2017 Harley-Davidson Road King Special (FLHRXS) First Ride│Review and Test Ride

[@Michiganborn1969]

Okay, I did it! As of today I traded in my 2011 V-Star 950 tourer for my first Harley Davidson. A 2014 Street Glide with only 2,500 miles on her from Sacramento HD.

[@sigman5064]

I just bought this bike after watching Matt's review... Matt's analysis and commentary is spot on... I traded in a 12' Road Glide, with ton of custom work and stage IV SE kit... Fell in love with riding all over again... The new engine is so smooth, with great torque and HP... Major improvements in vibration, suspension, transmission, clutch, etc....

[@HeavenfireVideo]

I really appreciated the "who is this bike for" section of your comments, Matt. It helps me focus on what I want/need.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Christopher Wade glad I could help

[@pinkiewerewolf]

I'm 52, and I really dig this blacked out look with the stretched bags. If I can squirrel it away, I wouldn't mind this with quick detach WS, Tour Pack, two-up touring seat, and blacked out passing lamps. That would give me two dream Harleys in one.

[@13boxing]

New road king is gorgeous!

[@drifter2341]

Picked mine the other day, took her out today. This machine is f*ing unbelievable! Thanks for all your work!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Motorcycle congrats man!

[@rudyvee9166]

Man, GREAT vid! Never owned a bike and have never ridden one either. But THIS video sold me. 6'4", 250 lbs. and I am gonna purchase the Road King Standard! Thx again Matt.

[@MattLaidlaw]

+Rudy Vee Great bike my friend. Enjoy it. Definitely go with the touring chassis

[@dahijitna]

Matt always calls it as he sees it, these videos are great. Always learn a lot too; its very much appreciated.

[@didymusjudasthomas]

I'm watching from Japan. The Road King Special has been released in Japan as well. Your english is very clear and easy to understand for english learner like me.

[@MatlockMoto]

Picked mine up today! 👍🏽😎👍🏽

[@MattLaidlaw]

Eric Reyes nice man. Congrats!

[@bluowlmobiledetailing]

Eric Reyes how much are the road kings going for? an do you like your new bike?

[@donaldsoncole3095]

I enjoyed the insight on the lighting aspects of the 2 Road King models, as well as the suspension characteristics of both models!

[@RobertBIrish]

I picked up my 2018 Road King Special this past Friday and already have 600 miles on it I love it.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Nice 👍🏻👍🏻

[@mp9508]

Jelly! Enjoy. Ride safe.

[@getoutofthekitchen]

Not usually a fan of Road Kings but really like the blacked out look on this bike. Great video as usual.

[@Neocleese]

I absolutely love this Road King and am seriously considering getting one in black. Great vlog Matt. I cannot wait to see one in person.

[@prometheus5311]

I never liked the roadking, until now. The special looks awesome. And that paintjob is unreal man.

[@colincampbell2153]

Need a test ride on one of these jobs. Wonderful and clear explanations of the new model. Cheers!

[@6r4nko]

Thanks, Matt for the nice review of the 2017 Road King Special! I now bought a black one and will pick it up this Friday. Keep on doing videos.

[@markmcintosh7095]

I love mine 13 inche fox shocks made the ride 100% better. Great job Matt.

[@dcdell2008]

I did an extended road test, '18 Heritage Softail Classic (HSC) and Road King Special (RKS) yesterday at local dealer. They was kind enough to allow me, for about 30 minutes back to back to both bikes...and all I can say is the Heritage was so fast and nimble, easy to flick compared to the RKS, at about 92lbs less, its definitely showed this characteristics... However this is where the pluses of the HSC ends for me...I noticed, when speeds reaches above 75 on up, the handle bars would buzz a lot and the mirrors would vibrate wildly to a point that I could not see the objects behind...not sure if there are adjustments that can be made, perhaps test riding a second HSC may be different, but this bike only had 52 miles on the ODO...It reminded me of my former '03 HSC; exhibited the same manners...I was surprised that with all the hype of the new frame, this would go away, but in 2018, it was apparently still evident. I was a bit disappointed as I was leaning to the HSC as next bike, but test riding these machines is definitely recommend as a $20K mistake is a had pill to swallow...lol On the other hand, the RKS on same road and speed, was so butter smooth, though perhaps, with no windshield, it may have made a difference, but since I was deciding which would be my next bike, I give the RKS the all thumbs up for my riding style... Thank you for doing the video & sharing

[@MattLaidlaw]

+dcdell2008 Thanks for the constructive comment.

