2018 Fatboy Harley-Davidson Review vs 2016 Fatboy & 2016 Fatboy Lo

A comparative look at the new 2018 Fatboy against the 2016 Fat boy. Matt Laidlaw and his crew take out 3 Fatboys to test Ride them all and give their insights into how they compare to one another. The new 2018 Softails have had some major changes this year including the totally redesigned Frame and the introduction of the Milwaukee-Eight engine in them.
www.laidlawshar...
Support my Channel: / mattlaidlaw
Learn How to Ride a Motorcycle: www.udemy.com/...
My Helmet: amzn.to/2CwIn3W
My helmet Shield: amzn.to/2CpzxHf
My Helmet Cam: amzn.to/2CvNils
The Helmet Cam I want: amzn.to/2C0QjJv
My hand-held Camera: amzn.to/2DEVi2U
My Drone: amzn.to/2DGVq1W
My Recorder: amzn.to/2DFv8wT
My Cell Phone Mount: amzn.to/2CwvVRB
Cell Phone Case: amzn.to/2Etxksv
My Bike: www.laidlawsha...
Music from Epidemic Sound (www.epidemicsou...)

[@FLHTPGlide]

I love the more modern looks and the great 114 motor of the 2018 Fatboy. Thats why I bought the anniversary edition and that look is even better. On the street I feel good handling and a very powerful engine. It is lots of fun to ride this bike over here in Germany!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Roadster FB awesome man. Yea that bike is dope. Your got the anniversary. Very nice!

[@roadglideusmc]

Another great video. I'm still impressed with your and the other guys honesty that's why my next purchase will be from Laidlaw HD. Keep em coming bro..

[@MattLaidlaw]

Mark Elgin thanks brother.

[@FXDLS-ot1wq]

I like that David is super blunt about his opinion. Not tryin to sell anything; just speaking his mind.

[@breakoutpete210]

Nothing represents American muscle better than the new 2018 fat boy, what a beast!!! Luv the comparison videos! Keep them coming!👍🇨🇦😎

[@MattLaidlaw]

Peter Kotsovos thanks man. Appreciate you watching.

[@loudubbs22]

Yes!!!! It actually looks like Arnold brought it back from the future

[@2hotFL]

Great video. I like the 2018 but when you sit it beside the 2016 standard Fatboy, I'll take the 2016.

[@rayf7071]

2hotFL yeah i,m with you man 2016 set of apes, nice sounding pipes, chrome here an there, old school shake,rattle,rock,an roll,genuine identity cruiser .👍☺

[@ridewherever]

Yea agree. The 2016 stock wins in looks. Love that bike overall.

[@tonydman9930]

Another great review Matt. Great format. Soon planning on coming to the US to do the Sturgis or Daytonas. Will try to pop in to say hi👋 when it eventuates. Cheers from Australia again

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thank you. Yea, stop by and say hi.

[@tskuligowski]

Would of loved to see an S model in there for comparison! I like the twin cam vs. Milwaukee 8 comparisons. Its good to see different perspectives.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Tony Kuligowski yea. I really wish I would have had a Fatboy S

[@octanefreeride]

Slim, Slim S and 103 Slim please!

[@baham9217]

Thank you for the comparison review. Seeing the difference from '16 to '18, and the improvements helps a lot. Glad to hear the larger front tire AIDS in turning control, too.

[@seumasmacalastair3463]

Love everything about the new Fatboy personally, the only change I'd make though is put the fuel gauge back on the left. Otherwise I'm a fan of the new dash

[@albertosbrolla8424]

I like the 2018 style fat boy, I need more space in my garage! Thanks for the comparative review!👍

[@camomanofcranham]

The way I see it, the FB name 100% comes from the two bombs but in modern time I can understand that HD don't want to publicise the fact. for me I have a 14 FB and love it. its every thing I need from a bike...you explained it very well great video Matt...

[@saddle8bag]

Love the spokes on the old one. Really wish they'd have made new one with a set of those in standard sizes. Other than that and the drab gray color, the new one all day every day. Your partner said you can do that with the 18's. Gotta distributor for '18 FB aftermarket spoke wheels? HD P&L doesn't have anything if I was looking in the right place.

