2017 Harley-Davidson Softail Deluxe (FLSTN)│Review & Test Ride

[@leonardoac2790]

I'm from Brazil and here you will not find anything that speaks as thoroughly about Harley-Davidson as your videos. They are excellent!!! Please do not stop. Congratulations!!!

[@Liveharley1]

I just wanted to take time to personally thank you for all the very professional in depth Harley Davidson reviews, thanks Matt.

[@MatthewPaul.]

Hands down the best Harley reviews out there! Great job Laidlaw Harley Davidson👍.

[@jeffkasper8540]

Thanks Matt. I own an '08 Deluxe and I'm 6'4". I had the same problem with height. I changed the rider's seat to one that allowed me to sit further back, moved the floorboards forward and out 1" and installed taller risers which really helped with the fit!

[@craig1272]

Great review! You saved me from making a huge mistake by citing the downsides of the 2017 Softail Deluxe as they relate to rider height and comfort! THANK YOU!

[@michaelgurgone2825]

Hello Matt, I just wanted to take time to personally thank you for all the very professional in depth Harley Davidson reviews and your very honest personal comments related to each model you test ride. In my opinion, The Harley Davidson motor company OWES YOU BIG TIME! In appreciation of your great videos, I plan to buy my next Harley from you...even though I live in the burbs of Chicago. I only have ridden shovel heads all my life and never ridden the new Harley's...Thanks so much for bringing me up to speed on all the Harley Davidson Models and features. Hope to chat with you at your dealership sometime. Thanks so much! Michael.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thank you for the comment! Thanks for watching and motivating me to continue making the videos.

[@nabiha37]

I all ready have an 06 Softail deluxe, 02 Fatboy and a Motto Guzzi California 1400. I must say, no one review a bike as good as you are. Really appreciate how sincere you are and how important all the details you present. Harley Davidson models are so confusing to me, but watching your reviews, definitely help lots. THANKS 🙏 I believe your dealership is the best and most successful in California if not in the USA.

[@mas3292]

Hi Matt, as always, great video! I just bought a 2017 Softail Deluxe last week in Crushed Ice and Frosted Teal Pearl. My dealer (Boston Harley Davidson) had it on the floor for almost two months (last one in that color) and finally, I just had to buy it before somebody else did! I'm having 12" Apes put on (I'm 6'1" tall) and some other chrome goodies as well. It will be ready for p/u this Friday night and I can't wait to get him home to meet his two brothers in my garage! (my 16 CVO Street Glide and my 17 Street Glide Special.) I view this bike as a collectable to keep in my family forever. Great job Matt! Your video's are the best out there. Thank you.

[@richiesak3939]

Hey Matt do you know the one problem I have with all these Harley-Davidsons that you show in every one of your videos? The problem is that I don't have 20 million dollars to buy every single one of them and put them in my garage LOL. I seriously think I love every offering Harley-Davidson has except the Fat Bob. Another well-done video... ride safe brother. Richie

[@DixieWhiskey]

Always loved the Deluxe; its such a clean, classy looking bike. Great review, Matt.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thanks for watching

[@sabbysabatino7856]

Thanks Matt! The Deluxe is definitely my favorite Softail...

[@TakManHarleyBoy]

By far the most informative Harley videos on Utube .

[@Jeff-nk5lv]

Great review Matt. Thanks for such a detailed video of this iconic motorcycle. Very enjoyable to watch. I want one!

[@anthonychighizola7142]

I meant to say Matt we love your videos we've learned so much watching you over these past year thank you for your hard work

[@fourhorns]

It's nice to see you in 3rd person. I'm 6'5" 285lbs so I fit the bikes like you. Just got a pre-owned 2013 Road King Classic. It's the perfect bike for me but I really enjoy your videos cause you are quite honest about the bikes and you tell us about the pros and cons of each model you review.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Great choice. I love the Roadking. At your size it should do you well.

[@2hotFL]

By far the best reviews on the net. Please keep them coming!

[@nabiha37]

Just noticed how many great comments you got, now I feel silly I left you a long one 😊 Amazing dedication to your business. Harley Davidson should give you the allocation on any rare bikes etc.

[@darkoflight4938]

Can´t believe I missed on commenting on this sweet review on this sweet bike, one of my favorites.!? Anyway.... Another great vid, this channel is THE definitive channel to watch with anything HD related! Keep em´coming sir! (As always)

[@lauraswan125]

Absolutely the best walk around by far....... thanks Matt

[@occyman]

Always appreciate the history of the motorcycles you present

[@breezy5010]

This is such a great review. I'm vertically challenged woman at 5'1 so it hasn't been easy for me to find a bike that I can fit and feel comfortable. Most bikes I can't sit flat footed. I wish it had a few more options but I'm thankful to have something I can ride. I can do my own mods. I was going to go with the 883xl prior but this is so much more amazing. Thanks!!

