The most chilled out and one of the most descriptive Road King Special reviews I've ever seen, and I've seen pretty much every single one on RUclips. Would watch again just for the vibes. Thank you.
@@LeanIntoTheWindpick up my billiard blue Road king this weekend. I just love your laid back style of presenting. Awesome channel. Liked and subscribed straight away. Thank you for your awesome content
That's the kind of review I want to watch-from someone who has owned a bike for a while, has done some considerable mileage, understands the bike, and knows what he is talking about.
Morning Ive had mine (19/114), for just over 4 years and still love it. Have had lots of different models in the past, and think the RKS is the most versatile. Never selling mine. Safe rides mate 🍻🇬🇧
Thanks for taking the time to comment, that’s really positive to hear after 4 years down the road . I agree to the versatility. Many thanks, happy travels and stay upright
Found this channel as I’m looking at buying a roadking in the future…I’ve spent most of last night watching your Sicily road trip. Great couple, Great content,Great bike 👍👍
Thanks for taking time to comment , that’s real cool of you to do so . Happy hunting for the bike . Thanks so much for watching . Still a lot to learn making videos but having fun trying . Best wishes mate and thanks again . Really kind
I've heard the suspensions on the touring frame Harleys are pretty hard. Lot of guys say the touring frame big Indians have a really plush ride as does the Harley softail Heritage.
I guess in all honesty I’m not the best to judge that as I came from my chopper … which was a really bumpy ride . We find it really good . It’s adjustable. We’ve done a few 14 hour days etc and never once had a butt ache .
Great review man, it's nice to see a chopper addict interested in modern Harleys and finding pleasure in them, great open-mindedness... Greetings from France.
@@Big-Al.64 Thank You . Chopper was great for solo trips and I pushed it to Spain France Germany Switzerland etc But taking my wife now 99% of the time and all our camping gear .. this is the right machine .. few changes since this review, it’s more to suit me now … But I love , I love all Harley’s , if I had the money I’d definitely have 3 or 4 . But I’d sooner spend my money on travelling now ! Making memories. Best wishes
Great review buddy. I ride a 2010 road king classic and I’ve put nearly 60k on it. Like you we do loads of Europe trips at least 1 every year sometimes a few more. When I tell folk how comfortable they are for long distance riding they don’t believe me and when I tell them I’ve done several 1000 mile days they laugh. There great bikes and for me it the way they make you feel. I can park it anywhere without issue and it always draws folk in asking questions about it. Really enjoying the videos guys, glad I found your channel.
That sounds amazing, great to hear you racking those kind of miles .. I can well imagine it on a RK ! My pal had one a 2011 I think , I was on a trip with him in Spain and had a ride on it , I bloody loved it , I was on my old chopper at time and it felt just beautiful.. it’s such a classic motorcycle.. people are drawn to that silhouette.. it awakens something inside people .. cheers for watching mate and appreciate the comment .. happy travels bud
Hello from Wisconsin! Brilliant video! Just found you tonight. I have an '05 King with the twin cam. Greatest bike I've ever owned! Keep making 'em we'll keep watching.
Thanks for the kind words .. really appreciated. If this channel inspired one person to travel on their motorcycle somewhere exciting.. then I’d be happy . Best wishes to you from us both .
I had a 2008 road king in the past loved it! Your review was awesome spot on, spoke to my soul. I will be getting another road king in the next year or two can’t wait!!
Very good review. Congrats on the ride. I rode a 2004 Heritage for 20+ years, put almost 180,000 miles on it. Still ran great, but the carbs put out too many fumes and wife was getting migraines, so traded it in on a 2023 Road King Special. Right now just over 2200 miles on it, it handles like a dream. Glad I got it. Wife rides with me more on this bike. You're correct, it handles great. Enjoy yourself, and keep safe.
Wow that last some big miles , great to hear ! Bet you really notice the difference in the engine too ! Happy & safe travels to you guys .. thanks do much for leaving a comment . Mark
You have the best channel for Harley. I come from Motorally (KTM, Ducati etc.) and very different offroad experiences but, even if we have different point of view on the motorbike, I appreciate a lot you videos about the Road King Special that is a motorbike that I Love ! Always excellent videos and contents ! BRAVO ! Personally on my Road King Speciale I have the Stage 1 at the moment. I changed internal forks suspensions and rear suspensions with the Olhins screaming eagle
@@Fradant123 Wow what a change of motorcycling that transition must have been… I love my Harley’s but admire all kinds of motorcycles… thanks for the kind words … how’s your Special handle with the new suspension?
@@LeanIntoTheWind I stil ride and race in motorally and sometimes enduro races. I love almost all motorbikes too. One of my big LOVE is the Road King Special😍
Great description of a bike that I want very much. I tried it at an HD open day here in Sicily and it got in my veins. It was a sunny day along a cliff overlooking the Sea with white clouds fixed in the mirrors.... A dream 🤩
Many thanks for kind words , I bet that was a sweet ride ! We stopped at the HD dealers at Catania last summer on our one … what an amazing place Sicily is to ride ! And the beaches ! And the food ! Best wishes dude
Congratulations there, mate! I ride a 2021 Roadglide Special, and I absolutely love it. The mounted fairing does wonders for your travels. Less fatigued, and I know I can ride further and longer not having to fight the winds. But Im very happy to see yall happy . Cheers from TX 🤘🏼
Cheers mate , I love the look of the Road Glide … think that the best looking fairing on any motorcycle. This RKS feels like luxury to us after the chopper we had for last 12 years .. it’s such a jump in comfort.. I couldn’t imagine it getting any better , but maybe one day . Cheers for the good vibes message TX , Good to hear from ya again .
Great review. I am originally from Europe, living in America. I always had European bikes and still have few. Three years ago bought a harley...never thought I would liked this much. I will never sell it. Seattle to LA in one day on it. Love the belt, now hate chains. The sound, it writes a story in your heart everytime you ride it. Never thought, i would like a bike this much. Great review.
I watched a lot of Road King reviews before and after I bought my Road King and, like you, I bought mine for long distance touring with my wife. I've also found the bike a joy to ride, two up and loaded or on my own. Great review, I agree with all your statements about the Road King. (I think I met you and your wife in Maidstone Harley Davidson back in Nov or Dec when you were returning from a trip and chatted for a while)
Ah no way I remember you saying you went away with your wife , we met upstairs near the coffee . We was on way home from Brighton in December.. thanks for watching! Hope you’re doing good & look forward to catching up again I hope . Mark
The Harley Davidson Road King is one of the most elegant, stylish and archetypical Harley Davidson motorcycles ever produced and forever etched in HD's rich history of motorcycle designs. The Road King is the personification of a Harley Davidson icon. Those select riders who own one are indeed privileged.
Always like whenever I hear about someone getting a good deal on something! Especially on an item that you’re working towards. They’re few and far between. That’s a great looking bike!
Thanks . I didn’t actually go into it on the video but it was an exceptionally good deal and I didn’t quite have enough , well I was 2 thousand short and I sent a message saying basically I know you’ve put this at a crazy price but I don’t have enough, so tell me to do one by all means but I’ve got this amount…. ? Then he rang me and said if I get there that day it’s a deal . So I did , and I felt guilty on route, I said to my wife I feel bad this guy is so desperate. Anyway when we showed up he opened the garage door and all the walls were covered in Nazi memorabilia.. MY GUILT VANISHED.immediately! Kinda felt like I saved the bike from a Nazi … I hate Nazis . I rode home so happy zero guilt .
Great video. Really good honest review. Bought my first Harley last week. Went for the street bob. Could see this being my second Harley after a couple of years.
Great review. I have never ridden a Harley but have sat on a few at shows and found them really uncomfortable due to the reach for the bars so it was interesting to hear how it was transformed by the bar swap.
@@05gt99 Thank you . Yeah when I rode this home I thought I’d made a mistake buying at first …. The bars put me in the stance of a hang glider haha So stretched out , but I was kinda confident it was gonna work out , just setting the bike up for me . I’m so at home now ..
Great review man. Great to get that feedback from a British owner. I love the look of this bike and loved it when i test rode one. Still weighing up between this and possibly a smaller Indian, like the Scout Rouge, as I'm a bit worried the Road King will just be a bit too big for those Sunday cruises I love, maybe that's not something i should worry about? But still, so far, nothing really tops the Special for its looks and comfort.
