First Ride 2017 Harley Davidson Road Glide: Why I HATE this motorcycle

First ride 2017 Harley Davidson Road Glide: Why I HATE this motorcycle
Honestly, by the end of the trip the Harley Road Glide had grown on me quite a bit. If you're subscribed to this channel and you wait for the videos to come out towards the end of the trip I actually grow quite fond of it despite it's shortcomings. I've never ridden a motorcycle that's better suited for eating miles than this one, it's got that down pat. Although I'm still REALLY unimpressed with the power delivery of the milwaukee eight vs the older rushmore engines. Keep an eye out for more California adventures from us!
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If you love what we do here and want to support the channel you can check out my patreon here www.patreon.com/shadetreesurgeon
Huge thanks to everyone who helped make this trip happen, even though we came back to tragedy it was still the experience of a lifetime and I'm happy we went. you guys are the ones who make these videos possible, thank you so much... keep it weird y'all. #shadetreearmy

[@MattLaidlaw]

Shadetree. I'm a fan of yours bro but the rental place should have gone over some things with you before you took off. 6th gear is the cruise drive. You were lugging the hell out of that thing by opening the throttle all the way up in 6th. Use 5th if you're gonna crank on it especially with you and a passenger. The EITMS can be shut off by rolling the throttle forward. Click the "I" info button with your right thumb to see if the system is enabled or disabled. The split second it takes for the rear cylinder to re-engage is not dangerous. Lol. If you have never lane- split before it's never a good idea to just visit CA and jump right into it. It's definitely a skill that needs to be honed just like anything else. I agree with some of the comments about the GPS but for the most part you just need to have someone explain it to you a bit. If you're using it for the first time on the freeway then you're going to have some problems for sure. No offense brother but mountain road riding is also a skill that needs to be practiced. I grew up at the mouth of Glendora mt Rd and that bike can tear those roads up. You're just on a new bike you're not familiar with, riding roads that you're not familiar with. Also, the front wheel is always in the same place relative to your fairing positioning. Once you become familiar with the bike you'll realize that front wheel is always centered between the two handle bars. People think that just because you visually can't see the front wheel that it floats wherever it wants around the front of the bike. Do you have problems avoiding pot holes in a car as well because you can't see the front wheels? Anyways, enjoy the vids. Keep it up.

[@greasylou886]

Matt Laidlaw Matt Laidlaw speaks TRUTH. My go to whenever I want an honest review of a motorcycle.

[@asoshkin]

Matt you are the man! Learn about the bike and learn how to ride and everything will be enjoyable.

[@tomdenhollander2289]

Matt Laidlaw laying down the law

[@bigblueglide8021]

Matt the only things you missed are 1) The shocks should have been set at the rental for two up and gear, so that means either shade was in a rush or the HD rental did him a disservice and set him up to have a bad experience. I believe you did a vid on it. 2) Your on vacation in a strange land with unfamiliar sights, sounds, traffic patterns, roads and weather. Why in the world would you rent a bike that your not used to riding? Just add one extra thing to get you killed. Shade should have rented a Rocket 3. Just rent a bike you know on vacation and due all the test rides at your local dealers were the bike is the only thing your learning.

[@redwhiteandrzroffroad8922]

Matt Laidlaw I agree. Sounds like the rental counter "assumed"... and you know what that leads too. Personally, I wouldn't trade my SGS for anything but it took a solid week or so to get used to the controls. Now it's second nature.

[@davidknows3320]

Guy from Florida, riding a bike not set up for him and not familiar with in the mountains.........then complains.

[@joestolarski3376]

David knows... that shade tree needs more time then a weekend with a bike to give a real review also David knows he is not making the video

[@OGPokey151]

I would have gotten on that big 'ol bagger and SLAYED those roads!

[@tomharvey283]

OGPokey151 those roads aren't even tough and he's still bitching. But if you saw the video where this guy rides a dirt bike you'd understand. Lol but hey let's get on a bike and bitch about it the whole dam trip.

[@OGPokey151]

tom harvey yeah I've seen him ride. nothing wrong with it, I love Shadetree, he's a cool dude. I'd be let down on that too. hell, I sent him a message offering my 2017 Wide Glide up for him to use for the time he was out here. It's dialed in too with exhaust, mapping etc... Oh well he doesn't know me from a hole in the ground though. I met him at SCMM though. not that I made an impression. haha.

[@flyingdog1498]

OGPokey151 What do you ride a Marx Big wheel

[@MrHasie]

You hit on practical points that aren't mentioned or glossed over by other reviewers, thank you.