[@TheLucas2696]

I love this bike, I'm planning to pick one up this fall. I rode one when the demo truck rolled through and fell in love immediately, I am hoping my local dealer gets a demo unit so I can take a longer, less supervised test ride.

[@brad_Ca]

That is one beautiful motorcycle and as always, I really enjoy your review videos.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Brad C thank you

[@1EasyGoer]

Another great review, I really appreciate your videos, good balanced and unbiased information in a well presented format. Keep up the good work.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Ashley Hill thank you. Thanks for watching.

[@garyalan1961]

Matt, Great comprhensive review! I just purchased a new 2017 FLHR from a dealership in Fl and they didn't go over a thing. I traded in my 95' FLHR and it's quite different to say the least. Thank you again for your review, if I lived in LA I would gladly be a customer!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Gary Alan Thanks man. Enjoy the bike. Congrats.

[@mandizzle0517]

I took thia bike out for a test ride just the other day...amazing. I ride a sportster and if I get approved for a new loan, I think I will trade.

[@soundshinedj]

Great video, thank you.. this is the bike I want and I'm doing A LOT of reasearch before I go in. You've been a big help.

[@eduardomontano7718]

Great Review Matt as usual, thanks, and this Road King Special is just Amazing!!!!

[@BK-nj1xq]

Thanks for the thorough review. Had a 2013 Peace Officer RK that was perfection but traded in for Ultra Limited (happy wife, happy life). Now I’m looking for commute bike and RK at top of the list! You covered this bike very well, thanks again.

[@sgrrials5431]

i ride a2018 R K special u r 1 of my favorite u tube people in 65 and ride in style😊

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thank you! Much appreciated.

[@Aaronjw24]

Thank you so much for reviewing this bike. I recently sold my 2013 the rod, night Rod special just so I could buy the Road King special. It has not hit in Wisconsin yet. Hopefully in another week or two. I am happy you reviewed the charcoal denim color because that is the color that I am interested in. I can't wait to see this bike in person and hope that it will be parked in my garage very soon. I plan to do a lot of touring this summer. Thanks again for all the great reviews.

[@MattLaidlaw]

aaron walz Thank you. You'll love the bike. It's beautiful, plenty of power, and great handling. If you're doing lots of touring you might want a wind shield.

[@fililoboesparza5784]

Sweet Road King. Looks good murdered out!!! Matt I also loved the Slim S that past right by you.. lol

[@kcmoto6507]

It's nice to see a dealership that has prices on their bikes. My local dealer won't even give you a price anymore unless you do a "sit down" which means they run your credit and try to make a deal with you. Same thing if you want to test ride any bike. Local dealer has their 2017 Street glide specials at $3k over MSRP. No thanks.

[@robinkuruda5249]

KCMOto Get on facebook and let the world know , I cant stand that either!!

[@Teachering]

This review was, indeed, comprehensive. I found it fun and a good review. I watched this video because I'm considering my first Harley-Davidson. To be honest, I'm intimidated by these large bikes. For several years now I've had my eye on the Softail Deluxe and am blown away by the great looks of the new Softail Slim s. I like this Road King Special. it calls to me. It is a bike I'd like to own.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Teachering I think a lot of people are intimidated by Large cruisers. It just takes a little experience and they really aren't that hard to handle. The longer you ride them, the lighter they seem to get

[@michaelgurgone2825]

Matt Laidlaw I agree, As a experienced flat tracker, TT racer, motocross racer and trial rider... even a shorter guy like me at 5'6 can easily throw around any Large Harley touring model and feel very much in total control . Even at 62 years old. As I naturally incorporate my off road skills to any bike I ride. Personally , I would not steer away anyone of shorter stature 5'4 or taller away from a touring chassis Harley as long as they have very good ridding skills and really have a need for a touring model. Also, a thin scooped seat helps! The more you ride it, the smaller it seems! Well said.

[@4936808]

I say get the Road King if you haven't already. I got one a couple months ago, my first bike ever. Very happy that I went with the bigger bike. This thing is super stable and powerful. I have done multiple day trips, lasting more than 8 hours and I am bummed when the ride ends. This bike is so comfortable that I want to keep going and going. I love my 2018 Road King.

[@coyote454]

Very good, informative review. Been on my '09 Road King for several years now, but this 107 has me intrigued.

[@breakoutpete210]

It doesn't get any better or badder than this...so sweet!

