END of the M8 Harley-Davidson Motor

Today I talk about why I think we are soon to see the end of the M8 motor from Harley-Davidson
#harleydavidson #M8motor #revmaxmotor

[@kyleryneost]

Twin Cam 1999-2017, Evolution 1984-1999, Shovelhead 1966-1984, PanHead 1948-1966.. I doubt Harley put all this R&D in the Milwaukee Eight to only use it for 5 years.. They will give options for the Revolution Max in specific models bikes to see how popular it is.. but the Milwaukee Eight will be around another 12 years at least!

[@kidmoto22]

You might be right! I’m not sure if current emission standards that have been passed (quietly) already will allow for another 12 years of the M8. I believe that there are 6 states that have passed emission laws that would make the M8 non compliant in 8 years for sure….time will tell but the ride will be great either way!

[@bolexmadnessbygilbertsolor6953]

I know this will twist the wig of most Harley purists, but the era of the air cooled engine is ending. The tightening emissions regulations here and abroad are making it impossible to continue with air cooled engines. The answer for the near future is liquid cooling. Engine tolerances are tighter, compression ratios are higher, variable valve timing, not to mention heat control, are all important features for a gasoline motor to make far more power and meet emissions than an air cooled mill. Indian already has taken the lead and it’s air cooled engine, while innovative, is living on borrowed time. The near future is liquid cooling and Harley has been smart in producing an engine that will save the company and extend its life well into this century. As a rider of an M8 Ultra, I welcome the future and will raise a toast to the wonderful air cooled engines that delighted riders the world over, and will tearfully applaud as the air cooled era draws to a close.

[@kidmoto22]

I don’t disagree with anything your saying here. I will raise you one step further and say that your gonna see the same platform from the PanAm in a bagger next year!

[@motorcycleden]

If they put the revolution max in the new touring models what would be a reason to buy a Harley? The feel and sound is some of the main reasons to buy a Harley. If they don't have that what do they have that seperates them from the rest? Makes them the same as all the other manufacturers at that point. I personally think that would be a mistake. You never know though

[@kidmoto22]

I think that progression is part of the process. There is an argument to be made that the older riders felt this same way about the EVO motor when it came out. Progression always has its detractors the M8 has had this same type of people criticizing it. It’s going to be interesting to see what happens!!!

[@voltron6049]

I don't think those riders are pushing sales that much anymore. I think, in general, they aren't buying bikes as often as they used to. They are getting up in age and don't have the disposable income they used to have. Harley moved away from the "typical" Harley with the M8. Now they are moving away a little farther with the Rev Max. Plus, there will always been an aftermarket manufacturer that will find a way to make an exhaust for new bikes and advertise it as "bring back the traditional Harley sound"

[@vmotobiker]

Exactly!

[@danielmains4914]

Thanks for the work you put in for the videos. I think it makes sense to come out with a liquid cooled bagger to bring to MotoAmerica and to us. But still keep the air cooled M8 baggers. I don’t think the revolution max is going to be for everyone that’s driving a touring model.

[@kidmoto22]

Much appreciated….👊🏼 Im very excited to see what the next couple of years brings. I think we see tons of positive changes

[@bigdaddy5948]

Why do motor companies feel the need to always be changing things? The old bikes have plenty of power. Too much tech. Who wants it?

[@kidmoto22]

I understand your frustration but if the company wants to grow into a new market they have to change and adapt. They’ve done it many times.

[@vmotobiker]

If that happens I will say goodbye Harley Davidson. I will go back to Ducati and get a V4 Multistrada.

[@05RangerXLT]

the air cooled engine has had a long and great run, but its time to go to better technology, no real reason you can't replace fins with a water jacket and still have great looking and sounding motors. its time for a better touring chassis with a mono shock, and water cooled motor.

[@kidmoto22]

I agree…we will see when this happens. I don’t know if the big touring shakeup will happen this year but it’s soon!

[@05RangerXLT]

@@kidmoto22 if i were a betting man id put my money on next year

[@kidmoto22]

@@05RangerXLT I think your more accurate. I’m not thinking this season but I do believe that the platform is short lived.

