2021 Harley-Davidson Street Glide Special (FLHXS) & Standard (FLHX)│Overview & Test Ride

[@kennethwise7108]

Im convinced that Matt knows more about these bikes than the actual people who design & make these bikes! Well done Matt!

[@turtle19dad]

I keep telling people the same thing. He knows more than HD themselves. That's why his dealer does so well. That and no adm.

[@kennethwise7108]

I often refer to him as "CEO"

[@MattLaidlaw]

Dang man. Thanks. Huge compliment. I don’t think that’s true, but thank you!

[@benrafuse2428]

Thanks for taking the time to produce the HIGHEST quality Harley vids on youtube

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thank you! We are trying to step up our game!

[@bigal2643]

Better than HDU lol

[@turtle19dad]

@@MattLaidlaw HD needs to step up their game.

[@mojomanmurph1925]

Yes, there are people out there who still like chrome. Blacked out engine looks good but the con is it takes away the definition of the engine and it all blends in together. Put two together then slowly backup from them and the blacked out engine with a dark bike color just starts to blend into a blob where you can't tell tell the details. A brighter bike color helps with the blacked out engine. In the end, it's your money, it's for your enjoyment, you do you.

[@SeanAedan.007]

You got it Mojo man. In photography its called contrast - contrast is GOOD man!!

[@MrNick-]

Agreed

[@MichaelBrown-ny3et]

I just bought the same Street Glide Special in chrome, same paint choice for my birthday today. My first Harley Davidson. I was nervous picking it up at the dealership but once I released the clutch, it was very easy to handle and operate. More torque than I was expecting. Love it.

[@jobeta22]

Matt, a half hour video???? Thank you!!!! This bike should deserve it. Now, the Road Glide video should last an hour, right? 😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@windchaser5]

Is there something issue with the bike? Just asking

[@jobeta22]

@@windchaser5 I made a complement. And since I am a Road Glide owner, I just took a subtle shot at the Street Glide versus Road Glide debate.

[@drsparwaga]

I bought myself a 2023 SGS today over here in the UK. Got myself nearly $10k off on a very low mileage one. Was in total love with the bike in Los Angeles. Can't praise it enough for its handling even in urban areas, and comfort on the highway.

[@mccgunter]

These are the most professional and informative videos about Harley Davidson. If I’m wrong please point me in the right direction.

[@joez_hd1141]

I am a chrome guy and the Street Glide Special in chrome with the 114 has me contemplating an upgrade from my 103. I always wanted the 114 but do not like the blacked out look. IMO Harley made the right decision on giving you the choice. Thanks for the awesome content.

[@joezednick3197]

Big difference from the 103 to a 107 or the 114,,,,I've had all 3 engines, the Milwaukee 8 is so much better.

[@roadglide1142]

Like everything about them but the cable clutch debacle! So glad I bought my RGS in 2020.

[@dfunklegendfontdawg5023]

Me too. But not just the clutch but why’d Harley put the gas cap on the tank again. I’ll keep my 2020 with the cap integrated in the console and a clean tank look!

[@robertlumsden942]

oh i love the new console. the old just looks clunky but it is preference. Im all in on the cable clutch too.

[@roadglide1142]

@@robertlumsden942 A cable clutch on a $30K Touring Machine is an Embarrassment in 2021.

[@robertlumsden942]

@@roadglide1142 I am still in thought with cable clutch. been working great for 50 years unlike the hydraulic.

[@ephrammaker3153]

Not sure why some are so attached to the hydraulic clutch... if you have another system that does the same thing, is simpler, and is less prone to malfunction, why not? Why do some want tech just for tech’s sake?

[@joezednick3197]

Been street riding since 1967, was a big street glide fan for many years, I always bought the new model street glide in black every year,,,thought the road glide fairing looked like an afterthought, ugly, until I rode one, wow,,,to me it was a world of difference, especially in a side wind or when a truck passes from either direction. Rode to Sturgis west on I90 on several bikes, but a street glide doesn't come close to holding the road like my Road Glide!!!! Matt, ride a 3000 mile trip on a Road Glide, I bet you'll become a big fan. Love the videos, Ocala Fl.

