Expensive Harley and Less Expensive Harley, It is What It is

[@lachlanmaccormack5427]

I bought my first Harley in 1975, a 1943 WLC 750 in pieces, totally. It cost me £250. I spent a year of spare time restoring it from the frame up and the end result was very satisfying. I bought another 750 in 1978 and loved that too. Still riding one today, a 98 1340 Wideglide, which is totally reliable. I've never been interested in Arse up sports bikes.

[@johnschnellbach986]

Florida Man here. I know they say if I have to explain it, but let me try. I buy and ride Harleys for the following reasons 1. I love the look of a vintage motorcycle with modern parts. My bike is a 2003 Heritage Springer. I call it the brand new 1930's motorcycle. The personal feeling I get riding what I think is the most beautiful motorcycle ever made by anyone says it all for me. 2. I don't care about power. I care about looks, comfort and ease of riding. For these, you can't beat a Harley. Good luck being able to go 200MPH or ride 400 miles on your Honda. Now that being said, there are a few things I don't like about Harleys 1. I do only buy used bikes. There are so many in Florida for sale all the time at very reasonable prices with low mileage and tons of options already installed. Many people down here use them like toys. Very little mileage. I also buy used bikes because... 2. Yes... they have problems with their engines. Buying used means most of the time the usual issues are taken care of. That or it lets you have the cash to fix those issues. I already replaced the cam chains and tensioners as soon as I bought the bike. Its really the only weakness on the twin cam I know of. I also don't buy new because.... 3. The dealers and the factory are arrogant. I don't buy into the hype that I should be "INVESTING" in a bike that loses 1/2 of it's value in 5 years. They remind me of Time Share salespeople. Just look at the 2022 Nightster that just came out. $13,995 + shipping + assembly + their frickin fees they add + sales tax and you're at $18,000.00 WITHOUT OPTIONS !! You ALWAYS have to add to your bike to make it like it's supposed to beI Like with the above new Sportster. Oh you want 2 up seat that'll be $800 for the seat, pegs and backrest. Oh you want ...... just keep adding $$$$. I also don't buy new because... 4. The Service is just as arrogant as the sales. Your first service at 1000 miles at my dealership is $1000.00!!! WTF!! My used bike uses $75.00 for fluids for my service which I do because my 2003 is a pretty simple machine. Luckily the only reasonably complex item on my bike is the fuel injection, which I have never had a problem in 140,000 miles of riding. So there you go. Hope I explained it OK. See you on 2 wheels!!

[@GixxerFoo]

There's some good dealers out there, fortunately the one I go to and hang out at is really good or I wouldn't be there. I buy some parts and supplies there just to show support but on the flip side I've been to some dealers I can't spend 5 minutes in. Everything in those places screams run lol.

[@robbyclark6915]

When I started riding in late 2020, my wife initially had the impression that Harley Davidson was and is the top of the line, premier, nothing better, end all be all, motorcycle manufacturer end of discussion! Now she’s never ridden a motorcycle in her life or even been on one, but that’s the impression she immediately had of Harley Davidson. So much so that when I went to buy a brand new bike, she insisted I get a Harley Davidson or she wasn’t helping me with the down payment. “If you’re going to ride a motorcycle, then why would you ride anything else?” That was what she said to me. Trust me, I was not going to argue with her! I wanted a Harley anyways but thought she wouldn’t go for it because of their lofty price tags? Boy was I wrong. I’m now on my second Harley, a ‘21 Low Rider S that I just picked up in February! How sweet it is! Nothing like a Harley Davidson! Not to me anyway.

[@GixxerFoo]

That's awesome! I would love have one of those new Low Rider S's, they are really hard to find! I asked about a Low Rider ST and I was directing to where I could take a number lol.

[@vancedyer755]

The good wife!

[@jeffshultz3883]

You're wife have any sisters that are single and available? You got a keeper there!

[@geraldanderson652]

She have a sister,

[@geraldscott4302]

Man are you lucky. My EX wife made me get rid of my motorcycle (a Honda Goldwing) BEFORE she would marry me. I should have taken that as a bad sign of even worse things to come. While I am not a fan of the new, smooth, quiet, and 100% matte black H-D bikes, I guess they are better than a crotch rocket (which are also usually completely matte black)

[@SA-hk8xj]

Original owner of an 02 FatBoy (carbed) and other than the initial stage one set up at the dealer at time of delivery I’ve been to the service department once. And that was 17 years later to change/upgrade the tensioner shoes, oil pump, cam plate, etc. It’s still stock, just upgraded “evolved” parts. All maintenance I learned myself over the years. YT was a big help. Thing is chugging along and no sign of quitting. Yes, not many plastic parts and very good powdered coating or chroming of parts made a difference in its longevity an functionality over the years without issues. Looking forward to many years moving forward with the same results 👍😎

[@GixxerFoo]

That is awesome! Very well said!

[@Allen-eq5uf]

Talk about the weight of a Harley; I was riding on the highway going about 70mph on a beautiful day when I noticed a doe weighing about 180 lbs running at full speed 6’ right in front of me from my left side; no time to do anything other than stiffen up ,shut my eyes , and say to myself “you’re dead”. When I opened my eyes I was shocked that I was still in the same lane going and going the same speed and as I looked into the right rear mirror ( the only one I had left) I could see the deer spinning around behind me as fast a helicopters main rotor. Not many motorcycles could have absorbed such a shock. There were meat chunks in the bar where my passing lamp/turn signal were, bone chips in my highway bar foot pegs,and fur in my Road King Classic saddlebags. Harley Touring forever!

[@GixxerFoo]

Damn you got lucky there! Whew, that's about my worst nightmare about riding at night!

[@phillipperritt7787]

I ride Harleys for the 'comfort.' Harley's don't have high frequency vibration causing forearms to go numb and/or spine to ache like my 82 CB750 custom. Got an 06 FLTRI last year for $5K w/28k w/ locked up front brakes, fixed for $800 worth every penny gladly paid it, engine guard oil cooler $65 last week. In 2000 got a 90 FLTC w/52K miles for $5k. 100 mikes from at 53K lost a lifter and exhaust pipe rusted thru sounded like bolts in a coffee can, road it home, Got new Fueling lifters and rings stopped burning oil. 8 months ago reset spring in trans broke rode it home $23 part $600 labor, happy to pay. My point 32 year old Tour Glide parts are easy Shop had a old new stock spring in parts bin. Both will run 80 all day is good enough. Long rides helps my well being and keeps me centered. Gixxer, wonderful video as always.

[@GixxerFoo]

Thank you, I appreciate it! That's what I love about Harley's, parts are easy to find and the parts and labor cost doesn't outweigh the value of the bike. Not to mention it's not hard to find someone who can do the job, most shops won't work on a lot of metrics and will just turn you onto getting something else.

[@jodyhodge2129]

Honda owner for my whole life. Watching your videos over the last several weeks made me get a 2012 Ultra Classic. Put 350 miles on it in 3 days just going around in the country. Wife loves it. Hope to have many trouble free miles.

[@ElectraWillem]

Just do the needed maintenance and you wil be fine for the next twenty years. 👍

[@GixxerFoo]

Glad to hear it! Just keep up on the maintenance and that bike will treat you right!

[@erneumann3136]

Good video. I love my Harleys. BTW I saved a 2000 Buell Lightning from being parted out, put a new fuel pump in it and it runs like a champ...Gotta love the hopped-up Sportster engine.

[@GixxerFoo]

Thank you! Really?! That's a tube frame bike if I recall, those are hard to find anymore! They really run good with a little massaging from the factory!