Thanks for kind words . Had never done a review and kinda daunting to be honest : but it’s my thoughts , I said fun too much . But I really have had so many great times on this thing in the last year .. hope whatever choice you make works out for you . Best wishes dude
I can hear the passion and love for that RKS .. am with u mate .. I own the 22 Denim green bike and it’s an absolute pleasure and echo every word u say .. have done some videos with that .. just incredible motorcycle … done thousands of miles on the beautiful long country of Australia .. beautiful bike and pleasure to ride .. just subscribed .. looking forward to more on that beast Thanks again for a great video
Ah thanks so much for taking the time to watch . I’d never done one of these videos & really kinda thought maybe 10 or 20 people may have watched it . To get so much feedback and people like yourself comment , is really overwhelming. Passion yes , you know obviously.. I’m just stating the obvious that us RKS owners , have that inner smile about . You’re in such the tight country to be on such a cool tourer . I bet it’s just fantastic down there ! Thanks for taking time to message mate Best wishes dude
I agree with your thoughts on the original bars. They are just wrong lol. They feel turned out at the ends. I’m over 6ft and I’m stretched out in them. I was going to ask what you had changed them too but you have done that.
Great review 👍 I have a Street glide special for touring and it's just like you described it apart from the wind in your face 😂 enjoy every minute of it. Thank you
@@leegilbert494 Cheers mate .. sane bike but yeah you got that spot on I get the wind … was hoping it would iron out the creases in my face .. so far it failed ! Be lucky 🍀 mate . Best wishes
Great review, definitely makes me want to ride it. I’m in the market for a Fat Bob, because I’ve only got time for a few hours a week, these days. But once the kids are grown up and I can get away for a few days at a time, I’ll be thinking of this!
Elegant film man, really enjoyed it. I ride a BMW R1250RT - big fairing, etc, etc. Couldn't be more different to your Road King and I love it but if I was loaded I 'd have a Harley too. It's a different vibe and variety is the spice of life. The landscape you were riding through reminded me of the US mid-west. It suited the bike.
‘Variety is the spice of life’ . So perfectly said & really refreshing to hear from a BMW rider … too much hate sometimes from adventure bike riders towards Harley and definitely the same back the other way . We all on two wheels , up in Scotland last year I bumped into many dudes on BMW in the middle of no where and I envied their ability to lose themselves off road and stood admiring those bikes .. had a good old chat and shared my coffee flask . Those country roads just a few miles from my little town , leigh on sea .. they’re great little lanes . Thanks for watching and more so for taking time to comment . Wishing you happy , safe travels mate .
Thanks so much for watching! May the next two weeks fly by ! And man , you’re in the perfect country to own one of these motorcycles. We had so much fun crossing ‘The Great St Bernard’s Pass’ in Switzerland this summer .. so many incredible roads , some of the best in the world in your magnificent country . Enjoy it all my friend.
Very nice bike!! I went from a Shovelhead for 25 years daily rider to a 2022 Lowrider S 117, I know exactly what you are talking about, and of course I made the Lowrider more powerful, did I need too? oh Hell no!
@@billyfinch7341 hahaha , of course you did ! Love the low rider , I was torn between this and Low Rider ST But knowing 95% of my riding was gonna be 2 up and loaded with camping cool gear this won over . Thank you 🙏 for writing
@@LeanIntoTheWind Your bike is perfect for your purpose, check out Million Dollar Bogun on what the M8 is capable of and watching someone crazier than you and me
Thanks for watching mate . Love the older ones too . My Pal had one some years back and I had a blast on it when we were in Spain together , bloody lovely ! Shall be rolling through Glasgow in April on way up to top , a beautiful part of these lands . Many thanks safe travels
Never ridden a Harley took an r18 out for a few hours, she was pretty comfy. Road King is a beautiful looking bike. 2nd hand stage 2 bike at my local dealer right now. Maybe worth a shot. Enjoyed this review by the way. Gonna make my way through your touring video's next.
First up thanks for taking time to comment . If you’ve never ridden a Harley definitely something that you should do for sure . They are their own thing . Love it hate , they are unlike any other bike . I love the look of the R18 .. cool looking motorcycle for sure . I’d like to try one . Thanks for kind words , the Italy tour is first thing I’ve ever filmed and edited , they slowly get better I think , but I’ve loads to learn . Best wishes Mark
Just considering a Road King as my first Harley, after 35 years of riding. Have owned other cruisers and classic bikes, as well as chops and trikes. Was never into sports bkes, fairings or screens.
Thanks … I’m not twisting anybody’s arm haha … they basically the same bike , But ones got fairing and few more gadgets … I guess it comes down to Do you want fairing .. cheers for watching dude
Great review and nice to see a British perspective on it. At 5.5 a RK would be a bit much not to mention outside of my budget. I have the 107 Low Rider and love it. As you mentioned the biggest difference from my old Sportster 48 was on the motorways, no more holding on for dear life! The Softail is so smooth and comfortable and great for mini tours. Not in the same league as the beatuful RK of course. Thanks
Many thanks . I love the low riders , and so right the softail frame real comfortable ride .. great for touring , went miles on mine .. biggest difference I think is two up on the touring .. just handles the weight easier. But the softail is still not a small motorcycle by any standards . Cruising comfort and great long distance bike . Man people go around the world on Honda C90s . I had a Sportster too back on the 90s I loved that , but it just wasn’t so good for 2-up . But it done us at the time . Cheers for the comment Happy travels bud
What a great review was it . Congratulations. Road king special is my favourite bike. I'm in love with it ! Do you think that i can manage to ride it as a totally new rider ? 180 cm and 90 kg . What's your opinion? Thank you
It’s a great bike . My honest opinion for a new rider is No . Others may disagree; but my hand on my heart.. don’t advise as a new rider . Seriously you could end up in trouble very easily . For a new rider id go sportster or Softail model … the touring models too heavy to start with . Do at least 1 year if not 2/3 years Get experience, it will be worth the wait . It’s only my opinion, but that’s what I’d say . Once you can ride , you can ride anything , but to start on this bike would be trying to run before you can walk . Best wishes mate
It’s a great bike . My honest opinion for a new rider is No . Others may disagree; but my hand on my heart.. don’t advise as a new rider . Seriously you could end up in trouble very easily . For a new rider id go sportster or Softail model … the touring models too heavy to start with . Do at least 1 year if not 2/3 years Get experience, it will be worth the wait . It’s only my opinion, but that’s what I’d say . Once you can ride , you can ride anything , but to start on this bike would be trying to run before you can walk . Best wishes mate .
@LeanIntoTheWind yes , I can understand what you are talking about. It will be difficult for me to maneuver it because it's a heavy bike and powerful too .I'm keeping this advice. I appreciate your time a lot . Thank you .
@@BillieSuit the power is not such a big thing … although it is powerful . Many first time riders jump straight on sports bikes that are much faster . It’s more the weight . You’re welcome
@LeanIntoTheWind understood. When I'll be back in my hometown, I'll try my friends ultra limited, and then I'll be pretty sure about what I'll buy. Thanks again mate .
Boy, I gotta say you are review and just a general looks of the bike has really whetted my appetite. I own a customised triumph Bonneville T120 black. I really like the bike but I feel it’s now time for a change. I have been looking at this bike for a few weeks , I think my only concern would be the weight, although I’m not a small guy. Do you ever take thePanniers off and ride? You have earned yourself a subscriber. I really entertaining video and you have a great natural delivery. Look forward to checking out your order videos😉
Thanks for the kind words , really appreciated. I still love this bike , for we do .. it’s ideal . Yep it’s heavy .. but you get used to it so quickly . Because we went on a big trip as soon as we bought it .. and bike was fully loaded , and two up ….now when I ride the bike it feels like nothing … I’m so used to riding it with all our camping gear etc .. and 2-up . Nope I never take panniers off except to clean. I use them too much . And also I think the bike looks weird without them . Cheers for the sub ! Best wishes with whatever new direction your bike choice takes you ! Love the Bonnie’s too , such a great looking bike , my Grandfather had a couple many years back .. I’ve always thought the new ones look just as good too .
Hi, great video 💪 agree with all you have said. I have a Road King myself. Have a question. Can you let me know what are your passenger sissy bars? Any idea where I can get them? Highly appreciated.
Many thanks . The sissy bar is made by ‘Craft ride XL version … I’ll add link . They are on sale too . But just a heads up , once installed. If you have a rack on back (like I do) you cannot take rack off without un bolting sissy bar . It don’t matter to me as I’m constantly using my rack . But I thought I’d let you know . It’s great quality and real easy install . Only takes 10 minutes and kit comes with all you need . Hope that helps. Thanks for watching. Best wishes www.motea.uk/sissy-bar-compatible-with-harley-davidson-road-king-special-17-23-craftride-sp-black-577717-0?gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIp43_6Mu_gwMVhZdQBh22gw80EAQYBCABEgImDvD_BwE
Great review! I have the same bike and i am loving it. A quick question. You did mention you changed the handlebars to the Road Glide one. What is this exactly? I have also replaced the stock one to KST Kustoms 12” apes, but the pullback is just not enough…..
