, but also gives me the tight handling of a smaller frame bike, and handles Needles in Sturgis with ease. LOVE my road king, and would never buy the shark face ugly glide. And I have several from springer’s to full touring.
The road king look at it this way it’s a blank canvas motorcycle. It can be altered in anyway for any person. Yes, you have to buy accessories mount them on and those cost money. However, you can make the bike and tailor it to your liking. That’s what’s nice about the road king
I love my 2022 road king special I got the Kraus 10 inch with pull back there moto bar it's a blast to ride. get the full benefit of the road glide the screaming eagle holins rear shocks OMG Those are so nice can dial it in so good can throw it around like a lowrider, or set it up for a plush ride for the long ride. I 2 up on it with wife I have zero complaints its an awesome bike. if I get another new bike I believe I will be getting another road king. my friend has a 2017 road glide I've rode it. you just cant ride it the same.. Road king handles so much better. Best bike I ever owned Best one I ever rode.. I was thinking of a Road glide but I be missing out on all the handling, for a few compartments.. can get a tour pack actually going to get one for next year making plans now going to Sturgis.
You can modify any bike to fit your needs. It’s all a personal preference. I’ve been riding for years and still don’t use a windshield but like I say it’s all a matter of preference.
22 Rk was my first bagger for all of the reasons you stated, if I want all that other stuff I take my truck. I want to ride with no distractions and escape and if I want to go for a rip and have fun I take my Kawasaki. Making a Harley fast never made sense to me, it is what it is perfection cruising down the road. Love the RG and SG just not for me.
I agree.. I also have both and luv both bikes. Like you said my road king is my hot rod for warm or hot days.. that wind is no joke comes right into your chess shield and all💪🏾
Boo, boo! I have a 2009 Road King Classic. I have a windshield, and I can say without it can make your ride miserable. Space isn’t a issue, either add a tour pack or a luggage rack to strap down a bag. Good topic, glad to see your Road Glide is back up!!!
Great video get a Cadillac homeboy you gotta put in the work. I have a street glide 2021 and I’m in the market for a heritage. Thanks for the video peace, brother.✌🏽
When I ride, I ride. I'm not looking to be amused or distracted. I want to be with the road. I want to hear my exhaust. If I need to have something to occupy my mind, I sing. I know I'm not in the majority here, that's OK with me; and that is why we have so many choices for baggers. If you are not comfortable with that, by all means get a bike with all the gadgets, or you can simply add them what you want to your RK. Thanks for the video.
2010 Road King Classic. First Harley. Bought in 2022 with 18,000 miles. Now has 38,000 and climbing. It’s heavy It’s slooooow The security system SUCKS…anybody but ME can start it. BUT It’s never leaked a drop, of anything It’s ALL DAY comfortable with several 600+ mile days It handles lightly once moving It has a sweet spot between 45 and 70 mph I can cruise in all day. The cruise control was a revelation to me! I’d like more power and less weight….but not if it mean impinging on any of its best qualities. I LOVE my Road King. ….but I’m keeping my ZRX.
Thanks mang, just bought a 2000 RK as a first bagger. Good looking out and info. It came with a batwing and hard case bags. Im definitely going to make some fiberglass shin fairings, and handle bar covers
I think you're nuts!! The RK has the look of the old school Harley before the batwing...I have a 01 RK with detachments ( tourpac and backrest) and I wouldn't trade it for the others! If I want to listen to music, I'll drive my car!
Brother it's all choice. They all have a purpose. I've had ultra classic. Fxwg wide glide Softail custom. Now I ride a heritage springer. Some ride for comfort . I ride for cool. It's all up to the individual.
I think these are all valid points to make when considering a bike for touring. I found your video searching for some answers for my own questions. Would it not be cost effective to buy a Road King and turn it into the touring bike of your dreams? I can buy a '16 Road King for about $16k or $17k (used and presumably MOSTLY stock from what I see). I can add all the touring details that come with the Road Glide for about $7k-$9 (Advanblack has everything you need color matched and I've built a cart around the RoadGlide for under 8K) this includes luxury custom tour pack with speaker pods, lowers with speaker pods, crashbar, FRAME mounted fairing, etc. Add speakers and amps and you're set. This puts me at $26k total (w/o labor) for a fully custom touring bagger. You can't buy that and even if you could, it may cost you about the same or more. Nobody has really done what I suggest from the looks of it. I'd love to see one someday.
Got a klock works windshield on my Road King, Works so well. No buffeting at all. I dont smoke and find a radio distracting. I am very happy with my Road King.
Just your opnion. There isn’t much extra space in the roadglide or streetglide fairing also. If you need extra buy an extra case on the back or bag on a sissybar. There are a lot of different windshields for the roadking also. And you don’t have the problem that the navigation becomes outdated and annoy other people with your loud music out of the speakers. You can buy navigation and bluetooth music to you ears and change that easily. So Roadking gives you more flexibility to make it your own. It is just one of the best HD’s ! 😀
Nice video. I like the honesty. I think we all sorta change our tastes over time. I bought a cheap honda shadow to start. Then a yamaha raider 1900cc for that big torque, and recently, finally was in the position to get a Harley. Was looking at newer Road Kings and the Heritage Classics. But ended up going with a 2012 blacked out street glide with really low miles. I wanted all the creature comforts this time around. I began to love the look of bags over the stripped down look. Maybe ill change back to wanna getting punched around by wind again one day. But even 2 hours at 80 mph with only mini-apes in front of me was starting to take away that feeling of riding enjoyment for me. No more looking at the landscape and smelling the air. Just a feeling of wanting to reach my destination asap. With the street glide the enjoyment of long rides is back.
