2018 Softail Deluxe (FLDE) VS 2017 Deluxe │ Harley-Davidson Test Rides and Reviews

Review and Test ride on the new 2018 Softail Deluxe. A comparison of it against the 2017 Deluxe. Get all the details on this bike to help you make a buying decision. Review and Test Ride done by Matt Laidlaw and David Rangel.
www.laidlawsharley.com
Music from Epidemic Sound (www.epidemicsound.com)

[@Aprojeep]

Deluxe is the only bike that is 100% LED from tip to tail. Cruise is a PNA option. Heritage and the Sport Glide are the only two with cruise standard. This is by far my favorite video. I test drove the Deluxe and loved it but it was the Fat Boy that earned my sale.

[@MattLaidlaw]

You know what, you’re right. The 2018 doesn’t have it standard. That’s an error on my part. Thank you for the correction.

[@craigbouknight5817]

Matt just my opinion. I like the new format better . It is also nice to do the side by side. It one thing to hear about the changes. Nice addition to already informative channel. Merry Christmas from East Coast.

[@armybiker]

It's 9:30 at nite,I'm watching this in bed and my girl says "you don't care about me you care about Matt Laidlaw" 🤣🤣🤣

[@tonydman9930]

akata69 Thats a dilemma for you mate. 🤔

[@MattLaidlaw]

Haha. Hopefully I don’t ruin anyone’s relationship. Thanks for always watching my friend.

[@jj.1412]

May I suggest perhaps you just haven't met the right women (yet.) ;)

[@slyguyaction]

Really appreciated the riding only in the beginning. Really enjoyed hearing it and the 2017 side-by-side in the beginning before your narration after the freeway section. The Softail Deluxe has always been one of my most favorite, nostalgic Harley bike. Thanks for doing this comparison Matt. Take care and ride safe!

[@snowleopard5687]

Matt's bikes's reviews are simply the best: his expert, objective and detailed comments combined with a well shot/edited visual presentation are perfect for bikers of all levels. 5 Stars!

[@cvang234]

Just picked up a 2019 Softail Deluxe love the bike. Thanks Matt your review has influenced my decision.

[@twolaneblacktop8034]

You know I've been waiting for this one Matt, love this bike, love that blue, most of all a I love the nostalgic look. It looks fantastic on this frame platform and Harley has kept the look of the bike nicely. I have to have one. Thanks for the great review, the new format works for me either way you always get all the info into the episode.

[@Frontbuner]

I just bought the 2018.....Cadillac on 2 wheels! The 107 is a beast!

[@twouppers4541]

Matt, I love watching your video productions. Your very relaxed and consistent. Keep up the great work. You are value by many of us out here in KZbin land. And thank you.

[@petterin1]

Love the intro (w music of course)!! And your review of the bike 🙌

[@thomaslopez2427]

I’ve got the 2017 with the stage 2 upgrade and it runs just fine to me 👍🏼

[@SuperSnallygaster]

Never had much interest in the Deluxe, didn't realize how nice it is - plenty of great little details on this bike that really add up!

[@rebelwraith8138]

Beautiful color on the 2017!!! Classic and classy.

[@user-ro5bh9ks1f]

I agree

[@gwaddles]

This is the review I’ve been waiting for!

[@clarkstreetcustoms]

Thanks Matt for your great review. I just picked up a 2019 Deluxe in Wicked Red/Twisted Cherry, my first Harley. Your review had a big influence on choosing the Deluxe. It’s a superb machine. Thanks again.

[@eduardomontano7718]

Man amazing Rockabilly Intro, super fun and great comparison, as always a superb video!! Thanks for sharing, Greetings from Mexico City!!

[@jcgaliano4126]

Another quality presentation. Thanks for the in-depth presentation. That video quality is awesome 😎!

[@paulpanzer9651]

Hey Matt, thanks a lot for your great videos from Germany. I wish you and your family a Happy New Year and a Merry Christmas. Greetings from Germany.

[@josephallen576]

Hi Matt, Great review and thanks to your review I'm picking up my new 2018 Deluxe this week from my local dealer in Canberra Australia..

[@bobellis2912]

Great review Matt. I have to say, I watch all your reviews and enjoy all of them thoroughly. Your reviews were a huge part in my decision to ultimately purchase a street glide last week. I ended up getting a 17 left over, but I really wanted The Milwaukee 8. So, thanks so much and keep it coming. Also, I kind of have to watch your videos :-) it’s too damn cold here in Jersey to ride :-)

[@vasken009]

Great review Matt as always.