Hello , thanks for watching. I changed my bars for a set of ‘Road Glide’ bars as in the standard handlebars that come with the ‘Harley Davidson Road Glide Model’ . You can pick them up on EBay used for 70-100 pounds . They are east to find as many people swap them out for tall Apes. They have lots more pullback as they are designed that way to clear the fairing. And I guess comfort . They are a lot narrower than Road King Special standard bars and loads more pullback .. and also they run with standard cables , so you don’t need to buy any longer cables . I hope this helps , if you search a set on eBay they normally have all the dimensions on there . If you in the U.S there seems to be a lot more for sale than U.K … I had to buy mine from Germany but still very reasonably price , I think I paid £90 including shipping . I hope this helps ,. But yeah see what the pullback is compared to what your KST … I searched around ‘Road Glide’ seemed to have more pullback than any others I could find . Best wishes Mark
@@LeanIntoTheWind HI Mark, thanks a lot for your quick reply and excellent insight! I'll search on the internet and get one. The reason I chose the KST Kustoms Pathfinder on the first place was the angle of the top part of the bar is adjustable, i.e. I can definitely get the wrist angle right...I hope this will be also ok with the Road Glide Model...Thanks again, Viktor
@@viktorkatona7521 my pleasure, hope it works out for you ., You can always pop to a dealership and sit on a Road Glide .. Hope it works out for you . Comfort is King !
Hi new sub here 😊. Nice video. Just bought a secondhand 2019 road king special with only 4000 miles on it. I have the same issue with the bars, too far forward and down. How high are the bars you have installed? Thanks and glad I found your channel 👍🏻✌️👊
Hey , many thanks . Hope you enjoy your RKS as much as I do . The bars I have are off Road Glide , I’m 99% they same height as standard ones you got But they are much narrower and tons more pullback, so seat your position completely differently. If you have a dealers near you easiest way is to go sit on a road glide .. Obviously million choices when it comes to bars , but it’s always a risk . So the fact you can try a road glide Is so worth the effort . In my opinion. Safe travels .. and I hope it works out , what ever you choose bud. Mark
Are those really just OEM Road Glide bars? Would you be so kind and give a link to them? Do they fit on the mounting without any spacers etc.? … I also really need to change mine.
Yeah they are 100% just Road Glide bars .. I haven’t found any links to buy new ones direct from Harley Davidson. But apparently you can . But plenty of them for sale on eBay and in black . You do not need any spacers . No cable extensions needed . The only down side I can think of is there are two extra holes in handle bars that switch’s on road glide used , but apparently you can get cover plate for them . Or literally any rubber black ring would cover . Just search road glide bars used on eBay … they are 32 inch wide 1-1/4 diameter.. and you see they have much more pullback . Hope that helps I can find an email link but I’m in uk And presumably you in America So you best finding one on eBay USA Kind regards
Hey man really enjoyed your vid. I always loved the RKS. I want get one but the fact that it's made in thailand is putting me off. What are your thoughts on these made in thailand bikes compared to the US models? Is the build qualiity affected? TiA
Hey man thanks for comment . I had no idea they were made in Thailand , I naively thought all of them were made in U.S.A . Apparently you can check on number on frame to see where each model is manufactured. And I will take a look tomorrow. Hmm how would I feel knowing that , tbh a little shocked initially. However , build quality seems to be flawless . Except for the headstock cover badge that falls off . But I’ve spoke to many American riders and this happens in America too ! Apart from that it’s been flawless, but I’d expect it to be It’s 2022 .. not old . But my previous Harley’s have all had things fall off , they all broke down at times .. but I rode them hard and put a lot of miles on them. My last one was 1989 When I first got it , it was so unreliable, but gradually went through and replaced lots stuff until engine was tip top . Then for many years it was really strong engine . And I trusted it . It’s too early to tell how well this is made , It looks great .. electrics etc beautifully done .. finishing is stunning . But the test will be hard miles .. year in year out . I’d love to see an American made one Right next to a Thailand one Be interesting. But yeah glad you let me know , they probably would not tell you that in a dealers haha .
Hey man , good morning from italy 🇮🇹...thanks for your extensive reply, I really appreciate it. As far as I know all models for european market are made/assembled in thailand. I don't know if this affects Australia also but I would think so. Yes you can tell by the VIN number where it was made/assembled. I'm pretty sure 99.9% your bike is made in Thai because it's a 2022 model. I can imagine that the quality is just as good if not better than a bike built in USA but the fact that hd builds them in Thai to save money and it's us consumers that end up paying premium price is something that I can't swallow. Now, if they would lower the price , since they're obviously not paying US salaries, then I would think about buying a hd made in thai. In the end, it's supposedly the same exact bike as the US models apart from emissions, since all parts come from USA 🇺🇸 and its only assembled in Thai, and that's not a problem. The problem is, the premium price tag for a bike that is not built in USA, but in a country where salary is much less. As you well know, everyone associates hd as MADE IN USA. When i first heard they were coming out of Thai I was really surprised and shocked WTF😮 😲. And yeah, the dealer/Stealership will NOT tell you they're coming from their Thailand plant. Enjoy your ride, stunning bike. I agree. Hopefully I'll be getting one also. My current bike is a 2015 Dyna Street Bob 103TC. I love it but I'd also love a RKS❤
@@enrico1856 Yeah .. I watch a video on how to check .. I shall be doing so , meant to do it tonight but got lost inside a guitar . Yeah the money the wages , that’s insane they making a ton more money . But tbh it’s not a shock to me . I love Harley’s , but I’ve never been a fan of the brand hence my last two bikes had badges removed . I once had throttle cable snap and had to ride 60 miles to a dealers with the cable tied to an Allen key .. so effectively one handed , this was on a chopper with 17 inch narrow bars , when I got there I knew they wouldn’t have a throttle cable for my model as it was an 80s evo . But assumed I’d get a newer one and make it work . But they informed me they didn’t stock Throttle cables , it was a two week wait ! So I asked if I could speak to mechanic out back as I know they do lots bar swaps Maybe I can buy an old one ? We don’t let people talk to mechanic or go out back ? Hmm then she says if it had been a clutch cable been easier as they break more often ????????? Haha So I said give me a clutch cable then She says 2 weeks ? So I asked her if she had a baby suit with Harley on it ? She went got one ? I asked for a flask … she got it I asked for a doggy bandana with HD On it and I carried on getting her to run around grabbing useless stupid items that most bikers don’t need Then told her I drove 60 miles to have my time wasted . Any way I didn’t buy that crap . I was on way to a party in Norfolk . I rang a mate who run a garage out of his back yard he had the cable I needed my mate was also coming to party and brought it up with him , it was £15 used fixed bike in morning. It was such an awakening to how useless the dealerships are .. the only reason I have not taken badges on my new one is it will devalue it . Love the bikes don’t like the whole buy into the lifestyle. It’s for some people but it ain’t me .
@@LeanIntoTheWindcorrect. Last of the York Pennsylvania manufactured/assembled bikes was 2021. 2022 models onwards for the international market were assembled in Thailand, certainly the case for bikes coming downunder to Australia. That’s why I won’t be parting with my 2021 model anytime soon. The decision to assemble in Thailand was due to tax changes in the USA. Well done USA IRS and Uncle Sam😢. Bikes for the USA market are still assembled in the USA.
I was always a fan of road kings, I loved how they look like and how much you can pack on them. And it was until I bought one ;) But it was an older 88cu twin cam. That bike was rubbish, worst handling bike I ever had, it had no torque, nor power. I got it for a year and sold it asap. After that I bought my softail evo with s&s lump and that was so much better handling and much more fun to ride. But I recently rode a new road king and I have to admit I was really surprised how well it's handling (for such a massive bike). Good choice for what you need and you should be glad you didn't buy an older one ;)
Yeah I've ridden the older ones... a different beast altogether... and I've had softail too , loved that as well... but my choice was made knowing 90% of my riding would be 2 - up ... and knowing we'd be camping , and had two of everything ... I needed to go with a touring model.. I'm not a fan of adventure bikes.. I love their capabilities , but the styling just don't get me excited... I bought my first Harley in my 20s... and I actually can't imagine ever changing... My Grandad had an Indian ... back when they really were Indians. I guess I was always a cowboy at heart. ( But horses don't know that)
@@LeanIntoTheWind I totally get you. I was always into Harleys and choppers as well but I was also into British bikes from the 60's - simple motorcycles, two wheels, engine and the tank... That's probably why I actually fell in love in my W800 and quit riding HD as the W was so much lighter and better for 1up on British narrow roads. I still like my Harley but not the way it corners ;) And I hate the adventure bikes as they look just wrong, however they might be comfy and practical. I think that my current BMW though is the closest I can get to practical side of bikes ;) To be honest it's rather fun bike than practical or comfy ;) I just know just one thing, I love riding it but when it comes to the look, I prefer my other bikes, lol. Even it has something interesting and retro in it
Great review! I never liked windscreen either and my bike came with the touring pack so I thought I’d check it out and now I’m ashamed to say I’m starting to like the look of it 😂😂 We had to change the seat aswell because it was so bad for the pillion. What headlight are you running? It look LED and I tried to buy a knock off one and the connection wasn’t right! Subscriber 200 👍🏼
Many thanks . A legend joins us as number 200 ! Yeah I’ve never liked tour pack but more I watched your videos I thought it somehow looked cool on yours . I think though where we camp a lot I get more in my two Enduristan bags … Kats back seat looked so comfortable my wife kept saying ‘I like that ‘ haha My L.E.D headlight was Harley one came with later models as standard . It’s bloody brilliant, done a lot of dark country mountain roads etc , you can see for miles .
