2017 Harley-Davidson Milwaukee Eight Revealed │Everything you need to know │Detailed Footage

[@reddog8145]

If I had to explain why my last 5 bikes have been Harley's, having owned both European an Japanese bikes previously...........you just wouldn't understand 🇬🇧

[@robertp457]

If you can't articulate your reasons then perhaps you don't understand.

[@robertp457]

What were the differences between your 5 Harley's anyway? They could have all had the same exact engine if they within 20ish years.

[@derekedmunds5531]

Mark Hillman I was just the

[@vtwin4269]

Hey Matt, thanks for great reviews on your channel. I enjoy watching all your videos. I recently had a chance to ride a M8 Road King and put up a review - Indian vs Harley. If you are interested, check it out. www.indianmotorcycleforum.com.au/post/indian-chief-vintage-vs-harleydavidson-road-king-my-ride-review-8484736

[@reddog8145]

Quite correct W, I have had An Evo, an 88, two 96's, A & B motors, a103 and now the 107, loss of differences between all of them.

[@pete1342]

Harleys are a cruiser bike. That's what they're made for. They use a big low rpm engine that isn't very highly stressed to make its power. I get a real kick out of people saying that is somehow ancient technology because it doesn't use dohc with a mile long stretchy cam chain and a parts count as high as any pushrod engine. The fuel and ignition systems in a modern HD are state of the art, and the equal of any sport bike you care to name, and as reliable as any of them. So it doesn't run 15000 rpm and sound like a chainsaw. Big deal. max rpm on any engine is limited by surface speed in feet per minute of the pistons. harley could make a v twin that ran 12000 rpm too, if they shortened up the stroke to 2" or so. To what end? As far as speed goes, the speed limit on the interstate is 75mph, and any HD I've ever ridden would top 110 easily, so just exactly how fast does it need to be?

[@MattLaidlaw]

Pete13 another person on the internet that actually understands more than just a number (HP) on a stat sheet. Thank you for the intelligent comment.

[@dickjohnson5025]

They killed the best engine they ever made, the Vrod motor, because of the loyalists.

[@Oddman1980]

I come to you from the future space year of 2018, to explain that you are *right*, Harley could make a high revving Vtwin if they wanted to - my Street has an 8,000 RPM redline, overhead cams, and four valves per cylinder. it also doesn't have the constant weird fueling problems that my brother's european bike has.

[@garyoildatey8123]

Pete13 on

[@ericcassidy6916]

Spot on, my guy!

[@countz7723]

i love my 2008 Dyna Super Glide. I've had very few problems, Voltage regulator at 50K. That's it. I do not have oil leaks or been broken down on the side of the road. I had the 106 kit installed, cams, adjustable push rods, lock up clutch, HD Super Tuner, etc.. I do the maintenance , change all the fluids, lubricate all the cables, a little mystery oil in the fuel at fill ups. I have 66K on the bike now and still going strong. HD Forever!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Ride on!

[@countz7723]

Its all personal preference. I get the down side to Harley's I didn't buy a Harley to do 0 to 100 in 5 seconds or corner at 80 mph, wheelie's and burnouts, im not interested in any of that. I want a bike that's dependable, looks good according to what I like and cruise's nice. and contradict what a lot of Harley haters say, my bike is anything but weak and slow. So it sounds like you take care of your bike and do the proper maintenance. Enjoy and ride safe.

[@countz7723]

How do you like that HD Super Tuner? I have one now and no problems, I tried the power Commander first. Nothing but trouble. Now theirs your speed with the Hayabusa. You got the best of both worlds

[@danarosendahl7621]

Count

[@codyprater12]

Count Z

[@lpd1snipe]

Thanks for sharing this. I'll keep riding my '49 EL. It's still backyard mechanic friendly.

[@RAVINFORONE]

My nephew just bought the 2017 ultra limited. When it was idling, I was impressed. It was not meant to be a screaming rocket, But a comfortable, long distance ride. And that it is, Nice sound, well laid out. Nice features. Actually it is the first Harley that i would not mind owning. They really made some big jumps forward.

[@rexparker5147]

I have had Hondas for most of my life. I currently ride a 1997 Valkyrie 1520 flat six. It was the first year of the Valkyrie and it holds some strong memories for me from 1997. I love its smooth power and the look of it. I get looks from many every time I ride it and for me it does everything I want. Now Having said that, I just rode a 2016 and 2017 low cruisers from my local Harley dealership. I had never rode one and I just wanted to experience the old versus the new engine. I have a bad back and the vibration of the 2016 at intersections was intolerable, the 2017 was less but still unacceptable for my injuries. I was so impressed with the quality of the bikes. They were both beautiful machines and I understand now what torque means. They were both well balanced and enjoyable to ride. I would have to say that in a long ride on variable elevations, (through mountains), I would enjoy not having to keep shifting gears as much as I have to on my Honda, hell I think you could stay in 3rd for most in town driving. I was impressed overall but the prices were outrageous! I like that they have lowered, from the factory, touring bikes. If I were rich and could find a seating solution to take care of the vibration to my bad back I would really like owning such a beautiful machine. They have plenty high tech electronics on them and the belt drive is almost as good as my shaft driven Valkyrie. Stop hating on each other guys, just state your opinions and get along!

[@mo304130]

Some of the information mentioned in this video: No Sporester 72 No dyna Switchback No Fatboy Low No Electra Glide Ultra Classic Low Last production for V-rod in the year of 2017 The release of Malwakee eight (the ninth engine in the Harley line up),(completely redesigned): V twin (two pistons) 8 Valves (fuor for each piston) 117 vs. 110 in the CVO's Single cam driven engine vs. twin cam engine chain driven cam New cooling sys [ Water cooled and air cooled] Tow spark plugs per celender (more efficient burn) The charging sys produces 15% more power) Less mechanical noise Anti knock sensor Harley provide Stage III performance kit to bump the engine from 107 to 114 new preload suspension Hope this is helpful to someone who want an easy to reach information Thank you Matt for this informative and educating videos Pease and love

[@glytch5]

Wow no more V rod... crazy. Good thing they addressed that fly wheel, and did away with the twin cam!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Yea, I think this engine is a step in the right Direction. I will be sad to see the V-Rod go.