[@mrmojo55]

Can you please do a review and test ride of the new 2018 Sportster Iron 1200? Thank you.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Yes, it's coming soon. As soon as H-D actually ships me one. Should be out in the next week

[@danthechippie4439]

Great video, did Arnold and you do that video??

[@deni77]

does the "fat boy low" really has a lower suspension/chassi, being closer to the ground than older models or is this just due to seating pads ??

[@000-w4v]

Group rides, dope.

[@foundryx6697]

Can't wait to see the video with Arnold!!

[@MattLaidlaw]

That was the video with Arnold. It was kinda a joke.

[@dinkydotzero]

I wish we had dealers like this in Ohio, our local shop is a mess lol Thanks for the great reviews

[@darkoflight4938]

Beautiful bikes and great footage! There is just two bikes in the new line up that I´m a bit hesitant to like. The new Breakout and this fat one. I guess it is the smaller tank on the Breakout and the nacelle on the Fat Boy, but that latter one is starting to grow on me. Specially if one could imagine a couple of passing lights in the same style of that nacelle there. One more thing that seems to grow is your awesome CVO beard! Way to go Matt!!! Keep em coming sir!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thank you sir. I always appreciate the comments! I'm working on the beard!

[@richardherron7670]

Nice video.i have a 2016 Fatboy withe 103 high output. I tremendously love it.. My friend bought the T2 Fatboy in 1991 new.I rode it and fell in love. To say the least I was hooked.Thank you Matt I loved the comparison. Best wishes and ride safe

[@saul_bloom]

Hey Matt, is it possible to remove the front headlight/forks shells. Miss the clean Fatboy look upfront. They made it look too modern with these covers. Thx

[@Peter-wc4kr]

The rear fender on the earlier model is what makes the Fatboy.

[@timmurphy2825]

OH MAN!!!! That is going to be AWESOME to have Arnold Schwarzenegger teaming up with you to show off his 1990 FAT BOY!!!!! CAN'T WAIT. BIG FAN, BIG FAN!!

[@cybertroy2]

dont the riders get tired arms when they ride bikes with high handlebars?

[@spirobellas2031]

Hey Matt. Another great review; thank you so much. I have a 2017 Fat boy S. How does the new 2018 compare in ride and power. ?

[@MattLaidlaw]

I wish I was able to Include the Fatboy S in the video but I didn't have one in stock. The 110 and the 114 are pretty close in overall speed and power. The New frame on the 2018 is A LOT better however. Better lean angle, handling, and suspension. The rider comfort is significantly better which is more pronounced out on the freeway. However guys like David might argue that the Twin Cam 110 is a more "Harley" feel that is preferred by some. Still a great bike man. Enjoy it.

[@NaveMafe]

HI Matt. Cool video and great info.Tried 2018 fat boy up here last fall.liked the bike as far as handling and power no comparison. But not to impressed with the looks and sound of the bike.Maybe Harley could change that at factory rather than having customers spend more on that.Just saying.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Unfortunately there are laws that prevent the exhaust being any louder than it is already from the factory. If HD could make it louder then they probably would.

[@barguerpi5966]

Great bikes, great vid. But why the yamaha mirrors on that black beauty?

[@danthechippie4439]

Hi, I am looking to purchase my first brand new bike and I was looking really hard at the 2020 gold wing DCT as in aproching 50 years old. But I gotta say after seeing this video I am thorn. I have always loved the look of the fatboy and the 2018 plus version looks incredible. My issue is that as I live in Europe I'd be concerned how all that chrome would hold up in our weather. The wheels to. Any advice???

[@MONGOBEAR87]

What size are the the laced wheels on the black '16 fatboy?

[@spideliciousx9822]

Another great laid back, honest review guys 👍 enjoyed the vid.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thank you

[@roostfezza7563]

Thank you guys for such a comprehensive report. I have a 16 fatboy S, and I am having a lot of trouble with its handling and clearance. I have adjusted the preload, and higher tyre pressures help as well. However, I think I have really found the bike's limitations. While I can buy other rear shock, i believe its only going to be a marginal improvement. I 'm thinking of trading to a bike i really like the look of, the road king special. Now heres my question. The touring chassis has much better clearance (my buddy's 18 ultra has much better clearance than my softail), but is the road king special lower than a normal road king? If so can i make it higher to match a standard RK? Thanks matt, regards Peter

[@MattLaidlaw]

Yes the road king special has the lowered rear shocks. This does reduce the lean angle a bit. Yes, you can swap the stock shocks out for the standard height shocks to raise it up.