[@chrisvantassel8867]

I have a totally different opinion on this bike. I own one and love it! The engine is amazing, it is smooth and stable, comfortable and enjoyable to ride. I think it would be best for a reviewer to get to know the technology and how it works and why they did it that way before reviewing. Once I learned the system it is no problem at all. I also own a KTM 1290 SAR, KTM 1190 AR, Ducati Scrambler, Husq 701 and KTM350XCF-W. All of those bikes were designed for a reason and do what they do well. The RG is no different. I will tell you I test rode the big 1600 BMW and thought the RG was better for me, more comfortable and not sterile to ride. I honestly have never ridden a bike I hate just some that aren't my thing. No disrespect to Shadetree Surgeon but don't be discouraged by this review....try it for yourself and I bet you dig it.

[@LimpShrimp202]

Chris Van Tassel I agree, my dad just got a 2017 Road Glide Ultra and I took it for a ride and I thought it was the best handling bike I’ve ever riden. Compared to my ‘82 LowRider and my ‘07 Sportster

[@Aurora8709]

Does HD still neuter their bikes sold in CA for the CA EPA? That might explain his complaint.

[@robmarshall4338]

Chris Van Tassel I’m with you I own the 2018 RGU and LOVE my bike, it’s a very maneuverable bike, I have NO PROBLEM riding it in the city either. Guess I’m just good at city riding.

[@sixninecutty]

It only drops to one cylinder when it's hot. It's to keep the heat off the rear cylinder and not bake you. You can turn the feature off though.

[@bertadelaudebri7179]

Well, l owned one for 6 months and sold it shortly thereafter...it says it all!

[@kristyncooper3619]

Wow!! This is the angriest comment section I've ever seen on one of your videos......and your not even making a political statement ;) I hope you and Jess thoroughly enjoyed the trip despite the Road Glide regret! We know you two have been having a rough time lately and I'm sure you truly needed the getaway. Chin up buddy!

[@vegasbattleborn1594]

It sure looks comfy. Great break down Shadetree. It was wonderful to finally talk to you in person.

[@deanphillips8270]

Don't understand why anyone would watch this channel more than once! See ya

[@harleyadam4813]

The Rushmore designation has nothing to do with the engine. Rushmore is the term for the 2014-plus Harley-Davidson touring motorcycle family. It incorporates a lot of different things, including the audio/navigation system, hand controls, fairing vents, one-touch saddlebag/tour pack latches, linked ABS brakes, etc. The previous model Harley-Davidson engine was the Twin Cam. Not knocking on anything you're saying, as I really like your videos and appreciate the different perspective you bring to your reviews, just adding clarification for the terminologies. Another thing a lot of people don't think about is that every kind of bike has a purpose, a type of riding it's really designed for. The Road Glide Ultra was designed to eat up highway miles. It was not designed as a city/in-town motorcycle, or as a corner carver. Great video!

[@quadguy1470]

It's refreshing to hear your perspective on this bike as someone who didn't fork out an insane amount of cash for it. Typically when somebody does a review on a bike that they have purchased they tell you how incredible it is at every task they put the bike up against to avoid sounding like a complete moron for spending so much and getting so little in return. My take on Harleys in general is that they typically have a pretty good paint job, they are comfortable and stable as hell on the freeway, and they hold their resale value better than anything else out there. I'm not a Harley hater I just don't think they are worth the money that the company charges for them but overall they are ok, when you stop to consider the fact that I have a metric cruiser a quad and a sport touring machine for less money than a used Harley I can't justify the added expense for some paint and chrome. I love what I ride and respect everyone's freedom to ride what they like.

[@MrMikeb8]

This is the 1st you tube video I watched of this channel. I've been hooked ever since. thanks josh.

[@Martin_IPL5990]

An excellent open and honest review, just what I suspected too.

[@jaronjohnson9851]

"I've never ridden a motorcycle better suited to eating miles than this one..." Have you been on a Goldwing? Genuine question, I hear people from either side immediately dismiss the other. I'd like to hear your opinion.

[@lutherkhachigianii7781]

You can shut off the cylinder drop. You can adjust suspension too! The GPS complaint is just lack of you using it. If you rode it for a month or two, you could give a better review. Yes, you CAN slay mountain roads if you were familar with the FEEL of the bike. A race tuner & after market pipes would kick up the HP & torque. You are comparing it to YOUR bike, which is apples & oranges.