[@glytch5]

it wasn't a porsche engine... it was their old sport bike engine they had ran on tracks for a while, however to make it street legal with EPA and everything they were having trouble getting into the V rod chassis, all porsche did was help them turn it into an engine that would last longer than a day at the track and have legal emissions fuel economy and bla bla bla. still Harley's engine.

[@glytch5]

I'm just telling you the truth lol. Porsche did not design the engine, they helped design it for the V rod. Look it up. Yeah they played a big roll in the street model, but the original was all harley. Call me just another fan boy? Okay your just another douche bag who couldn't afford one so now hates them. Happy? I don't understand all the hostility. Nothing I said in the other comment was mean intimidating outlandish or anything negative. I was just chiming in on a rather negative comment you made. Whatever you like dude.

[@glytch5]

I know the original v twin that was basically in a sport bike, in which the V rod engine was based on I THINK was all Harley... haven't heard mention of it being made by someone else. It was the HR 1000 maybe? It looked like a straight up sport bike. harley certainly does out source more and more parts, can't argue that one. I don't think anything is 100 percent American made anymore... unless its like drum sticks or guitar picks... in which the wood and plastics probably come from somewhere else. I wish I could tell ya why I like those Bikes.. but I can't. I remember the first one I rode just had me hooked... its hard to describe, its a feel and ride that many manufacturers have tried to copy but have not managed to yet. Harley is a terrible brand in terms of customer service and even retailer service, I could tell you a story about a pair of HD riding glasses I bought from a store that sold Harley once... that tale says it all haha.

[@MattLaidlaw]

+Mal Reynolds and if they did Ducati would trip over themselves to work with the most iconic best selling cruiser motorcycle company in the world.

[@adolfonovelli3320]

In London. Nice intro, as usual doing good stuff. I am going to upgrade from 883iron 2017 to a Street Bob 2022.... They are both splendid. I had the 1st in line-4 -Japanese- sports bike with 16 valves in 1985, Kawasaki Gpz 1000RX. But I wouldn't back. Thanks.

[@kylestewart8354]

so arfter all these changes, I still have to UPGRADE to a 114ci to get any Power??? Why is it ONLY Harley Davidson does this to their Fan Base?? Is 25grand not enough?

[@damongriffith]

There is a difference between Harley riders and motorcyclists. They bank on the fact that you won't google the difference.

[@patrickteto]

114 isn't worth doing. 124 starts to make it enjoyable except on a warm day in any kind off traffic....

[@draganm7823]

kyle stewart hey Kyle how's it going? I'm curious why is there a fascination with 100 HP? besides it's marketing. Indians 111 ci thunderstruck as they call it is 68 HP ,119 lbs of torque so they sell a stage 1 kit. is that any different than Harley Davidson? no it isn't. I rode the Indian....it was nice not nicer or better than the road glide I rode, both are nice bikes and it's good for HD to have some kind of competition since Victory isn't a real competitor, it's behind Indian and Harley Davidson.

[@kylestewart8354]

Dragan M​ I think you're selling Victory short. If it wasn't for victory and their success with their superior engines, Harley-Davidson would have never come out with a Milwaukee's 8. And marketing it so heavily.

[@draganm7823]

kyle stewart hey Kyle, Vic is no competition and that's not why. Just look at HD history on engine changes and you will find the real reason. I like Vics but they are no Harley Davidson or Indian. But that's why there are so many brands, different tastes and ideas. I think HD needs to watch Indian and not anyone else. Still it will be many decades before Indian can be a numbers competitor to HD if ever. It takes time to replenish the disgrace that happened to Indian, perhaps Polaris can truly bring it back to life.

[@aarontessaro1216]

The "knock sensor" you pointed out in the head is in fact the compression release. Right in the middle between the spark plugs. It looks the same as earlier years. I'm sure there is a knock sensor somewhere but that ain't it.

[@3asyrider75]

I love innovation as long as you keep the classic looks and lines. Why are so many Harley fans so against the partial water cooling? As long as the radiator is hidden well and doesn't take away from the looks of the bike. Every generation I see innovation with Harley only improving. Since it is not fully water cooled I can assume the Radiator will be nice and small tucked away between the frame. The opposition to water cooling reminds me of when I started riding, FI was an option on many Harleys, many fellow riders were telling me they would never go FI. After switching to FI, I will never go back to Carbs. Bottom line I am really impressed with Harleys new innovation, first company to go Air and Water cooling.

[@Negrilisfun]

Matt, Thanks for the tour and commentary. You always put a great presentation together.

[@DV-cm3tb]

Awesome information! Thanks for the video!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thanks for watching.

[@peterjones4621]

Thank you Matt for this detailed review of the new Milwaukee 8 engine and associated parts. I don't know much about engines, wish I did, my buddy Randy constantly likes to broadcast my lack of knowledge, I'll document what you've gone over, possibly I can surprise him for once. Thanks for the interesting and fun review Matt.

[@BobSmith-mc7uq]

Good video Matt! Too bad Harley didn't do it right & go with an overhead cam setup. This setup is close to Fred Flinstone's car, archaic!

[@frankielemonjello]

If by 'archaic' you mean like any ohc design, you'd be right. OHC is nowhere near 'new'.

[@tony2227]

Bob Smith Hater!!!!!

[@BobSmith-mc7uq]

Tony Vasectomy. MORON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@samueldesalvo1872]

Bob Smith if they did that it would be a victory then don't you think

[@MattLaidlaw]

Bob Smith the circular wheel is an old design too but everyone still uses it. The newest chevy engines also use push rod systems. A lot of engines are still internal combustion too. Just because a technology has been around for awhile doesn't make it obsolete. I hate the look of victory engines. Absolutely no detail. Overhead cam is boring.

[@BMFRich65]

My son has a 2018 Street Glide M8. He already cracked the inner primary due to pressure. Oil is being sprayed from air cleaner all over right saddlebag. Going to make a vented oil cap to see if that helps. Cost him 24K!

[@dangalli1]

Interesting note... since '06 the Yamaha Stratoliner is based around a 113 cubic-inch V-Twin with four valves (and dual plugs) per cylinder...

[@jazzridez]

Gee, ya think harley stole someone else's idea again?

