Hey Guys thanks for watching and supporting my channel. I always try to answer all comments and questions but sometimes that's impossible. Please checkout my Patreon Page to Support my Harley-Davidson content Creation and become part of that community where I can answer all questions. www.patreon.com/mattlaidlaw
These guided walkarounds are what I enjoy the most on Matt's channel, maximum drool factor. I don't think this Fat Boy has been praised enough. Too many hasty comparisons on the handling while the lines on this bike are so incredibly beautiful! It's not meant to be nimble, the clue's in the name, it's just one helluva stunning cruiser that continues to exude iconic status. 👍👍
I bought a 2018 Fatboy 114 last year ( vivid black ) . I had my local dealer put Vance and Hines big radius ground pounders on it along with Street Slammer drag bars . Love the bike . lots of power .
Matt, most people cringe at 28 minute video, however you are incredibly thorough with your bike review. The new Fatboy has been on my mind for sometime now and I thought I knew everything about the bike, but your video has enlightened me to a new level. Thank you and keep up the great work. I only wish you were my local Harley dealer, I would buy one in New York minute.
Love love love love love!!! I just picked one up and I'm in LOVE!! Previously owned a 2017 Slim S. This bike is better in every way! Great job Harley! You guys finally brought the company into the 21st century.
Put a tallboy seat on it, a mini-ape hanger bars, maybe the sissy-bar for a bag option, that would be my bike! I gotta have that 114 motor too, I would also like a smaller windshield option too! WOW! You got some messed up highways there in L.A.!
Picked up 2019 114 Fat Bob yesterday. Glendale CA. Traded in my 883 Iron I had for two weeks. Well they tried to talk me into the FAT BOY. Great looking bike but did some research and not for me. I live near Mulholland and ride it all the time with my street bikes. Yamaha and BMW. Sold them. I got the sportster because I thought it would be similar to a street bike small, lane slip etc. Now the FAT BOB. Love this bike It handles like a dream seat is very comfortable. Dream suspension duel front disk breaks inverted shocks. Exhaust is my only thing I don't like and will change to some black slip ons. I'm in break in mode so I didn't open it up. But you can feel the power. The newer 114 there is like no vibration.
I test rode this bike at my local Harley dealership during their demo day's. I ride a 2016 Harley Davidson low rider it's my first bike and I got it cause my father said it was a nice bike and also my dealer said for a starter bike was more then enough. But if I had the choice of when I bought my low rider and say they had this model year out then for sure I would have bought this Fat Boy hands down. It felt more nimble then my bike,obviously the 114 motor compared to my 103 stock motor was a major difference in terms of acceleration and top speed. I loved every second of my test ride and was literally smiling the whole time of my test ride on it. Thankfully I had a full faced helmet on otherwise would have looked funny with a goofy grin on my face. hehehe Love your video's Matt.
How did it handle turns? Did you have any issue like he says in the demo? I've ridden bikes with wide rear tires before and don't recall ever having trouble making turns at speed. Although I will say I could feel the bike wanting to straighten up so I had to really hold it in the turn.
On my demo ride the fastest I could take it was up 60 mph. And no real twisties to really test it out on when I did ride it. I made just normal turns like at traffic llghts and stop signs basically but for me I could feel the difference in how it handled compared to my bike. It felt more nimble and even lighter then my bike which is crazy. I personally didn't have any issues with it but then again I couldn't really take any sharp turns to try out that aspect of how it would have handled either.
Honest review... I'm waiting for my 2018 Road King to come into the dealer in the next 2 weeks. I'm praying that the HD engineers did their "do diligence" on the M8 engine design enough so that it will be dependable and durable going forward. Nice work boys! I've been waiting for this day for at least 30 years... drive safe everyone.
This is the review I've been waiting for, nice one Matt. I'm having one delivered two days after the official launch in the UK 114 Tempest Black. I loved this model at first sight. Going to launch day looking forward to seeing all the other new models. Cheers
Love the statement of people living in the past with Harley’s. I have a 2018 Fatboy and I love it but I have friends that swear that “I’ll never go to a M8. They suck and I’ll keep my FXR or twin cam”. The new bikes are amazing and pretty sick to ride
Always been a Fat Boy fan. I’m doing a demo day in October at one if the Houston dealerships. Glad you mentioned the turning on this, I’ll keep that in mind. Another great video sir.
Weĺ done Matt. Seldom seen such a good, and detailed Revue of any bike on YT. I am one of those Dyna freaks that mourns the loss of my favourite HD FXDs. With this revue I am now very much tempted to do a test ride on one of these new Softtails.
Again thanks for the testride. I love the new softail line-up. The revamped Fat Boy looks super! i still like the old "classic" handlebars better. New headlight is cool ! Would like to hear the new softail streetcannons exhaust on the new softails.
Thank you for the great review sir. I love this bike and want one so bad. Do you think HD is going to come out with a black out version of this bike? Like they did with the Fatboy s
Nice video Matt. As always! Looks great...and all details and design is really cool. As a 82nd Airborne Army vet ...I'm digging it:)) Looks tough and ready to go like a freight train. Awesome!
Scoot Jockey, it has nothing to do with dwelling on the past. US Army vets are proud to have served, for years it was not a cool thing. As an ex-US and British Army (REME) vet I am proud like Remus to have served. Back in my REME days the Brit army got little public support.