[@josephblaha3586]

I agree. He was just complaining to hear himself talk. Looked for everything there was to dis the bike

[@AnthonySinatraII]

Hope you had a blast in my home town. I got my permit the other week and watching KZbin like crazy. My goal is to ride Glendora Mountain Road and Highway 18 to Big Bear and watching you do it helps fuel that dream.

[@AudioTerroristen]

Rental? Usually a limiter on them. At a certain temp the back cylinder cuts off to help decrease the motor temp. Yes, you can cut that feature off (EITMS). As for the bottoming out, was the pre-load changed?

[@DTDRIDER]

18min of Harley bagger bashing! lol love it.

[@Mrdrivereight]

I worked for Harley for two years and you're right about most. We didn't even know how to work the touch screen head unit at the dealership. EPA put a strangle hold on them some you have to do a full stage 1 as soon as you get it. The ultras have air shocks in the back and if you don't keep refilling the air it will bottom out. We usually toss them out and replace them with legend revo shocks in the back and their front fork cartridges in the front. The heel shift is garbage and will toss them. That being said its my favorite bike of all time! You can easily bar hop on it if you get the detachable tour pack kit. Lol Im a Harley apoligist. Glad to see you in the mountains. You should come out to Colorado some day your army is welcome here.

[@shadetreesurgeon]

+Mrdrivereight hey man, no need to apologize for being an apologist! I'm actually a big Harley fan even though I don't own one, and this bike definitely grew on me by the end of the trip. Very few bikes come perfect from the factory haha. I kinda figured the engine was probably smog controlled to hell, it's still a 107, there's gotta be power lurking in there somewhere.

[@cpt.gwyndolin8665]

What about his engine complaints. Is that common of all big ass touring bikes like that or is it the milwaulkee?

[@Mrdrivereight]

Robert Stewart its common for most stock Harley to an extent. That's why I said do a full stage 1. In Harley terms that's a new exhaust that deletes the cat. High flow air intake. a tuner/ chip or I would recommend a dyno tune to lock in the right air/fuel ratio depending on the altitude you live at. The EPA has a strangle hold on Harley stock performance. They sued HD recently for their race tuner. You'll gain 10% or more power depending on the parts you order if you do a stage 1... Depending on the altitude here in Colorado you get a minimum of 10% at sea level its even better.

[@UglyFatOldMTB]

my father has a 13' CVO road glide with the 110, i fucking love that bike, has like none of these problems. i would toss the heel-toe as well but it looks cool, rides freaking great. and it has mad power, with DnD pipe and a tune.

[@Mrdrivereight]

Hank GPG cvo comes with different cams and high flow air intake stock plus you said d&d pipe which in my opinion is the best performing. The 13 has the old twin cam motor too so dual cams instead of one on the 17s. Your dad might pump up the shocks properly too or he's change the rear to hydraulic already. Keep in mind to there's huge differences and changes on all HD touring models from 13 to 14 year models when they came out with the rushmores including the radio/GPS. The 14s and up have a HD head unit and the 13 and earlier have a harman kardon radio with no GPS. You had to buy one separate and mount it on the switch housing or fairing in between the windshield(batwing models). Your dads bike is probably a beast with that big bore kit and d&d!

[@ProfessorPanyck]

I'm so glad you out of towners really got to enjoy California for more than just Palm Springs. Nice weather, warm weather, our worst storm of the year all in a week hahaha. Glad to meet you, hope it's not the last time.

[@chas106g.6]

Last month, I purchased a goldwing F6B and I like it a lot. It has tons of power from idle to red line. I bet that Rocket 3 is such a great bike. Thanks for the video!

[@charlesspidell1447]

It's a great bike love it

[@josephblaha3586]

Me too. I just bought a 2019 Road Glide

[@vetter847]

Shadetree... You are swarthy, crass, uncouth, unshaven, unrefined and likely unshowered. That's why I enjoy your videos and am a new subscriber. Keep it up. 🤘🏻

[@shadetreesurgeon]

+Vetter 1999 that's about the best compliment I could ever ask for :)

[@chris-vf5tb]

A speed by design ad on a shadetree video, best click of the day!

[@Petesmotoadventure]

Fair enough review. Haven't ridden the glide but a few ultra and sounds like the same thing I've thought about the HD. He now rides a rocket 3. Now that bike is nothing but a smile maker.

[@jaminic16]

Never owned a Harley but this guy made me smile, he does not hold back just subscribed

[@thinredpaste]

I woulda got on that big ol bagger and just SLAYED those mountain roads.