Bro I have to say, I just bought my 2023 Road King Special. It came with the 114 etc,etc. I commute 102 miles round trip 5 days a week. The reason I bought it is to safe money on gas because my truck was killing my pocket spending $140.00 average vs $48.00 That been said. I wanted the street glide but even my road king is too expensive. I had a sportster 1200 custom for years bought it brand new and I had fun with it with power enough to take me anywhere I want to. This bagger is powerful,comfortable up until certain level. And you right I would love to have a batwing would be better having a street glide which is my dream bike. But with Harley prices I don’t know if I want to jump into it. So far I’m happy with it and I’m looking forward to add a good batwing on it. By the way mine came with rain mode, traction control, tire monitor, gear management with rpm etc.
Dude, I have a RK standard and none of those things are an issue. My bike has 'em (except the radio which I don't care about). I tour from state to state just fine. But I know, to each their own. No way would I trade my Road King for a Road Glide.
LOL!! Everything you said about the Road King is why I bought one. If I want to look at a dash, have a stereo and not be subject to the elements, I would buy a car. I don’t need music, I don’t need to be connected to the world with my phone. If I can’t store it in my saddlebags or strap it to bitch seat, I probably don’t need it. I like simplicity.
Road King is probably one of the best bikes Harley ever made. It's the swiss army knife of the Harley models. Add a tour pack, wire in a phone charger/mount, a full face helmet w/ bluetooth and a comfortable touring seat and you've got a nimble trouble free no frills touring motorcycle that won't break the bank. Not to mention easy to customize. Great starter bagger IMO 👍🍻
I ride a 2016 Heritage Softail. It’s got a cig lighter outlet for charging phone, phone holder for gps, and bag on windshield to hold stuff. All I needed 👍😎. I thought I wanted an ultra or rode glide for trips I wanna take but it just wasn’t the same. Felt like driving a car. My heritage softail is still like riding a 1950s pan head with some modern reliability and just a few small comforts 😂.
Back in the day I rode a dyna from Wisconsin to California (No windshield) Yeah, it was a rough ride and tons of wind. However, that's what riding was about. Guys today will never get that feeling with all the fancy bikes and gadgets. We had paper maps and boots lol!! I also rode a Honda Silverwing from Wisconsin to Georgia 😅
My first bike ...a 2005 RKC!! Still have it. I just love the simplicity of it. I not ridng to drink coffee or listen to music.. its what I call a pure ride.
I just bought a 2012 RK, I'm so excited to ride it. It is set up for a woman and has a windshield. Just want to crush some iles on it. Thanks for your review. I'm happy with it.
I agree with you even though the Road King is my all time favorite bagger. I own a Street Glide & a Road King myself and aiming to get a Road Glide next.
Having owned both Electra and Kings, I go for the king every time. Less clutter, less weight, more raw motorcycle enjoyment. A faring with outlets, radio, and gauges is nice too though, but starts to resemble an auto once you pass a certain limit.
The Road King is possibly my favorite Harley model of all time because it has everything you need to tour the countryside and nothing you don’t need. Don’t get me wrong, I love my Electra Glide Ultra Limited for touring with my wife but I miss my old Road King for just getting back to basics in style and comfort while I lose myself wandering back roads or country highways. It reminds me of why I started riding motorcycles in the first place.
I have had a Road King Special, Street Glide Special and now the Road Glide Special, Street Glide ST and the Street Glide CVO. I bought the Road King Special as a second bike when I had the Street Glide Special because it was stripped down and it had the 114 vs the 103 on the 2015 Street Glide Special. I did have to put a windshield on it as the wind on the chest at highway speeds was too much and very exhausting over the miles and hours ridden. So I used the RKS for my short trips under 200 miles or so in a day. Ride safe and enjoy.
First pulled up you on your accident....I Died!....Then learned you rebuilt your Scoot. I also had a crash and one of your Brothers said PTSD and how to overcome as you did. For me it's also been a 3 year period but am doing it and using both of your advise.. Both of you can hardly realize how much you mean to a downed Biker just with your Videos. As a Cracker also saw what love all of you showed to one another at the Hotel meeting. No guns or patch shit just LOVE for one another. All Bikers should learn from this and pass the PEACE. Sure hope to shake and meet you on the road. Jim Miller.
Thank you for the kind words brother...at the end of the day all we have is each other....and more in common than we do apart... If aliens drop from the sky today and start a war....we'll all be as one... Why not start now? Heal up...ride safe and be cool.. Peace ✌🏼
Hey G, I love your channel and have watched most of your videos. You have given tge inspiration to get out on bike more and ride. Let me know when you come to Md/dc/va area so we can get a ride in. Be safe out there brother and keep doing what you do. Peace, AKA (Master chef).
I went the other direction and found that I used the stereo less and less the more I road long distance. I liked my iPhone map better than HD maps. Adding a full size windshield and fork winder deflectors I got better wind protection on the Road Kind than I did with my Electra Glide. Also, a lot less distractions in my view (dash lights/gauges) at night. Granted I was mostly only riding Iron Butt rides. Oh also, I bought a tour pack for my road kind. Once you have heated grips and a tour pack it hard to live without them.
The Road King is my first bagger. Hell, my first bike was a sport bike so this was my first Harley (2019 RKS) and bought it in 2019. I’ve ridden it cross country with no windshield and no issues. Hell, I was even supposed to ride to Canada this past Spring but life sorta got in the way of that one. For context, I live in Texas. The only two times I ‘considered’ getting a removable windshield is during high dense bug areas and when it’s windy and I’m riding against the wind on a highway. Now, to answer your question: Though the Road King is my first bagger and was indeed a good first bagger for me, I don’t think it’s a good first bagger for most riders. This really applies to riders who like touring though. If they’re just a weekend rider, this doesn’t really apply because, in my opinion, they don’t ride enough for most of what you mentioned to really be an issue. Great video though and that was a good clickbait and decent pause from when you say “Road Kings suck” to “for a first bagger”. Ya got me, man… ya fk’n got me 😅
@@JustGKue why apologize for what worked? But yeah, I love my Road King but do plan on getting a secondary (Road Glide) for those longer trips. Mostly due to wearing a full face helmet and visibility can get pretty low really damn fast when it’s butterfly season and I absolutely refuse to put a grandpa shield on my RKS
??? So it sucks because of the wind screen…can’t you just buy an after Market Fairing? Like a street glide? Just asking anything can be modified great topic
I agree with Just G Kue. The Road King is a nice bike for around town and shorter trips. I travel throughout the country and do not see/talk to any Road King riders doing long distance touring. Therefore, a Road King or Softail is ideal as a second bike, more of a bar hopper. Street Glide or Road Glide for touring. 2023 Road Glide Limited 1990 Springer Softail
The Road king is still a good all around bike , however the wind is a big factor like you said ,it beats your chest up alot . I know i owned both bikes .