[@roostfezza7563]

@@MattLaidlaw excellent that could be the go, thanks for your reply Matt..

[@Aprojeep]

So is Arnold going to do this video with you?

[@MattLaidlaw]

It was kinda a joke. I had some shots in there of him.

[@Aprojeep]

@@MattLaidlaw Ha ha....you got me. Maybe one day it will come to fruition. BTW: I love my 2018 Fat Boy 114.

[@TheRicokilla]

People are complaining that the newer fatboys are soul less. The previous 103s are more thrilling to ride. Are they wrong? Any owners?

[@su1c1demess1ah7]

That intro music tho!!!

[@dimitrijedimitrijevic2464]

That dark bike is absolute bonner starter.

[@MattLaidlaw]

lol

[@61espo]

Is it me or are the drive belts getting thinner?

[@MattLaidlaw]

Good question. I’m not sure if the belts have gotten narrower

[@61espo]

Matt Laidlaw yes I just checked my 2006 and a 95.. belts definitely getting narrower since 06... I guess It's cheaper to make it smaller if it's strong enough to do the same job...Great work on the bike reviews!

[@61espo]

douglas strand Not compared to my 95 & 2006 Softail's ... if Harley can save a of couple bucks on each belt by making it smaller but keeping the same integrity of the belt, that's a lot of $ saved... the biggest belt is on my 95 FLSTN

[@Alexgvigo]

I need to get work done in my bike , any email address at Laidlaw’s I can use? Thanks

[@MattLaidlaw]

Yea you can submit an inquiry on our website or you can email one of our service writers. [e-mail]

[@Alexgvigo]

“ come with me if you want to live “!

[@dustinfields2055]

H-D should have left the headlight design alone. Other than that, I like the 2018’s. Oh, and the rear fender on the 18’s aren’t my favorite, but it does match the extra fat back tire, so...I get it.

[@jasonhodge696]

Great Job:))) Your turning into Teen Wolf:)

[@MattLaidlaw]

Haha yea.

[@BobsGT235]

Yes, he needs to lose the facial hair overgrowth.

[@ntdfmaverick]

The new Fatboy headlight nacelle reminds me of the late '60s Sportster headlight. Here are some links I found: www.jimbronson.com/peter/peterg4a.jpg silodrome.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Harley-Davidson-Custom-3.jpg cdn1.mecum.com/auctions/pm0714/pm0714-191602/images/pm0714-191602_5.jpg?1406403448000 You might be able to put on a 2018 Softail Slim headlight, if you prefer the traditional Fatboy headlight. Maybe Harley will offer a choice on future models. I'm torn; I like both. Thanks for this, and all your awesome videos.

[@DavidAdiv]

Great video, I love my fat boy

[@jansgaard7515]

Viewable clamps on exhaust on the 2018 fatboy, that's not nice ....

[@MattLaidlaw]

Hmm, I'll have to look closer at that .

[@Crashtian]

I wish i could give a thumbs up for arnold, but he rides a cough.. indian nowadays.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Crashtian oh man. Blasphemy!

[@1Kenpoman]

Really liking your new format comparing new models with older models of the same! Keep up the good work and we will keep watching!

[@1Kenpoman]

Before I forget my Wife has a 2016 Slim S she wanted me to ask when your going to do a comparison video on the Slim.

[@MattLaidlaw]

I don’t know exactly when I’ll be doing that video. I’d like to sometime in the near future. I do have a Slim S available

[@marwandahabi314]

My friend Can you make compare between fatboy 2018and breakout 2018 I want to buy one of them

[@scootjockey]

If Trump puts tax on European good,s ,we will be fucked for buying HD,s because the EU will do the same on USA brands .That of course being for myself will be a big problem 25% is not a small amount . Great video .