Great video Matt. While because of the fat tires this bike of course won't handle like say the Fat Bob or Street Bob. Still I believe you might have been a little bit too critical of it's overall handling not to mention the solid road feel & stability this setup delivers. This is one great machine. Can't wait to see the dependability these new Milwaukee 8's have. Personally I feel this is a much better power plant than in previous years. Again awesome video!
I've said it before and I'll say it again...Never really liked cruisers most of my life, but as you age you begin to open up to certain things you may not of liked in the past. Well, there is a few cruisers I'm really liking and at the top of those bikes would be the Suzuki Boulevard M line up and Harley-Davidson Fatboy. Both bikes are so cool! When it comes to cruisers I tend to lean toward more of what would be called a muscle bike and the Suzuki Boulevard M109R B.O.S.S and Harley-Davidson Fatboy fit that bill.
Updated Harley-Davidson Softail Fat Boy FLFB 2018 - 2020 still cool and a very universal bike as its predecessor legendary Harley-Davidson Softail Fat Boy FLSTF 1990 - 2017. But to be honest i prefer exactly the "old" Fat Boy FLSTF, just love more the "old" Fat Boy FLSTF, i do not know, just he such native, just a wonderful bike. Matt Laidlaw thank you for the interesting review of the updated Fat Boy, this bike really cool.
The Fatboy looks better in person. The videos, pics and websites do it no justice. Go by a dealership to look at it. Not my riding style but just a Beautiful motorcycle.
Thanks for a great informative review Matt. I learnt a few things - the difference in the monoshock travel with the different models and the dual balancing. I noticed the heel shifter missing - one thing that I hated when I took a 2016 for a run once (I realise it can be removed). Also I understand that “filled” wheels catch side winds talking with other riders who have experienced this. You didn’t mention either in the review - not a criticism but just an observation. Glad to hear that the suspension is far better with this new platform- I need to take one for a run. With the new rear / front tyre dimensions setup not lending itself to good cornering- can you say that this has better handling than the old Fat Boy frame? Basically does the new Softail frame & suspension make up for those wider tyres- or would you say the old is better in this regard?? Thanks for a great review.(BTW I have a 2013 Fat Bob and love it so this would be a second bike).
+samuraidarryl Thank you. The side wind thing with solid wheels is a myth. You’ll be just fine in a cross wind. It is such a small additional amount of drag. The overall handling and characteristics are such that you can ride the new 2018 a lot harder and more aggressive. The new chassis more than makes up for any difficultly putting it into a turn. I’m sure if I rode the bike enough I’d get used to it as well.
You were getting into the throttle pretty good, I read to keep my 107 under 3500 RPM for the first 500 miles. Great review, sucks the way it turns though. The front light and rear fender is a little funky looking to be on a Fat Boy.
Great review and spot on. I have the 107 for over a month and starting to love it more and more. I traded my Street bob and this bike is so comfortable. The back tire takes some getting used to for me and I was concerned about the solid rims being difficult to ride in windy conditions but last night I rode in pretty gusty winds and went over a couple of bridges and It was fine. Which oil would you recommend? Regular Harley oil which it came with or the full synthetic?
Hi there, nice video and beautiful bike. I plan on purchasing a new fatboy but as I understand it they come in at least 3 options _ standard, low and another version I believe. If this is the case for the 2018 plus fatboy could you please explain the difference between them
I have a 2004 Fatboy and I love the 2018 styling! I would happily own both, if I could. HD got it right, imo, as far as revamping it's whole softail line. If someone likes the old style, they have 28 model years to choose from! Thanks for addressing the "better, than FXR" frame question. I have my FXR and I'm also starting a new FXR build. So I don't need HD to invent a similar bike! But I need a new reliable bike... family and ride buddies are getting tired of my brakedowns... tempted by the Fatbob 114... but I'm still curious about the future of the Sportster and the possibility of a whole new product... the Dyna crowd won't be satisfied yet... Great honest and informative review! I keep coming back every few days for your videos! Hope to visit soon.
Hey bro.. kindly tell me that which one is better in riding and comfort between fat bob and boy?? Because they both bikes are very similar so its very hard for me to judging
2018 Fat Boy is gorgeous and amazing. You will need to hang on a little tighter with the beefier 114 engine. It's quite the difference in comparison to the 107. In the pacific northwest we have a lot of rainy and steel grated bridges - bike handles no problem. Need to work a little harder to get around the 90 degree turns with the big back tire. I give this bike a 9.75 out of 10!The only bad thing about the bike is the very stupid license plate location!!!! Sticks out like an oversize corn on a big toe. If anyone knows how to get the fender mount holder that's installed on the European models please post!
Saw your new ride Matt..Congratulations!! If I had the money I’d go for the street glide special too but we veterans don’t get paid enough for that, LoL! I’m 5’5” and test rode the 107 Fatboy cause they didn’t have a 114. I really loved it and felt super comfortable with the bike. So much better compared to my 2014 SuperLow 883. My only question to you would be 107 black or black 114 Fatboy?? Do I need to really fork out that $1300 bucks; is it a huge difference!??
Thank you, and thank you for your service. To answer your question, no, the 114 isn't a huge difference. The difference is there especially with roll-on power at higher speeds but the 107 still runs really strong.
Is there any word on a HoldFast detatchable Tour-Pak rack for the Fatboy? I'd like to have a detachable bagger-kit using a TP rack and easy brackets for hard bags, but the Fatboy and Breakout appear to be the only two softail models where the TP rack is not available!
Great review Matt. Very, very cool bike. I can understand the "Blessing and Curse" dilemma facing Harley Davidson. They have to continually improve/innovate while not alienating their more traditional "Old School" clients. I also found their higher footpegs/floorboards a little more cramped.