@@LeanIntoTheWind we had the same issues with the seat and she blooody loves that back rest 😂 I need to figure out what to do about the headlight because I can’t see ANYTHING. At night 😂
Lovely and good to hear ! .. I can see how that would be easy to do .. we never want to get off … have some big trips planned for next year .. it’s a joy to travel on
@@LeanIntoTheWind Love the videos. In my experience some of life's best times come from drama no matter how bad these times are, there always seems to be a silver lining shimmering somewhere. Take care.
Yeah that makes a lot of sense , I also looked at The Chief .. I loved the lines on it , The Dark Horse , The Road king special, I think a lot of people drawn to one would be drawn to the other .
Yeah seat was a must as pillion was so poor . The driver seat does not put me any closer .. it’s around half inch taller that standard one . I did look at the seats that sat you closer to the bars , but I didn’t like the style of them , and also knew I had to change the bars . They far too wide for me as well as no where near enough pull back .
He put 2800 miles on it in two weeks. He done one road trip to Europe. He had 5 Harleys . This was the newest and most expensive. He had crashed his work van and he had to take 3 guys to work everyday as he was the boss. So he needed money to fund new van as they could not work.. that was why , he said this was the only bike he could sell to fund the van as the others were cheaper older models,. that was the story. , He was desperate, he put it up real cheap and I didn't quite have enough so knocked a bit more off it and he bit , too be honest I was guilty to knock him down .... But that all vanished as when I got to his home, he had huge Nazi flag on garage walls and other nazi memorabilia .. so as you can imagine my guilt was like ........me .,....... gone in a flash .
I enjoy riding my street glide with the fairing but their is nothing wrong with not having any kind of windshield. People complain too much about the wind. Why do they even ride?
Good to hear . I’d love to ride a street Glide or Road Glide just to experience the difference. But yes you’re right , a lot of gripes about the wind , surely it’s expected.. it’s after all a motorcycle. I think in todays world things that are uncomfortable or fatiguing .. are always kinda overcome somehow . Everything is constantly made easier, it’s man’s natural progression I guess . My grandad toured Europe in the early 1950s , when I see photos of his motorcycle and camping equipment, clothing etc .. it’s all so basic .. but did he have fun ? OF COURSE HE DID .
You mentioned not using a wind screen,ferring or a windshield... I suspect that where you are from and the type of roads that you are use to riding that you are not able to reach the speeds high enough to cruise in needing one... Here in America in riding at speeds of 80 mph all day long it is absolutely in most cases necessary in having one or the other... Right 🤔? All factory - stock handlebars are crap... Again traveling on long trips and higher speeds in having taller bars and the right seat makes a big difference... 👍😎🇺🇸 .
Hmm , no here we travel at 70mph on all major roads .. on trips obviously at those speeds for 10-15 hour days .. I guess where I’ve never used one , I don’t know what I’m missing , but I love the wind , I guess on my chopper I was always leant back into my sleeping bag on long days .. I find the only fatigue would be if I never had back support , my arms end up taking the strain. Maybe if I had a screen for a week I’d then know . But like I say you don’t miss what you’ve never know . I did try taller bars once , loved them . Tbh I’d have probably Gone taller bars if money had not been an object , but It then meant buying new cables . And we was saving hard to do a 3 week Italy trip , had just bought bike and bunch of stuff .. so I had to compromise. But they are really comfortable. I think our longest day on Italy trip was 14 hours . And I had no aches which amazed me . And in Europe we often sat at 80mph for hours on end . You’re definitely right about stock bars .. I’m sure they do it to sell more bars . Same as the crappy indicators .
I would never buy any motorcycle new , I bought mine 3 months old with 3000 miles and 3 grand of extras and I saved 9000 . I can still sell it for the same now . Where we live they give away BMWs with with every babycham at most bars .
The most chilled out and one of the most descriptive Road King Special reviews I've ever seen, and I've seen pretty much every single one on RUclips. Would watch again just for the vibes. Thank you.
You Sir can leave a comment here any time ! That’s made my day . Best wishes ride safe & May the roads you travel be filled with good times
I really enjoyed this review too... It's like hanging out with an old friend.
@@LeanIntoTheWindpick up my billiard blue Road king this weekend. I just love your laid back style of presenting. Awesome channel. Liked and subscribed straight away. Thank you for your awesome content
@@andrewbooth4341 Bloody love that colour !! Enjoy it .
Thanks 🙏 for kind words
They call it "The KING" for a reason!
That's the kind of review I want to watch-from someone who has owned a bike for a while, has done some considerable mileage, understands the bike, and knows what he is talking about.
Glad you liked it .
Cheers mate .. bikes on close to 20.000
Now and still bloody love it
@@LeanIntoTheWind Wow, that's impressive. Wishing you many more safe miles ahead. Perhaps make a 100k update video once you reach it! :)
@@DmitryIve thanks 🙏 dude
Best wishes to you !
May be a while for that update haha
Morning
Ive had mine (19/114), for just over 4 years and still love it.
Have had lots of different models in the past, and think the RKS is the most versatile.
Never selling mine.
Safe rides mate 🍻🇬🇧
Thanks for taking the time to comment, that’s really positive to hear after 4 years down the road . I agree to the versatility.
Many thanks, happy travels and stay upright
Found this channel as I’m looking at buying a roadking in the future…I’ve spent most of last night watching your Sicily road trip. Great couple, Great content,Great bike 👍👍
Thanks for taking time to comment , that’s real cool of you to do so . Happy hunting for the bike . Thanks so much for watching . Still a lot to learn making videos but having fun trying . Best wishes mate and thanks again . Really kind
Stoked you found the channel . Really appreciate the kind words .
Best wishes
Great video man. I’m already convinced in my decision to get an RKS but it’s nice to hear someone so happy with the bike they ride 👍
Cheers for watching, best wishes .. enjoy !
I've heard the suspensions on the touring frame Harleys are pretty hard. Lot of guys say the touring frame big Indians have a really plush ride as does the Harley softail Heritage.
I guess in all honesty I’m not the best to judge that as I came from my chopper … which was a really bumpy ride . We find it really good . It’s adjustable. We’ve done a few 14 hour days etc and never once had a butt ache .
What a lovely and well thought out and pleasantly spoken review 👍👍
From Southern California ~ Ride Forever!
Hello Southern California , it's been many years since my feet trod those golden sands. I appreciate the kind words & wish you good times.
Great review man, it's nice to see a chopper addict interested in modern Harleys and finding pleasure in them, great open-mindedness...
Greetings from France.
@@Big-Al.64 Thank You . Chopper was great for solo trips and I pushed it to Spain France Germany Switzerland etc
But taking my wife now 99% of the time and all our camping gear .. this is the right machine .. few changes since this review, it’s more to suit me now …
But I love , I love all Harley’s , if I had the money I’d definitely have 3 or 4 .
But I’d sooner spend my money on travelling now ! Making memories.
Best wishes
Great review buddy. I ride a 2010 road king classic and I’ve put nearly 60k on it. Like you we do loads of Europe trips at least 1 every year sometimes a few more.
When I tell folk how comfortable they are for long distance riding they don’t believe me and when I tell them I’ve done several 1000 mile days they laugh.
There great bikes and for me it the way they make you feel. I can park it anywhere without issue and it always draws folk in asking questions about it.
Really enjoying the videos guys, glad I found your channel.
That sounds amazing, great to hear you racking those kind of miles .. I can well imagine it on a RK ! My pal had one a 2011 I think , I was on a trip with him in Spain and had a ride on it , I bloody loved it , I was on my old chopper at time and it felt just beautiful.. it’s such a classic motorcycle.. people are drawn to that silhouette.. it awakens something inside people ..
cheers for watching mate and appreciate the comment .. happy travels bud
Hello from Wisconsin! Brilliant video! Just found you tonight. I have an '05 King with the twin cam. Greatest bike I've ever owned! Keep making 'em we'll keep watching.