[@troyrucker2659]

Great Job!! It’s now 2020 and I just bought the 2017 model!

[@nino402]

Everything about this bike is perfect to me, it feels like something is missing on the 2018 deluxe.

[@walterjohnson2031]

Bought a 2016 new Deluxe and five years later I am still completely satisfied in all respects. Been trouble free and I think 100 thousand miles plus will not be a problem. I am 5’ 11” and 185 pounds and the bike fits me perfectly. I have been riding since 1956 and this is my favorite Harley. At 75 years old and thirty bikes

[@danielbianchi3479]

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[@Motorcyclewindtherapy]

love the new angles! I'm 6'4" and needed 16's on my Heritage and 14"s on my Ultra Limited right away to be comfy. Hands still well below shoulders with those size bars...but no more shoulder pain. It's not all gravy being tall, but I'm happy to make the changes to my bikes.

[@whiskeythrottleracing]

Yet ANOTHER gorgeous H-D. Well done AGAIN Mr. Laidlaw!

[@MattLaidlaw]

John Moffett Thank you.

[@charlesdickens8599]

Fantastic review Matt... as always. That little short man's bike is absolutely beautiful. I just wish they would create a Road King version that has the same great styling. My 09 King is great, but if HD would create a King with this styling and the M8 engine... I would upgrade without any hesitation.

[@pedroc6823]

HD is growing on me, thanks again for a great video.

[@emidyl24]

Always such detailed and no-biased reviews. Matt you are the best, if I lived in CA I'd definitely be a customer. And yes, every bike Matt gets on looks small LOL. Keep up the great work! cheers

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thank you !

[@cjsmith]

My 2017 Softail Deluxe fits me like a glove 🥊. Nice Review! I got Samson 39" Cholos, and air ride soon.

[@claytonkeates2614]

I've been looking at these and definitely wondering about the ergonomics. I'm a taller guy and this really helps. Great video. Beautiful bike

[@thomasangelo4219]

great video Matt learned a lot about the different Harley Davidson lineup by watching the videos

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thanks for watching. I'm glad I could help

[@rsbharley4766]

Best Harley reviews out there, keep up the great work Matt

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thanks!

[@roblord7610]

Interestingly, on the HD website, the 2017 Softail Deluxe is shown with the stepped up Fatboy exhaust system in the 360 paint and wheels section, otherwise is shown with regular Deluxe system in main photo. (Aust / NZ website)

[@MotoChili]

Hi Matt, really appreciate your reviews. I rode my Street 750 about 200 mi. yesterday (100 mi. there and then back at the end of the day) for a road trip, and at 6'2" my legs became really cramped and fatigued on the highway both ways even with the tall boy seat. Is there a decent Harley I could consider in the future for commuting around town and little road trips? I was looking at the Soft Tail Slim on HD website, and don't really want to spend anymore than that.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Eric R get a Dyna with forward controls. Like a Fatbob. Or get a low rider or a streetbob and put forward controls on it. I would recommend the low rider

[@dansmusic5749]

I think the new ('18,'19) Deluxe is beautiful. One of HD's best looking bikes. I like the tasteful changes in styling to reflect what the bikes are in fact. Authenticity is an important HD virtue.

[@LordHereck]

Thanks for the review!! Question: I'm torn between the breakout and this softail deluxe... I am 6'2 and am curious which one would be a better fit without altering the bike

[@MattLaidlaw]

At your height I would take the Breakout

[@jesusirazabal4034]

Excellent review Matt, thanks for taking the time...let me ask you one thing: Have you considered doing accessories reviews? Like saddles, lights, etc HD has so many that sometimes is difficult to choose from...and yes I know at the end it comes down to personal style, but a tech opinion helps...thanks again

[@andylace709]

Excellent honest review as usual, well done Matt.

[@danielbianchi3479]

Beautiful Bike, I’m thinki

[@eduardochafloque7063]

Great video, I recently purchased a 2017 Love my bike.

[@dominikr139]

Hey Matt - I am exactly your height and probably weight as well - but love softail deluxe so much.. do you think there is a chance with froward controls and ape handlings to fit guys like us more comfortably?

[@franciscofagundez1906]

Very detailed review. good work. I like the retro look but im 5' 7 and i want a HD for commuting on rush hour to and from work but some of my route is on the highway, like 10 miles, would you recomend it or is it better a sporter

[@94Zero]

Another thoughtful, honest video. Thank you!