[@erneumann3136]

@@GixxerFoo Yep a tuber.

[@HD_LiVe2RiDE_RiDe2LiVE]

I bought a 1991 Harley Davidson softail FXSTC custom last summer . 30 years old and she needed NO major repairs at all! I took the engine apart over the winter and rebuilt it just to give it some fresh components and to keep it running for myself for another 30 years. Did virtually nothing to the crank because it was in almost perfect condition! Once again 30 year old bike !!! #EVO4LIFE

[@goldcoastslim2117]

i also have a 93 fxstc. at 30000 miles now and only changed plugs a few times, new batteries , adjust carb every spring, and ignition plate melted on me once ! thats it - still runs like a champ. will NEVER sell this gem.........

[@GixxerFoo]

Right on! Evo's are lifetime machines for sure, even if you have to do some work or want to hop it up a bit the parts are cheap compared to the new stuff!

[@GixxerFoo]

Yeah Evo's tended to self destruct the ignition plate from time to time, they get a little warm back behind that cover.

[@geraldscott4302]

I own a 1989 FXRS Low Rider, which was in beautiful condition with very low miles when I bought it just over 10 years ago. It needed a few things because it had been sitting for so long. But after I got it cleaned up and freshened up, it has caused me no problems at all. It's a beautiful bike with 2 tone red paint and tons of chrome. I wish you could still get RWL tires, like the Goodyears they used to put on AMF Shovelheads, that would be a perfect finishing touch.

[@dougfisher1885]

I own a 90 softtail custom it needed some work when I bought it well 11 years later she still potatos down the hwy one of the best bikes I've ever owned EVOS for life man

[@lpd1snipe]

Harleys like any machine are very reliable if you maintain them and take care of them. One of my Harleys I ride several times a week was originally built in 1949. It has been overhauled and rebuilt several times in it's 73 years and as long as parts are available it'll still be running long after I'm gone. When I started riding on the street 52 years ago most of the Harley riders I knew were guys from World War II and Korea era who took care of their bikes. Then as years went by a new rider would buy a Harley and not maintain it. It would break down and they would piss and moan about the bike being garbage. I would ask them, when's the last time you adjusted the chain or changed the oil or adjusted the valves? They'd look at you with a blank stare on their face. Also people would complain about the AMF bikes. Yes, there were some quality control issues, but if AMF hadn't bought Harley in 1969 there would be no "motor company" today.

[@GixxerFoo]

That's the biggest issue is lack of maintenance and when it breaks it's the bike's fault. A little maintenance goes a long way on a Harley!

[@garyboman5018]

Great video. It's hard to put a feeling into words. A ride or two on a nice Harley and you may be hooked. You have something solid underneath you. The rumble and vibe you feel is soothing on a nice country road. People always turn and look. You just feel good.

[@GixxerFoo]

Well said! Right on!

[@MrTrooper82]

I have owned rice burners as well as Harleys. HD is the way to go. I have a 12' Electraglide custome with a sidecar with 65k on it. Rides as smooth as the day I bought it. The 103 gets us down the road as fast as we want to go.I have a 2k sportster 1200 custome with a few upgrades for solo short trips. Currently restoring an 80' ironhead basket case I picked up for 500 bucks at a police auction some tweeker owned. It will look good sitting next to my 81' wide glide I restored back in 06'. I get all kinds of good looks when I ride it.

[@firebearva]

The last Harley I bought was in 2000 and it sits in my garage collecting dust. Not because the bike is an overpriced, broken-down paperweight, but because this rider grew old and decrepit over my 55 years of riding on a Harley Davidson. My road ahead is now shorter than the one behind me and I wish I could ride it all again on a Harley Davidson.

[@sdmain]

My 2018 rks has 28000km with no problems. 🇦🇺❤️Harley. My first harley has been impressive 👏

[@jerryhubbard4461]

With my one year old stage I Trike with cat removed, I have all the power I will ever need. Great running engine so far and full of Amsoil.

[@grantkokich6906]

For me nothing sounds better than a Harley and on top of that the feel ie. vibration which adds to the character.

[@GixxerFoo]

That's exactly what it's all about!

[@THEREALBONZO]

Dealer network, parts availability, plentiful independent shops, limitless customization. And I could go on...

[@snakebite6511]

I have 3 Harley's, 2009 Rocker C with full stage 1, 2014 Dyna Wide Glide with full stage 1 & 2021 Street Glide with full stage 1 but just purchased SE lifters, SE Adjustable pushrods & SE 447 Cam, will be taking that to the dealer for install in late May. Didnt need it, just never taken a Harley to stage 2 and wanted to give it a try

[@holeshotv311]

I own a 2012 Heritage Softail Classic. 96 motor/ stage one. No major issues. Going on 96K miles. :O)

[@GixxerFoo]

That's awesome! That is exactly what I mean by plenty of high mileage examples out there that have never been in the motor!

[@johnclark538]

I also own 2012 heritage. It's a 103. Were there 2 motor options for that year? sounds odd.

[@johnbyrns2159]

I have owned, two shovel heads, 4 evo’s one twin cam and now a m8 all touring models, excellent reliability, couldn’t Begin to tell how many miles on them, one rocker box gasket on my 1989 flh, lost a lifter on a 1987 flh, other than that regular maintenance and don’t bet the hell out of them loved them all

[@GixxerFoo]

That's just it when you use them for their intended purpose and take care of them they will last you a lifetime! Dang you've had some Harleys over the years!

[@TheAsheybabe89]

Meh if it can't last through me beating the hell of it then it isn't reliable. I'm not saying not do regular maintenance and up keep, but if it can't stand up to me twisting the shit out it I'll pass. If I have to baby it and not enjoy the ride I'll just stick to cars.

[@kevinroberts172]

@@TheAsheybabe89 Just don’t be using the rev limiter to tell you when to shift all the time.

[@TheAsheybabe89]

@@kevinroberts172 I don't generally. But I've been riding my forty eight like I would any "standard" or "naked" bike. So playing on a curvy road I might wind a gear out to a little over five grand and shift just shy of the limiter. I would assume the bike can handle that with proper maintenance. I'm not sitting around and revving the piss out of it for extended amounts of times at stops or anything. I know I've certainly seen the guys in the Harley stunt community doing waaay worse lol.

[@joellaurin9007]

I recently bought a 2003 sportster, silver and black anniversary edition XL1200C. I've been spending some solid cash on some very tasteful custom work like a lapera cherokee double diamond seat, custom sissy bar, oem quality mid mounts, custom chrome lay down license plate bracket made close to where I live... ok so not so custom but not cheap catelogue parts either. My dad also rides a 1993 Electra Glide custom classic 80?? CI Evo and has 100k on it. He had only ever done regular maintenance since he has owned it and it's still going strong. Point is, there is lots in the way of junk parts and quality parts available for HD bikes dating back to the original sportster and PAN heads, even the WL 45 in some circles. HD is dedinitly a pay to play bike to own if you chose that but most importantly, the custom market is alive and thriving. Can't say that about an Asian or European cruiser. My biggest fear is HD with the not real "sportster and nightster" are doing just that, going to throw away bikes. It's a shame that they are now run by an emotion based group of people who are making their bikes just like everyone else.... pretty soon, the HD we love will be only a decision between names. Plastic Polaris indian or plastic american HD? HD needs to get rid of their hipsters in man bun leading them down this hotrible road and get back to their routes of grit and grind IMHO. Enough with the wokeness..... dudes have penises and girls have vaginas, the Bible says so!