[@RevJay_Rides]

I really like that gauntlet gray and the vivid black. I think I like that color combination better than what I’m seeing on the CVO Street Glides.

[@jimbeam4111]

Harley should come out with an Electra Glide Standard with a Road Glide Fairing.

[@acrevelations8457]

2020 SGS owner and prefer the look of the fairing of the SG over the RG.....but in all honesty that Red/Black 2021 RGS looks amazing! Even better than the SGS Silver/Black you showcased

[@vonsamson2209]

Everytime I take my hard candy hotrod red flake 2018 street glide special out I get alot of compliments and I enjoy everyone of them .Harley Davidson makes beautiful well designed motorcycles. Keep up the great videos Matt.

[@steff964]

Who wouldn't want to own a Street Glide or the Street Glide Special, chrome or blacked out these bikes are beautiful from stock with very few modifications required. Great job Matt and Nick and great video as always.

[@GuruLiving4]

I relied heavily on his videos and opinion before I purchased my first bike 6 months ago!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thanks for trusting my content enough to help with your purchase decision 🤙🏼

[@jonathongallant9105]

Great video as always Matt, i do just have to add that there is extras on these now like the daymaker but the price has gone up so you are paying for them anyway in all honesty. My opinion only.

[@philipmilks6793]

The blacked out has my vote , the first time i saw one in a show room OMG , now i have one

[@jordipi7652]

I like both in chrome, the 107 engine is great.

[@mikedanaher3413]

Getting better with choice but still no engine choice with the standard. That’s low hanging fruit imho. Same with the Road King. No engine choice if you want chrome. Maybe it’s high time to allow for those simple things on a ordered bike. Frustrating. Great information as always Matt. Thank you for taking the time to explain the street glides and the options. 👍

[@ntdfmaverick]

That color you got for this video is one of the best ones this year for the Street Glide Special! It actually looks really good in chrome too (based off the website anyway).

[@jamesstafford62]

I just traded my 2019 SG standard for the 2021 SG special with chrome Gray&Black ! The reason I kinda bought the Standard was the chrome in the first place! I’m 58 been a H-D rider since the AMF years! I’m not anti-blacked out look at all just think it looks good with certain colors better and the chrome looks better with certain colors!

[@leoa2606]

Would've been nice to see the gas fill on the left (kickstand side). That's typically the side I would think you'd fill from.

[@robertlumsden942]

yes. makes sense.

[@ephrammaker3153]

That does make sense. But I guess being on the right, maybe you get more gas in?

[@joezednick3197]

I used to fill my right side filler from the right side of bike,,,seemed to make sense, but a couple times I had to pull in to the pump to the left of the bike, it really was no big difference and I really could see the gas better and yes,,,put more gas in, cap is just more level that way.

[@harleycamper5577]

High side is the right move

[@badhonky6473]

You get more gas filling on the high side

[@pinkyfloydyfan1]

I was really ambivalent about the clutches ... now that I've compared, either one is ok for me. I still say that H-D just took a step back anyway. Why not offer both and adjust the price accordingly? A cable clutch is less expensive, right? So offering this option to buyers would be a great mark of respect. What made me lean towards buying a Street Glide Special instead of a Standard are the additions (the glossy fairing, the extended cases, the RDRS, but above all the 114ci -1868cc- engine). Getting an FLHXS was on my bucket list. Seeing the road with her is another check mark on this list. Life is good for those who work hard to achieve their dreams with respect for others. Falling from a 2007 Yamaha V-Star 1300 to a 2021 H-D Street Glide Special, that will make me quite a change I guess!