@@Sillygoose235 thank you 🙏. Lovely model that , I ride my mates twin cam ‘king’ and was smiles for miles .
Best wishes
You’re a sound gent. Only just discovered your channel but loving your story telling and general values. You’re inspiring me to travel more.
Thanks for the kind words .. really appreciated. If this channel inspired one person to travel on their motorcycle somewhere exciting.. then I’d be happy .
Best wishes to you from us both .
I had a 2008 road king in the past loved it! Your review was awesome spot on, spoke to my soul. I will be getting another road king in the next year or two can’t wait!!
Thank you so much , really appreciate kind words ! Good news on getting another one soon … enjoy it when it comes and happy travels mate !
Well said mate, I live in Australia and have one too, even after 1000kms riding you could still keep going. Brilliant
Thanks .. for that ! I hear you , it’s a mile cruncher for sure . Happy travels bud .
Very good review. Congrats on the ride. I rode a 2004 Heritage for 20+ years, put almost 180,000 miles on it. Still ran great, but the carbs put out too many fumes and wife was getting migraines, so traded it in on a 2023 Road King Special. Right now just over 2200 miles on it, it handles like a dream. Glad I got it. Wife rides with me more on this bike. You're correct, it handles great. Enjoy yourself, and keep safe.
Wow that last some big miles , great to hear ! Bet you really notice the difference in the engine too ! Happy & safe travels to you guys ..
thanks do much for leaving a comment .
Mark
love your review, special at "between my leg" and then you laugh.
@@phamtheanh1632 hahaha cheers mate
Thank you for a great video, I think that was the final push I needed to get one of these! Your bike has all the mods I am looking for, beautiful!
Well it is Christmas soon! Thanks for kind words .. enjoy
You have the best channel for Harley. I come from Motorally (KTM, Ducati etc.) and very different offroad experiences but, even if we have different point of view on the motorbike, I appreciate a lot you videos about the Road King Special that is a motorbike that I Love ! Always excellent videos and contents ! BRAVO ! Personally on my Road King Speciale I have the Stage 1 at the moment. I changed internal forks suspensions and rear suspensions with the Olhins screaming eagle
@@Fradant123 Wow what a change of motorcycling that transition must have been… I love my Harley’s but admire all kinds of motorcycles… thanks for the kind words … how’s your Special handle with the new suspension?
@@LeanIntoTheWind I stil ride and race in motorally and sometimes enduro races. I love almost all motorbikes too. One of my big LOVE is the Road King Special😍
Great description of a bike that I want very much. I tried it at an HD open day here in Sicily and it got in my veins. It was a sunny day along a cliff overlooking the Sea with white clouds fixed in the mirrors.... A dream 🤩
Many thanks for kind words , I bet that was a sweet ride ! We stopped at the HD dealers at Catania last summer on our one … what an amazing place Sicily is to ride ! And the beaches ! And the food !
Best wishes dude
@@LeanIntoTheWind Every time I enter the HD dealer in Catania, I leave a part of my heart there...😊
I own one - best bike I have ever owned and it’s such fun to ride
Good to hear , safe travels
Congratulations there, mate! I ride a 2021 Roadglide Special, and I absolutely love it. The mounted fairing does wonders for your travels. Less fatigued, and I know I can ride further and longer not having to fight the winds. But Im very happy to see yall happy . Cheers from TX 🤘🏼
Cheers mate , I love the look of the Road Glide … think that the best looking fairing on any motorcycle. This RKS feels like luxury to us after the chopper we had for last 12 years .. it’s such a jump in comfort.. I couldn’t imagine it getting any better , but maybe one day . Cheers for the good vibes message TX ,
Good to hear from ya again .
Great review. I am originally from Europe, living in America. I always had European bikes and still have few. Three years ago bought a harley...never thought I would liked this much. I will never sell it. Seattle to LA in one day on it. Love the belt, now hate chains. The sound, it writes a story in your heart everytime you ride it. Never thought, i would like a bike this much. Great review.
@@BP-xe7dw Seattle to LA that’s epic man ! Great to hear how much you love em !
Happy travels.
Thanks for kind words
I watched a lot of Road King reviews before and after I bought my Road King and, like you, I bought mine for long distance touring with my wife. I've also found the bike a joy to ride, two up and loaded or on my own. Great review, I agree with all your statements about the Road King. (I think I met you and your wife in Maidstone Harley Davidson back in Nov or Dec when you were returning from a trip and chatted for a while)
Ah no way I remember you saying you went away with your wife , we met upstairs near the coffee . We was on way home from Brighton in December..
thanks for watching! Hope you’re doing good & look forward to catching up again I hope . Mark
"..this is like getting on Aretha Frankin." You earned a subscriber right there.
Hahahahaha did I say that out loud ? … !!!
The Harley Davidson Road King is one of the most elegant, stylish and archetypical Harley Davidson motorcycles ever produced and forever etched in HD's rich history of motorcycle designs. The Road King is the personification of a Harley Davidson icon. Those select riders who own one are indeed privileged.
Sir , you are a wordsmith
… this should be on the brochure!
Always like whenever I hear about someone getting a good deal on something! Especially on an item that you’re working towards. They’re few and far between. That’s a great looking bike!
Thanks . I didn’t actually go into it on the video but it was an exceptionally good deal and I didn’t quite have enough , well I was 2 thousand short and I sent a message saying basically I know you’ve put this at a crazy price but I don’t have enough, so tell me to do one by all means but I’ve got this amount…. ?
Then he rang me and said if I get there that day it’s a deal . So I did , and I felt guilty on route, I said to my wife I feel bad this guy is so desperate. Anyway when we showed up he opened the garage door and all the walls were covered in Nazi memorabilia.. MY GUILT VANISHED.immediately!
Kinda felt like I saved the bike from a Nazi … I hate Nazis .
I rode home so happy zero guilt .
Great video. Really good honest review. Bought my first Harley last week. Went for the street bob. Could see this being my second Harley after a couple of years.
Thanks for kind words. Street Bob bloody good choice …. Enjoy it mate .
Happy travels
Great review. I have never ridden a Harley but have sat on a few at shows and found them really uncomfortable due to the reach for the bars so it was interesting to hear how it was transformed by the bar swap.
@@05gt99 Thank you . Yeah when I rode this home I thought I’d made a mistake buying at first …. The bars put me in the stance of a hang glider haha
So stretched out , but I was kinda confident it was gonna work out , just setting the bike up for me . I’m so at home now ..
Great review man. Great to get that feedback from a British owner. I love the look of this bike and loved it when i test rode one. Still weighing up between this and possibly a smaller Indian, like the Scout Rouge, as I'm a bit worried the Road King will just be a bit too big for those Sunday cruises I love, maybe that's not something i should worry about? But still, so far, nothing really tops the Special for its looks and comfort.
Thanks for kind words . Had never done a review and kinda daunting to be honest : but it’s my thoughts , I said fun too much .
But I really have had so many great times on this thing in the last year ..
hope whatever choice you make works out for you . Best wishes dude
Well done Sir!!! Luv the bike and your tasteful upgrades. 👍
Cheers 🍻
Many thanks for watching and the kind words . Happy travels
I can hear the passion and love for that RKS .. am with u mate .. I own the 22 Denim green bike and it’s an absolute pleasure and echo every word u say .. have done some videos with that .. just incredible motorcycle … done thousands of miles on the beautiful long country of Australia .. beautiful bike and pleasure to ride ..
just subscribed .. looking forward to more on that beast
Thanks again for a great video
Ah thanks so much for taking the time to watch . I’d never done one of these videos & really kinda thought maybe 10 or 20 people may have watched it . To get so much feedback and people like yourself comment , is really overwhelming. Passion yes , you know obviously.. I’m just stating the obvious that us RKS owners , have that inner smile about . You’re in such the tight country to be on such a cool tourer . I bet it’s just fantastic down there ! Thanks for taking time to message mate
Best wishes dude
I agree with your thoughts on the original bars. They are just wrong lol. They feel turned out at the ends. I’m over 6ft and I’m stretched out in them. I was going to ask what you had changed them too but you have done that.
Love your bike a great review funds don’t allow it at the mo but would love one one day
Thank you mate! Best wishes
Great review 👍 I have a Street glide special for touring and it's just like you described it apart from the wind in your face 😂 enjoy every minute of it.
Thank you
@@leegilbert494 Cheers mate .. sane bike but yeah you got that spot on
I get the wind … was hoping it would iron out the creases in my face .. so far it failed !