[@goldilocks913]

Everything that the haters hate about my Harley is what makes every interaction with it it, from washing it to a long ride, an experience l can’t imagine getting anywhere else. I’ve had heaps of bikes and this is my third and biggest Harley-Davidson buy . All the moco trademarks make me want to hurl but they got something right for sure. Love the channel, all the best from 🇬🇧

[@GixxerFoo]

Harley builds a damn nice bike, they are one to keep for forever!

[@keithhults8986]

My 03' XL1200 was unreliable. Through 17k of riding. It blew the clutch bearing, the dogs on the end of the 2nd gear blew off and the shifting fork fell through the cluster and did no damage. $900 repair. Harley wanted $1200+ just to pull the gear cluster. Then the ignition module shit the bed. I found a 2002 FXSTDI with 3200 miles corroding in a shed for $5k 6yrs ago. Bone stock injected twin88, runs like a top. Never gives me any problems. Servicing and adjusting my Deuce is easy. The best part is the engine was built with Timken 02' was the last year Harley used Timken bearings.

[@fernandocamilli4232]

Good video buddy well said I agree 100% I've been riding Harley Davidson since 1974.✌

[@lovetofishneosheo1829]

My 04 cvo electra has over 100k still runs like day one. Replaced clutches and shift pawl shaft at 90 k. Doesn’t burn a drop of oil. Thanks for your videos man

[@johnsinico9970]

I just did 509's in my 2000 fatboy. Went through the top. All new gaskets breathers bearings cam plate oil pump. What a difference. Love 509's ! Inner tensioner was in bad shape with under 10.000 on engine. Glad I went in there. Fun project but not budget friendly but certainly saved a ton in labor doing it myself. Keep up the great videos.

[@GixxerFoo]

Thank you! Glad to hear you got in their and caught that before it caused a catastrophic failure!

[@trex860]

I have a 2021 FLRXS with 7500 miles and not a single problem with the bike; love spending days out on country roads.

[@GixxerFoo]

That is the best place to be out on a Harley is so those back country roads!

[@itsapittie]

"Underpowered" is purely a matter of what you want to do with it. When I twist the throttle on my 2018 Tri Glide (107 ci M8), it will snap my head back. It moves effortlessly in and out of traffic and holds highway speeds with ease. That's what I want; it's essentially a cruiser. Sneering at Harley for being underpowered is like criticizing a Cadillac STS for not being a Ferrari. The accusations of "outdated technology" seem to be mostly about still using the V-twin engine when "better" stuff is available and to a degree that's fair. But again, it works just fine for what I and thousands of other buyers want and aside from the basic engine design it has all the same high-tech stuff as most other motorcycles. Haters gonna hate. Buy and ride what makes you happy.

[@GixxerFoo]

Exactly, Harley is not underpowered it makes more than ample power for the intended purpose. People want to compare them to an inline 600cc sport bike, yeah it makes over 100 horsepower but it has two more cylinders and screams to 14K RPM to do it.

[@sijonda]

This is why I bought a Wrangler. It literally fell apart and I bought a new aluminum body and a new steel frame from TDK. Yes it's a massive headache building this thing but parts isn't an issue.

[@jamessouthworth1699]

I only buy the older garage Queens the people bought, and put 1,000 miles on, and forgot about. The prices of brand new Harley's are astronomical. 30-year rider and I never paid more than $7,500 for a bike. Two of those bikes were brand new. My cap always has been, and always will be 10G

[@GixxerFoo]

That's the way to get them right there, you can't beat finding a deal like that!

[@veronicagee4335]

I do that too. Last summer I picked up a 2001 FLSTC with 19,000 kms (12,000 miles) on it for $8500 Cdn. Great bike so far!

[@brandonmacon3317]

Smart man. Why pay 20 to 30 grand for something that will take 5- 10,000 dollars to just get right from the jump and a few aftermarket parts to increase power.

[@Countryboybiker]

You’re absolutely correct. Riding a Harley is the best experience out there for me. I’ve ridden and owned my share of cruisers and sport bikes. My CVO street glide is the sweetest ride of my lifetime. It will only leave my possession when I die and pass it on to my oldest son. Until then, I’ll keep her going strong. 38k miles and two cross country trips and counting!

[@GixxerFoo]

That's awesome! That CVO SG has to be a pleasure to ride cross country on!

[@TheRoadGlideRider]

My Harley-Davidson usually has 140,000 to 160,000 miles on them when they’re replaced. My last 2009 Road Glide had 148,000 miles when traded in last year for my 2021 Road Glide Standard. I’m nearing my retirement, so my annual mileage will increase. 🏍💨🏍💨

[@GixxerFoo]

Dang no one can accuse you of not riding those bikes! You plan on keeping the 21 and rebuilding or trading off when you get some miles on it?

[@TheRoadGlideRider]

@@GixxerFoo I’m not sure. Depends on what is available in five years. I usually replace every 7 to 10 years. Or sooner if totaled (happened three times) or stolen (happen once). As I’ve gotten older, I’ve found I like having the ESP (Extended Service Plan) when going cross country. I’m thinking of trading or selling in 4 years. I have a 5 year Harley-Davidson ESP, so will have a year left. Making it an incentive when selling. But may keep if not much better in 2026?

[@jeffreyengle2762]

If I was going to go on my experience in the last three years alone, I would have to say this bike is the most unreliable thing I’ve ever had. Every 10,000 miles it goes in for some kind of a rebuild. First the Engine rebuild, second 10,000 miles later the transmission went and had to be completely rebuilt. The compensator was replaced twice. I replaced the primary chain tensioner with a baker I’m hoping that helps some of this problem…. Yes bone stock bike. (Lots of warranty work here besides a multitude of comfort upgrades) I was looking at my wife’s heated jacket liner from Harley that she purchased when I bought the bike three years ago and some interesting things came to my mind. The jacket liner looks awesome, it’s got little sown in Harley insignias all over it, quilted look with stretch panels and not to mention she looks great wearing it. Those are all things that Harley excels in but the problem is is that underneath all the fancy stitching and stretch panels and fit and finish of this garment Harley decided in their infinite wisdom to cut corners and not put nearly enough heat in this jacket to make it worth the purchase. The arms are without heat the back has a small panel up on top and on the front of this jacket there’s two small wires on each side of the zipper that Harley calls enough. The reality is that’s the way they build their motorcycles as well, fit and finish unfortunately do not make dependability, for that you’ll have to go elsewhere in my opinion. So today I ordered my wife a new heated jacket liner that does not look as pretty on the outside and doesn’t have the fancy stitching but is well known for the way it functions and heats you when you’re cold. The nice pretty Harley Davidson liner will now go on eBay for a small fraction of what I paid for it originally. Would I have bought anything else other than Harley? Probably not. The sound, feel and comfort….. yes I still get a grin on my face when I’m cruising down the road and twist the throttle and this bike Just puts one big smile on my face. I’m a lost cause.

[@GixxerFoo]

Holy crap what year is your bike again? They honestly probably should of done a factory buy back on that bike and given you a new one switching all your accessories over to it with that kinda work history on it.

[@jeffreyengle2762]

@@GixxerFoo my sentiments exactly 2019 Road King Standard. Honestly I was fearing that they would do that because they want me to do all the switchover and I’ve got so much comfort modifications to this bike that it’d take me forever to switch them all over. And of course they’d make me do it.