I ride a BMW K 1600 GT bike. Great bike. Their new B version is one great riding/looking beast. But I've decided on this very same bike as my 2nd bike (in white though). I'll customize it with reduced fenders especially that monstrous rear one when the after market presents them. One question. HD 2018 catalog page 265 (B) shows 2 Profile Low Rear Suspension mono shock(s) which lowers the bike about 3/4 ". Serial # 54000134 is for the FLHC/FLHCS bike. #54000143 is for the FXFB/FXFBS bike. Why NO Fat Boy FLFB choice? Thanks.
Wanted one of these for years and I love the new design. Anybody know about wind sheer issues with the new wheels? Are they still as common as the old ones? Everyone I've ever met with a Fatboy has complained about getting caught in a gust and nearly losing it.
My dad has a 1990 Fatboy silver with the yellow engine stripes. hes the original owner and ever since i was a kid i wanted a Fatboy. now lets hope Laidlaw has a deal coming up soon so i can trade and get one
Just a quick question about the digital readout on the Harley. I have a 2006 softail heritage and the only options I have are the check my trip A & B and my current miles but I want all of the other options like the time, how far I can go till I'm on empty, and the gear with the RPM would that just be a system update I can get at my local dealer or can I not have that on my bike?
Matt, awesome videos. What's your fave from the new Softail lineup? Mine would be the Fat Boy but I don't want the wide wheels and don't care for modern styled headlight/forks.
Thanks Matt, I just want it to sound more beefy, my previous bike was an 09 883 iron, I had stage 1 on it with Vance and Hines short shots on it and it sounded awesome, I’m kinda looking for that sound again, what would you recommend?
Hey, Matt great videos! I am researching bikes and will be honest that I am not a Harley bred rider. I am open to any touring/cruiser. My question is can the Fatboy be made into a bagger? I think the fatboy is my favorite of all bikes
Matt. Well done once again. It's good that you now address the pillion/passenger seat. My other half has a real beef with HD every time she sees a passenger seat which doesn't really cater for a passenger. She understands that not everyone rides with a passenger, but that doesn't stop her from being critical when one (as in me and many others) pays so much for a new HD but then you have to replace the seat on what is a brand new bike and you shouldn't have to do that.
Matt, have a quick question. a couple of guys asking me about the new seat height on 2018 models. Since the ground clearance has been reduced then it defo helps shorter riders to ride but the seat height has been raised a bit, right? Then would that be a same situation for short-height riders as well?
Matt you say keyless, so I take it the fob being present with the rider allows starting, is it necessary to lock/unlock the forks to activate starting mode
+Bob Henderson As long as the Fob is present you just hit the run switch and the ignition comes on. The fork lock has nothing to do with that system. The fork lock is just a separate layer of security.
Hi Matt, I recently test rode this in a demo truck event. My self at 5.10 height ,Its super comfortable in seating position and the seat also has good padding this time. Only concern I had is it does not lean easily in corners because of the fat rear tire.Just curious to know what handle bars are those that comes as stock ? I ride a 2013 sportster 1200 custom. Btw, I watch all your videos and I like them very much. Good work !!
Hey, I've loved Harleys in general and especially the Fat Boy ever since I saw Arnold on one in Terminator 2. I've never ridden a bike in my life and am thinking about finally taking some lessons and getting a license. I'm not really interested in sport bikes or really going fast. I want a nice bike to take trips on upstate NY or wherever the hell I want to go. Do you guys think the Fat Boy would be a good choice as a first bike? Do they tend to hold their value well? What other Harleys should I consider that are similar to this in style and power? Thanks!
They aren’t the best bike to learn on but it can be done. Once you learn the bike is a lot of fun for riding wherever the hell you want to go. If you like the fat tire profile then maybe check out the breakout as well.
Thanks a lot for the response Matt. That's what I thought. A big $20k bike is overkill for a beginner. I'm 5'11" so height won't be a problem later on but other people have told me that the probability of dropping any bike is pretty high in the first 6 months and it would be a shame to mess up a brand new beautiful bike. Great channels and video by the way. I wish my dad would've been into them and I could've learned as a teen. Hopefully I'll be able to teach my kids one day.
Great review Matt, your videos on the new 2018 bikes are the best. When you showed the 115 Anniversary Edition in the pop-up window while you are talking about the sissy bar, I see a swingarm bag mounted on that bike. Is that the older 2017 bag modified to fit the new 2018 model? Cheers.
Great vid as usual Mattl! Do you know if there is or will be fog/passinglights matching the Fat Boy? It would look awesomely massive with two similar but a bit smaller lights both sides of the headlight. How about cruise control? Btw, it seems at bit hard to turn/handle? How is it in comparison with like a Breakout of yesteryear's with an equally wide rear tire? Keep the videos coming!!!
+Dark Of Light At this point I don't think there is a passing lamp kit that can be installed on this bike. The cruise control can easily be installed. I have to test ride the breakout but I anticipate it handling about the same.