Be lucky 🍀 mate .
Best wishes
Great review, definitely makes me want to ride it. I’m in the market for a Fat Bob, because I’ve only got time for a few hours a week, these days. But once the kids are grown up and I can get away for a few days at a time, I’ll be thinking of this!
@@L4STC4LL Cheers mate ! And sounds like great plan . This is definitely a bike for ‘when the kids are gone’ multi day riding . Best wishes
Elegant film man, really enjoyed it. I ride a BMW R1250RT - big fairing, etc, etc. Couldn't be more different to your Road King and I love it but if I was loaded I 'd have a Harley too. It's a different vibe and variety is the spice of life. The landscape you were riding through reminded me of the US mid-west. It suited the bike.
‘Variety is the spice of life’ . So perfectly said & really refreshing to hear from a BMW rider … too much hate sometimes from adventure bike riders towards Harley and definitely the same back the other way . We all on two wheels , up in Scotland last year I bumped into many dudes on BMW in the middle of no where and I envied their ability to lose themselves off road and stood admiring those bikes .. had a good old chat and shared my coffee flask . Those country roads just a few miles from my little town , leigh on sea .. they’re great little lanes . Thanks for watching and more so for taking time to comment . Wishing you happy , safe travels mate .
Nice review, your are à King !!! I get mine in 15 days. Regards from Switzerland
Thanks so much for watching! May the next two weeks fly by ! And man , you’re in the perfect country to own one of these motorcycles. We had so much fun crossing ‘The Great St Bernard’s Pass’ in Switzerland this summer .. so many incredible roads , some of the best in the world in your magnificent country . Enjoy it all my friend.
Those Denali lights are sick man, gotta check into that. I do alot of night riding coming home from work when I'm usually in a steel mill somewhere
Thanks man ! Cheers for watching
Great review. You make great points. Thank you for posting this.
Thanks for feedback… much appreciated
Very nice bike!! I went from a Shovelhead for 25 years daily rider to a 2022 Lowrider S 117, I know exactly what you are talking about, and of course I made the Lowrider more powerful, did I need too? oh Hell no!
@@billyfinch7341 hahaha , of course you did ! Love the low rider , I was torn between this and Low Rider ST
But knowing 95% of my riding was gonna be 2 up and loaded with camping cool gear this won over .
Thank you 🙏 for writing
@@LeanIntoTheWind Your bike is perfect for your purpose, check out Million Dollar Bogun on what the M8 is capable of and watching someone crazier than you and me
Beautiful beast friend! 👌👌👌
Many thanks ..: Happy travels & best wishes to you .
Lovely , I've an old 05 RK classic . Subbed you. Enjoyable stuff. Greetings from Glasgow
Thanks for watching mate . Love the older ones too . My Pal had one some years back and I had a blast on it when we were in Spain together , bloody lovely ! Shall be rolling through Glasgow in April on way up to top , a beautiful part of these lands . Many thanks safe travels
Very insightful & entertaining
Haha last thing I thought you’d watch !
what a nice camera you have, and a beautiful bike
Great vid mate
Much obliged to you for taking the time to comment. Many thanks .
Never ridden a Harley took an r18 out for a few hours, she was pretty comfy.
Road King is a beautiful looking bike. 2nd hand stage 2 bike at my local dealer right now. Maybe worth a shot.
Enjoyed this review by the way. Gonna make my way through your touring video's next.
First up thanks for taking time to comment . If you’ve never ridden a Harley definitely something that you should do for sure . They are their own thing . Love it hate , they are unlike any other bike .
I love the look of the R18 .. cool looking motorcycle for sure . I’d like to try one . Thanks for kind words , the Italy tour is first thing I’ve ever filmed and edited , they slowly get better I think , but I’ve loads to learn . Best wishes
Mark
Just considering a Road King as my first Harley, after 35 years of riding. Have owned other cruisers and classic bikes, as well as chops and trikes. Was never into sports bkes, fairings or screens.
Well , you know my opinion haha ..
Best wishes with your decision..
Great review thanks its a choice between this an street glide but think you just twisted my arm ✌️
Thanks … I’m not twisting anybody’s arm haha … they basically the same bike ,
But ones got fairing and few more gadgets … I guess it comes down to
Do you want fairing ..
cheers for watching dude
Oh how the other half live😊
@@dermotleeson1348 this motorcycle spoilt me rotten
@@LeanIntoTheWind far play bud you've earned it, great channel keep them coming.
@@dermotleeson1348 Thanks mate . Editing first of Spain series right this minute.
Nice one Mark, just the kind of reviews I looked for when getting my car and the bike just looks great. Wallasea, Stambridge way if I'm not mistaken.
Too kind. Yeah Wallasea Island. Well spotted
I have a 2022 RKS and man its an all around beauty
You enjoy dude ! Stunning bikes . Cheers for taking time to comment .
Great review and nice to see a British perspective on it. At 5.5 a RK would be a bit much not to mention outside of my budget. I have the 107 Low Rider and love it. As you mentioned the biggest difference from my old Sportster 48 was on the motorways, no more holding on for dear life! The Softail is so smooth and comfortable and great for mini tours. Not in the same league as the beatuful RK of course. Thanks
Many thanks . I love the low riders , and so right the softail frame real comfortable ride .. great for touring , went miles on mine .. biggest difference I think is two up on the touring .. just handles the weight easier. But the softail is still not a small motorcycle by any standards . Cruising comfort and great long distance bike . Man people go around the world on Honda C90s . I had a Sportster too back on the 90s I loved that , but it just wasn’t so good for 2-up . But it done us at the time .
Cheers for the comment
Happy travels bud
@LeanIntoTheWind you too and thanks for the reply 😎
Sweet bike Skippy.
What a great review was it . Congratulations.
Road king special is my favourite bike. I'm in love with it !
Do you think that i can manage to ride it as a totally new rider ? 180 cm and 90 kg .
What's your opinion?
Thank you
It’s a great bike . My honest opinion for a new rider is No . Others may disagree; but my hand on my heart.. don’t advise as a new rider . Seriously you could end up in trouble very easily . For a new rider id go sportster or Softail model … the touring models too heavy to start with .
Do at least 1 year if not 2/3 years
Get experience, it will be worth the wait .
It’s only my opinion, but that’s what I’d say . Once you can ride , you can ride anything , but to start on this bike would be trying to run before you can walk .
Best wishes mate
It’s a great bike . My honest opinion for a new rider is No . Others may disagree; but my hand on my heart.. don’t advise as a new rider . Seriously you could end up in trouble very easily . For a new rider id go sportster or Softail model … the touring models too heavy to start with .
Do at least 1 year if not 2/3 years
Get experience, it will be worth the wait .
It’s only my opinion, but that’s what I’d say . Once you can ride , you can ride anything , but to start on this bike would be trying to run before you can walk .
Best wishes mate .
@LeanIntoTheWind yes , I can understand what you are talking about. It will be difficult for me to maneuver it because it's a heavy bike and powerful too .I'm keeping this advice. I appreciate your time a lot .
Thank you .
@@BillieSuit the power is not such a big thing … although it is powerful . Many first time riders jump straight on sports bikes that are much faster . It’s more the weight . You’re welcome
@LeanIntoTheWind understood. When I'll be back in my hometown, I'll try my friends ultra limited, and then I'll be pretty sure about what I'll buy.
Thanks again mate .
What a great video. I am looking for a HD and not sure what i would go for , thinking between sport glide and love the road king.
@@L3vst3k thanks so much ! both great bikes , I’d suggest test ride both if you’re able to do so. The Road King is a lot heavier obviously.
@LeanIntoTheWind that is my only concern is the weight, I had MT09 before, now I want comfort and distance , something for daily use and touring.
@@L3vst3k The weight is very balanced and low down , you get used to it quickly . But I’d still say try before you buy.
Boy, I gotta say you are review and just a general looks of the bike has really whetted my appetite.
I own a customised triumph Bonneville T120 black. I really like the bike but I feel it’s now time for a change.
I have been looking at this bike for a few weeks , I think my only concern would be the weight, although I’m not a small guy.
Do you ever take thePanniers off and ride?
You have earned yourself a subscriber. I really entertaining video and you have a great natural delivery. Look forward to checking out your order videos😉
Thanks for the kind words , really appreciated. I still love this bike , for we do .. it’s ideal . Yep it’s heavy .. but you get used to it so quickly . Because we went on a big trip as soon as we bought it .. and bike was fully loaded , and two up ….now when I ride the bike it feels like nothing … I’m so used to riding it with all our camping gear etc .. and 2-up .
Nope I never take panniers off except to clean. I use them too much . And also I think the bike looks weird without them .