[@d1mennis]

In the 26 years I've owned my 1986 FXR I've put over 100k miles on that Evo motor. It may not sound like much but I ride 3 bikes respectively all Harleys. What I have found is nobody buys a Harley to go fast, to be a canyon carver or because they're cheap. It's all about the image that they present. The problem I've found with Harley's is people try to perform upgrades on their own with little knowledge or talent or not the proper tools and training and that's where they get into trouble. That's when they become undependable they break down, and then become costly to fix. I would rather buy a stock bike and perform my own work than get something that has been "Upgraded" by a previous owner! Keep'em coming. I always enjoy the content!

[@GixxerFoo]

Thank you, I appreciate the support! That's exactly it, you can get a build done without supporting parts and have a time bomb on your hands.

[@davidburrow4584]

I love my 2011 roadglide ultra

[@carlbruhn1772]

Taking an antiquited engine design, making tiny changes over decades will never compete with whatever current technology is. That being said, reliability has increased exponentially. As a matter of fact I haven't seen a broke down Harley in years. I have stopped for several Harley's that have run out of fuel, not the machines fault just the knucklehead riding it. Pardon the pun.

[@GixxerFoo]

Lol I caught it, realistically these days a lot of issues are from the owner. The bikes have come a long way after the Evo, there were some factory issues but once that's fixed they do pretty well.

[@vancedyer755]

LOL. Yeah My Harley and my friends Harleys run very well. Just keep up ith the maintenance. You take care of it and it will last forever.

[@heybruh3274]

Funny thing, you would also think with the advances in computer technology and the resources of the Internet, that someone would at least know how to spell the word "antiquated". Generally not technologies fault, just the little sportster writing it. Pardon the pun.

[@cisa1622]

The air cooled line up from Harley-Davidson softail and touring models is good . I means other bikes you can find lot of common parts( levers, switches , indicators, mirrors etc). They just source all these parts from a common warehouse and assemble it( reducing cost per unit). Harley has branding and specific designs for each of its components. It more a custom built and harley built-fit and finish is second to none in the world and that costs. The very fact the HARLEY is careful in changing design is a huge plus for ownership. Harley air cooled bikes should not be compared to liquid cooled high performance except for the revolution max. The Yammie Noob HARLEY hate channels is obviously biased( that guy alway compared Harley-Davidson M8 and Twin Cam to a Ducati /S1000r and only thing he compares is BHP). I do not think it is apple to apple comparison.I only think the revolution max can be compared to other liquid cooled motorcycles. But given 2022 I think HARLEY should give feature like cruise control, pillion seat and pegs stock . That is where Harley looks rude to its customers

[@geraldscott4302]

A Harley Davidson is not meant to compete with "current technology" It is supposed to be an "alternative" to it. Not everybody wants the garbage technology found on most new motorcycles. Some still want a REAL motorcycle. That sounds and feels like a real motorcycle.

[@xlr8r3VA]

I like your comment about Harley's not being underpowered. My 2000 883 can go from 0-75 in about 10 seconds, that's fast. LOL!!! This is why I am upgrading to a 1275. I am also saving up for my touring bike, an Evolution Road King. Lots of options there even though they stopped making them 24 years ago.

[@GixxerFoo]

I am just glad to hear you're investing in a 1275 kit and not going to a 1200. It's not worth a 1200 conversion these days with the 1285 kit available! Right on for the Evo bagger, that's where it's at in my opinion. Evo motor is solid and you can get some grunt out of them bit they have a feeling you can't get from a TC or M8.

[@57torg]

I love my Harley Davidsons and always will ride one.

[@GixxerFoo]

Right on, I am the same way!

[@robertfrick]

I think you nailed all the points that I relate too. Is Harley the best motorcycle in the world? Not by far, but for me it ticks more boxes than any others and I have risen many bikes during the last forty years of riding.

[@scruffy4647]

If you like to wrench, get you a shovel. My 83 runs like a Swiss watch, well maybe not exactly like a Swiss watch but it still runs great.

[@freyatilly]

Yeah. I think you hit every nail on the head in every area. Nothing like a Harley.

[@joeharley87]

I have my 1987 Electra Glide for 32 years now it has 150k miles on it. I did put a 107 Ultima engine in it at 110K miles. But just about everything else is original. I will never get rid of it. Stay safe.

[@johnwoodworth329]

I have a 2013 Road Glide with 50k miles. No major maintenance on anything. When i bought it i put everything i wanted on it so i have a fair amount invested in it I will keep this bike for another's 50k after refreshing engine to a 110 as it is as comfortable as a rolling couch.

[@GixxerFoo]

That's what it's all about!

[@geraldscott4302]

Here we go with the power thing again. Power is probably the last thing I want or need in a motorcycle. As long as it will keep up with traffic and do the speed limit, I see no reason to have more power. You can't use more power on the street without racking up a lot of tickets, raising your insurance premiums through the roof, and eventually losing your license. For me riding a motorcycle is about the EXPERIENCE. The main two things are the SOUND and FEEL. Comfort and looks are also nice, and Harleys have all that (except for the M8 models, where H-D totally lost it) I have owned several Harleys, all EVO powered, all carbureted, and all bought used. Most of them already came with a decent exhaust system and air cleaner, though I have replaced a couple. I have installed a few accessories, like more chrome, backrests, saddlebags, highway pegs, etc. Nothing that would increase the power. I have never found a Harley lacking in power, even the 883 Sportster. It is a little small for me at 6' 240 pounds. But it certainly has no problems keeping up with city traffic or doing 75 mph on the highway, though I usually cruise around 65 mph in the right lane no matter what I'm driving or riding. I have had fewer problems with EVO Harley engines than Japanese engines. Japanese engines usually have overhead cams, which means cam chains, guides, tensioners. And that is definitely their weak point. I have had maybe 3-4 cam chains fail on Japanese engines. They fail for 2 reasons. They either just wear out (a chain is going to wear out before any other internal engine part) or they fail because a tensioner or guide failed. EVO Harleys do not have internal chains, so they don't have those problems. The Twin Cam has chain driven cams, and that is one of their biggest problems. Both the chains and tensioners fail. A gear drive would have been a lot better but couldn't be used because the cheap pressed together cranks could get out of alignment. Those are 2 major mistakes H-D should never have made, and why I will not likely ever buy a Twin Cam. It would cost a fortune to get things right. Besides the smooth, quiet, very UN Harley like M8, another huge mistake H-D has been making for quite a while now is painting everything they make matte black. Did someone give them an unlimited supply of matte black paint? Will it ever run out? When you look at most new Harleys now, all you see is a big black blob. All that matte black paint completely obscures the lines of the bike. It's super ugly to begin with, and looks even uglier after a few weeks, when it gets all splotchy and scratched. Now, I don't have a problem with a GLOSS black tank and fenders, along with lots of chrome, but dipping an entire bike in matte black paint is just ridiculous. I like bright shiny paint and lots of chrome. That's the way Harleys used to be, and the way all mine are/were. I've added chrome to most of them, and had a couple repainted to a brighter color. Since H-D went to the M8 engine for their larger models, and completely discontinued the Sportster, they are no longer relevant to me. I will continue to own and ride Harleys from back when they made the kind of bikes I love. I may even eventually get a Shovelhead or Ironhead Sportster. But as far as I am concerned, H-D has officially quit making Harleys.