[@frankfurther3828]

Struggling HD is giving out a pair of loafers with every posercycle purchase.

[@Bigjohn2121]

They could try a turbo or supercharger. Efficient and powerful.

[@coryshook7648]

So Harley-Davidson is going to move into the future of Say 1990 finally. I guess too many people are buying Indian challengers because they don’t vibrate and they don’t overheat and they have power and efficiency and technology. If they put a revolution max in a bagger it would certainly help them and their survival. A Rich heritage is secondary to product quality. I fully plan on buying an Indian challenger because I can’t get a liquid cooled bagger from Harley Davidson. Simple as that. Honestly if they had a rev max in a street glide or a road glide or a fat boy I would probably buy it but they don’t so I’m forced to go to Indian.

[@snakebite6511]

I hear ya, i have 3 Harley's. 2021 Street Glide, 2014 Wide Glide and 2009 Rocker C, my next Harley will be a Street Glide with a Revolution Max engine but i would assume that will happen in 2023; however, it will come in a CVO 1st and then to the rest of the lineup. I had an Indian, i will not go back, great bikes (from a distance), Fit & Finish needs work and not equal to a Harley and dealer service along with dealer network is poor and very limited in aftermarket performance parts where Harley has and infinite amount of performance parts available. Personally, im going to wait and not going back to Indian

[@MichaelHoward-td9qm]

I seen a design from them that was a touring modular loop frame design that would allow then to share the same frame across touring and softail platforms in an effort to reduce manufacturing costs and streamline the process (not sure if its the same frame you seen). But my suspicions tell me this is the rumored monoshock that is coming for the touring line and may be capable of fitting the rev-max or the m8 motor either one. I highly doubt theyll abandon the m8 because it is the best motor theyve made to day (sans the rev-max). I see them offering either motor as an option soon in either softail or touring frames

[@kidmoto22]

I’ve heard some rumors that we will see a version of the RevMax in a Bagger platform in 2022!

[@deangullberry5148]

I don't see the M8 going anywhere for another decade, but I do believe that it's the peak of the air-cooled V-twin. With the ever more stringent EPA regulations, not to mention European standards, there's not much more to be done, and we see the problems the M8 is having because of "Big Brother". When the S first released, I predicted that the OG Sportster was next for the new motor, then the touring models. The Softail will be that last air-cooled, due to its vintage theme.

[@kidmoto22]

You could be right however I see this happening much quicker. With technology changing at such a rapid pace and EPA regulations and consumers wanting things “right now” I believe that this shift will happen much quicker.

[@deangullberry5148]

@@kidmoto22 Oh yeah, the new Sporties will be out as late model year releases for 2022, or they may hold back until 2023. Touring models will be switched over in a year or two. It's the Softies that will keep the M8 alive for another decade, at most. I should have been clearerer the first time.

[@kidmoto22]

@Dean Gullberry I see where your going now! That right there seems like very sound logic…I like it.

[@BryTheBiker]

I hear the M9 is going to be amazing!

[@kidmoto22]

It sure is!!!!!

[@BryTheBiker]

@@kidmoto22 M16 I hear goes 185

[@KevinButler816]

What article had the frame patent int it ? I’m with you on the belief that a version of the Revolution Max engine will end up in the touring line. There are so many possibilities with a larger displacement Revolution Max in a touring frame using the suspension technology from the Pan America along with the different ride modes ride in.

[@kidmoto22]

It was on a patent website. It didn’t include any pictures just the patent dates and descriptions. The descriptions don’t allow for a mental picture to even to be drawn as it just stated that each part was patented like down tube ect.

[@KevinButler816]

@@kidmoto22 I’m thinking new frame with active suspension tied in with ride modes and Revolution Super Max engine

[@kidmoto22]

@@KevinButler816 Agreed…after the announcement on Wednesday I think we will see Sportsters mid season. The new Bagger frame I likely a year out or so

[@VVoltz]

I hope this vid gets a ton of views. All good points. I think that the M8 will remain in their mid size cruisers, or at least I hope so

[@kidmoto22]

Thank you Sir! It remains to be seen where it’s all going but good things to come for the consumers!