Cheers for the sub !
Best wishes with whatever new direction your bike choice takes you !
Love the Bonnie’s too , such a great looking bike , my Grandfather had a couple many years back .. I’ve always thought the new ones look just as good too .
Hi, great video 💪 agree with all you have said. I have a Road King myself.
Have a question.
Can you let me know what are your passenger sissy bars?
Any idea where I can get them?
Highly appreciated.
Many thanks .
The sissy bar is made by ‘Craft ride XL version … I’ll add link . They are on sale too . But just a heads up , once installed.
If you have a rack on back (like I do) you cannot take rack off without un bolting sissy bar . It don’t matter to me as I’m constantly using my rack . But I thought I’d let you know . It’s great quality and real easy install . Only takes 10 minutes and kit comes with all you need .
Hope that helps.
Thanks for watching.
Best wishes
www.motea.uk/sissy-bar-compatible-with-harley-davidson-road-king-special-17-23-craftride-sp-black-577717-0?gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIp43_6Mu_gwMVhZdQBh22gw80EAQYBCABEgImDvD_BwE
The sissy bars looks great, can share the link to the maker? Thanks in advance
www.motea.uk/sissy-bar-fits-for-harley-davidson-touring-14-24-craftride-sp-black-222985-0?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw3tCyBhDBARIsAEY0XNnaHRT85t2SL7D9aa0cMajyKGwuHrYNtFSjrzC6IJBJpVF7dnLgPyUaAgUZEALw_wcB
Great review! I have the same bike and i am loving it. A quick question. You did mention you changed the handlebars to the Road Glide one. What is this exactly? I have also replaced the stock one to KST Kustoms 12” apes, but the pullback is just not enough…..
Hello , thanks for watching. I changed my bars for a set of ‘Road Glide’ bars as in the standard handlebars that come with the ‘Harley Davidson Road Glide Model’ .
You can pick them up on EBay used for 70-100 pounds . They are east to find as many people swap them out for tall Apes.
They have lots more pullback as they are designed that way to clear the fairing. And I guess comfort . They are a lot narrower than Road King Special standard bars and loads more pullback .. and also they run with standard cables , so you don’t need to buy any longer cables . I hope this helps , if you search a set on eBay they normally have all the dimensions on there . If you in the U.S there seems to be a lot more for sale than U.K … I had to buy mine from Germany but still very reasonably price , I think I paid £90 including shipping . I hope this helps ,. But yeah see what the pullback is compared to what your KST … I searched around ‘Road Glide’ seemed to have more pullback than any others I could find . Best wishes Mark
@@LeanIntoTheWind HI Mark, thanks a lot for your quick reply and excellent insight! I'll search on the internet and get one. The reason I chose the KST Kustoms Pathfinder on the first place was the angle of the top part of the bar is adjustable, i.e. I can definitely get the wrist angle right...I hope this will be also ok with the Road Glide Model...Thanks again, Viktor
@@viktorkatona7521 my pleasure, hope it works out for you .,
You can always pop to a dealership and sit on a Road Glide ..
Hope it works out for you . Comfort is King !
You got the right bike
Deffo !
Hi new sub here 😊. Nice video. Just bought a secondhand 2019 road king special with only 4000 miles on it. I have the same issue with the bars, too far forward and down. How high are the bars you have installed? Thanks and glad I found your channel 👍🏻✌️👊
Hey , many thanks . Hope you enjoy your RKS as much as I do . The bars I have are off Road Glide , I’m 99% they same height as standard ones you got
But they are much narrower and tons more pullback, so seat your position completely differently.
If you have a dealers near you easiest way is to go sit on a road glide ..
Obviously million choices when it comes to bars , but it’s always a risk .
So the fact you can try a road glide
Is so worth the effort . In my opinion.
Safe travels .. and I hope it works out , what ever you choose bud.
Mark
@@LeanIntoTheWind thanks and a good idea, I’ll try to sit on a road glide. Stay safe 👊
Are those really just OEM Road Glide bars? Would you be so kind and give a link to them? Do they fit on the mounting without any spacers etc.? … I also really need to change mine.
Yeah they are 100% just Road Glide bars .. I haven’t found any links to buy new ones direct from Harley Davidson. But apparently you can . But plenty of them for sale on eBay and in black . You do not need any spacers . No cable extensions needed . The only down side I can think of is there are two extra holes in handle bars that switch’s on road glide used , but apparently you can get cover plate for them . Or literally any rubber black ring would cover .
Just search road glide bars used on eBay … they are 32 inch wide 1-1/4 diameter.. and you see they have much more pullback . Hope that helps
I can find an email link but I’m in uk
And presumably you in America
So you best finding one on eBay USA
Kind regards
Hey man really enjoyed your vid. I always loved the RKS. I want get one but the fact that it's made in thailand is putting me off. What are your thoughts on these made in thailand bikes compared to the US models? Is the build qualiity affected? TiA
Hey man thanks for comment . I had no idea they were made in Thailand , I naively thought all of them were made in U.S.A . Apparently you can check on number on frame to see where each model is manufactured. And I will take a look tomorrow. Hmm how would I feel knowing that , tbh a little shocked initially. However , build quality seems to be flawless . Except for the headstock cover badge that falls off . But I’ve spoke to many American riders and this happens in America too ! Apart from that it’s been flawless, but I’d expect it to be
It’s 2022 .. not old .
But my previous Harley’s have all had things fall off , they all broke down at times .. but I rode them hard and put a lot of miles on them. My last one was 1989
When I first got it , it was so unreliable, but gradually went through and replaced lots stuff until engine was tip top . Then for many years it was really strong engine . And I trusted it .
It’s too early to tell how well this is made ,
It looks great .. electrics etc beautifully done .. finishing is stunning . But the test will be hard miles .. year in year out .
I’d love to see an American made one
Right next to a Thailand one
Be interesting.
But yeah glad you let me know , they probably would not tell you that in a dealers haha .
Hey man , good morning from italy 🇮🇹...thanks for your extensive reply, I really appreciate it. As far as I know all models for european market are made/assembled in thailand. I don't know if this affects Australia also but I would think so. Yes you can tell by the VIN number where it was
made/assembled. I'm pretty sure 99.9% your bike is made in Thai because it's a 2022 model. I can imagine that the quality is just as good if not better than a bike built in USA but the fact that hd builds them in Thai to save money and it's us consumers that end up paying premium price is something that I can't swallow. Now, if they would lower the price , since they're obviously not paying US salaries, then I would think about buying a hd made in thai. In the end, it's supposedly the same exact bike as the US models apart from emissions, since all parts come from USA 🇺🇸 and its only assembled in Thai, and that's not a problem. The problem is, the premium price tag for a bike that is not built in USA, but in a country where salary is much less. As you well know, everyone associates hd as MADE IN USA. When i first heard they were coming out of Thai I was really surprised and shocked WTF😮 😲. And yeah, the dealer/Stealership will NOT tell you they're coming from their Thailand plant. Enjoy your ride, stunning bike. I agree. Hopefully I'll be getting one also. My current bike is a 2015 Dyna Street Bob 103TC. I love it but I'd also love a RKS❤
@@enrico1856 Yeah .. I watch a video on how to check .. I shall be doing so , meant to do it tonight but got lost inside a guitar . Yeah the money the wages , that’s insane they making a ton more money . But tbh it’s not a shock to me . I love Harley’s , but I’ve never been a fan of the brand hence my last two bikes had badges removed . I once had throttle cable snap and had to ride 60 miles to a dealers with the cable tied to an Allen key
.. so effectively one handed , this was on a chopper with 17 inch narrow bars , when I got there I knew they wouldn’t have a throttle cable for my model as it was an 80s evo . But assumed I’d get a newer one and make it work .
But they informed me they didn’t stock
Throttle cables , it was a two week wait !
So I asked if I could speak to mechanic out back as I know they do lots bar swaps
Maybe I can buy an old one ?
We don’t let people talk to mechanic or go out back ?
Hmm then she says if it had been a clutch cable been easier as they break more often ????????? Haha
So I said give me a clutch cable then
She says 2 weeks ?
So I asked her if she had a baby suit with Harley on it ?
She went got one ?
I asked for a flask … she got it
I asked for a doggy bandana with HD On it and I carried on getting her to run around grabbing useless stupid items that most bikers don’t need
Then told her I drove 60 miles to have my time wasted .
Any way I didn’t buy that crap . I was on way to a party in Norfolk . I rang a mate who run a garage out of his back yard he had the cable I needed my mate was also coming to party and brought it up with him , it was £15 used fixed bike in morning. It was such an awakening to how useless the dealerships are ..
the only reason I have not taken badges on my new one is it will devalue it .