Seems to me you’re comparing apples and oranges. The Road King is for guys who don’t want all the stuff that comes with the other touring bikes. I don’t want a fairing and a stereo, I just want a touring bike that will ride 500 miles a day comfortably, and that’s what the Road King does, and it does it without all the bells and whistles of the Street Glide, Road Glide, etc. Also, and this is big for me, I want to see the road in front of me, not a dashboard. So, you really didn’t say anything that makes the Road King suck. All you said was that it’s a bike for the minimalist, and it serves that function perfectly.
@@JustGKue Just for the record, I'm not the one who said it sucks, I wrote it doesn't suck. It was the guy who posted the video who said it sucks. Regarding "500 miles a day," you are correct on that. The most I've done is 450, but I could have done 50 more if I had to.🙂
Said all “all three touring bikes” when there’s really 5, one of them being the oldest continuous touring bagger Harley makes, the Electra glide, and the 5 being the ultra glide
That’s all the reasons I love the Road king. Just a fuel gauge, and a speedometer. When go for long rides. I don’t want to be connected to society. I don’t want to constantly monitor gauges, I don’t bring coffee makes, televisions, mattress, and computers. Most of the time. I don’t even know where I’m going.
That's awesome to just be able to go
Well said
Exactly
Exactly! That's why I have a Roadking.
The same for me bro
I finally bought my first motorcycle in April of 2021....and it is a Road King. I picked the Road King for many reasons. The Road King is very versatile being it has the bagger frame for long distance, yet it is nimble for a big bike and can be cruised around town or used as a commuter.
The Road King will never go out of style, being it has what you need and not everything you want. Mine is a 2005, and doesnt look much different than one from the 90's or a newer model. There is no infotainment system which will be "outdated" in a couple of years, nor does it have a bunch of other bells and whistles which could fail/break.
I wear a full helmet and added a Cardo packtalk which allows me to listen to tunes if I want.
The Road King is my hot rod, long distance rider, commuter, and grocery getter all rolled up in one.
But to each his own....all types of bikes out there for all types of people.
Keep the rubber side down! ✌️
All great points! I would say the newer kings leave a lot to be desired.
No doubt
@@JustGKue What makes the newer kings worse than the older? Just curious, this video was very helpful.
@AdoreYouInAshXI mainly lighting
I own a 2017 Road King and love it.
The Road King was not intended to be a full bagger.
It was built for us old-school riders who want to get away from all the amenities of home.
I don't own or watch TV, I don't even have a radio in my home.
I sure don't want one on my bike.
I ride for the freedom.
It is my place to get away and clear my head and get some mental and emotional therapy.
I did put on a phone cradle but rarely ever use it.
Most times my phone stays at home unless I am taking a multi day trip.
I wired in a Garmin dock for those few times I need directions in my face because I have to be somewhere at a certain time and unfamiliar with the area but it rarely ever sees my bike.
It did have a windshield when I bought it but no lowers.
Lets you know you are still alive when the June bugs hit you in the shin.😁
I did upgrade and add lighting to my bike because I ride at night as well.
Nothing more peaceful than taking a long night ride on country roads.
Not a another vehicle in site.
I did a cross country trip on my 2008 1200 Low to attend my daughter's wedding back in the day and loved it.
Wouldn't trade the experience for nothing.
I wouldn't trade my Road King for a full bagger no way.
If need be I can get the trunk for it and take it right back off again.
✌️
You're absolutely right! Ride safe friend!
Amen
I love my Road King for the same reasons. Road Kings are for purist riders who just want to ride and feel the motorcycle without all that extra crap.
@ec3489 Idiot
Nice video.
I’m 61. I’ve ridden from Atlanta, Ga to Dallas, Tx on a Softail. No problems with comfort or storage. Now I have a Road King, more comfort and storage (obviously) than the Softail. If I want a cigarette lighter or a place to store my phone, I’ll get a convertible. Love my King.
These are all the reason i love my RKS. Only radio i need is the sound of my exhaust. Plus in an endless sea of street and road glides you've got a road king. Love rolling up to rallies in a road king. You stand out.
Very true
I've had 3 Road Kings, and they are my favorites of all. Pop the shield off, you have a beach cruiser. Load up the bags and a rear pack, travel across the country to CA. I loved the RK Classic with the wires wheels and white walls. Your bike is so iconic to your branding. ✌️ Army.
Thanks friend! I like the classics as well...it's just not the same with the newer bikes
@@user-fs8gb5le3g Yes, they have quick detach screws.
This guy's to worried about his windshield and cell phone .gay!!!
Don't say "the Road King sux" everything you mentioned is what I love about the Road King... You want a bike that keeps you from the elements of riding 'a puss bike' I like the raw experence of the ride and sound, 'no damn stereo' the bike is my misic.
My first bagger was a 06 Road King with 20k miles, that I bought 7yrs ago for just under $10k so it was affordable for me as a first-time buyer. Since then I’ve added some performance upgrades and put down heavy miles on it. I got a batwing fairing w/speakers I can take on or off depending if I’m going on a long distance ride or just want to rock the vicla “cholo” style. I’m hitting 100k miles on the next oil change, so it’s definitely been tried & true.
Nothing wrong with that
You young guys are spoiled....The RK is a perfect for Guys who feel less is more.....PS....RK's and Heritages have been going Coast to Coast for many years without Radio's....Infotainment....and storage compartments in the fairing....