[@Johnclark300]

I heard that Harley Davidson is going all electric,not sure if this true or when they plan on doing this. If that is the case Harley Davidson sales will go 👇👎

[@kidmoto22]

There will be a time when all internal combustion motors will be electric or some form of alternative power. That will not be in my lifetime. We will see a change to liquid cooled motors long before that.

[@MadMexism]

M8 is just to good to delete so soon. If anything, complete watercooling, and then its demise. Its just so efficient, and easily built to make power. its also like a leather jacket. Can go to hell and back. Im on my second M8, and i love it.

[@kidmoto22]

I agree the M8 is a very great platform. I just see the company moving in another direction. With the new Nightster drop it looks like water cooling is coming quicker than we all think.

[@MyDunnLife]

The end of the M 8 will come sooner than later. Emissions standards are the big factor. I’m expecting we will see a smaller displacement sportster, a smaller displacement and size Pan America, and a larger displacement rev max engine for the touring line. 4-6 years is my guess for the M8 to go. It won’t matter if it’s what people want it’s what your gonna get.

[@kidmoto22]

I believe your timeline for the M8 elimination is correct if we get to 6 years it’s gonna have had a 10 year life span so that’s not to bad

[@blackpine4517]

Looking back on a lot of the sketches and designs released by Harley it seemed to me that one of the bikes appeared to be a smaller adventure bike maybe between 800cc or 900cc maybe slightly larger. The concepts were far more aggressive than the Pan American with a lot less cargo capabilities. Something between existing middle weight adventure bikes and the recent showings from EICMA. I absolutely thought they were simply Pan America concepts until listening to Matt Laidlaw’s podcast with Harley’s assistant director of design. I don’t see the M8 going anywhere soon, as the water cooled Indian engine isn’t a league away nor is the fit and finish comparable to the competition. The m8 goes head to head with the newest luxury cruiser lines of Europe mainly and probably solely the BMW R18 series. I’ve got to admit that funky galaxy paint job would look great with some wizards or sorceresses, a shag seat or floorboards!

[@kidmoto22]

That’s a great thought! I was listening to Jeff G Holt talk about his VTwin Visionary tour at dealerships and he inked a deal with H-D and signed a NDC. He was saying that H-D will be pulling out all the stops in the next five years and I’m super excited to see where it all goes!

[@STAYHUMBLE302]

There not going to get rid of the m8 all together if that’s what you mean by the title of this video but that just wouldn’t make sense idk my opinion

[@kidmoto22]

If the rev max is a far superior motor what would be the point in keeping it…just wondering?!!!

[@vernlochtefeld1626]

@@kidmoto22 You sound tone deaf. Sound, torque, ride characteristics, the cool factor. Add the small 60 degree liquid cooled v twin bagger by all means that does not mean it replaces or kills the large 45 degree air cooled v twin.

[@kidmoto22]

@@vernlochtefeld1626 I very much appreciate that you think I sound tone deaf. However if you listen to some of the biggest insiders in the industry you’ll hear them tell you that big changes are coming. Yeah I don’t listen I’m tone deaf.

[@STAYHUMBLE302]

@@kidmoto22 idk maybe production and money i just don’t see it leaving so soon

[@voltron6049]

@@vernlochtefeld1626 I think you are putting too much stock into the older generation of riders continuing to buy new motorcycles. Younger riders aren't going to know the difference between a 60 degree liquid cooled v twin and 45 degree air cooled v twin. All they are going to care about is does it look good, does it sound good, is it comfortable. The younger rider isn't going to care about older motors that aren't in the new bikes.

[@harleybrown9834]

I'm fine with it as long as it sounds OK. I haven't heard a good one yet but maybe that will change

[@kidmoto22]

Time will tell!!!