[@petterin1]

Goodlooking bikes, great to start a video with the riding portion!

[@tonydman9930]

Oh Hell Yeah. You promised me this in the new calendar year but you delivered by Christmas. Your the best Matt. Chears from Australia again and a merry christmas to you too 👍 Now as soon as i post this i shall watch with interest ...😂😂

[@breakoutpete210]

Wow, the best keeps getting better!!! Both beautiful colours!👍😎🇨🇦

[@darcyoneill9377]

Just (Nov2019) traded in my original 2012 Softail Slim FLS in for a still new 2018 Deluxe FLDE; I loved my Slim for some 90,000K...and look forward to the improved Softail frame, suspension, etc... oh, and the shine! Your videos are helpful indeed.

[@drchristofor]

A BIG THANK YOU from Germany ! Great Videos, very informative. I`m riding a 2018 Deluxe and I love it ! Take care and ride safe ! Joe

[@Teachering]

I've been waiting for this review of the 2018 Deluxe. For the last several weeks I've wandered from the Harley Davidson to check out other motorcycle makes and styles. Watching this review has set my sights once again on the Harley Davidson Deluxe. The Deluxe is the one. Thank you for a fine review, Matt Laidlaw.

[@1Kenpoman]

Loving the Elvis music! LOL

[@MattLaidlaw]

HAHA

[@cjsmith]

The 2017 has more classic styling with turn signals and oil pan up top. Great music 🎶 and riding 😀🇺🇸✌️Another excellent review by Matt 👍

[@chaltaloma]

Hi CJ How Are You Bro ? Yes i Agree The 2018 is Nice But The 2017 i Really Love !! and Thanks Matt Another Great Video.

[@darkoflight4938]

Cool bikes and a great review. A great comparison too. Get on a bit sooner on the commentary tho (as someone already said). Ol´Softail has left the building. Keep em´coming sir!!

[@FLHTPGlide]

Thank you, Matt. Great video. Both are very beautiful bikes. I decided to get the new Fatboy 114. Its just the iconic one and that engine is fantastic.

[@PaulFloyd207]

Thank you for being my resource for learning more about Harley Davidson motorcycles. I have an interview for a job at a Harley Davidson dealership. Trying to learn as much as I can. I am very quickly becoming obsessed with the bikes and the brand.

[@mas3292]

Thank you for another outstanding review Matt! I like the new upgrades to the 2018 Deluxe including the LED lighting, also the more nostalgic looking tank console and the 107 engine. I still prefer the retro looking bullet turn signals for the deluxe vs the new ones on the 2018. The 2017 deluxe you used as the comparison is the exact same bike as my new 2017 Deluxe in the same color (Crushed Ice and Frosted Teal Pearl) that I purchased this past Sept. I love my 2017 deluxe which will stay in my family forever. Great job as always Matt and Merry Christmas to you and your family.

[@edysinsimon8646]

Hey Matt! I didn't know you did that good of impersonating the king?! Seriously, I do think H.D. really missed the market's "view" with regards to the wholesale removal of chrome across the range of softail/touring bikes! The Deluxe just says Harley Davidson to me. I get it "they" think otherwise but I'd be interested in the sales numbers after the whole 107 M8 wears off.

[@thomasangelo4219]

Really nice entry level bike was the first Harley-Davidson I ever bought great video Matt thank you take care

[@guilhermebelchior4502]

Great review Matt

[@davidfancher5305]

Great Video Matt, thanks you for the side by side comparison! I live in Northern California, but I am originally from West Covina, I love when I see you in these vids riding around the old 'hood. I somehow miss that place, although it's changed alot!! :) Stop and get some King Tacos for me or a Tommy's Burger on Foothill!!! I currently ride 2005 Heritage Softail, I find the 2018 Softail bike most definitely appeals to me, but I'd want two up with a heel-toe shifter! Thanks again!

[@joebieksha2766]

Matt thanks for the review as promised... The deluxe has always been my favorite and still is..Not sure a big fan of the turn signals. But still my favorite nostalgic looking bike.

[@599Dan]

Really enjoy my 2019 Softail Slim, looking to add a deluxe to my collection in the future. Beautiful bike can't wait!

[@qtrader677]

Always look forward to your videos Matt. I'm watching this as 6 inches of snow fall here in Toronto.