It can be done for sure..but just printed maps still qork but GPS and waze makes things a lil easier. Ride safe friend 💪🏽
@@JustGKue Pulling over at gas stops and pulling my Cell out of my vest pocket looking google maps works great for me.....
You are so rite Brad..
@@bradlozano2571 Recently took my 2022 Heritage from southeast Pennsylvania to Myrtle Beach bike week on the weekend of May 12 till May 15. Just a windshield in front but do have a King Tour pack on it along with a QuadLock phone mount for the handlebars to use my phone as a GPS.
So, what is a Radio or Infotainment system? 😂
@@brettdavis80 Thats what am talking about🤪
I like your videos- just now saw this one. And while I love your style and honesty- as a 62 year old rider who has experience with other baggers-I now only own a Road King- and I travel from state to state-old school. I guess the newer riders need the doors and AC with full electronics- but again-is that really riding? I never take loud music when I go to relax at the beach- because if I do-I’m not there to enjoy why I went there for in the first place. I ride for the wind, the openness and freedom. That is the Road King experience that I ride for. Otherwise-I would take my wife’s SUV with AC and all the seat comforts and messages. Let’s get real here. Ride on and
Be safe out there-from a 62 year old Harley rider that intents to keep riding even if it it eventually on a trike.
Exactly! I'm 54 and have been loving my 2010 Road King for 13 years now... a true motorcycle experience anywhere, anytime. Road Kings are definitely for purists.
Dude a King is in a class of its own....I have a 2005 RoadKing I purchased brand new and have not had any issues what so ever....also have a 2014 StreetGlide purchased brand new, 2019 StreetGlide purchased brand new and a 2023 CVO RoadGlide which been in the shop already, but my RoadKing has never been in the shop only for maintenance so please don't dis the RoadKing. I will trust my King on the road for a long trip before my newer bikes. Living in Cali Ive been to 27 states on my King with no problems. Word!
No doubt brother...I do like them!
For just those reasons Road King SHOULD be your FIRST bagger. New riders especially should not be messing with a radio or cigarette lighter or phone chargers. They need to concentrate on driving. Step up to the fairings and things later.
Thats a good point.
A Road King was my first H-D and you are spot on with your assessment. Beautiful bike man.
Thx its a great companion bike just not good for my main one
I love my Road King. Sure there are things missing like tunes, etc. But I like the old school look.... 4:47 you don't need a tach, because you can HEAR when your bike needs to shift. A windshield has a bag to store stuff, your phone can go in your pocket. Get on & ride it.
I agree with you. But as of late the king hasn't been chromed out like the old days and the specials don't even come with passing lamps anymore.
@@JustGKue new RK are uuuuugggglllly... They killed a classic
@@Supertramp01 what year did it become ugly in your opinion?
Nope. It's the opposite. The RK allows for the rider to experience the realness of riding, fully exposing one to the elements: wind, rain, dirt, rocks, bugs, etc. Being exposed fully to the elements (no screen) builds toughness and character. I got peppered to the dome, chest, and arms, by a swarm of bees the other day. It was beautiful. Being at one with your horse, feeling all, and hearing nothing but the sounds she makes, mixed with the wind, is spiritual. Now, after the blood, sweat, and tears (aka joy) spent riding miles of raw unshielded highway, RK riders earn the right to retire into the peaceful comfort of a two-wheeled car. 😉
Stay safe out there, Brother..
I've been there...and I don't enjoy getting beat up 😊 but I understand where you are coming from..stay safe brother
@LewSiffer, Well said. My Road King rules!
Ive owned nothing but road kings
I think all the reasons you listed are good reasons for it to be your first bagger. You appreciate all the upgrades on the next one haha. I started on a Road King and I miss it, but it got stolen from me and I upgraded to a Road Glide. I rode the Road King 1000 mile days and it was just as comfortable as any other bike to me. I did have a windshield, deflectors, and a tour pack. With those additions it was everything I needed for sure.
Sucks that happened man.
Interesting. I just went and test drove my (new to me 96 Road King). I was amazed at how calm the cockpit was with just the big windshield. I can't wait to bring it home. (X-Electra Glide owner....which I loved too).
Good deal!
My first bagger was a 1980 Electra Glide. I took the windshield off, I took the saddlebags off, and rode it stripped down and loved it. I now ride a Wide Glide and have been riding it for years, no windshield, no bags, just a luggage rack and my whiskers following behind me. Love your channel, brother.
My first bike was the 2008 V Star 1100. It came with some hard saddle bags and that was it. No music. No screen. It did allow me to grow a deeper connection to just getting on the bike and embrace that therapy. When I got my RG tho......whew, was I blown away from all of the amenities, lol. Great video bro!
Once you get used to the amenities it's hard to go back.
Your comparison of the difference with that wind blowing was Hilarious. In my younger days I never wanted a bagger rough it out on my V-Max everywhere. Went to a full dress 24yrs and never looked back
Once you switch you realize what we missing out on lol
I constantly look for people that have owned them all. Very few have. This is exactly the kind of valuable info that I look for. Thank you for sharing this very informative, rare knowledge.
Obviously, this does NOT have the Old School mentality of Most Harley riders. He's basically whining about not being pampered by the bike.
My Road King is awesome! I just went moto camping with mine. You can do anything with a Road King because it doesn't have all that princess stuff that's just going to break. Anyone on a Road King just looks badass with the headlight and passing lights. You look like you own the road.
Right on!
Sounds like you need a mini van.
More storage. ☑️
Wind deflection. ☑️
Creature comforts. ☑️
Yes. Definitely a mini van guy.
Nice looking RK btw. 👍
You must be new here 😎
@@JustGKue I know it’s an older post.
Love my Road King.
Looks like you love yours too.
I ride a 2014 Road King. The reason I bought this bike is because of its simplicity, its a motorcylce, no frills bells and whistles. I don't even have a cradle for my phone on the handle bars, thow it in the saddle bags.