[@captred_beard4588]

glad to see you finally made it. hope it was everything you was hoping for. one of these days im gonna make it down to the shame n drink a beer with yall

[@RollyRiderBiker]

awesome review bro, and nice pick of music. keep riding ! :)

[@2Big2Sexy]

When in the fuck will Harley build a high rev liquid cool VTwin with a supercharger! You build a 250 horsepower VTwin street beast bike and people will buy it! My friend put the 120RR motor in his breakout and I'm smoking his ass with my 2003 FZ6 😂 fucking sad Harley !

[@Dave-sw2dm]

Why? You planning to do track days? I have as much riding fun on my 23HP dual sport as I ever did on my 160HP Concours 1400. Plus, it is more nimble. I live for the curves. Straight roads are boring!

[@jameswise7656]

yea right a 120r not rr engine is pulling 9sec 1/4 mile ur 600 with all the work done ain't doing that!

[@draganm7823]

Renegade, President Shades of Grey MC truth,facts, and sensibility just don't work on trolls. But you are absolutely correct. Ride safe.

[@walteredwards2202]

This guy is a deuce. That bike is awesome. If you don't know Harley, don't review it.

[@flyingdog1498]

The bike is a slimmy slug.

[@John-wp9su]

That's Douche

[@bobberguy1]

@@John-wp9su The guy probably can't spell"vagina" either.

[@brandonw675]

I live in Cali but born and raised in FL, your reaction was the same as mine. "Wow.. Mountains..." haha

[@nickstosz6730]

I agree about 99% on your take of this bike. I ride a friend of mines road glide a lot and feet off the foot rests is very real and it handles like the Titanic on curvy roads. Looks good but not ergonomically designed around the rider.

[@bakerXderek]

At least it was a good bike to ride with a grom :)

[@huyked]

2:52 Hmm. In the HOV lane to the left. That's interesting. I didn't know they took prototype designs out on the highway. 4:55 So, I'm sure you're going to ride up some mountains, right? That would be crazy if you didn't. ;P 11:26 Never mind. :)

[@bmike3000]

nice catch, i missed that the first time. but yeah they take them everywhere, its the only way to actually see how it does in those environments

[@acethedisturbed]

I've actually seen what I decided was the upcoming Hyundai Santa Fe (super interesting I know) in the spy car camo as far as over here in Ohio on I-70.

[@AE86ofMtAkina]

acethedisturbed I saw the Ford Raptor prototypes being hauled on a truck in NM.

[@boblafountaine9560]

I love your honest straightforward review. You tell it like it is man. I am now subscribed. You sound a lot or remind me of Lemmy of Revzilla. I like the detail in your review also.

[@Natemire]

It's fun to listen to this 5 years later now that he owns 2 80's honda mold wings and has done 2 big cross countries on silverwings.

[@briansaucier9314]

if you would like to ride in some AWESOME mountains, come to Alberta, Canada and head west to Vancouver, British Columbia. You will be blown away, and bring your Triumph. You will not be disappointed.I love your vlogs and have subscribed to your channel. Keep on riding and rubber side down.

[@LiamMacInnes]

I second this

[@Trayndryvr]

Colorado has awesome mountains that make those LA foothills look like anthills, and they're a lot closer to home than the same mountains in Canada. I'll gladly map you a route that will leave you needing a cold shower when you get off your bike. And that's just within 50 miles of Denver. Happy trails!

[@dalecarpenter8828]

Brian Saucier or nearly any place but LA .

[@fredgfysmith6171]

nismo510 ya man i lived their half my life (squamish). The ride from vancouver to lilloet to kamloops then back to vancouver is a awesome loop. It takes you through whistler 1.5 hrs after you leave Vancouver. The loop is about 10 hrs in total its mostly open roads with very little traffic after you pass whistler.

[@learntochef1286]

BC interior. I was looking for the mountains for a good 5 seconds in the background before I realized he was talking about the hills in front of him HAHAHAHAHA

[@stephensmith1034]

You know... you can turn that feature (single cylinder) off, if it annoys you that much. I think you need to go back to your rice-rocket.

[@shadetreesurgeon]

+Stephen Smith oh? And what rice rocket is that?

[@jasonmercado85]

Hmm, didn't think a Triumph Rocket III was a rice rocket

[@robertbachant8257]

I owned the 2012 Road Glide. I had it for 40,000 miles and you are spot on with your assessment. It was great for highway touring and after 2 years I went back to a Dyna.