[@TheAsheybabe89]

You are 360 from me. I want power. I want the thrill, sound alone doesn't sale me. I want a cat that catches mice, not just appears to be able to catch them. As for tickets, Cops virtually never stop bikes here and if they do you're thanked for not running and generally let off with a warning. And also, flat black are the sexiest Harley. Actually, first bike I saw stopped in two years was last week, an old guy on a road glide. Meanwhile a lot of people (and especially sportbikes) will cruise 80-90 on the highway all day and not be stopped. I wish they were doing more (flat colors all around) instead of obscene amounts of chrome and shiney stuff. I'd rather ride my bike that spend all week cleaning it, not to mention flat colors look more classic. Massive amounts of chrome and bright paint were a layer thing. Look at bobber/cafe (especially WLA) builds that capture the original Harley culture before everyone started riding chrome laden $30,000 couches.

[@geraldscott4302]

@@TheAsheybabe89 I will always love bright shiny paint and lots of chrome. That goes for cars as well as bikes. I am a collector, and rider/driver of vintage bikes and cars. I like power too, just not on the street. I have been drag racing cars for over 40 years. I build my own race cars/engines, and they are always brightly painted, and the engines have no electronics other than mid '70s GM HEI ignitions. Vintage bikes were NOT matte black. Just look at pictures of them. Most vintage Indians were bright red. I've owned several 1960s British bikes, and they were all brightly colored with chrome. My current 1966 Triumph Bonneville is bright blue and silver with tons of chrome, and even has white piping around the seat. Oh, and cops where I'm at spend most of their time stopping crotch rocket riders. Cops hate crotch rockets and those who ride them, and never miss a chance to stop them for anything they can.

[@juliohernandez2378]

A lot of people don't understand.....It's a way of life!

[@GixxerFoo]

It really is a lot more than just a motorcycle, once you own one and meet people you really get a understanding of that!

[@juliohernandez2378]

Agreed....Love your videos.

[@arrowrod]

Great business plan. 40 horsepower. 850 lbs. Stage 1, 50 horsepower. Stage 2, 60 horsepower. Stage 3, 70 horsepower. Stage 4, 80 horsepower. 4,000 miles later. Boom. New crate motor from S&S. What's that? About $20K. Murica.

[@GixxerFoo]

Lol sometimes it can for sure get that way with some years of Harley.

[@sonofabishop4449]

Somebody knew a guy, who knew a guy, who knew a guy, who broke down on a Harley, which in turn is relayed to the rest of us as, "Harley's are overpriced garbage and unreliable." Personally, I'd take a Harley over any other bike any day of the week.

[@GixxerFoo]

Lol I think you just summed it up right there!

[@ionageman]

It’s something that has to be experienced

[@_hitmn_]

Very true about resale value. Here in Australia, even few mods can get you a considerable profit margin

[@GixxerFoo]

Harleys are weird like that when you add accessories, every other manufacturer it doesn't matter what's on it. Other brands you can have decked out and they still go for the book value.

[@seH2i]

Thank you.

[@GixxerFoo]

You're welcome!

[@rodbean6530]

I bought a new 2006 EFI Fatboy for $18,000. I put a Stage 1 w/ 2into1 pipes. Had the cam chain tensioner replaced while still under warranty. 92+k miles later I sold it for $5000. No other work done except regular maintenance/tires. Just bought a 2003 Road King w/32k miles on it. Thanks to Gixxer, I'm getting it up to speed. When finished, I expect to run it up to 90k before I go looking for another bike.

[@GixxerFoo]

That's awesome! No one can say you don't ride them for sure!

[@ranchodeluxe1]

My shop is on I90, 25 miles from Sturgis. I service a lot of high mileage Touring bikes. They are very, very solid machines and they outperform all the others up to the point of running out of ground clearance. They will just walk away from a Gold Wing or BMW in the Black Hills twisies. When I did dealer events at Vegas Motor Speedway, we'd take all the H-D product and buy all the competition and let folks ride them all. The H-D Wide Glide was the best overall performing cruiser. I watched Tripp Nobles put a chick on back and outrun every cruiser on the track. One Kawasaki dealer broke his leg trying to show us the superiority of the Vulcan.

[@anchorsaweigh9893]

I have few thoughts. I have an Evo that sadly I’ve all but neglected due to time and energy but it’s on the agenda. It still runs fairly well considering how poorly its been maintained. My Twin Cam 02 FXDL has been great and has almost 50k but it was completely revamped at 20k. My New Bike 21’ Road King Special hasn’t given me any problems with only 3k miles but the damn thing was basically $35k after I did everything to it which is more than I paid for a Brand New Tacoma 4D TRD in 2017. Harleys are an expensive labor of love but they have been pretty good bikes to me all said. Good Video and Ride Safe 🤙🏽

[@GixxerFoo]

Thank you! Yeah they are truly a labor of love, the new ones are pretty solid even with some having the oil sumping issue. But since they updated the oil pump they seem to be doing a lot better now, I hope you get that Evo up and going again!

[@HazeyDayzz420]

Dude I have a 96 honda shadow vt1100 with 55k runs like a top. Your 3k miles isn't even considered being broken in yet lmao. Good luck getting to 50k+ without expensive maintenance..... I ride my bike daily. Never left me stranded. Plus I do door dash on my old girl too! I still have yet to see a Harley delivering food or anything lol. Garage queens most the time

[@anchorsaweigh9893]

@@HazeyDayzz420 Honda Shadows especially from that era all but bullet proof. Those are some really great bikes. My sister has a 2003 Shadow Aero 750 and the only thing wrong with the bike is the Sun faded speedo and seat is starting to come apart. Thing still runs like new. As far as Harleys I love working on them. I chop around San Diego on all 3 of my bikes. Dyna is the funnest. The Road King is super nice. Evo I ride about once every 6 weeks to keep her going but she will be getting a overhaul in the next 18 mos. Motor Refresh and Cosmetics but not touching the original silhouette of the bike.

[@barrybarnes96]

@@HazeyDayzz420 Dude if I had to ride a Honda Shadow I'd just opt for the Corolla and get it over with.

[@brucesantacory1390]

1st before i say what i am about to, i've been on Harley's since 1973 at age 14 on an SX125, my 1st big twin was 4 years later in 77 when i got an FXS Lowrider, Today in 2022 i ride a 2014 1/2 FXDL Lowrider and i Worked Harley Dealers from 73 to 2010 and then independent shops and now retired i help out at the local dealer. That being Said Consumer Reports did a Study of Motorcycles and Harley Davidson was in 6th Place Behind #1 Yamaha, #2 Honda, #3 Suzuki, #4 Kawasaki, #5 Indian and Right on Harley's Heals at #7 was Triumph and they have made Leaps and Bounds in Quality since this article was published. As to the Miles and Miles on Harley's YES but how many had a Major Repair while on the road, or required a total motor rebuild, i literally have an American Express card with a $10,000 limit on it for use when i travel on my Harley. And Talk About trouble free touring, the Yamaha Venture Royale and the Honda Goldwing have over the years logged some serious miles without the need for a $10,000 protection card LOL !! OMG always thought you were a bit smarter, the Resale Value Card is Total BULLSHIT !! i'll give you a for instance, i owned a 2006 FLSTFI Fatboy, and a 2006 Yamaha 1700 Roadstar the Fatboy had an MSRP of $18595, the Roadstar and MSRP of $12995 We both know the Fatboy went out the door at almost $20k, and i got the Roadstar for $12k even out the door i sold them both in 2010 with basically the same mileage on them i got $8000 for the fatboy and half that for the Road Star at $3995 but look at the numbers in BOTH CASES i got over book value, but i lost $12000 dollars on the Fatboy, and i lost only $8000 on the Yamaha, Harleys will lose you More Money than Any motorcycle in History because Harley charges a premium price out the door and then the dealers tack on a few $1000 more and those high prices just are not sustainable . the Parts issue is Also untrue, Harley has learned from the metric brands and makes enough changes every year that parts become model and year specific and then they only support them for 10 years, Honda on some models exceeds 15 years parts support , you are however right about the Aftermarket and parts, i can still build from the ground up a panhead with a few aftermarket companies. But Power.......been there done that built some crazy harley's but in the end a mildly modified R6 could still beat them, and todays R1 not a bike in the HD line up will come Close EVER, In the End like you, i have owned and raced many brands, but in my garage is a Harley.