[@Indianajoe47]

Matt, you guys do a great job on reviews. I am a senior. Heck, I would have paid $2M extra for the chrome, but thanks to you guys that like black so much, I actually got it with a discount. I bought a 2020 standard midnight blue , added LED’s front and rear with chrome passing lights and have just the bike I wanted. So please consider that us old gray headed fellows might just like the chrome on the special or standard when we come into your store.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Done my friend. I can appreciate a nice chrome bike just like the next guy. Nothing against people that like the chrome.

[@paulkantor5587]

I just picked up a 2021 SGS in the Deadwood Denim green and couldn't be happier. Other then the bars which are on order, this bike responds amazing and with all the trimmings.

[@dariocuter5692]

BEST 2021 Street Glide Video out there! Just love your Vids. Thanks Bro.

[@hwa4844]

About time street glides special in chrome long over due

[@faraon2012]

Mee too. (Born to be wild)

[@waltermitty7452]

Love the blacked out look, and HD should have kept the black flowing for both the kickstand as well as the shift linkage.

[@scootjockey]

Best thing for me on your vlogs is the take you make on why &how HD are doing things refreshing .

[@georgezhou1415]

For me personally, I feel lucky I got the 2020 RGS. LOL

[@RevJay_Rides]

I bought a 2020 Limited, but got the quick release for the tour pack. I prefer chrome. With my tour pack off, it looks quite a bit like a chromed out 114 version of the Street Glide. My wife and I do lots of 2 up riding so I need the Limited. But, if I were to buy a Street Glide, I would prefer the Special for the 114 and the chrome option.

[@stevenbrooks1243]

Definitely a street glide fan myself Matt 👍

[@MrAndrew1953]

Brilliant two tone paint job capped off with the blue pinstripe. The day maker headlight is a deal maker. I prefer the blacked out engine finish over the chrome. I’d put the short bags on a Street Glide Special so I could add a 2 into 1 Borsani. The Prodigy wheels have a clean,strong look.

[@j702rebel7]

Love the blacked out trim!

[@ParrotHead1809]

Great Video guys - I went with a Street Glide Standard with RDRS and the upgraded Boom/GTS. It really checked all the boxes for me (classic look, larger engine guards, etc). Although I would have liked the LED lighting, I'll probably add that after-market. I've ridden a Softail with the 107 for a couple of years, and couldn't justify the $ for the 114. Just my opinion. This is the second time I watched this video and really like the compare and contrast you guys did. Nice Job !

[@lethalinjection.zo6312]

Gauntlet grey with the blue pin stripe really gives this SGS a menacing look.

[@andrewgrimes4311]

yep i'm normally for vivid black but the 2 tone is superb.

[@cd4917]

I just bought the gauntlet grey yesterday. Waiting for it to be delivered😱

[@CraigSmith568]

I like black over chrome, could go either way on the bags, the painted inner fairing looks better, I like the 114 over the 107, and I like that new gas cap a lot better. So it looks like the Special should be my choice. Worst thing for me is that I would never use anything in that infotainment center. I never listen to music or use a GPS on a bike. Half the time I don't even carry my phone with me. If I could get the Special with the pocket like the Electra Glide Standard it would be awesome. For now I will just stick with my Heritage 114. Definitely like the Street Glide over the Road Glide.

[@onlyhereonce7290]

Very comprehensive. Polished. Top shelf effort. It shows. Thank you Matt.

[@bizerker1497]

Just bought a 2021 Street Glide Special. Vivid Black one a few days ago. Looking to pick up this week.

[@tnpharmd]

I have a 2013 Street Glide Special. So it was available before 2014. Maybe it was just less of a difference between Standard and Special back then. It’s has security and abs.

[@dickieblades8886]

Another excellent Matt Laidlaw video. Brilliantly informative as ever. I live in Geneva Switzerland. Just bought a Street Glide special inspired by this video. Cant wait to get into the Alps!

[@MattLaidlaw]

I’ve always wanted to ride the alps. One day! Enjoy my friend.