Matt, this is Ramon in the Philippines, I have a FXDR 2020 wanting to get a rear rim out of a Fat Boy (silver or black) to replace the rear rim on the FXDR, pre owned . Would you have on in your dealership for sale and how much ? Will be in U.S. January 21 can pick it up. Thanks much for your help
I tested this bike last weekend and yes it doesn't like to turn so not the best handling bike. The Breat Out is much easier to handle although it has the same 240mm back tire. I think the problem of this bike comes from the 160mm front tire which adds even more of difficulty to the handling. Other than that I really enjoyed the power and the torque of this bike, it was a joy to ride and the beauty of it. I mean it looks beautiful and powerful at the same time. Thanks for the honest review
Hey Matt, I love this bike, I have one myself, it’s the 114 wicked red and twisted cherry option, but I think it needs a set of mufflers, do I need to go down the stage one route or can I just add the mufflers without risking damage to my bike???
You can switch the mufflers without damaging your bike. You’ll get an aesthetic and sound benefit but no performance benefit without the tuner and air cleaner.
Finally Harley Davidson got it right. For the first time I am seriously considering to buy a Harley. Thanks for a good review. But tell me about those grafs - can you tune this bike to have more than a hundred HP?
Great review as always. I like the new Fatboy for the most part except for the 240 rear tire. In my opinion the 200 was plenty of tire, and I hear it costs $350 to replace the 240.
Thanks for sharing. I have 2 Harleys a 2009 Sporty 1200L and a 2012 FXDC. I was thinking about trading them both in for a 2017 Low Rider S or a 2018 Low Rider. I ride with the better half on the back about 80% of the time so a backrest would be a must also. Between the 2017 S and the 2018 which only comes in a 107 which bike would you pick? Love the acceleration of the 2017 S by the way. Thanks!
Hey Matt, another awesome demo vid. Thanks for touching base on the handling aspect with regards to the thick beefy tires. By the way...at the very end of the video, was that you dealing with someone who had cut you off ?
Very good review, Matt. The Fatboy is my favorite HD model, and I'm a little torn about a couple of things on these new bodies, but I'm sure they'll grow on me.
What a great review. What ever happened to the down shift peg? Can you put saddle bags on this bike? My first bike was a sporster and I loved it to bits. Now I have an older gold wing and I was going to purchase a brand new Honda gold wing as they have upgraded that bike too but after watching this that fatboy is pulling on me. What's your thoughts on both bikes
Very nice bike think the new design of it is growing more and more . Always loved the Fatboy's. Matt have u decided yet on what your next bike will be? anything u are leaning towards?
Hey Guys thanks for watching and supporting my channel. I always try to answer all comments and questions but sometimes that's impossible. Please checkout my Patreon Page to Support my Harley-Davidson content Creation and become part of that community where I can answer all questions. www.patreon.com/mattlaidlaw
Matt Laidlaw with a keyless entry if you turn on the bike and walk away will it turn off automatically?
No, it doesn't.
Hello Mr. Laidlaw where did you stay at america which is the location how could we find out
Thomas jou no som men hoe whant to sale a fat. Boy or a trike
No problem Matt:)
These guided walkarounds are what I enjoy the most on Matt's channel, maximum drool factor. I don't think this Fat Boy has been praised enough. Too many hasty comparisons on the handling while the lines on this bike are so incredibly beautiful! It's not meant to be nimble, the clue's in the name, it's just one helluva stunning cruiser that continues to exude iconic status. 👍👍
I bought a 2018 Fatboy 114 last year ( vivid black ) . I had my local dealer put Vance and Hines big radius ground pounders on it along with Street Slammer drag bars . Love the bike . lots of power .
The details on this bike are astonishing!
Matt, most people cringe at 28 minute video, however you are incredibly thorough with your bike review. The new Fatboy has been on my mind for sometime now and I thought I knew everything about the bike, but your video has enlightened me to a new level. Thank you and keep up the great work. I only wish you were my local Harley dealer, I would buy one in New York minute.
Love love love love love!!! I just picked one up and I'm in LOVE!! Previously owned a 2017 Slim S. This bike is better in every way! Great job Harley! You guys finally brought the company into the 21st century.
Man. Front to back, top to bottom, that is one beautiful bike! One of the best looking ones the MoCo has put out in years
The more I see these 2018 bikes the more I love em. They are incredible machines.
I just ordered the 2024 model. Can"t wait to ride this beautiful bike!
Put a tallboy seat on it, a mini-ape hanger bars, maybe the sissy-bar for a bag option, that would be my bike! I gotta have that 114 motor too, I would also like a smaller windshield option too! WOW! You got some messed up highways there in L.A.!
Picked up 2019 114 Fat Bob yesterday. Glendale CA. Traded in my 883 Iron I had for two weeks. Well they tried to talk me into the FAT BOY. Great looking bike but did some research and not for me. I live near Mulholland and ride it all the time with my street bikes. Yamaha and BMW. Sold them. I got the sportster because I thought it would be similar to a street bike small, lane slip etc. Now the FAT BOB. Love this bike It handles like a dream seat is very comfortable. Dream suspension duel front disk breaks inverted shocks. Exhaust is my only thing I don't like and will change to some black slip ons. I'm in break in mode so I didn't open it up. But you can feel the power. The newer 114 there is like no vibration.
I test rode this bike at my local Harley dealership during their demo day's. I ride a 2016 Harley Davidson low rider it's my first bike and I got it cause my father said it was a nice bike and also my dealer said for a starter bike was more then enough. But if I had the choice of when I bought my low rider and say they had this model year out then for sure I would have bought this Fat Boy hands down. It felt more nimble then my bike,obviously the 114 motor compared to my 103 stock motor was a major difference in terms of acceleration and top speed. I loved every second of my test ride and was literally smiling the whole time of my test ride on it. Thankfully I had a full faced helmet on otherwise would have looked funny with a goofy grin on my face. hehehe
Love your video's Matt.