[@666greek]

The Road Star before that 1999 ! 98 cid

[@dangalli1]

Exactly! :-)

[@Stillstoned1]

No push rods on that rice burner though. Harley sells more bikes in the U.S. than the other 4 bitch bikes combined, and it also has the worlds most reproduced logo. You can go 6 months and not see anyone wearing a yamaha shirt but Hardly a city block without seeing HD. Quit whining and buy a real HD.

[@dangalli1]

+superhoggbike ... It's got pushrods...

[@peterjones4621]

A great video Matt, I'm late to comment but I had no idea some of the Harleys were water cooled, where have I been. Great detailed review of the new Milwaukee engine, I just bought the new 2022 Fat boy and I'm really enjoying the bike, it's a smooth machine.

[@markmainwaringmm]

Nice looking ditch pump

[@nobodynobody8591]

lol best comment of the thread !

[@tonyr751]

I bet $100 you have a neon green faux hawk on your helmet.

[@markmainwaringmm]

he he

[@draganm7823]

Tony Roach he doesn't need a helmet just paint that bald top of his and it passes one lol.

[@kennethwise7108]

Halting V-Rod production and closing plants, NICE!!!

[@theloniousMac]

No VROD? Guess I'm going Diavel.

[@vf12497439]

I didn't want an m8 but I find myself with one. The power is similar to a diesel semi engine. There's a sweet spot in the rpm where she pulls but once you get past its power band she falls on her face. Is that a governor thing? Or just a very focused power band? I'm still learning to shift early and pull from the lower rpms. Matt, you do a great job in these videos and I find myself looking to your videos for the truth.

[@Lex-Rex]

I'll stick with my EVO thank you very much. Oh and removing most of the vibration during idle? WTF are you thinking? Women are going to be pissed.

[@hughjorgen9424]

EVOlution will NEVER die!! unlike the twin scam which was pretty shortlived..

[@666greek]

The twin cam would have been fine if they did what Yamaha dod with the 1600 road star , Gear Drive ! more noise but no problems .

[@mclement052164]

baaaahahahahaha! too funny!

[@Rif_Leman]

That is a fact. I have both 84 and  99 model Softails and love them. I have had the 84 since 1986 and the 99 came home with me a few months ago. I have ridden twinkies and they just don't have the soul of the vintage "Harleys." I can also pull all of the maintenance on my 84 and the vast majority on the 99 without having to have a computer driven repair shop. Good luck doing that with these new motor vehicles.

[@72oldscutlasssupreme]

love my 87 Heritage, not a huge fan of the Twinclams

[@war6193]

Nice video. Thanks for making it. As was mentioned earlier, the top spark plug going to be bitch to inspect/change. As for the cam tensioner, I'm sure we'll quickly see an after-market gear-driven option.

[@davidcoulthard6364]

What century are we in?

[@rarebreed9208]

Coming up on 50yrs of motorcycle riding, wrenching, and building, many makes and models. Until recently, by choice, i hadn't had any experience with anything newer than a shovelhead, but by happenstance i became the owner of a 97 FXDWG with a rubbber mounted evo and found the bike to be quite nice. An improvement in performance, ride, and handling while still retaining the basic characteristics of my beloved Harley. I had been looking at an 02 Heritage Springer Softail with a twin cam in it, and thought it was one of the most beautiful machines i had ever seen. I broke down and bought it without first riding it, due to circumstances and time constraints. When i went for my first ride i was so dissapointed that i almost threw up. Everything that had attracted me to Harley in the first place had been stripped away. Gone were the unique Harley feel, noises, and smells and I was beside myself with grief! At a loss as to what to do. The heart and soul had been ripped out of the thing, and it was a cold, lifeless monstrosity, just another stamped out, mass produced thing. It was a true reflection of the times we live in, a cheap imitation of what used to be, in a world full of people just going through the motions because everyone has forgotten how to be real. I was even more horrified after watching a video on how this engine was constructed, with chains and counterbalancers to remove the vibration and even more chains actuating the valve train! Additional mass and chain rotating at high rpm = more probability of future catastrophic failure! Alas, this is progress and apparently what the Harley rider of today desires, but you are so totally cheating yourselves out of the very essence of what motorcycling in its beginning was all about. I recently traded the twin cam for a 67 Electraglide in very good original condition, and will never own or ride anything newer than my evo. To each his own.

[@Liquid_Bread_Fabrewcation]

I think the Revolution engine is superior to the Milwaukee Eight. The only problem is the appearance. It doesn't look like the traditional twin cylinder Harley engine and the V-Rod doesn't look like the traditional Harley Davidson motorcycle. Harley made a good attempt to keep the V-Rod going. It was the public that killed it. I love my 2016 V-Rod Muscle and feel no buyers remorse for getting it.

[@FarKew.]

Awesome Run Down Massive Thanks to you Matt, its obvious from some of the comments that they have never had the pleasure of riding a Harley for a long period of time because if you know the motor cycle you would learn to love it like a good woman a Harley takes time to know and for for all there misgivings they are the greatest motorcycle in the world get on one and ride till you cant ride any more and you'll never go back, its a mechanical bond you cant find with any outher machine , an intrinsic mechanical value its HIGH ON THE HOG, good luck with the new model ,more power to you HD

[@MattLaidlaw]

Well said my friend. The human - mechanical connection is real on a Harley. Nothing like it in the world.

[@uptownsamcv]

wonder why they displayed the bore in MM and stroke in inches..

[@jeffsnyder7543]

agree - seems strange...

[@lahainalun]

I think it's because most of your milling machines these days are made in Germany, thus, metric. The stroke of course can be measured American inches. Remember when we tried to convert to metric back when Carter was president. Didn't go well to say the least!

[@uptownsamcv]

lahainalun they could have easily converted the measurement. 25.4mm per 1 inch. just weird to see the bore and stroke displayed as different measurement units

[@joerossi2016]

My wife from England MM......., I'm from California , she had no problem adapting to inches !

[@allcatsloved]

samuel lopes w

[@geraldburrow3524]

Where does the water go in is there some kind of tank that holds it , I haven't really looked at the Milwaukee engine at my Harley - Davidson dealership yet but I am on my next visit.... thanks for sharing this video.

[@jimg691]

You gotta love Harley, I still ride my 1959, one of these days I might have to get a newer one just for the hell of it. Long live Harley and America!