[@e.simons6964]

That's also my issue Matt! I too am a tall guy (plus wider than U) I must get "extra" costs added to any new Harley to actually fit me!

[@dansmusic5749]

I would also like to say that it will be interesting to see if HD can continue to keep the past well in focus as they make the bikes faster and more convenient to use. A fine balancing act that I believe will be the key to their future success. I think the young buyer still delights in the vintage essence of HD. The more they can take this combo forward (retaining the gold standard 70s and earlier look, finish and feel while being COMPLETELY modern) the more successful they will be.

[@phillipmorgan6822]

I really fancy one of these but am a bit concerned about the lean angle issue. I imagine my low weight at 140 pounds may be an advantage over a larger rider.

[@anthonychighizola7142]

Pat what would you suggest or begin a bike is me and my wife over 50 we're getting ready to take the class but we're very discussed with the dealership closest to us we are treated very rudely

[@fililoboesparza5784]

Great video Matt. Question if I installed air suspension on my softail Slim will that improve my ride and handle better with me and my wife Weight?

[@MattLaidlaw]

Fili LOBO Esparza Not really. Air ride ruins handling. It makes the rear-end loose around corners. If you fill the air bladder fully and you're going in a straight line then the ride will be better. I never recommend air ride for practical purposes. It good for shows and slamming the rear end down

[@fililoboesparza5784]

Matt Laidlaw Ok Matt Thanks was thinking of doing that in the future but never mind now. So the stock shock is the best? Or is there a better shock you recommend?

[@robertavellinoamericanpatr6287]

Great Videos Matt. Can you review something with a springer front end if there is one.

[@MattLaidlaw]

I'm hoping Harley comes out with another bike with a springer front end. Currently there is no springers in production.

[@riteshpatil3420]

Review the new 2018 Softail deluxe please.... Everyone seems to shadow the new update to the bike .. not seen any proper review on it!

[@faithbiker8262]

I never gave that bike much thought. I compare all bikes to my Fat Bob. Just love my Fat Bob. Great review and nice bike. Best to you.

[@Frankie_Fish]

My Harley is the '96 special in green/silver. And i love it!

[@fluffykittynoodles]

could you do a video talking about reliability issues with the Harley brand? I keep hearing bad things about twin cams and quality control issues in general. Thanks Matt.

[@MattLaidlaw]

This might help kzbin.info/www/bejne/m5qwd6WBlLOnpMU

[@pecsxj1]

Been waiting for this review!

[@Krypto-Martino]

One of the best Comands and best Video. Thank You so much

[@Teachering]

A fine review. I've had my eye on this bike forever, it seems. Perhaps it's time to make a move.

[@geraldgoodiii6993]

I fuckin love the deluxe. I love how it comes with beach bars .. it just works so well. I ride a 2019 FLHR and had to stop by HD to get the stuff for a 3 hole and they had a 2017 deluxe. I sat on it and holy crap it felt soooo tiny. I’m not a big dude (180 5’9”) and it felt like a mini bike. Guess I got used to riding a cruise ship. I’d love to have one of these for “bar hopping” but I don’t drink so I’d use for shorter rides. My legs were damn near bent as if I was sitting on a chair.. damn the seat is looo.. lower than the 2010 FB Lo I had prior to the RK. If I can only have one ride the RK is perfect as an all arounder but if I ever can I want one of these so bad. No M8 .. I want 103B twin cam. The 2019 RK has the 107 M8 but it lacks the charm that I love about HD power plants

[@bostontricolore6958]

Great Informative Videos Thank you Matt

[@0616ko]

Another great video, thanks. Love this bike!

[@steelknight1]

Impressive video. By the way, how are the night Rod special engines lasting?

[@MattLaidlaw]

The VRod engines never have any problems it seems.

[@OscarOsR]

Can you please do a 3rd party view on the iron 833 and 42 please . I know you done reviews on those bike but just a quick video on your riding them to see how you look on them. I'm 6'1 so I would like to have a idea

[@MattLaidlaw]

Maybe next year when I review those models I'll try to incorporate that

[@antonrazzouk6767]

I’m a 6”1 as well, I’ve ridden an iron 883 and I can tell ya that it’s a small bike for us tall dudes. Unless you equip it with apes or t-bars plus forward controls, you ain’t gonna be comfortable on it.. go for a dyna if you’re looking for that style..

[@batyoda448]

can you please review the freewheeler or the 1200 custom please?