I just love looking at that big chrome headlight bezel/housing and an unobstructed view of the road before me.
I love the fact that it doesnt look like a rolling piece of plastic like its big brothers do.
Yeah, I love creature comforts too and when I'm heading out on a really long road trip, Its on my BMW GS Adventure, the ultimate bike.
Diggin your videos, keep up the good work.
Thank you..I agree with that.
I love my RK. The only creature comfort I miss is a power port but other than that it's pretty versatile. I may end up getting a street glide eventually
Agreed!
The power port for adding a phone charger is an easy add-on.
I got mine on Amazon and it took me about an hour to install it.
1 Irrelevant
2 Get a taller windshield or one with the flip
3 Less is more
Reasons to get a RK
1 It’s like a convertible when you take the windshield off; 3/4 helmets with face shield recommended
2 The front end is lighter due to no fairing, great in curves
3 suspension on the RK, not RKS is taller, for a better ride
4 Easier to swap bars etc
*Chrome
**Everybody and their brother got a RG or SG
***Passing lamps on the real RK
Great points!
You earned my like just for not having clickbait.
Road king was my 3 Harley. I LOVED IT!! Just like a few guys said in the comments, it’s just YOU and the road. No attachments. Just GO! I loved the openness. Went cross country with it like it was NOTHING!! I got a RG now for the highway, yes! But mannnn I will have another road king.
Ain't nothing wrong with that...the way my back and neck set up....it'll be my lil putt putt around the city lol
Don’t like phones, don’t like radios, don’t need anything but exhaust sound and open road. Just an old man on my RKC.
I ride a Roadking and absolutely love it. Took it on many long rides from SD to AZ, Nevada, and northern Cali.however, For a 1st bagger and maybe a new rider, road glide will be the best option followed by a street glide. Both has alot more features for long distance rides. Especially if your not trying to spend too much money on aftermarket parts at 1st.
97 road king was my first. None of those things u mentioned bothered me. Love the clean & classic look of it.
Fair enough!
Definitely an interesting take on the Road King. I’m planning on upgrading to either a Road King, Road Glide or Street Glide this spring from a VTX1300C. It’ll be not only my first Harley but also my first bagger.
Roadking is a perfect secondary bike imo.
I LOVE my Road King, was so close to trading it for a Road Glide but decided not to pull the trigger. I am still very happy with the Road King and took it from California to Virginia beach and back. The Road King is on a touring frame. All that said, I am with you in a sense, I know I will get a Street or Road Glide one day but I will hold onto the Road King for short trips or around town. As I want to make some upgrades on it. And have the... hmmm... Road Glide for longer road trip. Let's see what the future holds. New subscriber and enjoying your content. Stay safe!
Thank you! I like my king as well but for long trips...I gotta go with a full fairing 😊
The RK is the easiest to customize. because of the points you made. also, its preference I prefer the look, it just suits my personal preference just did a trip from Houston to Flagstaff going through the Navajoe Res, up from Gallop NM round trip 3k miles creature comfort, is relative the batwing and the shark nose offer more wind protection, but the shark nose of the Road Glide doesn't cover one's hands. I added the hand guards from Memphis Shades to get the cold air off my hands and it did just fine. A lot is just preference.
Agreed
I'm buying one from my cousin in Phoenix in the spring. Plan on flying in and riding back to Houston.
That's a pretty good ride. Spring in the desert is best time to be there. West Tx gets nippy but not to bad. Once you leave Ft Stockton around the wind farms can get hairy. Enjoy the Ride@@Juan_E_Dewitt
We disagree on the Road King. I’ve ridden my 02 Police Road King Northward into Canada numerous times. I’ve also ridden her Southward into Mexico a number of times. I’ve ridden it Westward from Charleston, SC to San Diego, CA, and many roads in between. The only storage addition was a razor tour pack, which easily holds all my immediate needs. I love my Road King, and we’ve been together over 20 years.
My first bike was a wide glide. Still have it. A first bagger for a person really depends on who they are. If your focused and comfortable on a bike with the riding skills to back it up get a bike with all the bells and whistles. If your an easy person to distract then you don't need to be distracted by a button when the truck in front of you slams on brakes. Bells a whistle bikes I think are for people who have for years been comfortable on a bike and are first thinkers in safety. Some folks got enough sense to pull over and figure out something. Some do it at 70 miles an hour. Rolling dice there. Hey, great video and thanks for posting.
That is a great point sir! Thank you for that!
Last Harley Davidson I bought was a 1983 FXWG. Use to ride it 86 miles round trip to work. Still own it.
💪🏽💪🏽💪🏽
Road glide nation here 2019 my first Harley after over 40 years of riding , I love it made for comfort not made for speed
I think the road king is the best choice for a first bagger. The biggest reasons are, first it’s a lot lighter than the other baggers and you don’t have to contend with the extra weight of the fairing which is good if you’re upgrading from a smaller bike. Plus the road king has great maneuverability. I have a road king and an ultra limited. I can maneuver around a lot better on the king. The road king was my first bagger after coming from a sportster so I know first hand
Good point.
I just did a 6 hour trip on my heritage with a windshield, and the wind wasn’t a factor
Those bars being pulled back like that look absolutely terrible.
Dumped my Ultra and went back to a King. More maneuverable, lighter--still toured all over with it. "Creature comforts"--I have my cage for that. To each his own.
True
I just got my first HD and yes its a Road King special. I love it. Im going to add a custom batwing! A razor! And other lil things that we all do when we buy our 1st bike. Im not triping off who do like it. Its your personal opinion and I can respect it.
I definitely can agree with that
What’s the the purpose of buying a Road King, if your just going to add a batwing, should have just bought a Street Glide
@@stanleyrobinson4309 you can take the fairing on and off the road king pretty easily, it’s not as easy with a SG though and doesn’t look as good without it
Thanks for the video man. Im going to test drive 2 bikes today and after seeing this, I now see little details that slightly steer me towards getting the Street Glide as my first bagger.