[@billy6801]

any news on the wobble with the ultras??

[@whiskeythrottleracing]

Just clicked 10K miles on the 2017 Ultra Limited. She's been flawless since day one. 3000 miler to Sturgis and back on tap.

[@MattLaidlaw]

John Moffett nice man. Thanks for sharing.

[@MichaelAlvey]

Just clicked over 70,000 miles on my 2006 CVO Ultra. She's been flawless since day one!

[@whiskeythrottleracing]

Right on, Michael Alvey! Just getting broken in:)

[@slyguyaction]

Just bought a used 2017 FLTRU so watching this video explaining the M8 with a whole new perspective. Thanks Matt!!

[@frankfilippone6738]

THANK ZEALLI !! GREAT REVIEW !!!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thanks for watching

[@frankfilippone6738]

ALWAYS ! ARE YOU ON INSTAGRAM?? I THOUGHT I SEEN YOU BUT NOW I CAN'T FIND YA??

[@MattLaidlaw]

Yes user name : Matt_Laidlaw

[@frankfilippone6738]

GRAMMED YA!!

[@RyanUrlacher]

Good overview and thanks for taking the time

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thanks Ryan

[@kennethwise7108]

STILL retains a cam tensioner? LOL! I'll pass and keep riding my Evo which has NO dumb cam tensioner and 128,000 miles on it. I wonder if the Kraut's designed this one for them again?

[@mikecheeze4312]

Do you mean a cam chain tensioner?

[@265KONING]

This is the best video with information regarding the "new" HD 107. Very informative video on a lot of the amazing changes. I always wonder why did Harley wait so long to do this....by what I have seen and heard....it will definitely be a big boost to 2017 HD sales. Looking forward to my test ride on the 107 bagger next week at my local Harley Davidson Dealership.

[@EarlGuyton425]

This video was good in that I am now completely familair with harleys new engine design for 2017. With what I already knew as a mechanic and with detailed view of these I actually after watching the vid know plenty and could repair one without any question. Opinion? Harley would be better off with the older two cam knuckle head or pan design even today and they would last longer. Not an argument but simply a mechanical fact

[@47485ksc]

Knuckles and Pans have only one camshaft. You should have known.

[@chrisblake1918]

I'm with High Desert here in Clovis NM. I love this bike!

[@roybatty-]

Harley Davidson, bringing you 1950s tech at 2017 prices.

[@omarsalgado9715]

Old and dull joke. Haters all sound the same.

[@ryanenstad8928]

Sorry to see the 72 and V-Rod go. Great couple of bikes for sure. I've heard this 107 up close. Much less mechanical engine noise and still a good exhaust note. Very smooth. Is changing spark plugs gonna necessitate removing the gas tank? Great vid. Thanks for putting this up. Ride safe!

[@MattLaidlaw]

I'm not sure about that yet.

[@matrox]

I liked the looks of the '72, but lets all admit the V-Rod was one butt ugly bike.

[@johngarland1641]

Still running with that pressed pin crank,why?!

[@InTheDogHouse3DPrinting]

That cooling setup looks like it's more for emissions than actually cooling the heads. Not a bad design on the engine. 4 valves per cylinder, and dual plugs will definitely help with efficiency, and power as well as emissions. Nice to see they redesigned the cam chain and tensioner setup. Nice rear shock setup with the pre-load adjusters, but they look like a pain to adjust.

[@403Pantera1]

sad that the engine technology in a 1973 honda cb500 is heads and shoulders above the 'new and improved' engine designs in a 2017 harley.

[@chris81983]

Thanks for taking the time to make such a detailed video.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thanks for watching

[@ZacVaper]

Why Harley wont go to a gear driven cam is beyond comprehension. Looks like buyers of this will be looking towards S&S for a gear drive fix, just like for the twin cam.

[@chuckmccroskey4864]

Zac vaper I may have read that it is the noise of the gears. Not sure. You could check out Donny Peterson’s book. Not sure if I picked it up there or not.

[@Oddman1980]

I read an article some years back when the twin-cam 88 was introduced - the reason for the chain driven cam was noise reduction.

[@d-swank7599]

Oddman1980 at the cost of disintegrating tensioner shoes plugging up oil passageways

[@eb1941]

I have two TC 88 bikes that I need to fix the cam chain tensioners. Due to Harley not taking care of the customer, my next bike will not be a Harley.

[@betruly7894]

Thanks Matt for this video, great quality content as usual with your videos. I wasn't convinced about the M8, I thought it was another disaster grenade engine, however after watching this video I'm 100% convinced this will be a bullet proof engine the same as the EVO was. Well done Harley hope you will keep up, but It took them long time unfortunately to come up with a replacement of the previous grenade engine the Twin cams. Matt see you in the next video

[@ckelley63]

Hope they have done something about that shitty pressed together crankshaft assembly don't get me wrong Love my Harley but damn one of the most important parts of the motor!!

[@666greek]

It,s not pressed the pin has thirds on each end for nuts and a washer with tabs you bend to keep the nuts from backing off

[@jazzridez]

What country of origin are the cranks, connecting rods, pistons and rings? Prove It. Let's keep going with the bushings, bearings, any and all hardware? Prove It.

[@ckelley63]

iT'S A SHAME THEY COULDN'T DO THAT WITH THE TWIN CAM

[@mrpoizun]

Do what?

[@ckelley63]

All Twin cam cranks are pressed fit together, under about 400 tons of pressure. Don't take my word for it look it up Research crank scissoring issues with the Harley Twin Cam; Some have issues some have not

[@GT4JB]

This was a great intro to M8 engine. There is so much confusion around engine and what we can do once we buy a bike from Laidlaw, What are the mods and combos that work! I would love to see a educational video around air intake value, Is there a need to increase air flow on this motor?? Is the bike choked back to meet EPA standards? Does the motor need more back compression. I know this topic is a slippery slope that you want to be careful, you yourself added mods to your new SGS.

[@homefront3162]

Pretty Bold move by Harley, an underpowered v-twin

[@MattLaidlaw]

It actually has more than enough power. Have you even ridden one?