[@scottberry5266]

It's all in what your used to. I ride a 06 Electra Glide and it was totally different than my 90 Electra Glide which was totally different from my 83 Goldwing which was totally different than my 75 Super Glide.... I hated each and every one of them until I got used to them then I loved each and every one of them. I rode a triumph like yours and I didn't like it either. I'm sure if I ride it and tweaked it like all of my past bikes I would love it also. Granted the power is down from what you are used to but that is fixable. Love your videos and keep up the good work!!

[@roylogan51298]

I am the complete opposite I think the street glide looks 10 times better than the road glide

[@David-eh9nw]

2:50 they are testing a concept car

[@billydarley6925]

ya but what one? make/model?

[@redanarchybaby5018]

thats awesome

[@Trayndryvr]

It looks like some cookie cutter SUV or minivan.

[@WatchmakerErik]

Actually, they are testing a Prototype or a Pre-Production Test Mule. Concept cars are built for the auto show and aren't necessarily intended for production (Though some do make it there, like the Viper, Prowler, and Corvette.) It stuck out to me too, but it's definitely a test car in camoflage. I'm thinking a Dodge something or other, maybe the next-gen Journey, or else a Jag or Range Rover SUV.

[@pythontherun8798]

Honestly, I think you did vacationing right. Y'all came out here and got a big rolling couch, and ya took the time to slow down and enjoy some of the views that California has to offer. Sure, riding GMR on a fast bike is great, but it is also fun to slow down and look at the scenery. As always, love the honesty in your opinions, thanks for sharing, and can't wait for more California videos!

[@bustedknucks2280]

I agree 100% about not seeing in front of the bike. It was a weird disconnect for me. I prefer my softail or even a Dyna. May not be as good for the long haul, but I feel more in tune with what is happening with the bike on the road.

[@dangill8175]

wow, you complained about everything that is adjustable.shifter, rear cylinder, rear shock, so you expect a bike in six gear at 60 to be a rocket,drop 2 gears and fly, you want to see front wheel why would get a roadglide or streetglide,, i am so happy i watched a video of someone complaining about a bike he knows nothing about,

[@michaelbayliss1794]

I can't see the tire on my K 1600 at all , but I know it's there .

[@48retrop]

Next time see if you can interject more profanity into your dialogue because it adds to your credibility. Yup, sure does.

[@henrycruz45cal]

48retrop really!?! Did he hurt your ears??? Grow the fuucck up!

[@grantperkins1097]

Actually studies show that intelligent people use profanity more than dumbasses. You’re probably offended by it because you’re a dumbass.

[@grantperkins1097]

jim dandy you’re an idiot. I’m 23, not 14. With a great job, own my house, own my truck, and my daughter has everything she needs and a whole lot more. The toughest, smartest, most successful men I know all use profanity often. Choosing to cuss or not has absolutely nothing to do with intellect. Dumbass.

[@Kornholeeoo]

LOL, yep, it's a touring bike for sure. I got the 2017 FatBoy S and a few mods. I spend a lot of time up here in the Vermont and New Hampshire mountains and it's a ton of fun. I test drove the Road Glide too and it is great for Interstate driving, but not the kind of riding I like. Now my bike is low and I scrap the floor boards nearly every day, but dang it is fun.

[@sargepaulsen3645]

Hey out of curiosity what was the daily rate to rent that thing ? Were heading to vegas for sema this year and was thinking about renting a couple bikes and riding to LA to kill a couple days.

[@BenHarrison472]

The following are quotes by shadetree surgeon copied and pasted from his video description and replies to comments-"Honestly, by the end of the trip the Harley Road Glide had grown on me quite a bit"-" towards the end of the trip I actually grow quite fond of it"-" I've never ridden a motorcycle that's better suited for eating miles than this one"-" I actually really like Harley's lol"-"I found out a whole lot of stuff that I was complaining about was just an easy fix after I came back to Florida, my best friend rides a road glide and he filled me in. Of course I've always loved his road glide, he's got the 103 with a bunch of extras and that thing rips." Draw your own conclusions. My conclusion.....Douchebag.

[@shadetreesurgeon]

+Ben Harrison someone's taking this a bit personally lol. I've got more video coming out on this bike... like I said in this one, it was merely my first day's impression. Not a review.

[@shadetreesurgeon]

+Ben Harrison and all those other things I said, there's plenty of videos of me on Harley's I've loved on this channel. I'm not sure exactly what your point is?