You're welcome
As far as touring bikes are concerned, I'm happy just to have one. However, the feature I like most is a nice stereo system. One day I will get a street glide or road glide just for that. For cruising around, I prefer a V-rod or sportster. I can whip them things anywhere and have plenty of fun on them.
1994 Road King still in good shape and dependable with the original Carborator. It's been rebuilt to Weisco 88 inch now and I have always used A 29"windshield on it. Big Corbin Saddle with the removable backrest. I don't need a phone when I Ride. It's in the right saddle bag. I don't rag on it, I just ride it like I have some common sense. Like Clint Eastwood said in Magnum Force ; A man has got to know his limitations ! . If you buy a Harley Davidson to go fast you will probably learn what your limitations are Sooner or later !
Went back to the Road King from an Ultra--don't need (or like) radios, fairings, tachs, GPS...like the view of the road, lighter, better handling, ability to remove the windshield on my RC. My iPhone fits easily in my pocket. Started riding in 1964, guess it is hard to get over my old school preferences! To each his or her own.
Understandable
Congrats--also got my first ride in 1964--a 1954 Triumph. Still like the feeling of riding a "real" motorcycle, which my King gives me. Reminds me of my buddy's 1954 Panhead which I rode when we switched bikes. Ride on and be safe!
I have a clip on windshield for highway driving, and the saddle bags are plenty, though I have a pouch on my windshield and a pouch on saddle bag guard. I never got the thing about having a stereo on bikes….ya, a lot of folks have them. I just like the drone of the engine myself. The RK embodies true Harley design, going back to the fifties; and the softail going back to the 1940s. I have always felt that Harley should only have two bikes, with build options. The RK would be sold as a base model, with add-ons, like the fairing etc. The Softail should be the other model. Forget the Sportster , it’s basically a metric-bike with a Harley medallion.
If you want to block the wind, put the windscreen back on.
yep. doesnt block as much as the glides though
I love my road king
Wind issue: I have a windshield that I love
Phone storage: T-bags makes a nice bag that mounts perfectly behind the dash against a windshield and holds A LOT of stuff. I’ve got under glow lighting, the road king gives me the touring ride, but also gives me the tight handling of a smaller frame bike, and handles Needles in Sturgis with ease. LOVE my road king, and would never buy the shark face ugly glide. And I have several from springer’s to full touring.
The road king look at it this way it’s a blank canvas motorcycle. It can be altered in anyway for any person. Yes, you have to buy accessories mount them on and those cost money. However, you can make the bike and tailor it to your liking. That’s what’s nice about the road king
My first Bagger was a Police Road King.... No regrets. Thus far I've owned all 3 Touring Bikes. Currently on a Street Glide. 😁
I love my 2022 road king special I got the Kraus 10 inch with pull back there moto bar it's a blast to ride. get the full benefit of the road glide the screaming eagle holins rear shocks OMG Those are so nice can dial it in so good can throw it around like a lowrider, or set it up for a plush ride for the long ride. I 2 up on it with wife I have zero complaints its an awesome bike. if I get another new bike I believe I will be getting another road king. my friend has a 2017 road glide I've rode it. you just cant ride it the same.. Road king handles so much better. Best bike I ever owned Best one I ever rode.. I was thinking of a Road glide but I be missing out on all the handling, for a few compartments.. can get a tour pack actually going to get one for next year making plans now going to Sturgis.
You can modify any bike to fit your needs. It’s all a personal preference. I’ve been riding for years and still don’t use a windshield but like I say it’s all a matter of preference.
22 Rk was my first bagger for all of the reasons you stated, if I want all that other stuff I take my truck. I want to ride with no distractions and escape and if I want to go for a rip and have fun I take my Kawasaki. Making a Harley fast never made sense to me, it is what it is perfection cruising down the road. Love the RG and SG just not for me.
Makes sense!
I agree.. I also have both and luv both bikes. Like you said my road king is my hot rod for warm or hot days.. that wind is no joke comes right into your chess shield and all💪🏾
Fact
Boo, boo! I have a 2009 Road King Classic. I have a windshield, and I can say without it can make your ride miserable. Space isn’t a issue, either add a tour pack or a luggage rack to strap down a bag. Good topic, glad to see your Road Glide is back up!!!
Man..that no wind screen is no joke...
Great video get a Cadillac homeboy you gotta put in the work. I have a street glide 2021 and I’m in the market for a heritage. Thanks for the video peace, brother.✌🏽
When I ride, I ride. I'm not looking to be amused or distracted. I want to be with the road. I want to hear my exhaust. If I need to have something to occupy my mind, I sing. I know
I'm not in the majority here, that's OK with me; and that is why we have so many choices for baggers. If you are not comfortable with that, by all means get a bike with all the gadgets, or you can simply add them what you want to your RK. Thanks for the video.
Indeed. Great point
2010 Road King Classic. First Harley. Bought in 2022 with 18,000 miles. Now has 38,000 and climbing.
It’s heavy
It’s slooooow
The security system SUCKS…anybody but ME can start it.
BUT
It’s never leaked a drop, of anything
It’s ALL DAY comfortable with several 600+ mile days
It handles lightly once moving
It has a sweet spot between 45 and 70 mph I can cruise in all day.
The cruise control was a revelation to me!
I’d like more power and less weight….but not if it mean impinging on any of its best qualities.
I LOVE my Road King.
….but I’m keeping my ZRX.
Thanks mang, just bought a 2000 RK as a first bagger. Good looking out and info. It came with a batwing and hard case bags. Im definitely going to make some fiberglass shin fairings, and handle bar covers
✌🏾😎
The RK is the ONE. Lean and gangster. Love the bar options, them pipes are my music
I think you're nuts!! The RK has the look of the old school Harley before the batwing...I have a 01 RK with detachments ( tourpac and backrest) and I wouldn't trade it for the others! If I want to listen to music, I'll drive my car!
That's fine.
It’s my first bagger. Although I’d love an infotainment center, I love my road king. So unique.