[@slayer04031974]

I love the detailed information! I didn't know about the water channels. Very interesting. I own a 2021 Slim. I love the ride and power compared to a 1999 Sportster xlh 1200. With Xlh with stage 1, full exhaust and jetted. The power doesn't seem like a big jump. But definitely delivered a lot smoother and ride is awesome so far. Only 732 miles since I brought her home. Thanks for the videos Matt 💪

[@pucpuc937]

Scott here from Michigan, good reporting, thank you Matt!! Its interesting to see The Motor Company step back to a single cam, wonder if placement of the rocker assembly in the new heads allowed them to improve on the drastic angle of the push rods that we had some issues with on the Evo's? I do thank HD for using removable lifter blocks on the 8 instead having them molded into the case! Matt, I also noticed that no valve lash adjustment is apparent on the outboard valves on the rocker assembly? Honda used the "forked" rocker idea for many years on some of their smaller four valve engines. They found it necessary to be able to adjust those outward valves because when two valves are operating off the same "fork" they dont wear exactly the same. Am I missing something here? Perhaps a shim bucket located in the rocker assembly? Cant wait to get a peek and a demo on one of these new ones - be really interesting to see/hear the exhaust note and see if some of that AWESOME Shovelhead music will fill the soul again - never could get my Twin Cams to sound like my Shovels!! Thanks again Matt! Scott PS - THANKS HD for some more awesome RnD!!!!

[@silenceofthehams6902]

I have guys that I ride with who rode Harleys. One ended up with a BMW K1200. Great bike, very fast. His brother ended up trading his Road King in on a BMW RR. Yeah that lasted about 3 months when we went on a 1,044 22 hour ride. He traded it on a BMW RS1200. He has no problems now. My other friend had been riding Ultra Classic Limiteds for years. We in his garage built a frankenstein bike with an 85 Heritage and a Suzuki GXR100. He got tired of Cameros running away from him on the highway on his Ultra. Plus after all of the Harleys he had bought from Ademec Harley in Jacksonville he was told when he had major wheel issues after almost a year, What do you want us to do about it? Talk to Harley. He told the owner that he couldn't believe what he was hearing. That they had no regard for a possible hazard. That someone was going to get killed if they kept these wheels in production. O.K. this is coming from a guy who use to race 1000 cc Class sport bikes all over the country for decades. He took his nearly year old Ultra to BMW and traded it in on a RS1200. He was pulling wheelies on the on ramp going home. Lol Oh and my first friend ended up with a Ducatti Multistrada 1200R. I am the lone hold out with my 010 Street Glide. I told them, No way! I will not buy a BMW. And what, Look like a safety cone riding down the road? Lol Besides I have way to much invested in clothing And I will have to come up with a whole new set of pick up lines....ahahahaha I love to ride long distance in a day 3,4-500 to a 1000+ miles and I have no problems on my Street Glide. Everyone has there preference. Not everyones is going to like the same bike. The point is we are all in the wind experiencing the freedom of the road.

[@kensapi8694]

sure there are better bikes out there,faster,more powerfull,more comfortable,but the torque and sound of a harley is second to none

[@silenceofthehams6902]

Sounds like your a Gold Wing rider? LMAO! Mmmm sizzling rice baby. Yeah for you to make the ignorant comments that you have just shows me that your NOT a rider. Your the poser! You probably haven't riden over a 1000+ miles in a day just for fun. LOL And once again ya open your yap and show your ignorance. I guess that's WHY so many want to copy the sound of Harley? Rice Rice baby...pump that Japanese economy up. I've been riding since I was in 6th grade and use to race dirt bikes. All of the guys I ride with that ride BMW's, Ducattis, Aprillia, Moto Guzzis don't care what someone rides. The fact that your riding is what's important. But then again you have some asshole like yourself who is the negative Nancy and wants to bust on someone.

[@silenceofthehams6902]

Come on tough guy show us what you ride? Share with us your vast knowledge and experience. Oh and IF you hate Harley so much then WHY ARE YOU CHECKING OUT HARLEY POSTS AND WHAT THEY HAVE OUT? Hmmm MAYBE you can't afford one? LOL....:)

[@draganm7823]

+Silence of the hams you summed it all up bro. all the reasons you listed are exactly why these trolls go on the HD posts. watch now we will both get hate mail lol. gotta love it. Ride safe.

[@silenceofthehams6902]

Thanks man! Always. :)

[@GT4JB]

Matt, thx for taking the time to keep us all educated. It was great meeting you at the dealership last week. I ended up buying a Road King Special. Loving this bike. How are you liking your new White Street Glide?

[@topcop1116]

Loved the video, thanks Matt. Your videos were actually helpful and confidence inspiring to help me make a purchase. I went Harley this time and bought a black 2018 Road King Special yesterday from St. Charles Harley in St. Charles, IL. I love the technical information you give out as well as the rides.

[@brianreynolds188]

I'll keep my twin cam

[@massomarcos]

Dummy old head

[@simoneinbeigi]

Still keeping your TC ? 😅

[@chopperchopster]

until the cam chain tensioners FAIL.

[@nitishsharma5803]

Thanks for the Video, very informative. Does it also say somewhere that the Engine will channel heat better for warm weather riding.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Yes, the engine handles heat a lot better. The non twin cooled bikes have a oil cooling system that travels through the heads and out the back. It has a lower idle speed too.

[@davidson2004fatboy]

The MECHANICAL VALVE TRAIN NOISE is WHAT US GEAR HEADS LIKE ! It's WHAT YOU CALL the SOUNDS of a "REAL MOTOR RUNNING" NOT a SEWING MACHINE MOTOR. I DON'T LIKE the DIRECTION HARLEY is GOING, NEXT UP is the ELECTRIC HARLEY'S ;( JMHO

[@dicktrickle5352]

X2

[@jimmybe64]

I thought that was engine parts wearing out rubbing and banging against each other.

[@666greek]

Harley already has a running prototype

[@vinmanr2d2]

Your opinion matters like a rainy day in another country ! Also , your sentence is illiterate !

[@3asyrider75]

I have been riding for many years own 2 bikes and I can make any bike loud. You should hear my friends KTM duke with a shorty can. Makes a Harley with Screaming eagle stage 1s sound like a honda civic. Go to any Harley shop test ride a new unmodified bike and they are way too quite!. My Metric vtwin used to be louder then the Harley with open intake and exhaust but had to tone it down as no one wanted to ride with me. Many of the internal sounds are more pronounced simply changing the intake. All you stock bike riders always blame Harley for being too loud, but its the mods that make them loud. Personally I find the high pitched sportbikes with short cans far more annoying. My ears ring from the tone of 14000 RPM open can as opposed to deep bass Vtwin rumble.