[@Aprojeep]

Matthew Grant Yes....watching him ride makes me jealous as I sit inside and watch the snow come down......ugh

[@MattLaidlaw]

Sorry guys. California Has it's perks

[@thomasangelo4219]

Definitely has that 57 Chevrolet classic look to it I'm glad they kept it like to have a bike that remind you of the heritage of Harley-Davidson thanks Matt great video keep them coming take care

[@ronmarvicsin7709]

When I first saw this video I was already in love with the exact same bike. Last Xmas I finally pulled the trigger and bought the 18 EB I named her BLU not because of the color but for my late mother’s eyes!! Love this bike.

[@TBONESIDEOFLIFE]

hard to beat these classics here. have just the right touches where needed and not "too" over the top. a winner here!

[@mchristr]

Matt, thanks for all the content this year. You've upped the bar with your video skills. Has the dealership thought about marketing some exclusive Laidlaw H-D swag, similar to your jacket?

[@tonydman9930]

I'll be down for that. There are customising shops that have their own merchandising so could be a winner.

[@SuperLou63]

I loved the review on the Deluxe. World-class as usual.

[@bauxi11]

Perfect and detailed video, thank you!

[@pedroc6823]

I don't ride HD's but appreciate how Matt does his videos and reviews, says it like it is. I am taking the time to learn about Harley's Via these videos because some times I cant get a straight answer. HD has done allot and as a motorcycle enthusiast I appreciate all brands. I have told my friends and I say it again, in my life time I want to ride as many brands as possible before I cant. I love that Blue one and am so impressed with the quality and finish of the new 18's.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thank you. Most all brands have something great to offer. I grew up on Honda dirt bikes.

[@michaellomazzo7776]

Great video Matt really nice looking machine thanks

[@DixieWhiskey]

Fantastic review, Matt. I gotta say, the paint on that 2017 is gorgeous. You really can't go wrong with a Deluxe any way you look at it.

[@mixalis6168]

Love all the new bikes, im a deluxe rider, only thing i dont like is turns signals, older bullets so much nicer.

[@Alexgvigo]

mixalis , what about the fake plastic oil tank , the ignition switch gone , and the scooter stand on the 2018 ?!😜

[@garywillens7792]

Totally agree. I have a 2010. Switched to Bullets right off.

[@rsbharley4766]

great video Matt, thanks

[@HeathNormand]

I have a quick question. I traded in my street bob about a week or so ago for a 2018 deluxe and why does the horn sound like its a from a moped? my street bob was a 2017 and it had a real horn.

[@motomuso]

Are any of the 2018 Softails with forward controls *not* able to be converted to mids? (Besides the Fat Bob that is)

[@SuperbikeRescueNetwork]

Is there more front end rake on the 2017 or is that just the way it looks?

[@road_king_dude]

Couple of 'Ol School Gangstas!

[@paulieevans1]

Can the 2018 deluxe turn signal bar be swapped out for the 2018 heritage light bar? I know the rear turn signals cannot.

[@webdapeeps9015]

Great Video, I just bought a used 2018 FLDE Softail Deluxe (same as the one in your video same color) with very low miles, i put on a small clear windshield, matching rear pad, and upgraded to a High Performance Screaming Eagle Oil Pump (so as to avoid any sump issues this motor has become known for) and otherwise I LOVE this Motorcycle and everything about it. Very responsive ion ANY GEAR. Came stock with quite a bit of chrome which looks great with the Electric Blue. The Motor simply stands out on this bike.

[@bobtranquilli9985]

Quick question, Matt: does the 2018 Deluxe have the same longer travel rear shock as the Heritage? BTW, thanks for the great content.

[@jimclabaugh4999]

I have been a metric bike guy for over 1/4 century, but this new 2018 deluxe has my serious attention. Excellent video, thank you.

[@richard9444]

Hello from London UK...loving the bikes

[@ndjedinak]

Thanks for the video, Matt! Love the 50s style of the Deluxe. What song is the intro? Fit the bike perfectly :)

[@roberttosa2560]

Beautiful bike, great review. Matt, how tall are you? I am 6’3”. Will this bike be a good fit for me?

[@jimclabaugh4999]

This was the final (and best) review that swayed me from the metric world of nearly 50 years. I have only put 320 miles on her since purchasing two weeks ago. Majority have been highway miles on various roads. It is a great bike! Thanks for the honest review Matt. Ride safe, ride often.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Congrats man. Enjoy the Bike!! Thanks for watching.