[@shanekennethjamesaustin3949]

If the 1st thing I learnt about this bike was your (shade tree) comments I would run a mile before I bought one! Fortunately the guys at my local Harley dealership gave my mate and me a Streetglide and a Roadglide for a weekend to see how we liked them. We did over 500 miles that weekend. We swapped bikes and also had a CVO Breakout along for the ride. We had a variety of road surfaces to deal with as well as long straight (boring) bits as well as some twisty mountain riding. As mentioned elsewhere, if you had received a better briefing - or indeed do something out of character for most men - read the owners manual - your 2 biggest gripes would have disappeared. They are not 'fixes' they are routine options on setting up your ride. You can't blame the bike for your ignorance. Anyhow - due to the way we were treated by the dealership we ended up buying a Roadglide Special for me and a Streetglide for my mate. My son continues to ride his Breakout. I found your review on this bike by chance, after watching it I won't be bothered to subscribe; I reckon you are full of it!

[@atengnr]

yep this dude is a bit of a sped.

[@Chance-ry1hq]

I listened to 4 minutes of whining. It finally dawned on me what the hell am I doing?

[@theoriginal11charlie]

Did you adjust the suspension to the weight your carrying?

[@gingaballs]

Just an info add on...The front wheel is just in front of the tank at ground level..thanks

[@BMFRich65]

Real bikers don't need navigation. We know where the heck we're going. I rode my 91 Softail to Sturgis 5 times and currently own a 2014 StreetGlide. Harleys forever! Remember, chicks know the difference and I've never seen anyone tattoo BMW on their body.

[@babayaga1767]

so you do everything for chicks? poser

[@kdmcc7]

Took you 5 times to remember the way to Sturgis? Real biker? I think not.

[@EazyDuz18]

virgin lol

[@MrPAULONEAL]

Some navigation systems also show traffic updates and alternate routes.

[@michaelbayliss1794]

That's because BMW riders have more common sense. They don't need tattoos of a motorcycle company on their body .

[@94SexyStang]

So it's basically the Pontiac Aztek of motorcycles...minus the "ugly" part, and Straight to the "useless" part.

[@SmokeRingsPipeDreams]

Did you adjust the suspension for your load?

[@ghost676kdheg]

I agree with the foot boards are a pain in the ass backing up

[@aukanmeister]

The Harley apologists are having a field day in the comments section :-D

[@petertaylor2148]

Ha ha ha .. 😆😆😆😆 Great comment

[@iwinmccormick.1317]

Lol

[@5pence55]

What a shit bike! ;P For the cost of that over here (Northern Ireland) I could buy a new Triumph Street Triple for the twisties and new Honda 1300 Pan European for mile-munch touring with just enough left over for a vibrator to shove up my ass for when I'm missing the HD. And I would prefer to cross continents on a pan European than that land yacht you were on. Have to say beautiful scenery where you were.

[@cmoore185]

Glad I found this. I am looking at the win to this, a left over 17. I have ridden over 50 years and have had too many bikes to count but haven't ridden a Harley in a long time. I have an 05 St1300. I am 68 and this may be the last one I buy. I have only ridden a bike with floorboards a couple times and didn't like them. A friend who has a 16 Heritage says I will get used to them and like the relaxed seating position. I haven't taken a test ride yet and was planning on it Tuesday. I noticed how heavy it was when I sat on it at the dealership yesterday. One of the scarier moment I ever had was in 1983, a friend of mine and myself switched bikes. I had a Honda 900F and he had a new Gold Wing. We were on an interstate and were getting ready to get on another. This was in the days of the 85 mph speedometers so I didn't have a clue how fast I was going. I eased on the front brake and then hit the rear to set up for what I would consider a 75 mph sweeper. It scrubbed of speed pretty well but when I leaned into the turn, it didn't turn.n. The heavy weight combined with the long wheelbase was conducive of straight line speed. I actually had to use my arm to input enough to get through the turn. I really think I need to be looking at something else. I like frame mounted fairings over windshields. I don't like the 18 Heritage Maybe I need to ride a Road King and forget about the fairing.

[@TheSloppyBroShow]

excellent video man, really good real world review. glad you guys had an awesome time at scmm. made me miss cali, for sure.

[@shadetreesurgeon]

+SlackPunk I've got more coming too, by the end of the week the bike had grown on me quite a bit haha

[@msc012]

dyna till death!

[@fredgfysmith6171]

pcyclepath i always go in the store set on buying a dyna and always come out with something else.... Some day

[@mrvwbug4423]

I'm not even a harley guy and I still love the Dyna, especially the Low Rider S haha.