[@joshuamoore24_7]

Harley Davidson should make a Milwaukee 8 style engine with a chrome oil pan, oil pick up tube with inlet screen on the top inside the pan just above the bottom of it, and windage tray underneath the crank case inside of the oil pan..Maybe even a hemi design type of cylinder heads.

[@dozervin]

Yes I test rode a few here in Las Vegas last month. Better power. and handling. But for my money the Indians are my choice. Hands down.

[@TheRowdyJ]

outstanding over view. love the new changes. am going to the dealer to check the new 2018 line out...

[@ronleon62]

Wow, four valves per cylinder and two spark plugs. Welcome to 1980!

[@damongriffith]

I wish I could like this comment more than once!

[@grindsoul]

I ALMOST SHIT MYSELF

[@UhuruFrontier]

Now that is my point. Where is the innovation? It took HD 40 years to put this engine out? They took a vintage engine and made a antique engine!

[@imablacksmith]

Four valves per cylinder on a push rod motor? That's more of a SALES PLOY than a mechanical advancement! What could you expect from a corporation that could not survive without the sales of T-shits!

[@imablacksmith]

I would call the date by mainstream mass production... but then you have the supercharged Duesenberg driven by wealthy movie stars that snot nosed punks used to whip with hopped up Ford coupes (before the event of sport bike).

[@kensapi8694]

whats the hp and torque output on both the 107 and the 114ci,,,btw 3 years ago i bought a bike at your dealership,,customer service was outstanding,,,

[@eb1941]

Plastic cam chain tensioners - ugh. I am dealing with plastic cam chain tensioners on two TC 88 engines. I will not be buying a Harley as my next bike.

[@MachOverspeedsPlace]

So when do the new golf carts come out? MachOverspeed

[@MattLaidlaw]

MachOverspeedsPlace April 1st 2018.

[@artmchugh9283]

Once you have this engine mounted on the tractor, you will get the crops in record time !

[@tony2227]

Art Mchugh Hater!!!! You just can't afford it ... waaaahhhhh wahhhh

[@jonathansimmons5353]

-hater???- laugher more like..

[@mikecheeze4312]

@@tony2227 funny... why is that? Because you can't satisfy your woman yourself so you bought a hardly? Look at mr loud and....well that's about it other than a worthless money pit over here

[@tony2227]

@@mikecheeze4312 And why exactly are you watching a video of a worthless piece of machine????????....if you dont like harley...why are you here then????..I tell u why....u are a hater!!!!!!

[@mikecheeze4312]

@@tony2227 because I can and I want to. And because I can speak my free opinion. Is that enough for you? If not I can keep going...

[@DrumCoversbyBill]

Loving my 2018 FLHX. The Milwaukee 8 Rocks!!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Couldn’t agree more.

[@shadowmink888]

OVER-ENGINEERED MECHANIC'S NIGHTMARE. GO BACK TO THE OLD TECHNOLOGY--KNUCKLEHEADS FOREVER.

[@haljones5204]

They can not. This new engine is for meeting the govs emissions, not for the buyer.

[@bigwu100]

That electric bike looked sweet,the zero, not too bad for a beginning. i like it, no noise, no repair to speak of, 200 mile range, charge overnight. Not for your 1% er but hey you're riding, fossil fuel free. It's the future .

[@j.strong4117]

no more problems whit the twin cam? excelent!

[@T51B1]

Sooo, Harley changed a couple things but left all the things that usually wear out and cause their bikes to go into the shop in the first place. Chain drive-still there, Stator-still buried in the engine, Rockers-still the same pressure at opposite ends causing wear, Oil pump- still low pressure, Pushrods-still there, etc. By almost all measures the Victory Freedom engine is/was a much better engine, and they came out almost 20 years ago. There's no excuse Harley, other than you want to milk your captive customer base for more money. I have to give credit to Harley for being the best at one thing--your marketing is excellent; you're easily selling overpriced bikes that can't match the power output of other makes, while having a multitude of known issues with your bikes that force costly repairs in the future.

[@Jaybird289]

best walk around i have seen

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thanks for watching.

[@biaggiwins]

for all the guys complaining on HD being slow in R&D or behind any other maker is very easy to explain, they dont have to. they can't keep their bikes on the showroom floors. People dump their 3 year old SG just because of a new fairing vent, or displacement increase. I'm blown away at the sales of Harley's. HD owners remind me of Apple fan boys, gotta get the new model because of a miniscule upgrade.

[@cub67]

If thats the case then HD doesnt need to be competing in NHRA Prostock motorcycle class.

[@biaggiwins]

+cub67 as far as what, selling bikes? I have never heard a single Harley owner mention NHRA or dragracing when talking about bikes.

[@mrpoizun]

Power of an imported what? I think Harleys are just as fast as any import in their class. And that's a lot faster than they need to be. They aren't racing bikes. And you'd have to be a moron to think they need to be.

[@biaggiwins]

+mr poizun for a 20K+ bike, I expect more

[@biaggiwins]

+Jesus Christ seeing that your father is God, you could be riding a moped and be waiting for Valentino Rossi to catch up. doesn't count.

[@johnnysokko6533]

The Eight Ball is a nice addition to the Harley Engine Family.

[@carmenloochaz9588]

Wonder when they are going to make a decent bike?

[@jimblankenship1891]

Just an FYI, the Milwaukee 8 motor is still an air cooled engine with the addition of oil cooled heads. In this video, a comment was made about water passages for the cooling system... The Harley 750 has the only water cooled motor in the Harley lineup. Thank you for doing the video, it was nice to see and hear of all the updates in this venue. Peace

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thanks for the comment but you’re wrong. It depends on the model. The FLHTK and FLHTKSE and Tri-Glide models have a twin cooled model that circulates water through the heads. Models without the radiators in the lower leg fairings like the FLHXS circulate the oil like you said.

[@47485ksc]

Harley makes a "750"? Is that cubic inches? No, you meant: "45 cubic inches". We ain't in Japan, kid.