[@MattLaidlaw]

Yea, Ill try to get to both

[@batyoda448]

Matt Laidlaw ok thank you

[@onlyhereonce7290]

Another top shelf video Matt. Good job. !😎

[@russellnelson5768]

Could you test ride the 2017 Harley Davidson Grom?

[@MattLaidlaw]

Haha. I'm not entirely sure which bike that would be. Maybe a Street 500?

[@joedangelo5640]

As always, excellent review!

[@joelserna7435]

Thank you for all the info!! Just got my first one!! 2005!! Love it !! Thanks im subscribing !!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thanks for watching! Congrats on the bike. Enjoy it👍🏻

[@davidestanisci3324]

nice video as always, yesterday I found a copied video from your channel and it was about a Harley cvo or breakout (sorry I can't remember) showing all three colors, but now I went back to that video and I couldn't find it, did you by chance report it?

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thank you for the Heads-up. No I didn't see that video. I appreciate you letting me know though. I'll be looking out.

[@davidestanisci3324]

Matt Laidlaw if I find it, I'll put the link in a comment

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thank you.

[@davidestanisci3324]

Matt Laidlaw so I searched for it and I didn't find it, it wasn't even in my viewed videos history, I think it was taken down, but just in case the thumbnail was of your intro.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Good to know

[@bikercasper6130]

Can the Heritage mini ape be mount with the Deluxe cables? Also does Harley sell the rear tail bagger kit to mount RK soft bags if not who does?

[@thomasmears2603]

Hey Matt love your vids man! I'll be getting my Harley when my wife and I get our taxes next year, wanting either the street bob or softail slim. I'd love to see you review the softail slim, there is a ton of reviews on the S I'd like to see the one with the 103 with your great video quality.

[@MattLaidlaw]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/jZabo39ppbZ0orM Thanks for the good word.

[@sangcod]

Awesome bike. Great review Matt👍👍

[@DarthVader-1701]

I did a quick search on the original Softail Nostalgia and the numbers said 2700. I see what they mean by Moo Glide, it has a brown and white cowhide look on the seat.

[@troncoparati]

Hello Matt. Great video. What would be a nine (9) on that list? I think that’s a great idea for a video. Top ten list of HD models based on your opinion and maybe by sales. You can get a friend to tag along with a camera to follow you to get that 3rd person POV. Ride safe!

[@MattLaidlaw]

I need to do more of that. Thanks for the feedback

[@AdigaAs21]

Love your videos keep doing what you doing !. Are the differences between Softail Deluxe and Heritage Softail Classic only cosmetic differences ?

[@robertpolkamp]

Still inner tubes in the spoked wheel? Tough to fix a puncture roadside without a centerstand. ..

[@thomassprouse1402]

I know the V-Rod was discontinued but could you do a ride review of one? Would like to hear your thoughts on it. Looking at buying one or the Breakout

[@MattLaidlaw]

Yea I'll try to do a V-Rod Review

[@thomassprouse1402]

cool ill keep an eye out, great detailed reviews.

[@thomassprouse1402]

about to get my first Harley, riding a Ducati Streetfighter now, i like the VRod for its cool look and speed and the Streetbob for its customization and traditional looks. Both are really different i know but Im gonna try and get in to my local dealer and check both out .

[@bobbypouget6028]

The VRod is a great bike. I owned the first year model, and l loved it. Perfect bike for a person 5’10- 6.0 ft. Even two up was decent

[@bobbypouget6028]

It was smooth, and fast, and not huge and bulky. I had a group of people stare at it , everywhere l stopped in town, for about 6 months . I don’t know why it is not a very popular bike . Mine ran perfect. Loved it….. want to get another one!

[@patrickfrancis4223]

Hi Matt, I think your reviews are awesome. Detailed, and ride alongs. I’m only 5’8, do you think you can show a smaller rider for example in your reviews? Someone close to my height would be a little more helpful. Thanks, keep em coming!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Yes. I’ve started to use my co-workers more. I have a 2018 Deluxe video coming out soon.

[@BusterKitten]

I noticed a zerk fitting on the right side of the neck. Is this new for this year? Do the other '17 models come with that? I've been putting zerk fittings on the necks of my bikes for years, keeps the steering stem bearings from drying out/rusting, and we know how much of a pain it is to replace those.

[@drewsivao9926]

What bike would you recommend for a person who is 6 foot, 270lbs?

[@michaelharrison4068]

I get it u sell them and ride them my question to you sir is this can you repair them in the shop ?

[@MattLaidlaw]

Small stuff yea, but I have never earned my living as a technician. So generally speaking NO, not really.