[@curtrodriguez1036]

Excellent video Matt! I picked up my 2021 Streetglide Special over Memorial weekend. Mine is the Sanke Venom with every option. I cannot quite put into words how much I love this bike, having traded in my 2014 Road King I thought it could not feel or ride that much different out on the highway... but it did! Incredibly confidence inspiring! The gloss paint on the inner faring, stretch bags, and that custom Snake Venom sort of look like a CVO. Can't wait to start putting on the miles! Thanks again for the well-made and very informative video.

[@duoglide69]

I’m one of those that wanted the special features but in chrome. The blacked out was a deal breaker. Glad H-D is on board finally. 👍🏼

[@stevennye1962]

Your videos are very well done. Very informative. Your dealership philosophy is very different than my experience here in Texas. Thanks for the great comparison videos of the Road Kings and this on the Street Glides.

[@281sTravel]

Love the looks of the smooth center console, but I also like the gas cap in the center on the standard and the older models. But you could run a flush mount gas cap on the new bikes and it would look pretty sweet!!!

[@chuckbaker8413]

You know Matt... these Vlogs are so Awesome.... Thank you!! But I am coming to the conclusion about Harley -Davidson... there are bells and whistles... Long road models ... Canyon models... But it come down to just sitting on them... go for a short ride.. put your priorities together and go... Thank you so much for your patience and knowledge... I’m getting it narrowed down..!!

[@eugeniustheodidactus8890]

*Such a great comparison and review!* Buying a _black on black_ street glide special tomorrow.

[@mas3292]

Great Job Matt! Love the two-tone and chrome option for 2021!

[@Jim_Berry]

Good video Matt. I like the fact that HD is offering a chrome version of the Street Glide.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Yea it’s cool.

[@Justin-tp3lr]

I've never been a fan of chrome, I test rode the standard and the special. I'm definitely going for the special for this next riding season. I'm trading my indian scout as well as my polaris wheeler in towards it.

[@rSANTOSx00]

Drone footage looks awesome!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thanks!

[@spirobellas2031]

Well done Matt, great review , great content and some really valid points. I’m in Sydney, but if we’re to buy one, it would definitely be the street glide special blacked out

[@timconway7860]

In my case, you were right. I wanted chrome and was fine with the standard. If I ever want a bigger engine, I'll just put a 131 in it. For now, the 107 is perfectly fine. Billiard Red BTW.

[@sivvinod3187]

FINALLY, LEDs!

[@carlorusso7304]

Great review...this is the best harley channel on youtube

[@Deaddriftbum]

If you remember the Road King days then you know what’s up 🤘🏼

[@MattLaidlaw]

The Road King is still around.

[@jonnycando]

@@MattLaidlaw And it’s a bit of a bargain too!

[@bolaeljefe2680]

Nobody does it better than you matt,Awesome videography... I'm #teamRoadglide anyway.

[@jamesdoherty5093]

Hey Matt I was really looking forward to your impressions on the cable vs hydraulic clutch... great video otherwise

[@mccgunter]

He actually has a whole video already made on that topic. Check it out. It like all of his videos is top notch!

[@jamesdoherty5093]

Thanks WG I saw it, I think this one came out first tho

[@mccgunter]

@@jamesdoherty5093 You’re probably right and I thought about that possibility but was too lazy to check. Apologies..

[@ottaviorivelli6669]

great review Matt thanks. Sport Glide review scheduled soon ?

[@jackfrost2216]

Great video Matt, but I think you are wrong on the Special. I and a lot of my fellow riders ended up buying ultras because we wanted the special in chrome but couldn’t get it. I’ll be trading my ultra in for a chromed out special this year. Great move Harley!

[@my.motorrad]

I guess it depends on what you want. I have to wonder how this will play out, especially if HD wants to grow market base. I'd take a different approach. In terms of RDRS, it's standard with some bike makers. It should be standard on all HDs. They really should go for more cohesive base models.

[@dgwilliams4795]

I have a '19 SG Standard, but if I were to do it over again, I might step up to the Special. Not because the 107 is lacking, but I like the blacked out look. I'm adding black parts to my Standard this winter.