Love the bikes don’t like the whole buy into the lifestyle. It’s for some people but it ain’t me .
@@LeanIntoTheWind👍👍 2 thumbs up for that story Mark... Aye, some motorcycle brands/dealers are becoming too boutique these days.. cheers 😊
@@LeanIntoTheWindcorrect. Last of the York Pennsylvania manufactured/assembled bikes was 2021. 2022 models onwards for the international market were assembled in Thailand, certainly the case for bikes coming downunder to Australia. That’s why I won’t be parting with my 2021 model anytime soon. The decision to assemble in Thailand was due to tax changes in the USA. Well done USA IRS and Uncle Sam😢. Bikes for the USA market are still assembled in the USA.
I was always a fan of road kings, I loved how they look like and how much you can pack on them. And it was until I bought one ;) But it was an older 88cu twin cam. That bike was rubbish, worst handling bike I ever had, it had no torque, nor power. I got it for a year and sold it asap. After that I bought my softail evo with s&s lump and that was so much better handling and much more fun to ride. But I recently rode a new road king and I have to admit I was really surprised how well it's handling (for such a massive bike). Good choice for what you need and you should be glad you didn't buy an older one ;)
Yeah I've ridden the older ones... a different beast altogether... and I've had softail too , loved that as well... but my choice was made knowing 90% of my riding would be 2 - up ... and knowing we'd be camping , and had two of everything ... I needed to go with a touring model.. I'm not a fan of adventure bikes.. I love their capabilities , but the styling just don't get me excited... I bought my first Harley in my 20s... and I actually can't imagine ever changing... My Grandad had an Indian ... back when they really were Indians. I guess I was always a cowboy at heart.
( But horses don't know that)
@@LeanIntoTheWind I totally get you. I was always into Harleys and choppers as well but I was also into British bikes from the 60's - simple motorcycles, two wheels, engine and the tank... That's probably why I actually fell in love in my W800 and quit riding HD as the W was so much lighter and better for 1up on British narrow roads. I still like my Harley but not the way it corners ;) And I hate the adventure bikes as they look just wrong, however they might be comfy and practical. I think that my current BMW though is the closest I can get to practical side of bikes ;) To be honest it's rather fun bike than practical or comfy ;) I just know just one thing, I love riding it but when it comes to the look, I prefer my other bikes, lol. Even it has something interesting and retro in it
Great review!
I never liked windscreen either and my bike came with the touring pack so I thought I’d check it out and now I’m ashamed to say I’m starting to like the look of it 😂😂
We had to change the seat aswell because it was so bad for the pillion.
What headlight are you running? It look LED and I tried to buy a knock off one and the connection wasn’t right!
Subscriber 200 👍🏼
Many thanks . A legend joins us as number 200 !
Yeah I’ve never liked tour pack but more I watched your videos I thought it somehow looked cool on yours .
I think though where we camp a lot I get more in my two Enduristan bags …
Kats back seat looked so comfortable my wife kept saying ‘I like that ‘ haha
My L.E.D headlight was Harley one came with later models as standard .
It’s bloody brilliant, done a lot of dark country mountain roads etc , you can see for miles .
@@LeanIntoTheWind we had the same issues with the seat and she blooody loves that back rest 😂
I need to figure out what to do about the headlight because I can’t see ANYTHING. At night 😂
@@drewdaism_ yeah she looked like proper royalty up in that
I think you’d struggle to take that away now hahaha ….
I put some 50k on mine... no issues... whatsoever.... KING OF THE ROAD.... the name is program!
Lovely and good to hear ! .. I can see how that would be easy to do .. we never want to get off … have some big trips planned for next year .. it’s a joy to travel on
my advise for better gear shifting... pls. apply Harley's Heavy Duty Gear Box lubricant, i.e., SAE80W140... both, in the gear box plus for the primary
.... and by the way... I changed my suspension to WILBERS NIVOMAT.... self-adjusting preload... it is amazing !
@@camouflage962 I heard that’s good … but having come from a chopper we think the suspension is absolutely heavenly ..
Nice bike. Fate or karma on the sale, or is Robert watching out for you.
@@adrianatkinson-tn9fz who knows but Robert would have loved this bike , I know he’d have bought one .
@@LeanIntoTheWind Love the videos. In my experience some of life's best times come from drama no matter how bad these times are, there always seems to be a silver lining shimmering somewhere. Take care.
I got an Indian chief but if I was gonna get another bike it’d probably be a road king. They look really good especially in the deadwood green
Yeah that makes a lot of sense , I also looked at The Chief .. I loved the lines on it , The Dark Horse , The Road king special, I think a lot of people drawn to one would be drawn to the other .
Did you change the seat before you changed the bars? Or vice versa? Does the seat put you closer to the bars?
Yeah seat was a must as pillion was so poor . The driver seat does not put me any closer .. it’s around half inch taller that standard one . I did look at the seats that sat you closer to the bars , but I didn’t like the style of them , and also knew I had to change the bars . They far too wide for me as well as no where near enough pull back .
Nice :-) 😎🇩🇰
Thanks
The previous owner put a thousand miles a month on it. I wonder why he let it go.
He put 2800 miles on it in two weeks. He done one road trip to Europe. He had 5 Harleys . This was the newest and most expensive. He had crashed his work van and he had to take 3 guys to work everyday as he was the boss. So he needed money to fund new van as they could not work.. that was why , he said this was the only bike he could sell to fund the van as the others were cheaper older models,. that was the story. , He was desperate, he put it up real cheap and I didn't quite have enough so knocked a bit more off it and he bit , too be honest I was guilty to knock him down .... But that all vanished as when I got to his home, he had huge Nazi flag on garage walls and other nazi memorabilia .. so as you can imagine my guilt was like ........me .,....... gone in a flash .
I enjoy riding my street glide with the fairing but their is nothing wrong with not having any kind of windshield. People complain too much about the wind. Why do they even ride?
Good to hear . I’d love to ride a street Glide or Road Glide just to experience the difference. But yes you’re right , a lot of gripes about the wind , surely it’s expected.. it’s after all a motorcycle. I think in todays world things that are uncomfortable or fatiguing .. are always kinda overcome somehow . Everything is constantly made easier, it’s man’s natural progression I guess . My grandad toured Europe in the early 1950s , when I see photos of his motorcycle and camping equipment, clothing etc .. it’s all so basic .. but did he have fun ?
OF COURSE HE DID .
Once you go to a HD touring frame you wont want to ride anything else, may as well go back to a hard tail.
For the two up it’s bloody good.. we love it . Even with stock suspension, totally happy .
You mentioned not using a wind screen,ferring or a windshield... I suspect that where you are from and the type of roads that you are use to riding that you are not able to reach the speeds high enough to cruise in needing one... Here in America in riding at speeds of 80 mph all day long it is absolutely in most cases necessary in having one or the other... Right 🤔?
All factory - stock handlebars are crap... Again traveling on long trips and higher speeds in having taller bars and the right seat makes a big difference... 👍😎🇺🇸 .
Hmm , no here we travel at 70mph on all major roads .. on trips obviously at those speeds for 10-15 hour days ..
I guess where I’ve never used one , I don’t know what I’m missing , but I love the wind , I guess on my chopper I was always leant back into my sleeping bag on long days .. I find the only fatigue would be if I never had back support , my arms end up taking the strain.
Maybe if I had a screen for a week I’d then know . But like I say you don’t miss what you’ve never know . I did try taller bars once , loved them . Tbh I’d have probably Gone taller bars if money had not been an object , but It then meant buying new cables . And we was saving hard to do a 3 week Italy trip , had just bought bike and bunch of stuff ..
so I had to compromise. But they are really comfortable. I think our longest day on Italy trip was 14 hours . And I had no aches which amazed me . And in Europe we often sat at 80mph for hours on end .
You’re definitely right about stock bars .. I’m sure they do it to sell more bars . Same as the crappy indicators .
@@LeanIntoTheWind
Thanks for the feedback 👍... Keep living the dream my friend 👍😎🇺🇸
@@ellissmithjr6599 Likewise , always good to hear from other riders . Best wishes and happy travels mate
Youre sayning everything ((((
You and that bike seem made for each other…
Feels that way 🙏
Theres one in a BMW dealer near me thats almost brand new and lost 50% of its value because nobody wants it. HDs are a joke in the UK
I would never buy any motorcycle new , I bought mine 3 months old with 3000 miles and 3 grand of extras and I saved 9000 . I can still sell it for the same now . Where we live they give away BMWs with with every babycham at most bars .
Wery nise
🙏 thanks
I put a 131 kit in mine 2020RKS I also put roadglid handles bars on mine
Ahh man what !!! I bet that is madness.. love it .