[@charger19691]

pcyclepath , Dynas are the unsung hero of Harley Davidson. I still say they are the nicest riding Harleys out there. My 1997 Low Rider was a fabulous machine and kick myself for selling it.

[@thelastrebelshow1627]

pcyclepath check out my Dyna walk around, The Last Rebel Show. Viking bike.

[@rrracer9108]

pcyclepath I agree. Dynas are great. Fucking clever as hell name you've got there btw!

[@Jolsen002]

I voted for the goldwing to save you from that POS.

[@Jolsen002]

You would have been happier with the wing.

[@mannydcbianco]

Same. The Goldwing just made more sense given the two options he had, but the people voted for the Harley.

[@thinredpaste]

There is no better touring bike than a goldwing. It doesn't even matter which generation wing you get, they've been the best from the beginning. Hell, I have a gl1200 that I made a Mad Max survival bike out of and it's STILL a top tier touring bike.

[@xeronicus]

Dad has a 1986 gl1200a...rode it from NJ to st louis and had no issues sight unseen from ebay. Sold it because we moved, I found him another one which is the SAME BIKE...He literally got the same bike from a dude for 600...Needs work tho. They are SOOOO much more comfy than the bikes I usually ride.

[@itzzzRAMPAGE]

Yes the gold wing is the best. I would say the Cadillac of bikes. As good as it is I have to be 20 or 30 years older to ride one. To me I want to feel the road and actually have to work a bike. To me the gold wing glides like an eagle just not for me right now. He should have either rode a sport bike to fully take advantage of his route.

[@JLDock]

What kind of iPhone mount is that? I must have missed it in the video. I need one for my iPhone 7 asap!

[@americaniconcycles]

THANKS SHADE TREE! YOU'VE CONVINCED ME TO BUY A HARLEY!!! KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!!! YOU ACTUALLY SOLD ME ON THE BIKE! also you need practice!

[@factsmatter7004]

Looks like Harley stock is going to continue on down.

[@casey360360]

Facts Matter a little bit of it is the failure of EBR. I know hundreds of people that were waiting for HD to pick them back up.

[@BMFRich65]

If it does, it's because of millenials who want electric wussy bikes.

[@casey360360]

More like it's because millenials who want 1000cc super sports. Not a single HD can even come close to a liter bike in acceleration, top speed, handling, or stopping distance.

[@rezneba101]

Rich M - Yeah, you know, kids want something better than an overrated pos HD.

[@factsmatter7004]

Wow, Harley stock dropped 1 dollar and 12 cents today. At first I thought it was just because millennials don't like Harley's. You know, because their heavy, slow, can't corner, ect and millennials are more frugal and thrifty with their money. But the research shows that millennials don't like motorcycles period compared to previous generations. That surprised me, because I thought the motovloggers were increasing the riding community and millennials were all about spending money on "experiences". Heck, I probably would not have started riding 2 years ago if not for the motovlogging community which really did a lot to show how fun motorcycling can be. I'm gen x though and not a millennial so maybe I don't have as much wussy in me. I know some of them like to wear pajamas in public and pink sunglasses 😎.

[@250dirtboston7]

That's the problem with Harley. Over priced, and 20 years behind on technology. Rent a BMW next year

[@centralcoastcamper9631]

Thank you for your review on the new Roadglide. My friend just bought one and loves it, then again he traded in his Goldwing in on it.

[@R3N1R3N]

lol 😂 I'm sooooo glad you gave your opinion on this bike lol... because i had considered a new Harley as my cruiser, but you helped me in my decision, and Suzuki M109r it is

[@jibbsey]

Of course it sucks... It's a HD... 😂

[@beerdedwanderer]

Ahh California, swerve to miss a pot hole, lurch over the rut and pogo through another pot hole. Time to raise taxes. But the views, yes the views. Maybe you could use that bike to tow another bike worthy of riding once you reach your destination?

[@shadowbikermotovlogs9141]

Beerded Wanderer I ride dual sports mostly I met this on guy that towed a KTM with his Harley so I bet you can tow any bikes with a Harley

[@AccurateShooter]

We already have some of the highest taxes in country. Our fuel is a dollar per gallon more than nearby Arizona because of CA gas taxes. Our sales tax is 8.5% in many counties. Our State income tax is the second or third highest in the country. Put it all together and Californians pay more taxes than anybody else outside New York City. So where does the money go? Into public employee salaries and pensions, into the pockets of crooked Road contractors, and there are scores of useless state government agencies wasting money. Plus they can't even fix the roads right here anymore. Caltrans is completely incompetent and most of the road repairs are done by completely corrupt companies. Roads that are 20 years old are in better shape than Roads resurfaced just one year ago that's because the contractors are skimping on materials and not using proper road-building procedures. And this is all tolerated by a bunch of stooges in Sacramento.