[@jimclabaugh4999]

I have had my electric blue Deluxe just over a year now. Pushing close to 7000 miles. The last 1000 after I did a Stage II upgrade with only HD item being the air cleaner. Went with Zipper's 468 cam, Bassani 2-1 and Power Vision tuner with map from Fuel Moto. These mods woke up the little 107. Thanks again Matt for this video. Peace.

[@fixatroll5406]

I love these videos. These bikes are so powerful and smooth. Traffic seems well behaved too. On one Sunday ride I had. three different vehicle accidents happen around me. Fender benders only but you know!!

[@MattLaidlaw]

It seems like accidents always happen in groups.

[@gammelsmurf1000]

Hi Matt One question, I'm 189 cm and weigh 107 kg. Am I too big for a Deluxe -2018? Can I modify it to fit a large-scale human? Move the footsteps and a ape hanger? /Johan

[@chrisvantassel8867]

Matt, out of the new 2018 softballs which is your personal favorite?

[@roadglideusmc]

Another great video on a classic bike..it'll never go out of style..heck, no HD does!!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Amen

[@scaquariumdiver]

I own the same 2017 in your review. Of course, I fell in love with teal and white and after taking a good test tide, knew it was the one. Maybe someday I'll test ride the 2018 for fun, since I've heard great things about it. Another great review!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thanks man. Enjoy the Deluxe

[@jimdandy4825]

Hey Matt, I know this is a little late but I have a question... Does the 2018 Deluxe have Linked ABS Brakes like the Touring Models? I can't seem to find any dealers around here that know the answer. Thanks buddy! Ron T

[@CarlosGarcia-ls4hn]

Is there a model name, or part no. (other than Beach Bars) for those handlebars? Thx

[@dtimm612]

The 2017 doesn't have an oil cooler? I thought all 103's had them for some reason.

[@ReaperXN7]

Is a heritage softail/Fatboy closer to the same size and height as a 58-64 Panhead/Hydraglyde? Or closer to the Road king??

[@iansouthoz3773]

Hi Matt, I've ordered a new Deluxe in Australia and was wondering if any slip on mufflers were available yet. There are none in Australia ATM. I was wanting to go with the similar shape maybe an S&S slip on etc. Cheers.

[@henryfree7313]

Try www. kromewerks.com They have a slipon that looks almost exactly like stock just a bit bigger opening at the end. I had them on my Deluxe before. Nice deep sound without being real loud. I personally loved those muffs. Muffler is called HP3 Tapered

[@longwhiteline3308]

Really diggin the colors on this harleys!

[@alexdiersen]

I love the look of the chrome on the 2018 model. The color is also more appealing. It is a little too quiet for me though. I think I would get a slip on to make it easier to listen to the engine.

[@Silidons91]

I don't like the light bar. Looks too futuristic for a Deluxe.

[@marcusrios8517]

I agree

[@HooMeye]

Just love watching your videos. This video made me question my choice, did I do right in buying the 2019 Fat Boy. Great beautiful motorcycle for sure. But I noticed the nostalgic looks of this bike really got to me. In my dealers showroom I walked right past it totally focused on the Fat Boy. And I must say I am a bit nostalgic myself. So why I did not see this? The music might have part in it liking this video even more and with that the bike. Good choice.

[@ronmarvicsin7709]

I bought that exact same 18 electric blue this past Xmas. One correction Matt, the 18 doesn’t come with cruise. Now the FXDR has the light bar lights too

[@dustinwheelen]

Hands down, best soundtrack to any YT video! Also, great vid as a whole. Matt, where do you get those large back patches on your vest? Looking for some myself.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thank you. They are all available at Harley Dealers or they can order them for you.

[@dustinwheelen]

Matt Laidlaw right on! Thank you.

[@camhester4251]

what's the difference in softail deluxe and the road king , I think I like road king better , can you tell me the price on each one please ?

[@captainblackbeard3345]

Great intro! Thanks for the outstanding vid as always

[@TheShubbah]

Awesome bike and video! Would like to see the 2018 Sportster 1200 custom. If you could make a review video, that would be sweet!

[@MattLaidlaw]

I'm going to try and do that one this year,

[@TheShubbah]

Looking forward to it, your reviews are the best and the most in-depth!

[@saddle8bag]

Man those white walls look good off that blue, but I still think that up close, the old one is prettier. The new one's saddle seems significantly better padded than the Slim's. Your friend's legs looked about perfectly angled on it. My knees felt like they were riding above my hips on the Slim and I'm shorter than your friend.