[@ottaviorivelli6669]

Hey Matt thanks for your very comprehensive video, I looked at it with pleasure. I live in Lyon, France, and own a 2016 Ultra limited. I must say I find the looks of the RK special superb. Do you think adding a windshield would really ruin that for long trips? Thanks again Ottavio

[@0718Twindad]

Love Love Love the look of this bike. I really dig the Charcoal Denim scheme too. I would add a wind screen to cut down on fatigue, otherwise this beast is ready to burn up the pavement. Very nice!! May have to look at the Road King as my next bike.

[@MAM-Gaming1]

Nice overview video... Thanks for going into detail over the differences!

[@SaddleUp212]

Matt, exceptional review. I am in love with this bike. My only reservation is the lack of a few key touring comforts you lose out on by going with the Road King Special as opposed to a Street or Road Glide Special. I know I can add speakers and a windshield. But can I integrate the Boom! Box 6.5GT Radio into this model and somehow enjoy the benefits of that system? Mainly the GPS navigation, Bluetooth connectivity and bike-to-bike communication.

[@kevinkrekels9780]

Awesome bike! And as always a great job on the review! Greetings from the Netherlands! Keep up the good work.

[@hsmith3844]

The bikes in your shop look a lot cleaner and PDI'd better than some I've seen. +1

[@Kingdlack]

How much would it be to add a windshield along with the windshield docking station? I think it should of came with a windshield! Overall that bike is awesome.

[@eduardomoralesrilo7735]

Hi Matt, writing you from Spain. Love your videos better than any other Harley reviews. Just about to buy my first Harley and finding it hard to decide, hope you can help me. My choice is between a Road King Special 2017 and a Heritage Classic 2018 (107 engine ... more than enough power for me), both of them offered to me at the same price. I weight about 230 and I´m 6´2´´. The dealer allowed me to test a Heritage with the 114 and a Road King standard with the 107 .... and honestly I liked better the ride on the Heritage (would getting a Sundowner seat for extra comfort) ...I liked it better as an overall ride bike; but highway ride wise the Roadking Special was much more stable and I like the aesthetics of the King a bit better (probably also getting a better seat and windscreen), but the bike was a bit heavy on the front while manoeuvring slow in the city. I´m really interested in having a longer range comfort ride and normally I use more highway and road with wind often present in the area I live. What would be your advice?. Thank you very much

[@rob21i]

Love the green color can't wait to see it in person

[@getdealtwithquick]

Harley, please bring back charcoal gray denim. This color looks so good on black. 100% agreed that the RKS looks like a million bucks.

[@darrennvalente]

great review as allways Matt, thanks again for your efforts 👍👍👍

[@armybiker]

another great video matt, gotta love that baldwin park traffic :/

[@easyglide301]

Thank you, I love the Road King , always road the SE version I am awaiting the CVO version hopefully soon.

[@mr.bonilla9416]

Matt, have you done a video like this for the 2018 Road King Special? If not, would you? I'm thinking about making this a purchase option. Thanks for a ll the great content you provide!

[@brianmaclennan5943]

Different colours...

[@siegfriedforster6652]

I really like your reviews. Tough decision between the regular Road king and this. I do like the look but not the lesser lighting and lack of windshield.

[@channelonewslowmovinman5620]

Good review - and yeah, I noticed those bare hands right away. Don't take unnecessary chances bro.

[@melkorsbane]

I dig that you fired it up on the showroom floor. :D

[@titovonerik6670]

Another great video . Thanks Matt . I'm up here in Vancouver Canada

[@ivanperez3955]

god willing in the next 5 years or so I will be a Harley owner

[@mychan3734]

Hey Matt, Chris the FedEx guy here I was wondering if you have any more of the road king special in the Charcoal gray? I'm looking to purchase one.And great review by the way...👍🏽👍🏽

[@bflows4729]

Just tight. Love the color. Interior​ black is great for this sporting riders.

[@jayhunter100]

Great video Matt. The Special just got released over here in Australia and I'm thinking of trading my '14 Fatbob. I think i'll go and take one for a ride. Thanks man.

[@virginiaragtopper]

didn't find the link to the new motor video you mentioned you would leave, Matt. That Road King Special looks bad to the bone! Harley has some great designer on staff, and these recent bike variations show the variety of appeal possible with the HD lineup. The sound was pretty throaty on my subwoofer listening to your review. Beefy but composed, powerful yet contained, .......