Brother it's all choice. They all have a purpose. I've had ultra classic. Fxwg wide glide Softail custom. Now I ride a heritage springer. Some ride for comfort . I ride for cool. It's all up to the individual.
I think these are all valid points to make when considering a bike for touring. I found your video searching for some answers for my own questions. Would it not be cost effective to buy a Road King and turn it into the touring bike of your dreams? I can buy a '16 Road King for about $16k or $17k (used and presumably MOSTLY stock from what I see). I can add all the touring details that come with the Road Glide for about $7k-$9 (Advanblack has everything you need color matched and I've built a cart around the RoadGlide for under 8K) this includes luxury custom tour pack with speaker pods, lowers with speaker pods, crashbar, FRAME mounted fairing, etc. Add speakers and amps and you're set. This puts me at $26k total (w/o labor) for a fully custom touring bagger. You can't buy that and even if you could, it may cost you about the same or more. Nobody has really done what I suggest from the looks of it. I'd love to see one someday.
They'll be cheaper now
Got a klock works windshield on my Road King, Works so well. No buffeting at all. I dont smoke and find a radio distracting. I am very happy with my Road King.
Understandable
Just your opnion. There isn’t much extra space in the roadglide or streetglide fairing also. If you need extra buy an extra case on the back or bag on a sissybar. There are a lot of different windshields for the roadking also. And you don’t have the problem that the navigation becomes outdated and annoy other people with your loud music out of the speakers. You can buy navigation and bluetooth music to you ears and change that easily. So Roadking gives you more flexibility to make it your own. It is just one of the best HD’s ! 😀
You're right 💪🏽
Nice video. I like the honesty. I think we all sorta change our tastes over time. I bought a cheap honda shadow to start. Then a yamaha raider 1900cc for that big torque, and recently, finally was in the position to get a Harley. Was looking at newer Road Kings and the Heritage Classics. But ended up going with a 2012 blacked out street glide with really low miles. I wanted all the creature comforts this time around. I began to love the look of bags over the stripped down look. Maybe ill change back to wanna getting punched around by wind again one day. But even 2 hours at 80 mph with only mini-apes in front of me was starting to take away that feeling of riding enjoyment for me. No more looking at the landscape and smelling the air. Just a feeling of wanting to reach my destination asap. With the street glide the enjoyment of long rides is back.
Exxxxaccccttttlyyyytt
Bro I have to say, I just bought my 2023 Road King Special. It came with the 114 etc,etc. I commute 102 miles round trip 5 days a week. The reason I bought it is to safe money on gas because my truck was killing my pocket spending $140.00 average vs $48.00 That been said. I wanted the street glide but even my road king is too expensive. I had a sportster 1200 custom for years bought it brand new and I had fun with it with power enough to take me anywhere I want to. This bagger is powerful,comfortable up until certain level. And you right I would love to have a batwing would be better having a street glide which is my dream bike. But with Harley prices I don’t know if I want to jump into it. So far I’m happy with it and I’m looking forward to add a good batwing on it.
By the way mine came with rain mode, traction control, tire monitor, gear management with rpm etc.
Man...these bikes are just getting way too expensive for the hardworking american..I hope you get it set up the way you like friend!
Be safe
Dude, I have a RK standard and none of those things are an issue. My bike has 'em (except the radio which I don't care about). I tour from state to state just fine. But I know, to each their own. No way would I trade my Road King for a Road Glide.
Just preference 😊
You have to put air deflectors on the forks
LOL!! Everything you said about the Road King is why I bought one. If I want to look at a dash, have a stereo and not be subject to the elements, I would buy a car. I don’t need music, I don’t need to be connected to the world with my phone. If I can’t store it in my saddlebags or strap it to bitch seat, I probably don’t need it. I like simplicity.
Good deal
Road King is probably one of the best bikes Harley ever made. It's the swiss army knife of the Harley models. Add a tour pack, wire in a phone charger/mount, a full face helmet w/ bluetooth and a comfortable touring seat and you've got a nimble trouble free no frills touring motorcycle that won't break the bank. Not to mention easy to customize. Great starter bagger IMO 👍🍻
I ride a 2016 Heritage Softail. It’s got a cig lighter outlet for charging phone, phone holder for gps, and bag on windshield to hold stuff. All I needed 👍😎. I thought I wanted an ultra or rode glide for trips I wanna take but it just wasn’t the same. Felt like driving a car. My heritage softail is still like riding a 1950s pan head with some modern reliability and just a few small comforts 😂.
Understandable 😊
Back in the day I rode a dyna from Wisconsin to California (No windshield) Yeah, it was a rough ride and tons of wind. However, that's what riding was about. Guys today will never get that feeling with all the fancy bikes and gadgets. We had paper maps and boots lol!! I also rode a Honda Silverwing from Wisconsin to Georgia 😅
I want a Road King for local riding and motorcycle rodeos. RK is the BEST for rodeos
Ok walker TX ranger lol
They call it "The King" for a reason!!
My first bike ...a 2005 RKC!! Still have it. I just love the simplicity of it. I not ridng to drink coffee or listen to music.. its what I call a pure ride.
I just bought a 2012 RK, I'm so excited to ride it. It is set up for a woman and has a windshield. Just want to crush some iles on it. Thanks for your review. I'm happy with it.
It's a good bike. I won't lie. It's just not my preferred bike for very long touring. Please be safe and enjoy!
I agree with you even though the Road King is my all time favorite bagger. I own a Street Glide & a Road King myself and aiming to get a Road Glide next.
It's a great bike..just not my 1st choice for long distance touring
Yup. I love my Road King cause I can disconnect and ride. No calls and texts. Pure Heaven.
Having owned both Electra and Kings, I go for the king every time. Less clutter, less weight, more raw motorcycle enjoyment. A faring with outlets, radio, and gauges is nice too though, but starts to resemble an auto once you pass a certain limit.
Interesting point! Thank you
You bet! Great video!