[@TheYelwing]

I tried a HD once. I thought something was wrong with it because it was sluggish. I bought a Victory, loved it

[@MattLaidlaw]

And now they are out of business, go figure.

[@draganm7823]

Michael C Really? sell your lies to kids in the park that cant read motorcycle stats.

[@edwarddavis8264]

Polaris is banking on Indian now. Polaris didn't want redesign Victory because of Euro 4 emissions, Indian is way ahead of that, you watch, HD going to be dropping a few bikes for that same problem. I love to watch HD squirm because of Indian.

[@Dave-sw2dm]

That's what people told me on the Vulcan Voyager forums. Then I tried to keep up with a Harley touring bike on the interstate and I couldn't. Went down and traded that Voyager for a Road Glide and it is an amazing motorcycle. If Victory would have made a frame mounted fairing motorcycle that didn't look like a space craft I might have given them a try.

[@tymoraeck65]

Edward davis me too..I totally agree with you.

[@mcparts7249]

maybe i missed it but did you adress the crankshaft issue? will this new one stay true?

[@JohnnysCoolStuff]

Harley has had longer than anyone to build the perfect motorcycle engine. Should have done it long ago.

[@draganm7823]

John Cox Hello John, they did bro ever since they built the first bike and have never looked back. sales figures prove it. #1 worldwide. Ride safe bro.

[@imJaymo]

I have been looking forward to this. thank you for putting it up.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thanks for watching

[@sethadam4266]

Not surprised the Vrod is finished, bad look & idea from the get go.

[@sethadam4266]

Thanks for the incite, I agree 100 % in comparison Harley's are old technology & outdated, turbo Busa sounds wicked, rumor has it they are doing a complete make over for 2018. I recon Dragan M is butt hurt over the end of Vrod no content on his channel & his comment.

[@draganm7823]

Seth Adam the gsxr is smaller displacement and quicker than the Busa, so is the Kawasaki zx1400. and they are non turbo. As for HD being outdated, this troll maxipad wearer has no clue about technology. read up on it yourself and you will see he is wrong. good luck.

[@frankielemonjello]

He's a narcissist for sure, Dragon. I think it's hilarious that he goes on to describe racism in reply to being called a narcissist. BTW, he's racist as well. On another thread he described Harley riders using the 'n' word, and then tried to backpedal and say it meant something else. What an ass.

[@frankielemonjello]

I *do* know. I've seen you do it on YT. 'Attack someone who I think is you'? Are there more than one 'themaxrider' on YT? And I think it's hilarious that you attack anyone who doesn't agree with you, follow them around, and then say there's something wrong with that! So you're a hypocrite as well! LMAO! No-one has to 'stalk' you, you show up with your shit on almost every Harley vid on YT! Do you even read what you write?

[@frankielemonjello]

Yeah, you *do* stalk people on YT. I've seen you do it! Tell me you haven't had it in for Dragon M in the past few months. He really must have hurt you bad, because you're constantly replying to his (and my) comments that aren't even replying to you. My first comment here was to Dragon, not you. But you just *had* to reply. Just like you always do. Butthurt little maxipad.

[@telace1]

great video man...I have a question...I saw a video that lawless hd did a day or 2 ago and it showed a cvo road glide...but when I went on the hd official site it only had picks of the cvo pro street, street glide ultra, and street...I was wondering if you new if and when they will release the cvo road glide

[@MattLaidlaw]

Good Question. There is NO CVO Roadglide for 2017 at this time. The bike you saw was a customized (Harley custom paint and accessories) Roadglide they did up for the show. Now I predict that MAYBE they might release a mid-year CVO Roadglide.

[@mollygrubber]

Welcome to 1969, HD.

[@hughjorgen9424]

they are still a chain driven cam.. ill stick to my EVO

[@kickaxe6577]

Love the EVO or convert to an S&S motor.

[@harleyashdown6786]

Who gives a shit what you think, H-D is about a lifestyle , something you'll never experience so good!!! Ride something else

[@mollygrubber]

Harley Ashdown Sounds like you drank the Kool-Aid, enjoy your "lifestyle".

[@joerossi2016]

Agree Harley, that leaves more for us !!! # 7 for me !!!!!!!

[@johningardia7106]

You did a great job of describing the new changes.

[@critchley3819]

Yes good engine, but it would be great if Harley Davidson stopped making it an option to get them running like they should...

[@mikecheeze4312]

How else are they gonna bleed you dry for crap?

[@detroitbluesguy]

Nothing wrong with that effort!! Good Job!!

[@unclemikeb]

Four valves per cylinder for better breathing, two spark plugs per cylinder for cleaner burn, higher output charging system. I like what I'm seeing. I will concede to the Harley haters the bike is expensive. But ten years from now (unless the whole world goes to hell) it will still have a greater percentage of the purchase price than any other bike I am aware of.

[@mtrdude.6398]

interesting engine, keep the classic aircooled look but with modern DFI and engine controls. Novel solution on cooling the exhaust valve seats , common problem spot on aircooled 4v heads.Wonder what the cooling system capacity will be?

[@Rif_Leman]

A chain driven cam? Water cooled heads? Man, why not just get a metric for 1/3 the price and be done with it?

[@BadazzShovelhead]

Why do you care? I don't care what you ride why do you take the time to troll an HD video. Do you work for some kind of org that evangelizes metric bikes or just bored? Why do you worry about what I spend my money on?

[@chipshastid428]

Is that what you say when your bike of choice is in the presence of H-D riders ? Gotta have something to ease that feeling of inadequacy that roils around in your gut.

[@draganm7823]

Chip shastid right on Bro I think you summed it up, they are jealous. their copies can't beat HD so let's trash talk and troll HD videos lol. Ride safe.

[@draganm7823]

Malabanias hey bud, it's not 1/3 the price. check the pricing. Here's an example, the somewhat comparable Suzuki Hammer S is more expensive than the much better VROD, the Victory Hammer S is $18,499.00 while the VROD is only $17,849.00 and that's for the more expensive V Rod model. The Muscle sells for even less. It's only $17,499.00 I hope this helps. Ride safe.

[@draganm7823]

Mike Fu well said bro, ride safe.

[@dennism103]

I got a stage 2 I was astounded!