[@MattLaidlaw]

Paul DesRoches hmm I left it in a card. I don't know why it wouldn't show up. Check my channel and you'll find it.

[@lomate1963]

Dude riding without gloves hey I love your rebellious side 👍🏻great color and no chrome best looking so far

[@glenntracey4127]

Hi Matt are the 2020 models any different to this one you rode ? I have previously owned a 2010 standard Road King, 2018 Street Glide and a 2019 Heritage Classic, but do miss the Road King. I'm a big guy 6'3" and 200lbs + !! so really appreciate your comments and recommendations. I'm 61 now I don't want to tour anymore, just nice day rides "two up" so to be different that what I've previously owned the RK Special is ticking so many boxes for me. Great reviews, thanks for doing them. (I just hope the 2021 model release on Jan 19th still has the RK Special as they are hard to find new in Aus)

[@williamlandisiii3088]

Thanks for the video. I have been waiting for someone to put one out on this bike. I'm a minimalist and use that word a lot when talking about bikes so I laughed when you said it. I'm short and haven't been interested in a touring bike until this one. I love my XL1200C but it's not great for 2 up long trips. That Road King Special would look perfect next to it in my garage...hmmm...

[@bigrr64]

That is one beautiful machine. Very nice review well done.

[@drummerhero4652]

I raced a road King special against a stage two street glide (also with the Milwaukee 8). He pulled on me way harder! Can't wait to trade my G-SXR 600 for the Road King special although money might be tight.... the Stage upgrades might come a bit slow ;)

[@moultriet.3262]

Amazing review as usual. Sincerely appreciated

[@BFD15i]

Nice ride! I would trade in my LowRider S for the RKS in a heartbeat. Sadly, in Germany, all 2017 Road King Special were sold out after 13 days.. If I would order one now, I would get one at the end of the year..

[@harleysrule2176]

Thinking of trading up my old 09 RK for one of these... I'll just have to add the windshield mounts for LD riding. What a beautiful bike... I just wish they made it in 114.

[@anthonychighizola7142]

Matt loved the video I'm really in between the road king and a fat boy I commute an hour away what would you suggest Great job on all your videos I've learned so much

[@lakegeneva4851]

Matt, great review. Reserved a RKS in Hot rod red. We seem to have supply issues in Switzerland so cannot move it out of the dealership for a while yet. Coming from a 48, the RKS is as much fun and obviously way more comfortable. The handling is different to the standard RKS making the special feel indeed more nimble, probably due the wheel and suspension setup! Btw dig your jacket, do you sell these at your dealership?

[@waneable]

Can you install windshield to this model?

[@joelsheiman3384]

You do a great job I am up near sf but would consider buying my next harley from you. It is so great how you discuss bike fit and which bike is appropriate for the rider. Harley dealers could learn a lot from you.

[@dennism103]

RK has always been my favorite choice

[@FXDLSBrooklyn]

Another solid review, thanks as always Matt! When do you think these will be available to test ride or rent for the day??

[@sk8777kid1]

If the clutch feels stiff. No worries to any potential buyers, had my 1k mi service done, threw some synthetic in there and the clutch feels much easier to pull. Not sure if it was the oil or what but it felt much better. Food for thought

[@Lycan_24_7]

Thanks for the review. Looks like its more of a show king instead of a road king though.

[@M3231-s3v]

Matt, this is one fine looking motorcycle! I'm old school.. well, maybe just old.. In fact all the bikes I had before were all kickstarts, except for one that had electric start. All those older bikes only had one gas cap so forgive me for sounding stupid but can your gas gauge on this bike be removed like a cap to fill the tank? or do you only fill it from the right? thanks.

[@chargerfanken]

Matt, great video. Thanks. Is it correct that you can attach a windshield to this bike for extended touring?

[@byron8443]

Even though this is to much for me (beginner) i still cant wait to get my first harley. Great video as always matt

[@MattLaidlaw]

Trucker Bam thank you

[@brianmaclennan5943]

Bought 1 myself. '18 RKS. love it, great motor. An yes, rode a m8 street glide an RKS feels quicker. Thanks for the vids.

[@leemorley1072]

Good review Matt I prefer chrome so bought the normal road king 2017 model

[@BK-nj1xq]

Matt this and the 2018 are very popular yet I haven’t seen anyone over 5-8 happy with any windshield that looks good yet is practical. Have you seen one that fits the bill? Standard Road King windshield is fine but not much aftermarket with the blacked out look for the Special I’ve seen other than the HD Wind Splitter which is no good for those of average height or taller it seems.