The Road King is possibly my favorite Harley model of all time because it has everything you need to tour the countryside and nothing you don’t need. Don’t get me wrong, I love my Electra Glide Ultra Limited for touring with my wife but I miss my old Road King for just getting back to basics in style and comfort while I lose myself wandering back roads or country highways. It reminds me of why I started riding motorcycles in the first place.
I have had a Road King Special, Street Glide Special and now the Road Glide Special, Street Glide ST and the Street Glide CVO. I bought the Road King Special as a second bike when I had the Street Glide Special because it was stripped down and it had the 114 vs the 103 on the 2015 Street Glide Special. I did have to put a windshield on it as the wind on the chest at highway speeds was too much and very exhausting over the miles and hours ridden. So I used the RKS for my short trips under 200 miles or so in a day. Ride safe and enjoy.
Anything short is cool for me too. It's just not sustainable for me after a while long distances.
First pulled up you on your accident....I Died!....Then learned you rebuilt your Scoot. I also had a crash and one of your Brothers said PTSD and how to overcome as you did. For me it's also been a 3 year period but am doing it and using both of your advise.. Both of you can hardly realize how much you mean to a downed Biker just with your Videos. As a Cracker also saw what love all of you showed to one another at the Hotel meeting. No guns or patch shit just LOVE for one another. All Bikers should learn from this and pass the PEACE. Sure hope to shake and meet you on the road. Jim Miller.
Thank you for the kind words brother...at the end of the day all we have is each other....and more in common than we do apart...
If aliens drop from the sky today and start a war....we'll all be as one...
Why not start now?
Heal up...ride safe and be cool..
Peace ✌🏼
Hey G, I love your channel and have watched most of your videos. You have given tge inspiration to get out on bike more and ride. Let me know when you come to Md/dc/va area so we can get a ride in. Be safe out there brother and keep doing what you do. Peace, AKA (Master chef).
Thank you my brother and respect to you!
I went the other direction and found that I used the stereo less and less the more I road long distance. I liked my iPhone map better than HD maps. Adding a full size windshield and fork winder deflectors I got better wind protection on the Road Kind than I did with my Electra Glide. Also, a lot less distractions in my view (dash lights/gauges) at night. Granted I was mostly only riding Iron Butt rides. Oh also, I bought a tour pack for my road kind. Once you have heated grips and a tour pack it hard to live without them.
Agreed!
Now you know why all the old school bikers had jackets with 187 pockets.
😄😄😄😄😄
Don’t want a radio don’t want a tach don’t want a windshield just want don’t want bags I took them off too each there own that BIKE SOUNDS SICK 🇺🇸🤙
Definitely understand! And thank you!
Had my Road King Classic since brand new in 2001 and love it to this day.
I like the classics as well...much better than the specials
Well, for a first bike you shouldn't have a bunch of things to distract a person anyway. Right?
Great point!
The Road King is my first bagger. Hell, my first bike was a sport bike so this was my first Harley (2019 RKS) and bought it in 2019. I’ve ridden it cross country with no windshield and no issues. Hell, I was even supposed to ride to Canada this past Spring but life sorta got in the way of that one. For context, I live in Texas. The only two times I ‘considered’ getting a removable windshield is during high dense bug areas and when it’s windy and I’m riding against the wind on a highway.
Now, to answer your question:
Though the Road King is my first bagger and was indeed a good first bagger for me, I don’t think it’s a good first bagger for most riders. This really applies to riders who like touring though. If they’re just a weekend rider, this doesn’t really apply because, in my opinion, they don’t ride enough for most of what you mentioned to really be an issue.
Great video though and that was a good clickbait and decent pause from when you say “Road Kings suck” to “for a first bagger”. Ya got me, man… ya fk’n got me 😅
Lol! Sorry about that! But yea for touring purposes it falls to 3rd for me lol
@@JustGKue why apologize for what worked? But yeah, I love my Road King but do plan on getting a secondary (Road Glide) for those longer trips. Mostly due to wearing a full face helmet and visibility can get pretty low really damn fast when it’s butterfly season and I absolutely refuse to put a grandpa shield on my RKS
??? So it sucks because of the wind screen…can’t you just buy an after Market Fairing? Like a street glide? Just asking anything can be modified great topic
Just as it comes it shouldn't be your 1st bagger imo.
I agree with Just G Kue. The Road King is a nice bike for around town and shorter trips. I travel throughout the country and do not see/talk to any Road King riders doing long distance touring. Therefore, a Road King or Softail is ideal as a second bike, more of a bar hopper. Street Glide or Road Glide for touring.
2023 Road Glide Limited
1990 Springer Softail
@@SCVMoto thank you....that's what I'm getting at
The Road king is still a good all around bike , however the wind is a big factor like you said ,it beats your chest up alot . I know i owned both bikes .
Yep! Don't let it start raining...🥺🥺😆😆
U just named every reason why I love my King! It’s a beautiful bike!
It is a beautiful bike. For sure!
Seems to me you’re comparing apples and oranges. The Road King is for guys who don’t want all the stuff that comes with the other touring bikes. I don’t want a fairing and a stereo, I just want a touring bike that will ride 500 miles a day comfortably, and that’s what the Road King does, and it does it without all the bells and whistles of the Street Glide, Road Glide, etc. Also, and this is big for me, I want to see the road in front of me, not a dashboard. So, you really didn’t say anything that makes the Road King suck. All you said was that it’s a bike for the minimalist, and it serves that function perfectly.
The bike doesn't suck. And I wouldn't do 500 miles as it sits on it. But to each It's own. Ride safe
@@JustGKue Just for the record, I'm not the one who said it sucks, I wrote it doesn't suck. It was the guy who posted the video who said it sucks. Regarding "500 miles a day," you are correct on that. The most I've done is 450, but I could have done 50 more if I had to.🙂
@@jamesemond7290 all good brother
Said all “all three touring bikes” when there’s really 5, one of them being the oldest continuous touring bagger Harley makes, the Electra glide, and the 5 being the ultra glide
🤷🏻