[@SteffanoDucati]

Yaaawwwwwnnnnn pushrods , primary chains etc .. nothin new here ... lets move along ...

[@tonyr751]

your bike sounds like a sewing machine

[@cabritorsss]

Ok, let's us see YOUR design. Mind you...it has to run.

[@SmittySmithsonite]

Well, if you deviate from that Steffano, Harley sales WILL plummet. Can't argue with the numbers - they sell ALOT of iron.

[@Craneman4100w]

Put a gear drive cam in it like the EVOs have. The chain drive was chosen simply to reduce manufacturing costs. The gear drives have been all but immortal once the inner INA cam bearing is replaced.

[@WhiteGravey]

yup a sewing machine with 4x the horsepower of your all noise to go bike.

[@randyhutchinson9910]

I got a Knight Rod special, and a RoadKing, love both, gonna get one with a Milwaukee 8 on it next

[@timtompkins6752]

You all don't get it. This new "breed" of Harley enthusiast that you see buying these bikes in droves finds the old tried and true, traditional H.D. sound and feel "offensive", and far too manly.

[@MrRollie51]

Tim Tompkins ? In English please However There women I know well Love the feel... Love the sound Love the look & even strangers Aprouch me with Beautiful bike & l Love the rumble! And far An All American made dream machine! I'm 70+- I just added a new HD From my bucket list. Even though I'm up there.. I can not not love my bike all over again! !!!

[@draganm7823]

Nice video and thanks for the news about 2017 models. Im sorry to see the V Rod go.

[@saddle8bag]

This was the most shocking thing in this vid. Loved the vid that showed Harley bring the V-rods to life. If they made one with a 180 rear tire, I'd likely get one. Loved everything about them except the hot pipe next to my leg and the fact they steer like a truck. Was nice to see Harley make so many positive improvements to their engine though. Great work there too.

[@666greek]

Not to bust your bubble but the v rod motor was from the AMF days it was iv a crotch rocket frame and raced for about 11 years in the super bike class 1100cc and was developed Porsche for Harley they got permission to run it because they did not sell a street version of it as per the rules for the class , it i rember right it never won a race , It was a turd then and a even bigger turd in the V-ROD ! FYI things were better under AMF , The motor co is the reason the prices are so high , when HD was own by AMF the dealers could sell out of a store front in a strip center or even a tin building the motor co forced the dealers to buld the yuppie house's of ill repute ( whore Houses ) full of neon lights at a cost of over 1 million each , some one has to pay for it . Crap rolls down hill , so that is one of the reasons the prices are so high

[@A_Man_Of_Culture_]

Not even close, you are correct that harley used a dohc twin back in the 80's for racing, but it is a completely different engine than what is in the vrod. That engine was designed, and produced sole for racing, and R&D for metulrgy in high strain applications.

[@saddle8bag]

It wasn't in the 80s either. I used to go watch Pascal Picotte race one in the late 90's/early 00's. He never did all that great, but he was fun to watch as he was always the smoothest guy out there.

[@draganm7823]

666greek wrong but keep believing if it makes you happy.

[@johnquest1044]

Harley is so far from what they used to be, normal people cant afford these way over priced bikes anymore!

[@groover4293]

Increasing price, decreasing quality. The best of both worlds for them.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Over priced compared to what? Equivalent competitors are anywhere from slightly less to more money than a Harley

[@johnquest1044]

Ha, what competitors! Indian? The other crusier companies are no where near the Harley Davidson brand. That's why we are raped over the price! Come on man, if you ride you know the truth. Harley then wants to give you NOTHING in return for the bike you purchase from them.

[@donmichigan8201]

I'm a blue collar working slob, I can afford a Harley Davidson. In fact, I can afford more than one. You gotta get a better job,McD's doesn't pay

[@chrisbowser2495]

cars are going up in price. i bet you drive a nissan.. i just bought a brand new road king and pay 300 dollars a month... you can make that working at a mini mart... you need a better job. or better credit for a better interest rate on your loan... just sayin.,,,,, think about what you say before you open your mouth.. the average car is 20 thousand...

[@ericlindal8008]

I like the new changes. My next bike may be a Harley. thanks for posting

[@davidmaclane5487]

Typical HD .....never talk about horsepower... might be embarrassed to compare to other more advanced ....When HD goes to full liquid cooling, does away with antique external pushrods, and develops a sleek shaft drive, then I might look harder...until then, they're still 20 to 30 years behind real technology

[@chrisbowser2495]

do you own one? if not than shut up.

[@vinmanr2d2]

zeallistic , forget all these negative creeps ! #1 your video and narration was wonderful and I really appreciate the way you went through everything .and #2 that new engine is going to be awesome !

[@davidcarpenter8741]

And by the way, torque is good for pulling stumps but it is HORSEPOWER that makes you go faster, plain and simple physics. Not Harley physics where torque is some how always better than power. If an engine is not water cooled it is 50s old engine technology with low compression, excessive heat and low power. fact.

[@liljgoneman9765]

My XR400 laughs at your opinion.

[@_droid]

Let me clue you in to something: HP and torque are mathematical permutations of the exact same thing (power) and are tied together. Using a simple calculation with RPM you can calculate torque from horsepower or horsepower from torque. The speed that a bike can attain is a function of RPM, gearing, and power. A "high torque" motor can push a bike the exact same speed as an equivalent "high horsepower" motor, it's only the gearing that matters!

[@davidcarpenter8741]

Let me clue you into something. Torque is not a permutation of power. Power is a permutation of torque, not the other way around. Torque is force. Power is force per time . It is that simple. More power, by definition, makes you go faster quicker. That is why Harleys, with low horsepower antique engines, will never be as fast as a Hayabusa, no matter what 'gearing' you put on that thing.

[@_droid]

David Carpenter Notice I said "equivalent" motors. You're comparing two completely different motors.

[@_droid]

David Carpenter It would be possible to design an "high torque" motor that was the same weight and technology as a "high horsepower" motor. The difference would be where in the RPM band they make power. They would go the exact same speed when geared appropriately.

[@bjb236]

Hi Matt! I just watched this video on the M-8, great info. I recently purchased a 2021 road king and I’m getting a funky clunk when engaging the clutch sometimes. I’m feeling it in the lever as well, any suggestions?