[@GixxerFoo]

Today's used market is crazy! I've had to go back and look at MSRP on used bikes when they were new. Some of the dealer pricing is blowing my mind if they are actually getting that pricing used bikes above original MSRP. Lately the used market on other manufacturers is gaining some traction and really closing that gap on where Harley really used to be with resale.

[@jerrym2321]

Well said Bruce!

[@brucesantacory1390]

@@GixxerFoo Harley got the reputation for resale in the EVO years because you had to wait 6 months to a year to get a Bike, so used ones were going for more than the new ones, But the last few years of the Evo Era the Motor Co opened the Kansas City Plant and proceeded to flood the market with bikes right up until the new German CEO put an end to the over production. Here where i live in New Hampshire we have no less than 5 independent used harley dealers and 6 or 7 genuine HD Dealers and late model Evo's and TC88 and TC96s are a dime a dozen here, i even just last October purchased a 2014 1/2 TC103 Lowrider with only 900 miles for a song, and they gave me crazy money for a 2012 TC103 Road King i traded in for it. The New CEO is Trying to Bring back the EVO Era by cutting production, but as long as there are cheap Twin Cams out there his plan is on hold

[@bruceprigge7420]

Thanks! 🙂

[@GixxerFoo]

You're welcome!

[@markwhatley9955]

I bought my first Harley after 30 years of not riding anything. It’s nothing like any bike I ever rode before.

[@GixxerFoo]

Harley is just a different experience!

[@hondo1829]

U can a HD dealer just about anywhere in US, I have 5 HD dealers within an hour ride.

[@GixxerFoo]

I've got a little longer than an hour but I've 5 myself within an hour and a half. If one doesn't have it you might still be able to get it the same day.

[@frankmarkovcijr5459]

Harley doesn't have throwaway motorcycles they just have to throw away Motors.

[@PinksAdventures]

I didn't get a notification on this video!...everyone keeps saying Harleys are expensive...when I started looking at getting a full dressed bike I looked at Honda, Indian, Yamaha and Kawasaki!....they were all within a few $k in price... with exception to the Kawasaki...it was quite a bit cheaper...but I think it still comes with a 8 track player!...there's really no tech built in!...the new M8 and the fit and finish of the Harley got me in the end!😉👍...thanks for sharing....stay safe...ride safe!!😎👍🤙👍🤙🇨🇦

[@GixxerFoo]

Sorry about the notification, I uploaded it unfinished and it went to public so that's likely what messed up the notifications. Kawasaki is still the least expensive bike out there, great bikes too!

[@tylerdurden6335]

My understanding from a local Harley dealer is Harley will no longer support Harley’s older than an 07…..so as a dealer they wont/can’t work on those bike’s anymore because they can’t get the parts. Anyone else run into this BS?

[@greatmoose17]

Most of the parts for my 93 FXSTC are now obsolete. That includes nuts and bolts. And starting 1/2022 HD will only sell you a part if you’re standing in front of them. So getting that obsolete part from a dealer in another part of the country has gone away as well. Slowly, HD is screwing themselves by screwing all of us with these policies.

[@GixxerFoo]

I don't doubt that honestly, they've already discontinued the 88 from the long block program. You'll still be able to get parts but you can rebuild any Harley without a single part from the MoCo. There's plenty of Indy shops out there that cheaper and quite honestly likely do better work.

[@GixxerFoo]

Fortunately there's a huge aftermarket out there, honestly most of those parts are usually better.

[@mikewoods6746]

I must be unlucky, every H-D I bought was a piece of well you know what, every scooter I built was great and lasted many miles. You can buy a used one with the bugs already worked out for a fifth of the cost of a new one, then make it like you want.

[@kennethanderson1685]

Excellent points

[@GixxerFoo]

Thanks!

[@davemagee]

Well said Gixer my 2015 RG is a great bike so much torque and for long distance it stays at speed without screaming like other bikes. I've owned about 28 bike's all types last 6 all Harley all the way. In NZ My bikes gone up in value can't complain about that . All the best Gixer and your family Happy Easter 🐇

[@GixxerFoo]

Thank you and happy Easter to you too, very hard to complain about the value going up!

[@michaelmitchell5909]

Nothing like a harley with good exhaust and a set of cams

[@GixxerFoo]

No doubt, a good set of cams adds some serious thump!

[@kevinmcmillin3037]

Always enjoy your video’s good info and the added suspense of waiting for your catch all shelf behind you to fall! Keep ‘‘em coming

[@jamesmacdonald3090]

I get loads of stick from local biker group in UK about owning a Harley. The thing is that most old skool riders have had the different makes... I have had all the Japs, Triumph, Italians and German bikes, sports, supersport, tourers etc.. etc.. and like GixxerFoo, I always come back to Harley Davidson. My daily driver is a Range Rover, why? Because it's not like the rest, also have an Alfa Romeo... must be either a sucker for punishment or a true petrol head?! I know the answer to that one... I got soul!

[@goldysmith6953]

By the way that more was a 103 with water cooled heads had to wait two and a half months to get some parts only to find out because I changed my pipes and did a tune-up I had no warranty great company thank God for the aftermarket industry I'd be walking today

[@laneh1968]

Most Harleys that have had major engine failures usually had a loose nut on the seat. Harley’s were never designed for high performance. They are called cruisers for a reason.

[@GixxerFoo]

Exactly, you run the crap out of them and don't service then then blame the bike for failures.

[@carlbruhn1772]

I completely agree. I have owned a number of them from 1989 forward. Only paid the Harley Tax, pipes and and air cleaner. Never had any issues, but I cruised them all never redlined or road them out on the edge. On another note, cam chain tensioners we're addressed early on twin cams, perhaps I'm lucky. Never had to personally face a catastrophic failure. I watched several friends grind their bikes down, spend tons of money and time making their own ideas of a speed rocket only to complain of failures across the spectrum.

[@slyguyaction]

You hit the nail on the head on many, many points. Really good video man. Thanks!

[@GixxerFoo]

Thank you, I appreciate it!

[@morningstarx5340]

I love Harleys. The experience of riding them is second to none. That being said, they are definitely not reliable right out of the box. The company sells bikes with known engineering issues in the engine consistently and expects the consumer to go to the aftermarket to solve the problems. The TC had serious issues all the way up until it was discontinued, and the M8 has been going down that same path since it was released.

[@jeffhawkins711]

Sometimes I get so disgusted with Harley. I've owned nothing but Harley since I was 16 I'm now 69. These motorcycles have gotten so expensive that not just anyone can own one . Which eliminates alot of good people that always rode them back when a brand new bike was 3200 off the showroom floor. What I'm bitchin about is I bought an 06 fatboy last summer. Bike was immaculately cared for everything was great until I find out about the cam chain tensioner b.s.

[@GixxerFoo]

There's no avoiding it on the 88's, some engines they last a long time in and others eat those tensioners.

[@kevinroberts172]

Did my 06 Road King at 47,000 km. Had about 25 percent left and cost me 400$. Did it again at 122 thousand km. The bike has been totally trouble free for 15 years of riding although the primary chain was replaced cause it is getting some vibration at idle.