[@bradwilliams4921]

Bike sounds awesome! Blacked out bikes look incredible!

[@colbyfoos2218]

I bought the 2020 standard because I like the chrome. If given the option in 2020 I would have bought the special in chrome. Great video.

[@MikeSmithMLS]

I’m looking at one now they are asking 24k for it but it also comes with the new radio is it worth it ? It’s a 2020 street glide standard with 5 miles

[@angelgould4284]

Tempting, very tempting. Always enjoy the presentations you and Nick put together. I think I'll ride my Heritage for awhile, but when it comes time to start taking long trips I'll be back to see you.

[@stevenvera3210]

Thanks Matt, for the very detailed video on the St. Glide Special... Let S.G. know if you have the Grey with Pin Stripe blue, or other colors.

[@compressionignition7315]

I’m so interested in getting a Street Glide Special! I’ll try to get one in my lifetime.

[@Jolene64]

Have always enjoyed your videos on the specs on the new bikes over the years. Only one critique I would add is that gals buy new bikes as well - I myself have purchased 2 new HD motorcycles over the past few years. We have a RG and a SG in our garage - love the both. Thanks and keep the videos coming!

[@robhagan8942]

Why is it that you dealers can only guess at why H-D does what they do. I would think a dealer as large as Laidlaw would have a corporate contact at H-D that could answer your questions. This is yet another example of how H-D is not in touch with their customers.

[@vasu925]

Appreciate the discussion on difference between Road and Street.

[@Evirthewarrior]

I have a 2020 SGS, I love it, this makes me want to ride but unfortunately I have it stored in a detached garage and pulling it out would sling mud everywhere since the weather has been so bad recently. I really need to make a driveway of some kind on the cheap to get it in and out easier.

[@whskywolf]

Great video, I think if I was to get a Street Glide Special I prefer the Blacked out look, but they are both very nice. I think though if only reason for getting a Street Glide for me would be the RDS, other than that I think the Elktra Glide Standard would suit me better, I do not see myself using the Nav system or radio that much or it make me want to do something stupid like not wear helmet.

[@kclarkeadventures]

I went from Electric glide classic to RGS totally love it. The DRS is awesome especially hill assist. I also love the black out look.

[@Skuggan91]

Pretty much the final boss for me, riding a Forty-Eight now and love it but im pretty sure ill own one of these one day. Looks badass!

[@Smallmau5raver]

It's always the same exact bike pretty much. Points for finally putting LED's headlights in there. I do like that they are offering things like new air cleaner,rims, and 114 instead of needing to spend an extra 4k to get that. To me it seems Harley has given up on the brand and is now riding this train until it stops instead of trying to save it. Hopefully Im wrong.

[@16hrDaze]

I have a ‘19 Iron 1200 that I bought from HB Harley and bow I want to upgrade to one of these glides... thanks Matt! I should have gone to you guys first...

[@owenfarmer4197]

As always outstanding quality production and knowledge

[@davidfellows6250]

The camera commercial appears to be a scam. I ordered jan 17th its Feb 5 th so I contacted them they said 4 to 6 weeks more and now they are advertising " to the first 500. There was no cap when i ordered . Oh I like CV the Harley commercial inside the camera commercial.....nice.

[@Stolencamaro]

Had 4 bikes 3 harleys softail vrods gsxr . Since covid hit had to sell them all slowly one by one now 43 concidering atreet glide more comfy music and ride position really is must over certain age for nice lengthy rides. Enjoy and be happy what u ride whatever it is as long it has 2 wheels. Ride safe god bless

[@I05tream]

I am one of those people who prefers the chrome, and want a 114. I hate having to choose a lesser engine just to get chrome.

[@dwight072]

Great review. I have a 2020 SGS and love it.