How did it handle turns? Did you have any issue like he says in the demo? I've ridden bikes with wide rear tires before and don't recall ever having trouble making turns at speed. Although I will say I could feel the bike wanting to straighten up so I had to really hold it in the turn.
On my demo ride the fastest I could take it was up 60 mph. And no real twisties to really test it out on when I did ride it. I made just normal turns like at traffic llghts and stop signs basically but for me I could feel the difference in how it handled compared to my bike. It felt more nimble and even lighter then my bike which is crazy. I personally didn't have any issues with it but then again I couldn't really take any sharp turns to try out that aspect of how it would have handled either.
Honest review... I'm waiting for my 2018 Road King to come into the dealer in the next 2 weeks. I'm praying that the HD engineers did their "do diligence" on the M8 engine design enough so that it will be dependable and durable going forward. Nice work boys! I've been waiting for this day for at least 30 years... drive safe everyone.
You'll like the RK. I have a Milwaukee 8. I love it.
This is the review I've been waiting for, nice one Matt. I'm having one delivered two days after the official launch in the UK 114 Tempest Black. I loved this model at first sight. Going to launch day looking forward to seeing all the other new models. Cheers
+Andy Lace That's a great color. I've gotten one of those so far. You'll love it my friend. Enjoy.
Matt Laidlaw Thanks for the reply Matt you're doing a great job with the reviews.
Love the statement of people living in the past with Harley’s. I have a 2018 Fatboy and I love it but I have friends that swear that “I’ll never go to a M8. They suck and I’ll keep my FXR or twin cam”. The new bikes are amazing and pretty sick to ride
Yea they are in denial. The new stuff is just better. Plain and simple.
Always been a Fat Boy fan. I’m doing a demo day in October at one if the Houston dealerships. Glad you mentioned the turning on this, I’ll keep that in mind. Another great video sir.
I feel like this bike looks way cooler in person than in pictures or video. It's quite awesome looking in person.
At $30K it should.
30k? Way over shootin it man.
Weĺ done Matt. Seldom seen such a good, and detailed Revue of any bike on YT.
I am one of those Dyna freaks that mourns the loss of my favourite HD FXDs. With this revue I am now very much tempted to do a test ride on one of these new Softtails.
Never been a big fan of the Fat Boy until this year. That satin chrome is gorgeous. It's the nicest of the new Softails IMHO.
You do a great job with these videos, Matt. Always enjoyable and informative to watch.
Thanks !
That satin finish is nice.
Again thanks for the testride. I love the new softail line-up. The revamped Fat Boy looks super! i still like the old "classic" handlebars better. New headlight is cool !
Would like to hear the new softail streetcannons exhaust on the new softails.
Just ended up to get a 2018 FB anniversary Blue. I am 6‘4 tall, can i do something to Further Improve seating/riding comfort ?
Matt, your great video just convinced me a little bit more to buy a 2018 Fatboy 114 here in Berlin, Germany. Thanks a lot!
Cheers
Thilo
Thank you for the great review sir. I love this bike and want one so bad. Do you think HD is going to come out with a black out version of this bike? Like they did with the Fatboy s
Maybe in the future. I doubt we will see something like that for at least a couple years
Nice video Matt. As always! Looks great...and all details and design is really cool. As a 82nd Airborne Army vet ...I'm digging it:)) Looks tough and ready to go like a freight train. Awesome!
Awesome man. Thank you for your service.
Matt Laidlaw
Good morning Matt... which rides better new fat boy or RK?
Why always mention the Military,i too served 22 years in the British forces,but i do not dwell on the past man it bugs me!!!!
some guys are like that. gets in their heads, they don't know how to shake it....
Scoot Jockey, it has nothing to do with dwelling on the past. US Army vets are proud to have served, for years it was not a cool thing. As an ex-US and British Army (REME) vet I am proud like Remus to have served. Back in my REME days the Brit army got little public support.
Fantastic video and narration. I’m probably being a bit dramatic, but the bike is just
simply a work of art! Keep up the good work, Matt.
Looks super cool in the candy red paint. Love it.!
Great video Matt. While because of the fat tires this bike of course won't handle like say the Fat Bob or Street Bob. Still I believe you might have been a little bit too critical of it's overall handling not to mention the solid road feel & stability this setup delivers. This is one great machine. Can't wait to see the dependability these new Milwaukee 8's have. Personally I feel this is a much better power plant than in previous years. Again awesome video!
Just bought that same bike ( wicked red ) 114 yesterday . Stump puller ...damn .
Love that Fat Boy. Great new look and a great vlog. Thanks again Matt.
+Clint Young Thanks Clint.
Fat Boy, with those huge tyres, is really really marvellous.. thanks bro 😬💪💕
I recently went ahead with, and thoroughly love a new black 114 fat boy. very muscular, still iconic and despite it's heft even a little athletic.
I've said it before and I'll say it again...Never really liked cruisers most of my life, but as you age you begin to open up to certain things you may not of liked in the past. Well, there is a few cruisers I'm really liking and at the top of those bikes would be the Suzuki Boulevard M line up and Harley-Davidson Fatboy. Both bikes are so cool! When it comes to cruisers I tend to lean toward more of what would be called a muscle bike and the Suzuki Boulevard M109R B.O.S.S and Harley-Davidson Fatboy fit that bill.
Can someone tell me the difference between 2018 FLFBS and 2019 FLFBS ? I'm not seeing any changes except paint schemes ! Thank You in advance !