[@ronscott7546]

Dude is it possible that I contact you at the dealer if you say your to busy I understand and awesome review not a heritage but it will do thanks

[@MattLaidlaw]

E-mail me man. [e-mail]

[@HarleyBreakoutGuy]

I love this bike i love the heritage classic softail :) if only i had more money and if only it came with Milwaukee 8 and higher foot controls so that i could have better lean angle.

[@grahamtricker4103]

Just ridden a 2017 TC Deluxe against a 2018 M8 Heritage and much preferred the 2017 model. Didn't like the M8 engine at all. Not much character and has an awful wine when running, so I wouldn't dismiss the older TC engine.

[@Tr1ls]

I'm thinking between a iron 883 and the roadster 1200, your vid on the 883 is the best review i seen on youtube. You plan on reviewing the roadster 1200? :)

[@MattLaidlaw]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/eKrZYZZ8opJ-oLc The 2016 and 2017 are the exact same bike

[@Tr1ls]

ah cool, had no idea. Was in the Harley shop yesterday and sat on both of them, both are nice looking bikes. Still not sure which one to go for as my first bike, I guess i'll have to test ride them both. Thx for the reply! :)

[@hansenic]

I know this video is a little older but I'm in the search for another bike. What would you recommend as a good dual purpose bike. I'm looking for handling and cruisability. Maybe a little more on the performance side haha. I'm 6' 2" and 200lbs.

[@MattLaidlaw]

I would get a 2018 Heritage or Sportglide if I were you.

[@hansenic]

Matt Laidlaw thanks for the advice!!

[@michaelharrison4068]

I am in tx can they ship it to me ?

[@fabioalibrandi]

hello, sorry can I ask you if this motorcycle is suitable for traveling, especially for the passenger behind, traveling comfortably? thank you

[@bobbypouget6028]

No it is not!!! Terrible without 2 person seat and back rest

[@jwrappuhn71]

It's an incredibly beautiful bike.

[@edborchert7912]

Great review. Thanks.

[@michaelharrison4068]

thanks Matt 4 the info

[@TrashPanda5150]

Well you're kind of an extreme case with your height. Most men buying these bikes are going to be more my height, 6' 2" and a bit shorter. Guys your height would need a fairly custom bike to be a perfect fit. Love all the details you put in these vids, you're very professional! Thanks!

[@MattLaidlaw]

msmith5150 Agreed. I'm definitely the exception.

[@TrashPanda5150]

You rock man! You probably could have easily talked me into a bigger bike than the Street 750 I got recently :D

[@michaelharrison4068]

just asking thanks 4 your good videos appreciate u Mr Matt

[@geraldgoodiii6993]

Dammit that 103 twin cam with stock pipes sounds better than my 107 M8 with cobra slip ons

[@michaelharrison4068]

10 % down on new harley s correct ?

[@MattLaidlaw]

Depends on your credit and current promotions.

[@Hatch1182]

Thanks for your videos

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thanks for watching

[@lizdc1]

I am that special customer for the mystic hard candy flake purple ;-) Had a deluxe for 5 years ( and a sporster before) in black traded it in for a street glide special in mystic purple. I had always wanted a purple glitter bike ( not joking) and wanted to move to a touring bike. I would say lots of other women I know LOVE the color. My dealer had to trade a bike for mine and go pick it up. You can see how it looks in my profile. THe color looks much better in person than on harleys site.

[@MattLaidlaw]

I always can appreciate someone who steps out and gets the unique colors. Good for you.

[@TJ-Dives]

OMG! THAT'S BEAUTIFUL. I WANT IT.

[@christopherberry8477]

if they offered dual front disk brakes w/ abs this would be my dream bike!

[@cvang234]

Matt, the passenger pegs. Not sure if anyone mentioned this because I didn't scroll down to view all comments. But is there a good chance the passenger would potentionally burn their right foot? Just observing your video.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Not really, unless you're wearing sandals.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Its a heel-toe shifter. Press down with the heel to shift up.

[@nabiha37]

Another thought, Harley Davidson should hire you as a consultant on product development.

[@leepolson5921]

very cool I have one a 2016 love it!~!!

[@craigpennington1251]

Ouch! That price tag bit the crap out of me. Here's an idea, paint them in primer gray and we'll paint them our selves. If they can't paint what we want then primer is the way to go. How much is the bike with a stage 3 engine kit installed and tuned? These bikes aren't known for their scat. Plus you put a guy and his ole lady=500lbs. Talk about your lead sleds.

[@robertsilva5041]

I want this in that purple color... that just sold it for me... lol