[@vernlochtefeld1626]

Variable valve timing, 60 degree v twin, Different firing sequence all contribute to never sounding like the Harley we’ve come to know & love. That’s not to say it cannot sound like a healthy modern v twin. Much like the KTMs. I’ve heard Pan Americans with no Db reducer Vance & Hines. Not a traditional HD but much bettah.

[@kidmoto22]

@@vernlochtefeld1626 I don’t disagree with that at all! The M8 leaves a lot of old sound out too. I think that the aftermarket might help with the sound issue! An m8 with a full exhaust system and a cam gets you back to a old sounding H-D. I think that the aftermarket is up to the challenge to give us the sound with the refinement of newer tech. Thanks for the comments! I’m always down for some respectful debate!

[@nickthinkpainting1978]

Need to re release the evo … 😎💥💥

[@kidmoto22]

That bad boy is done…. Sorry to say

[@nickthinkpainting1978]

Done hell no ! tons of evo’ s running strong and many being rebuilt. Solid reliable motor .. had a M8 sold it with 5000 miles rather be on my evo ! 💪🏻💪🏻

[@kidmoto22]

@@nickthinkpainting1978 Ride what you love but that motor will be gone very soon

[@nickthinkpainting1978]

@@kidmoto22 gone where ?? There’s still many omg out there plus SS & ultima both have killer evo motors.

[@kidmoto22]

@@nickthinkpainting1978 HD will stop producing these motors in bikes very soon. They don’t meet the Euro5 emission standards and can’t be sold there anymore. The EU market is huge for that platform so they need to have something that will work for them too. It will be out of production in the 883 I predict by next season.

[@chrissmith7669]

They’ll need something designed for larger displacements. A rev max in the 1340 ~ 1450 is likely max. They’ve got a good power cruiser power plant in the form of the 131 M8. That’s going to be too of the mountain for some time, if they offer it from the factory. I’m trying not to think of beyond 2030 when it’s all electric

[@kidmoto22]

The all electric has some major hurtles to overcome. Battery being one we all know of. I laugh when I hear of all cars and trucks going electric. The Prius was never a big seller here because they are not an option in the winter. It gets really cold and those things do not run or create enough heat to keep everyone warm. Electric is a joke in this area of the county…we will see the tech has a long way to go!!!!

[@chrissmith7669]

@@kidmoto22 although I’m on the way to becoming the white uncle with a country place that no one knows about I think the electric car in winter has been overplayed. They’ve been showing that an electric car does better working as a big battery for the heater than an ICE does. My current commute to work would be perfect for an electric motorcycle but I just can’t see electric for touring. A half hour to work then home again is fine. If they can beat 200 miles of range for a loaded bagger they might get peoples attention but only if it charges in the time it takes to relieve the riders water pressure. Even 45 minutes to charge would take the joy from long rides.

[@kidmoto22]

@@chrissmith7669 I completely agree with charge time on an electric bike for Touring. I have to respectfully disagree with you about the electric car for winter. I live in North Dakota and electric cars in this area are almost non-existent. While they might heat fine the batteries do not fare well in extreme temps after sitting outside for an 8 hour work day the electric cars more often than not don’t start. More temperate winters maybe fine but not the extreme winters we have.

[@jspeerpls]

They won’t get rid of it

[@kidmoto22]

Time will tell….🤷🏻‍♂️

[@stevetaylor9265]

Yup it will be time to buy Yamaha at that point. I really might do that anyway.

[@kidmoto22]

No Yamaha in my future…🤣

[@jpooch00]

The M-8 engine has been a shit show from day one. A total POS motor. The Rushmores were the last decent bikes the MOCO ever made.

[@kidmoto22]

Respectfully disagree…I ride the piss out of mine all over the country and it’s been excellent…tons of hidden power with nice refinement.

[@redwolf198920]

Going be all electric soon.

[@kidmoto22]

I don’t know if I’d go that far but we’re probably not super far from more electric vehicles

[@konstantinw.1036]

Until 2050

[@kidmoto22]

@@konstantinw.1036 🤔

[@konstantinw.1036]

@@kidmoto22 yeah many Stats start 2035 :( maybe i go for VW id Buzz