[@whitehorse1]

Blacked out finishes for me. I'm thinking of coming off my 2012 Road Glide Ultra for a 2021 Street Glide Special. The two tone behind you looks amazing, but I haven't seen the billiard red, or the snake venom yet. I've seen 1 rouge deadwood green denim SGS with black finishes that I really like. I also like the Midnight Crimson, and Billiard Teal with Black finishes on the Road Glide Specials. Decisions Decisions 🤔

[@jayteesgear]

Omg I have been wantin a Slim or Standard but these could go for DAYS! Each vid you guys do has better edits too-/ Keep killin it!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thank you! We are trying to up our game.

[@j702rebel7]

Love ur Videos! Matt is there a main reason you prefer the Street Glide over the Road Glide?

[@EM-eg3qc]

I always hear in videos about motorcycles that, if you are going to go a long distance you should definitely get a touring bike. However, my dilemma, like probably most people is, should I buy a touring bike if I only plan to use it as a commuter or a short trip here or there? I am 6'2 240 lb. Based on Matt's description I would not be or should not be too interested in a Softail. I am not going on long trips. That has always kept me confused in my decision of what bike I would like. I am told that if I'm a bigger person I should have a touring bike. However, the only advantage I hear about the touring bike is that it's comfortable on long rides. Again I am not planning many long rides. However, I do want to be comfortable. So I guess I'm asking would a touring bike be suitable for around town, knowing that I am a bigger person than average. Otherwise, should I maybe consider the heritage or a Sport glide? I do want comfort and wind protection bug a softail makes more sense to me. I may be too big for one:( Sorry for the long message but thanks for knowing who wants to respond!

[@k9m42]

I’m same size and feel the street glide is to short. My knees are over the gas tank and the bike is just too low.

[@ronalds2080]

If you haven't already could you do a ride and review on the new sport glide.?? Always enjoy your input Matt. Ride safe.

[@davidcolby6661]

I got the street glide special because it’s blacked out. That and the 114. Btw, rdrs is bs. You can’t tune them, you’re stuck with factory spec forever.

[@joeplem5329]

Okay this I'm half tempted to trade my Dyna for....the chrome version \m/

[@norsevikingsir4932]

You'll be grinding foot boards long before those "stretched bags"

[@MattLaidlaw]

Yea true

[@saddle8bag]

Floorboards are cheap to replace though.

[@badhonky6473]

I drug my primary case

[@saddle8bag]

@@badhonky6473 Bill Cosby used to drug his dates.

[@badhonky6473]

@@saddle8bag bill Cosby drugged his primary

[@randyanderson5299]

Just bought the special chrome version. Very nice . Good video.

[@stanleyblazeraznik6047]

Been there, done that. Don't need to revisit.

[@tetlow2]

I really love your videos. You have them full of useful knowledge and beautiful video. I ride a 2010 street bob and have plans to do a lot more to it. I don't want another bike but I still enjoy watching all your reviews. They keep me interested from start to finish. I especially love the custom builds. Thanks for all your hard work to keep us entertained. I look forward to every video.

[@stephenhuey3182]

Love the color on this bike wish it was on the road glide.

[@edwardwatling]

Great Video and overview of the 21 FLHXS. I have a 18 FLHXS and am totally happy with it. I upgraded to the hi flow exh. and street cannons. Last thing I'll prolly do is the torque cam. thanks for all your videos and efforts!

[@nbt3663]

Matt, you have to "ghost-sell" tons of Harley Davidson's. I'm thinking I need to fly out and buy a bike and ride it back to the east coast. What a trip that would be.

[@daviddrummond7700]

Love the blacked out special, RGS 2021 coming my way.

[@oliverpohl6687]

I think the Special in chrome makes a lot of sense. Here in Germany the Standard is not available, even the E-Glide Standard. (same with the Road Glide)

[@AngelSilverFourtySeven]

Street glide special, all black trim only 👌🏽👍🏼🇺🇸

[@K9RickRet]

Another thorough and informative review...and great quality! Thank you Matt and Nick! 👍