Updated Harley-Davidson Softail Fat Boy FLFB 2018 - 2020 still cool and a very universal bike as its predecessor legendary Harley-Davidson Softail Fat Boy FLSTF 1990 - 2017. But to be honest i prefer exactly the "old" Fat Boy FLSTF, just love more the "old" Fat Boy FLSTF, i do not know, just he such native, just a wonderful bike. Matt Laidlaw thank you for the interesting review of the updated Fat Boy, this bike really cool.
Thanks for that honest review. Not a bike for me since I like long trips and cornering. Too bad because I really like the style.
The Fatboy looks better in person. The videos, pics and websites do it no justice. Go by a dealership to look at it. Not my riding style but just a Beautiful motorcycle.
totally agreeee
Thanks for a great informative review Matt. I learnt a few things - the difference in the monoshock travel with the different models and the dual balancing.
I noticed the heel shifter missing - one thing that I hated when I took a 2016 for a run once (I realise it can be removed). Also I understand that “filled” wheels catch side winds talking with other riders who have experienced this. You didn’t mention either in the review - not a criticism but just an observation.
Glad to hear that the suspension is far better with this new platform- I need to take one for a run.
With the new rear / front tyre dimensions setup not lending itself to good cornering- can you say that this has better handling than the old Fat Boy frame? Basically does the new Softail frame & suspension make up for those wider tyres- or would you say the old is better in this regard??
Thanks for a great review.(BTW I have a 2013 Fat Bob and love it so this would be a second bike).
+samuraidarryl Thank you. The side wind thing with solid wheels is a myth. You’ll be just fine in a cross wind. It is such a small additional amount of drag. The overall handling and characteristics are such that you can ride the new 2018 a lot harder and more aggressive. The new chassis more than makes up for any difficultly putting it into a turn. I’m sure if I rode the bike enough I’d get used to it as well.
Matt Laidlaw thanks for the reply and info. Glad to hear as I really didn’t like the one I rode. Very keen to get on the new one now 👍👍
You were getting into the throttle pretty good, I read to keep my 107 under 3500 RPM for the first 500 miles. Great review, sucks the way it turns though. The front light and rear fender is a little funky looking to be on a Fat Boy.
Great review and spot on. I have the 107 for over a month and starting to love it more and more. I traded my Street bob and this bike is so comfortable. The back tire takes some getting used to for me and I was concerned about the solid rims being difficult to ride in windy conditions but last night I rode in pretty gusty winds and went over a couple of bridges and It was fine. Which oil would you recommend? Regular Harley oil which it came with or the full synthetic?
I've read alot of good things about Amsoil, may wanna look into it
Hi there, nice video and beautiful bike. I plan on purchasing a new fatboy but as I understand it they come in at least 3 options _ standard, low and another version I believe. If this is the case for the 2018 plus fatboy could you please explain the difference between them
Wat are those wide rear tyre handling around corners like ?
Just wondering does ut make any difference than old 2007 fatboy
I have a 2004 Fatboy and I love the 2018 styling! I would happily own both, if I could. HD got it right, imo, as far as revamping it's whole softail line. If someone likes the old style, they have 28 model years to choose from! Thanks for addressing the "better, than FXR" frame question. I have my FXR and I'm also starting a new FXR build. So I don't need HD to invent a similar bike! But I need a new reliable bike... family and ride buddies are getting tired of my brakedowns... tempted by the Fatbob 114... but I'm still curious about the future of the Sportster and the possibility of a whole new product... the Dyna crowd won't be satisfied yet... Great honest and informative review! I keep coming back every few days for your videos! Hope to visit soon.
Hey bro.. kindly tell me that which one is better in riding and comfort between fat bob and boy?? Because they both bikes are very similar so its very hard for me to judging
HEY Matt Im a 5'9 260 pound guy just want to know would i be comfortable on this bike? I like this style of bike over the touring model
2018 Fat Boy is gorgeous and amazing. You will need to hang on a little tighter with the beefier 114 engine. It's quite the difference in comparison to the 107. In the pacific northwest we have a lot of rainy and steel grated bridges - bike handles no problem. Need to work a little harder to get around the 90 degree turns with the big back tire. I give this bike a 9.75 out of 10!The only bad thing about the bike is the very stupid license plate location!!!! Sticks out like an oversize corn on a big toe. If anyone knows how to get the fender mount holder that's installed on the European models please post!
Saw your new ride Matt..Congratulations!! If I had the money I’d go for the street glide special too but we veterans don’t get paid enough for that, LoL! I’m 5’5” and test rode the 107 Fatboy cause they didn’t have a 114. I really loved it and felt super comfortable with the bike. So much better compared to my 2014 SuperLow 883. My only question to you would be 107 black or black 114 Fatboy?? Do I need to really fork out that $1300 bucks; is it a huge difference!??
Thank you, and thank you for your service. To answer your question, no, the 114 isn't a huge difference. The difference is there especially with roll-on power at higher speeds but the 107 still runs really strong.
Is there any word on a HoldFast detatchable Tour-Pak rack for the Fatboy? I'd like to have a detachable bagger-kit using a TP rack and easy brackets for hard bags, but the Fatboy and Breakout appear to be the only two softail models where the TP rack is not available!
Great review Matt. Very, very cool bike. I can understand the "Blessing and Curse" dilemma facing Harley Davidson. They have to continually improve/innovate while not alienating their more traditional "Old School" clients. I also found their higher footpegs/floorboards a little more cramped.