[@kakhidzeoto]

Great video as usual. Was waiting for Dave’s opinion though, but 30 min format did not allow him to speak I guess :D

[@youbastrds231]

I don’t have my license yet but plan on getting it soon. I’m 5’10” and about 270. Would you recommend the softtail or a road king for my weight and height? Thank you sir keep up the good work

[@MattLaidlaw]

I would say the Road King. However, the Softail would be easier if you're just starting out learning to ride.

[@cofrbooboo]

'17 sounds better to my ear, but that's offset by the better ride and lighting of the '18. As far as colors I've seen the Wicked Red/Twisted Cherry in person and it is absolutely mouth-watering gorgeous! And Matt, you should know better than to ride down the dark stripe! Outer thirds, middle third is off-limits!

[@2hotFL]

Another great review.

[@MattLaidlaw]

That’s actually a good question. You hold down the odometer toggle switch for 3 seconds.

[@2hotFL]

Thanks. I actually thought I missed something simple so I edited the question out. Your response was really quick! Please keep up the informative videos!

[@Dalekennth1969]

Hello Matt my friend is buying a2018 triglide ultra. In parts list has a cb antenna says its am fm Thad for nomal uhf radios. Can u buy factory cb radio for it thanks

[@Dalekennth1969]

I ment uhf Factory radio that fits the tri glide ultral thanks

[@mzk6550]

Awsome video! 😆😎👍💙

[@kenolson3072]

I have the 2019 in black, stage 1, had a 2007 stage 2. I've been hitting 48 to 50 mpg , that blows my mind because it has plenty of power, I love the new led lights, and better frame and rear shock, for me this is my favorite bike I've ever owned

[@Evolq1]

I'm coming from a Honda I'm wondering if these bikes are just as reliable.

[@isnishatri7577]

How tall are you matt ? Nice video

[@reddog8145]

Hello Matt. I really like the new 2018 Delux. I’ve always had an eye for this bike but as I do quite a bit of touring with my wife it’s just not practical for me. The M8 engine is a vast improvement on the twin cam. I have a 2017 Street Glide Special and I love the bike. It does exactly what is says on the tin. However given the chance I’d have a Delux too. Don’t suppose you’ve got a spare one knocking about that you don’t want, if so could you parcel it up and send it to me in the UK, I promise to look after it 😀. I had the chance to have a good look at the bike at the UK Bike Show and was not only impressed with the new tech but also the build quality. This is something that keeps me coming back to Harley Davidson every time. For me it seems the bikes just keep getting better and better every year. Well keep up the good work with the videos and have a Merry Christmas and a happy new year.

[@loloschool]

Spec's say it gets much better MPG. My Deluxe 103 get 32mpg. This gets 47mpg?

[@sportglidejim9001]

Saweeet bikes!!! Love that old school look & add the slim agree completely! Ride hard or stay home😎

[@tommartin1223]

Love tbe 18. But the 2 tone paint scheme on the 17 is the bomb.com! Love it!

[@jeffreyengle2762]

Finally good intro music!

[@fililoboesparza5784]

Good video Matt. Both bikes are awesome.. Small but big changes for 2018 H-D. Maybe you can do a video on different tuners for H-D I want to re-map my bike but I hear so many things don’t know which way to go..

[@MattLaidlaw]

Yea good video idea. Thanks

[@AB-ef7jx]

Hi Matt from Paris... good videos I love them all... Do we need to change the air filter and re-map the bike if we wanna change only the exhaust?

[@thesexytaquito]

The 2018 Deluxe is the “ugly duck” in this year’s line up. Visited a few dealerships, even out of state on a bike trip, & I have yet to see one in person. Not a lot of KZbin videos out there either. I personally like it, but would take a Heritage over it. Great review Matt, hope to meet you one day, keep the good videos coming.

[@bavarikus4103]

Hi Matt, Great idea to compare both model years and see one to one. The Deluxe was my opinion, always one of the most beautiful models from the factory. unfortunately a bit small, or for drivers over 1.85 m (6 feet). I like 2018 better, the exhaust system, the round air filter and the LED lighting in general. Innovations will always be evaluated later in terms of quality and success. I'm sure HD is on the right track, albeit in my opinion a couple of years late. Greetz. Alex.

[@iansouthoz3773]

Thanks for the review, awesome I just ordered one. iansouthoz, Australia.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Congrats