[@FranBunnyFFXII]

Nice! can't believe I missed this video. When the 2018's Headlamp came out, I hated it. But after really looking over the bike, and the style, I grew to love that headlamp. I'm totally sold on the 2018. Just gotta get the money.

[@bavarikus4103]

Hi Matt, informative and well edited video. Funny with Arnold. I'm oute, I've never been a Fat Boy fan. Maybe it's because of my size (6 "3), optically makes the 2018 really something, I like the rims, even the lamp is more modern. I'm not going to become a fan - a lot of Fat Boy drive around in Germany, she enjoys a big fanbase here .. Enjoy your weather, like snow in Bavaria announced for the weekend, best regards, Alex.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thanks Alex, Yea, I like the Fatboy, I like the new look HD gave it. I have to stick to my Street Glide though :)

[@bavarikus4103]

Matt Laidlaw i agree with you Matt, good decision ;-)

[@rosati14]

Thank you Matt, such a great vid, I live in France now and I’m missing the Californian sun and dealerships like yours. It’s a great comparison that helped a friend of mine to make a choice between a FB low and a 2014 standard one, he digs the 2018, always asking for riding mine, but he can’t afford it.

[@WhiskyJackR]

Great review Matt. It would be epic if Arny decides to take a spin out with you guys. Perhaps he's up for a new 2018 Fatboy.

[@StanfordC95120]

I love the look of the new Fat Boy, including the wheels. It is stout!

[@anthonychighizola7142]

Great video I loved it I'm a beginner writer I live in New Orleans I'll checked out all your videos they're great keep it up I've learned so much from watching your videos

[@johnhall4445]

Who did that jump in the Terminator film? Thanks for another excellent review!

[@insideout2600]

OK so repeating the what ? No dyna ?! .. That fat boy .. Phoowee ! That does look good .

[@brycemurray2505]

I wonder how people feel about the lights once it's dark and which one they'd prefer

[@JuanMartinez-ny1vf]

I like the 2017 fat boy S. ❤👍 nice video

[@PowerYacht]

Since you tested the 114 a perfect comparison would have been the Fat Boy S (Scremin Eagle) 110ci version. The new one is good looking (still prefer the old personally) but looks do grow. I think Harley over did it with the tire sizes, and in the curves and twists everyone is saying it is not that great. The muscle bike with fat rear 240 tire has always been the Breakout, and now with the new chassis that handles like a dream, much better then the previous version. It will still sell cause the Fat Boy is cult model for Harley, but those tire sizes make it just a good bike, to what could have been a great bike with the old 200 - and 140 combination.

[@joedangelo5640]

Thank you! This video is my all time favorite by you, Matt!!!!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Joe Dangelo thanks man. I appreciate that.

[@Panzerlang]

I'm 6' 5" and on my 2006 all I did was roll the bars forward a bit to give my knees clearance. I guess the same could be done on the 2016.

[@dieterf8304]

I watch your videos quite regularly - really brilliant information throughout. Have a Sportster xl1200 and just couldn’t resist now to buy a FLSTF 2012… couldn’t agree more with you…what an amazing bike indeed! Keep up your great reviews - this goes a long way - also internationally!

[@KB15458]

Hey Matt, I got three questions for you. I'm getting my first Harley in a couple years, and I'm looking at a FatBoy, FatBob, or LowRider S. Of them, which do you think is best? Also, I've heard talk on KZbin about M8 problems, and something about transmission leaking into primary or something like that. Would you please address this because you are the only one I trust when it comes to all things Harley. Thank you

[@rochdaigle9733]

nice work, like always Matt.. your vids trigger some interesting questions for us "normal" people who don't have access to all the inside info u do as a dealer... here is a few I think you people might agree with.... does the Harley parts catalogue have a "different wheel " option for the fatty , other than th stock... if not , is there a aftermarket company you know of that does make 1for it by now ? can the seat be changed or does the "mono shock" interfere with seat options? for states and countries that "outlaw" the side liscence plate deal.. is there a option to convert that to a legal full rear fender plate holder and lighting?... thanks man... always good info

[@rodneylisabutler6966]

just to let you know, I watch a lot of motorcycle video"s when I"m not working or riding, just got back from Hell"s canyon rally in baker city oregon, not to many ca plates but any way you do make a great video good job!!!!