+Bobber16 Yup. It's a fine line they have to walk. Hard to appease both crowds.
Coming 2019! The Fat boy Judgement Day Special Edition!!
Does it come with a 500 bobbed? (only those that shot one will know what I'm talking about)
I ride a BMW K 1600 GT bike. Great bike. Their new B version is one great riding/looking beast. But I've decided on this very same bike as my 2nd bike (in white though). I'll customize it with reduced fenders especially that monstrous rear one when the after market presents them.
One question. HD 2018 catalog page 265 (B) shows 2 Profile Low Rear Suspension mono shock(s) which lowers the bike about 3/4 ". Serial # 54000134 is for the FLHC/FLHCS bike. #54000143 is for the FXFB/FXFBS bike. Why NO Fat Boy FLFB choice? Thanks.
I own a 2016 fatboy 110 motor its my second harley and i love it it is the king of the road
Hi Matt, do you know of a good upgrade for the softail suspension?
Stage III looks nice on the graph.
I love it! My 1st 2 Harley's were and are Fatboy and FatboyLo I just love this new bike did you say you can't put bags on it?
Al
Excellent Review 👍 my man ,I'm looking to get my first Bike ever an this sings to me , an I'm just a cruiser not a hot dog at all !!!!!
Wanted one of these for years and I love the new design. Anybody know about wind sheer issues with the new wheels? Are they still as common as the old ones? Everyone I've ever met with a Fatboy has complained about getting caught in a gust and nearly losing it.
Awesome Bike. I love this bike in the Anniversary Legend Denim Blue! Thanks Matt!
"The Anniversary Denim Blue" : is this a Levis collaboration? Which anniversary are we talking about ... the sacking of Eric Buell?
I just bought the Legend Denim Blue Anniversary Fat Boy. It is fantastic.
My dad has a 1990 Fatboy silver with the yellow engine stripes. hes the original owner and ever since i was a kid i wanted a Fatboy. now lets hope Laidlaw has a deal coming up soon so i can trade and get one
For crocodile Dundee I can always work a deal. Come see me.
Much nicer than new Breakout.....new Breakout has to small gastank
I've seen people put the larger tank on the breakout but I agree, front wheel is too big and raked on breakout
Awesome looking bike. Are there any plans for a follow up model called the little man?
Just a quick question about the digital readout on the Harley. I have a 2006 softail heritage and the only options I have are the check my trip A & B and my current miles but I want all of the other options like the time, how far I can go till I'm on empty, and the gear with the RPM would that just be a system update I can get at my local dealer or can I not have that on my bike?
Nice review Matt, as always. Though eagerly awaiting your review of the 2018 Low Rider. The pick of the new models IMO. Cheers.
Matt, awesome videos. What's your fave from the new Softail lineup? Mine would be the Fat Boy but I don't want the wide wheels and don't care for modern styled headlight/forks.
Thanks Matt, I just want it to sound more beefy, my previous bike was an 09 883 iron, I had stage 1 on it with Vance and Hines short shots on it and it sounded awesome, I’m kinda looking for that sound again, what would you recommend?
Great work again. I always thought the solid wheels made you more susceptible to crosswinds and therefore harder to control. Your thoughts?
FLHT 2000
ok. Thanks
+bern1228 That's a myth. Cross winds don't severely affect this bike.
Haven't had a problem. I thought so also at first.
Appreciate the input. Thanks.
Hey, Matt great videos! I am researching bikes and will be honest that I am not a Harley bred rider. I am open to any touring/cruiser. My question is can the Fatboy be made into a bagger? I think the fatboy is my favorite of all bikes
Matt. Well done once again. It's good that you now address the pillion/passenger seat. My other half has a real beef with HD every time she sees a passenger seat which doesn't really cater for a passenger. She understands that not everyone rides with a passenger, but that doesn't stop her from being critical when one (as in me and many others) pays so much for a new HD but then you have to replace the seat on what is a brand new bike and you shouldn't have to do that.
I wish I had the money I would go get a brand new black one right now! Good video.
Hi Matt how are the solid rims in the wind I know all the other fatboys were shocking in the wind are the 18s still the same
great review thanks for all the illustration a wonderful bike
I'm in love with this one and i have a question what are the options on handle bars????
Matt, have a quick question. a couple of guys asking me about the new seat height on 2018 models. Since the ground clearance has been reduced then it defo helps shorter riders to ride but the seat height has been raised a bit, right? Then would that be a same situation for short-height riders as well?
I enjoy watching your reviews man. So professional.
+Rassane Lasso Thank you!
Matt you say keyless, so I take it the fob being present with the rider allows starting, is it necessary to lock/unlock the forks to activate starting mode
+Bob Henderson As long as the Fob is present you just hit the run switch and the ignition comes on. The fork lock has nothing to do with that system. The fork lock is just a separate layer of security.
This one and the Breakout both 2018, 114ci are so hot.
Hi Matt,
I recently test rode this in a demo truck event. My self at 5.10 height ,Its super comfortable in seating position and the seat also has good padding this time. Only concern I had is it does not lean easily in corners because of the fat rear tire.Just curious to know what handle bars are those that comes as stock ? I ride a 2013 sportster 1200 custom. Btw, I watch all your videos and I like them very much. Good work !!
Hey, I've loved Harleys in general and especially the Fat Boy ever since I saw Arnold on one in Terminator 2. I've never ridden a bike in my life and am thinking about finally taking some lessons and getting a license. I'm not really interested in sport bikes or really going fast. I want a nice bike to take trips on upstate NY or wherever the hell I want to go. Do you guys think the Fat Boy would be a good choice as a first bike? Do they tend to hold their value well? What other Harleys should I consider that are similar to this in style and power? Thanks!