[@garbinator09]

MATT, Really enjoyed the video, an to think I do not own nor have I ever owned a Harley. I really think this Harley has exceptional eye appeal. BTW, I own and drive a blacked out limited edition Jeep wrangler

[@Richarddeantonio]

Great review as usual Brother Laidlaw. I personally still prefer the classic lines and looks of the Road King (like your two-tone comparison model)_ and had I known then what I know now, I, as a 6'6" big man, would have purchased the 17 Road King over the 2016 Street Glide Special that I bought in October. Oh well, live and learn.Keep up the good work.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Richard DeAntonio, MSW take care. Enjoy the ride. You got a good bike.

[@Richarddeantonio]

I am gonna need to take a ride down there from Bakersfield, just so I can see the store and say hello. I do love my 2016 street glide in Cosmic Blue Pearl, After 30 years off of bikes, I am just so happy to be back on one, and this was my first Harley, and the realization of a life-long wish to own one. I must say, I have no idea what I was waiting for other than to raise two kids :) Can you possibly touch on engine and trans sounds on a Harley, and what is normal and abnormal? Sometimes I will hear a clank (usually at low speed) and don't want to overreact. Thanks again for all you do.

[@simongoddard8490]

Cool looking bike and as always a great, balanced review.

[@willywilliamson981]

Solid work Matt. I'm 6' and 275. I wrecked my 2009 Road King last summer and am looking to replace it. I'm digging the look of this Special and was wondering if the reduction in shock length and the lower profile tires have a super dramatic effect on the ride or was it just subtly more harsh? I don't ride with a passenger. Thanks!

[@charlesdavid5137]

Awesome bike Matt. It's like Badass Jewelry. BTW, one time I rode without gloves too, and low and behold, I still have my hands too. lol

[@MattLaidlaw]

Charles David You still have hands too - unbelievable.

[@ronl6746]

Another enjoyable video. As always.

[@edm3046]

I've got a serious crush on this bike ❤️️❤️️

[@troyfitzgerald7918]

thanks for that as that is what i am looking at for that bike as it stands out with the red over black as it complement both colours.

[@occyman]

Hey Matt nice video as usual.....can you add the clip on windscreen on this?

[@nolanring2067]

Such a good video!! Why is it not an S? With the 110? I have a 2012 street bob with a 96. My bike is getting some warranty service on it so I have a loaner fatboy S. like it but not a softtail guy. The 110 is dope compared to the 96. Kicking around ideas about selling mine and down paymenting on the road king special. Love the look but still never riding the 107 or a road king. I have ridden a street glide with a 103 in it i think it was a 2012. Like it but don't know if I'm ready for s fuller touring style bike. And wouldn't want to go from a Dyna to another dyna. I knows that's a lot to take in! Thanks for your thought buddy. You got another subscriber!

[@Amir-ie2yz]

Great video your videos are the best I'm definitely in the market for one of these!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Amir they are cool motorcycles. You'll like it.

[@Amir-ie2yz]

Matt Laidlaw thanks I ride a 1200 sportster right now and it is not comfortable for long trips I'm a bigger guy I definitely need something more bigger and comfortable

[@stevelongdon2930]

Brother love the videos!!! Have helped in my HD search. Have question. Like the jacket... Brand???

[@CharlieMallow]

Excellent job as always!

[@dondromano6099]

Thanks for sharing, super nice ride. Love it right out of the box!

[@m_m_m_beer8917]

Another great review Matt, thanks.

[@gallor1able]

Matt if I lived in your area I would definitely buy a Bike from you love all your vids. I live in NY State and just purchased a 2019 RKS in Black Denim your vids have definitely influenced my decision Regards from Orange County NY...

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thank you. Congrats on the bike. Enjoy the ride my friend.

[@mp9508]

Is there a more beautiful stock bike? I don’t think so Tim.

[@skymiller530]

Great rundown, as usual.

[@rickb515]

Nicely done comprehensive Video 😎

[@Dactylgodhand]

Hey Matt, what kind of camera do you use for your walk arounds? Always excellent quality, love your vids brother.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Dactylgodhand cannon G7X

[@justinparsons7566]

I'm a heavier guy 5'9 275 and I was looking at this or a Fatboy S. Both of your videos were great would you recommend this bike or the fatboy?