[@rsbharley4766]

Thanks Matt for the honest open review with David and Andrew, comparing the old and the new has helped me out as I am looking at 110S or 114 M8 Keep up the great work. Cheers

[@davidson2004fatboy]

I LOVE MY 2004 FATTY, Matt ! 95" KIT, WOODS CAM, 97 HP 110 TQ ! A REAL TRAIN PULLER

[@Chris_L034]

awesome video, i'd like to see the 2018 with the street slammer bars.

[@MattLaidlaw]

If we ever do one with those bars I'll be sure to post it here on KZbin.

[@Chris_L034]

i appretiate it.

[@pmjn0943]

Hi Matt, I've seen them in Germany, they'll be slow to come because I guess there very expensive.

[@ChaohsiangChen]

How cool that would be if Mr. Schwazeneger shows up and ride.

[@srilanka96]

Awesome review. I like the comparison videos.

[@hognroundoz4033]

Hey Matt love your reviews they are very in-depth I really find the 2018 Fatboy is heavy in the front end and when you go into a corner you really have to push the bars to get it to turn. With my current Fatboy you don't have to work so hard going into corners, is it that I'm just not used to the 2018?

[@MattLaidlaw]

No, that’s just how the Fatboy is. You need to either slow down or muscle it more to put it through turns. That’s due to the large size of the tires. They look cool but don’t handle well.

[@hwallace3271]

Just want to echo everyone else's response, Matt. Great review and liking the format. Not a fan of the Softail lineup (new or old, but especially the new), but this is a really cool, open, honest, no BS review of the the bikes. Very well done!

[@MattLaidlaw]

H Wallace thank you sir.

[@fabiors10]

I love your videos man. Just waiting to see the "new" Iron 1200. I have a feeling that this year we´ll see a really new touring frame and next year some new Sporties. Sporties are such nice bikes but I found out mine was pretty stiff, I tried 3 sets of shocks and put some mustang seat on her, it just got marginally better. A new frame, lighter, swifter with a monoshock would be so awesome!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Yea, the Sportster can be enhnced quite a bit with suspension and seat but if you're really looking for comfort you need to go to a Softail or Touring chassis.

[@fabiors10]

Sure thing, went on a ride on a Fatboy and went crazy, ended up buying a Blackline which I think rides a little better ahaha

[@michaellomazzo7776]

Matt is the2016 fat boy for sale that is a great looking bike

[@MattLaidlaw]

Yes it is.

[@lexluger8907]

Where is Arnold? Waited whole video...

[@MattLaidlaw]

It was kinda a joke. Hopefully people picked that up. He was in there as cuts from the terminator 2 movie.

[@edwardleniston1076]

Love these comparison reviews.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Cool, glad you enjoyed it

[@collincratty8777]

Man, the 2018 is a beauty😍 I like the older models but the new ones are just above and beyond🤘🏻. How’s your bike treating you?

[@MattLaidlaw]

Collin Cratty I’m really liking it. I’m going to do more videos on it in the near future. I just did a long ride and I lost all the footage. I’m pretty pissed.

[@collincratty8777]

Matt Laidlaw that sux! Perfect excuse for another ride!

[@thomasangelo4219]

Great video Matt I remember the movie Terminator 2 everybody wanted a fat boy we need a celebrity today to make a movie like that to help Holly Davidson take care

[@MattLaidlaw]

Agreed my friend

[@Alexgvigo]

A movie with a guy ridding a harley with a shotgun and no helmet is no longer possible today Sir!

[@rinkukoradi2539]

Impressive video Matt, I have the 2018 Anniversary Edition 🔥Fat boy & im totally in love 😍 with the Motorcycle, my Question is, I love the Side mount License Plate, can you Please tell me where [ The one in the Video 2018 Fat boy Side Mount license plate kit ] can I buy Online as I am from INDIA 🇮🇳 or you could give me a link of the website where I can buy the Side mount license plate kit for my 2018 Fat boy...

[@fililoboesparza5784]

Great video Matt Thank you!! “Hasta la vista baby”!! 😎

[@MattLaidlaw]

Haha. I should have included that line.