They aren’t the best bike to learn on but it can be done. Once you learn the bike is a lot of fun for riding wherever the hell you want to go. If you like the fat tire profile then maybe check out the breakout as well.
Thanks a lot for the response Matt. That's what I thought. A big $20k bike is overkill for a beginner. I'm 5'11" so height won't be a problem later on but other people have told me that the probability of dropping any bike is pretty high in the first 6 months and it would be a shame to mess up a brand new beautiful bike. Great channels and video by the way. I wish my dad would've been into them and I could've learned as a teen. Hopefully I'll be able to teach my kids one day.
Great review Matt, your videos on the new 2018 bikes are the best. When you showed the 115 Anniversary Edition in the pop-up window while you are talking about the sissy bar, I see a swingarm bag mounted on that bike. Is that the older 2017 bag modified to fit the new 2018 model? Cheers.
Great vid as usual Mattl! Do you know if there is or will be fog/passinglights matching the Fat Boy? It would look awesomely massive with two similar but a bit smaller lights both sides of the headlight. How about cruise control?
Btw, it seems at bit hard to turn/handle? How is it in comparison with like a Breakout of yesteryear's with an equally wide rear tire?
Keep the videos coming!!!
+Dark Of Light At this point I don't think there is a passing lamp kit that can be installed on this bike. The cruise control can easily be installed. I have to test ride the breakout but I anticipate it handling about the same.
Matt, this is Ramon in the Philippines, I have a FXDR 2020 wanting to get a rear rim out of a Fat Boy (silver or black) to replace the rear rim on the FXDR, pre owned . Would you have on in your dealership for sale and how much ? Will be in U.S. January 21 can pick it up. Thanks much for your help
I tested this bike last weekend and yes it doesn't like to turn so not the best handling bike. The Breat Out is much easier to handle although it has the same 240mm back tire. I think the problem of this bike comes from the 160mm front tire which adds even more of difficulty to the handling.
Other than that I really enjoyed the power and the torque of this bike, it was a joy to ride and the beauty of it. I mean it looks beautiful and powerful at the same time.
Thanks for the honest review
Hey Matt, I love this bike, I have one myself, it’s the 114 wicked red and twisted cherry option, but I think it needs a set of mufflers, do I need to go down the stage one route or can I just add the mufflers without risking damage to my bike???
You can switch the mufflers without damaging your bike. You’ll get an aesthetic and sound benefit but no performance benefit without the tuner and air cleaner.
I think the nacelle would look awesome in Black!
Finally Harley Davidson got it right. For the first time I am seriously considering to buy a Harley.
Thanks for a good review. But tell me about those grafs - can you tune this bike to have more than a hundred HP?
Great review! Matt, which one is the best handling softail? when should we expect for a LR review?
+Oto Kakhidze the Fatbob is. The low rider handles really well too. I'll probably have a review on that bike in a week or 2
Great review as always. I like the new Fatboy for the most part except for the 240 rear tire. In my opinion the 200 was plenty of tire, and I hear it costs $350 to replace the 240.
+2hotFL yea the 240 is pricey.
Excellent video and review (as always). Thank you!
+Warren Beers Thank you
Wondering if a Sportster would be too small if you’re 6’5
Great review...looking forward to the Heritage Softail review also...thanks for sharing
Thanks for sharing. I have 2 Harleys a 2009 Sporty 1200L and a 2012 FXDC. I was thinking about trading them both in for a 2017 Low Rider S or a 2018 Low Rider. I ride with the better half on the back about 80% of the time so a backrest would be a must also. Between the 2017 S and the 2018 which only comes in a 107 which bike would you pick? Love the acceleration of the 2017 S by the way. Thanks!
+dheller777 The new 2018 Low Rider. I'd have to change bars for sure though. The new frame is so good.
Matt Laidlaw You mean esthetically or are they uncomfortable? Which bars would you suggest? I have ordered one and expect it in November.
Hey Matt, another awesome demo vid. Thanks for touching base on the handling aspect with regards to the thick beefy tires. By the way...at the very end of the video, was that you dealing with someone who had cut you off ?
+Mike Wastian Yes, when I get mad some people have told me I act like the terminator.
Very good review, Matt. The Fatboy is my favorite HD model, and I'm a little torn about a couple of things on these new bodies, but I'm sure they'll grow on me.
What a great review. What ever happened to the down shift peg? Can you put saddle bags on this bike? My first bike was a sporster and I loved it to bits. Now I have an older gold wing and I was going to purchase a brand new Honda gold wing as they have upgraded that bike too but after watching this that fatboy is pulling on me. What's your thoughts on both bikes
@@sea-dawg faty
i would like to see a ride and review of the 2018 heritage softail
+SHAD0W Heritage is coming very soon
hopefully you can review one in the anniversary paint set with the 114. thats the one i want!!
if I lived in southern California I'd come round but im a pomme living in south west Australia with a 2017 laguna orange fat bob .
Beautiful bike for the category you described Matt. Hope you sell a ton! Good job!
Very nice bike think the new design of it is growing more and more . Always loved the Fatboy's. Matt have u decided yet on what your next bike will be? anything u are leaning towards?
Yea, I'm really thinking a Street Glide Special. Probably in the Salt Denim. I know - I've kinda been there and done that.
What is an "aluminum disc mag wheel"?