[@michaelconran5252]

I love my Harley. Also love my KTM. For me the M8 107 is great for me. I knew what I was getting when I bought it. Reality, for the same money as my 2020 Street Bob, I could have bought a faster bike. I have ridden my Softail over 900 in a day (aftermarket seat) I wouldn't want to do that on a bike. You need to keep at 7,000rpm to cruise at 85mph. I have owned Honda, KTM and Harley. None gave me real issue, good maintenance made sure of that.

[@GixxerFoo]

For sure need a good aftermarket seat to really lay down some miles! Good maintenance goes a long way!

[@RA-ws7it]

My Harley’s have always gone fast enough to get a speeding ticket 🎫

[@GixxerFoo]

That's all that really matters!

[@richardbeucler6425]

I’ve got an ‘01 FLTRSE and an ‘02 VRCSA.Both bikes have over 100K on them.I do prefer the feel of the Roadglide over the V-rod,but like riding both motorcycles.(obviously)

[@GixxerFoo]

Damn I would say so! I am really impressed you have a Vrod with that many miles, highest mileage Vrod I have seen had like 52K on it.

[@irishguyjg_2ndchancerecovery]

Thanks brother. Your my Harley preacher lol. Keep preaching & teaching us man.

[@GixxerFoo]

Thank you, l really appreciate it! Harleys are really a whole new world, more expensive than other brands but they are an investment. I've owned metrics and there's nothing worse than having a clean nice bike and having to junk it just due to lack of parts availability or cost.

[@irishguyjg_2ndchancerecovery]

@@GixxerFoo I bought my first new H.D. last year, an Iron 1200, I'm new to biking by about 5years, sporster fit my riding skills and what I like to do, so I LOVE your content and insights, Because I'm obviously H.D.4LIFE now, so any and all info you so graciously share with us will go in the bike bank in my mind's vault and try to do alot of my own work myself and be educated on common topics thanks to you and a few others I like to watch. I got a Vance&Hines FP3 and although I have a stock air cleaner yet, I LOVE THAT THING. I've completed the AUTO tune sessions and have a fairly decent running bike now , flood run was today, 27 real feel degrees this morning so we donated money to the Gilettes Children's Hospital and canceled the ride for the cause, the roads are way too crappy still and without fairings and decent protection on a sporty, even the big guys in our crew(EVERYONE BUT ME THE GREENIE, SECOND TO THE GUNNER IN BACK GUY ;)) canceled this morning, it is April 16th in Minnesota so can't expect too much when it comes to nice weather in April, ALTHOUGH I DO HAVE 200 miles on this year already, and that was 2.5 days of 55+, that's all we've had thus far, impatiently waiting good weather can be maddening when you have a bike in the shop here at home JUST WAITING TO BE RIDDEN EVERYWHERE. Thanks bro for all your content, I personally know what it takes to run a channel, not one of your magnitude, but i have to say, I'm impressed and that's why I finally commented and shared my appreciation for what you do, you've helped me out in my knowledge 2fold and your channel will come in handy in the future as I work on and purchaseHarleys out of my range . ;) You rock dude 👊🎯

[@hondo1829]

When did they come out with first cov bike??

[@GixxerFoo]

They started with bringing back the FXR Evo's in 2000 but they were called Screamin Eagle, they called Screamin Eagle until 2009 when they were officially called CVO.

[@crspcritter]

They seem to have a soul - Others don’t. Nailed it again buddy !!!- Agreed on all - ✊🏻👍👌👋 The deeper you dig into em. The more soul that comes out - 😁

[@GixxerFoo]

That's the truth, the more personal touch you put on one the more you become one with the machine.

[@crspcritter]

@@GixxerFoo amen ta that and more self confidence added !!! Yeah I think the old Harley’s have more soul . Daughter says shovelhead has better sound . 😁. 👍👌✊🏻

[@mkd7961]

as was stated in the movie “it’s like an explosion between your legs” 😂😂😏

[@dermotgillespie9030]

The Japanese can come up with Intruders, extruders and protruders but there’s only one Harley Davidson.

[@GixxerFoo]

That's what I'm saying!

[@GTX1123]

Love my 2003 Fatboy. Just had the cam chain tensioners replaced. It's just an all around better looking, smoother riding bike and it will retain its value than better than any other non-HD bike out there. Would it be nice to do some upgrades to increase the power? Yeah sure but that's only because I got used to my last bike (Roadstar) which was a bored & cammed fire breathing dragon. I'm quite content to putt around on a lower powered HD.

[@GixxerFoo]

Right on! Sometimes just having a good sounding smooth running bike is the ticket. Harleys all about enjoying the scenery and making some noise, nothing wrong with that.

[@GTX1123]

@@GixxerFoo Yep. I got a good deal on my Fatboy too. Bought it last year for UNDER 5K and it only has 42k miles on it. Per what you point out, there's a higher level of craftsmanship that goes into HD's than what you see with Japanese cruisers but the biggest issue is resale value. I'll never have to sell my Fatboy for less than what I paid for it. You just can't say that about Japanese cruisers.

[@rimaspazereckas2748]

I love the fact i can get brand new parts for my 89 fxsts (softail springer)...but trying to find brand new parts for my 1995 mc22 cbr250rr project...well that has been harder... As they they say...old harleys never die...

[@GixxerFoo]

I'd love to have a 90's sport bike but getting parts to restore it just to be a street rider is almost impossible!

[@boclark8059]

I have a 2010 flhtk with 85000 miles on it it runs like a brand new one I love my old girl!

[@frankmarkovcijr5459]

Japanese motorcycles wrote the book on reliability bar none. Harley's do not hold their value when you lose 1/3 right off the showroom floor and in your 33,000 motorcycle that is $11,000 that you pissed away as soon as you drove off the lot you will never get that money back and you will pay for that money in eucery's interest rates and add on warranties that do not cover anything. And when you get tired of playing biker and bike night you will let them take the bike back and save making 96 payments. Harley's financing arm is bundling shaking loans for sale so they don't get stuck with 200,000 repossessions, of course Jen maybe they will have some motorcycles to put on the showroom floors.

[@YoshiRambles]

HD needs to wake up. Personally, I will never own one again....the HD tax not worth it with all the other options out there. Main reason for me....stock bikes are terrible and HAVE to mod right off the lot just to get it to run "decent". I get the EPA stuff....but still.

[@GixxerFoo]

I'll agree there's no comparison between stock and getting a stage 1 with aftermarket tune. They will run decent, but there's just so much to be had in those motors, EPA regs are killing us.

[@carlbruhn1772]

Consider the used market. I have on Harley's for 35 years and never bought new. The value is in the 3-5 year old bike with low miles and plenty of extras that usually get removed And sold to make it my own. For me the adventure of locating, horse trading, and creating is part of it. I should add steering clear of dealers used stock is a given.

[@stevend8785]

If you bought a used Harley, say a Street Glide that's a few years old for $16,000 and sold it 4 years later for $12,000 it hasn't cost you too much for your hobby.

[@davebarnes6672]

I happen to own both a Metric ( Yamaha) and a HD Fatboy that I special ordered in 2012 when they got the bump to the 103 and the six speed tranny. The biggest difference in my mind that’s negative to HD is the fact that there are many internal engine upgrades that are often needed for longevity and performance. The metrics come with these premium internals from the get go. That’s my beef. However, I love my Fatboy Lo but the V superstar isn’t going anywhere without me. A narrow minded Harley guy, I’m not

[@turniprider1]

I made peace with HD years ago. It’s not the motorcycle’s fault HD is run by MBAs who are twatwaffles.

[@GixxerFoo]

I would have agree they really are out of touch it seems like, supposedly they get out on the ground at rallies and shows but I don't see it.

[@bradlozano2571]

I bought my 1st HD in 2017 (iam on my 2nd)...after years of riding metrics and 14years with a Victory...I can say if your HD has nothing more modern than Fuel Injection they are pretty easy to maintain yourself 90% of the time...Iam happy with my TC103 Dyna FatBob...

[@GixxerFoo]

Harleys really aren't that bad at all on maintenance, honestly really easy to take care of.

[@bradlozano2571]

@@GixxerFoo Yes they are...i am sure glad that i dont need the infortainment stuff...More wiring a Bike has...more things that can go wrong...

[@theodavies8754]

Hopefully the Harley you have now is the best one you have ever had. I'm on my 3rd which I hope to be the last bike I ever need. '99 TC 88 FXDL with only 25k miles. It's getting harder to get some original parts but they do usually turn up after a while.

[@GixxerFoo]

The aftermarket support for Harley is incredible, Harley has discontinued so many twin cam parts now because they are trying to kill the used market. Used Harleys are wrecking new bike sales.

[@peterrestaino7047]

I just wish they would of perfected the crankshaft issues with the newer bikes. Thats why I keep my evo flhs

[@GixxerFoo]

Yeah honestly if they would of kept taking the extra time with the Timken lower ends they would really be some bullet proof engines. The cranks really aren't that bad though, you just honestly can't lug the dang engine.

[@peterrestaino7047]

@@GixxerFoo are the sportsters engine still built well

[@stephenmccabe9941]

If I have to explain You wouldn't understand. I do not know how many times I have had to say that to my sport bike rider friends.And then one day my buddy said to me I understand. I rode a Harley yesterday and it was awesome there is just something about the feel of the bike that is like no other. it was at that point I looked him in the eye and said You Do Understand

[@GixxerFoo]

Exactly! You just don't get it till you ride one, it goes against everything you think would make it an awesome bike. Lol but in fact it's just different and no one gets it until you ride one!

[@semperfipar1299]

Harley gets a bad name from former Harley owners . It is usually deserved. For what you pay they do not live up to premium brand. Here is the statement that is damning. “I had to fix my bike to make it run or they had to fix the bike to make it run.” After that no problems ride the wheels off. Every negative comment I ever heard about Harley came from former Harley owners. Disgruntled owners who shelled out a lot of money and ride with other bikers that own different brands and the maintenance talk comes out. You end up not hating the bike so much as hating the company because they know the problem and let it continue. If you are not a mechanic you would never know any better but if you are and your have experience with other engineering in a performance brand then the criticism can get ugly. S&S is in business today because of it.

[@GixxerFoo]

S&S for sure has grown the company fixing Harley's engineering, you can build a solid bike through S&S. Not cheap though but well worth it.

[@semperfipar1299]

@@GixxerFoo Yes, but if you did the assembly yourself would you come out cheaper than the CVO?

[@donaldcross7978]

Real good one !!!

[@GixxerFoo]

Thank you, I appreciate the support!

[@thomaseatkinson7088]

I'm not an expert, I've only ridden since 1971 and owned 19 motorcycles, including 3 Harleys. I have a 2014 Ultra Limited touring bike today. It replaced a Honda Gold Wing, and I can say this with authority - the Gold Wing is hands down almost as reliable as the Harley.

[@GixxerFoo]

Gold Wing is a hell of a motorcycle, they just don't have the feel like a Harley. Lol if that's good or bad that's left up to each their own.

[@josephkane8503]

Understatement Gl 1000 hit us at the same time AMF WAS HAVING ISSUES... THAT BEING SAID.. THEIR, S AN ASS FOR EVERY SEAT & THE MC WORLD.. LOOK AT BMW TODAY... MC,ARE A PASSION.. PERIOD MULTICULTURAL EXPESSION & ESCAPE .. Cheaper than a SHRINK.. HEATHIER THAT ANY OTHER VICE.. I WILL AGREE THAT EXPENSE HAS BEEN OVERLY INFLATTED ON ALL YHE BELLS & WHISTLES.. BUILT YOUR RIDING STYLR... CHEAPER IN THE LONG RUN.. AND IT WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN..

[@thomaseatkinson7088]

@@GixxerFoo "Feel" is one thing, long term performance is another. No doubt Honda makes a great engine. Unfortunately their frame quality, switch quality and master cylinders sucked. On the Harley I had to have the clutch master cylinder plunger and a rear shock replaced under warranty. The Harley issues were not nothing, just less than the Honda issues. On the "plus" side, no way Honda was able to match the quality of fit & finish of the motorcycle or the quality of the electrical connectors used. Harley is second to none in these areas.

[@brianhansen4761]

Unreliable? I have a 82 XLCH Ironhead Sportster that I got with just over 2000 miles on it. It currently has 475000 miles with only one rebuild. If that is not reliable then I don't know what is...

[@GixxerFoo]

Damn that's very impressive on an Iron Head. You've really kept up on the maintenance with that bike, they will for sure do it!

[@jeffomspaugh6691]

We don't have an abundance of new or used bikes available in DFW

[@GixxerFoo]

I'm really surprised at that, the used market has been huge. Especially now that Harley is offering financing on private sales trying to capture some of that market.

[@vancedyer755]

My GL1800 leaked oil and leaked coolent. It also had some weired electrical issues that I found in a junction plug that had grounds and power in the same plug. Now this isn’t an issue until corrotion creeps in shorting out the ground contacts to the power contacts and stuff quits working and the plug starts to melt. So if any one wants to argue how HD are not reliable and leaks and bla bla bla. What ever. My harley FLHTCU is my first and only HD. The only other thing in the world that you can get as many upgrades and parts for is probably a 1911 45 ACP.

[@GixxerFoo]

Harley is a stout machine, metrics break too contrary to popular belief. I worked in metric shops and indy shops where we serviced everything. Once again the biggest issue was getting parts for older metrics, most times the cost was not justifiable on major repairs.

[@fps636]

A Harley is a Harley, nothing else compares. Push it home, fix it, putt putt back out, who cares. All part of the life! Once it's in your blood, it will never ever go away.

[@MeatyGoulash]

I have the Dino results for my 110 S&S build on My Rd., King

[@GixxerFoo]

Very nice! What did you end up with?

[@MeatyGoulash]

With air cleaner , shorty 2-1 and tuned, 585 cams 100hp and 120tq I sent the official dyno sheet to your instagram

[@AmericanPatriot-cw9xe]

I always wondered why the heck harley dont keep enough parts in stock to at least be able to built a current production touring model bike, so parts are always in stock ready to sell or repair any new bike coming in off the road in a timely manner without us having to be delayed waiting on parts ! much as they charge for new bikes they owe us at least that I feel for what its worth, n one reason harley can put as many reliable miles is most harley owners stays on top of doing service n any needed repairs so they can enjoy riding much as possible n hopefully not break down when out on a ride.

[@GixxerFoo]

It is a bit annoying, it's not like the old days when they used to stock the parts room. I've got a local dealer that's still a bit old school, hell they keep fresh new Twin Cam engines in stock.

[@brianminkc]

Interesting the new Harley leadership named the new engine the Revolution considering Willie G. said they were not about revolution.

[@GixxerFoo]

A lot has changed since Willie retired, a lot would say he really held the company back.

[@alanquintus2069]

How do you evaluate a state of mind?