[@cpt.gwyndolin8665]

As someone who lives in a state that is in many ways objectively worse than Cali(Mississippi) I feel for you.

[@Tuesdaysgonewtw]

You left out all the illegals you're paying for as well.

[@michellemorse2655]

This guy belongs on his nice comfy metric cruisr , dork

[@roadglide5-oh289]

When it shuts down one cylinder it is engine idle temperature management system and you can turn it off. Dealer should have showed you how. Love my 2016 road glide but I am glad someone did an honest review. Most just say how great everything is with no honest opinion. I have not heard many people say they like the GPS so that is a common complaint. Mine didn't even have the road I was on show up on the GPS. according to the gps I was riding through a field! The road has been there since before the Rushmore bikes came out in 2014.

[@lzmartin7003]

so what do you advice for a bar hopper?? im trading in my 72 thats probably the best bar hopper euth candy flake..and lane spitting! lol but i just wanna diffrent bike im debating on a nightrod or low rider....? thanks bro

[@shadetreesurgeon]

Low rider s!! If you can find one... those are awesome bikes

[@rezneba101]

I love how the comments clearly put light on the fact that HD riders like garbage, and when you say their garbage is actually garbage, their old, poor excuse of a brain shuts down. I love seeing HDs stock go down, as well it should. Overpriced garbage.

[@draganm7823]

rezneba101 That was an excellent example of a rant. Don't you feel so much better now?

[@rezneba101]

I always speak the truth, so no :)

[@64bikertrash]

I think we deal with opinions I am at least averagely smart individual I won't pay 30,000 for junk Harley's are as good as anything out there If you don't like them fine Busy to say they are junk your just wrong Maybe your thinking about the 1970 models where If everyone felt like me yeah there would be nothing but Harley's so I guess it's good for other company's there are other opinions I can say sport bikes are junk And I would not own one if I had to ride it Even 25 years ago I did have one They are not junk just nothing about them is what I want Ride what you want But saying it's junk doesn't make it so Funny thing in my lifetime I see a lot complain about Harley's but later when they can afford one they go out and buy it Maybe it makes some feel better to criticize what they can't get so they can feel better about not having it

[@rezneba101]

Lol, I can easily afford a 30k pos, but I choose not to. It's called being smart and tasteful. If hd nubs like riding unreliable garbage that sound like shitting farts on a flat wooden chair, that's your thing, not mine. If I were to put down that amount on a bike, it would be a Ducati, knowing in advance that they cost alot to maintain and are not reliable but atleast they look good and don't sound like someone taking a shit. Then again, I choose not to.

[@64bikertrash]

Well I bought a Harley 2003 then. 2010 then a 2012 and now a 2017 No problems with any and I have way over 100,000 miles on just them55000 on the 2003 alone The comments you make clearly show you do t k ow anything about Harley's I will give up because I know no argument was ever won arguing with an idiot

[@phineashenshaw]

That review of the Streetglide is spot on! Although with some adjustments, it will do twisties just fine.

[@josephbrowne3533]

Saw a beautiful road glide in the Dublin dealership, so I decided to head over and see it, but the new 1290 adventure is impressive too. I miss cruisers tho.

[@static_engineer]

"Dad sweatpants" LMAO! Looks like a fun ride. I haven't made it to GMR and this makes me anxious to get there soon! Glad to see you and Jessica had a good trip!

[@Mrfish2015]

The one plus side to taking that up there is you get to enjoy the views , I rode a few of those canyons and was concentrating on the road not the view ...but yes the GPS sucks ball bags , and the one I had I thought was broken because of the lack of power . Someone said in the comments to my vid was that Cali strangles the power . Good video mate , and honest

[@turbomustang84]

I came very close to buying a Tour Glide but after considering where most of me and my wife's riding was going to be at the last minute I got a Dyna. I'm so glad I did love this bike

[@fabianfilms2761]

great input. I appreciate the time you took to make this. I'm in process of exchanging my sportster for a Road GLide. Everything you tapped into are things I look for in a bike. SO thank you. I think I changed my mind about the Road Glide. I'm looking to go on long road trips. Any recommendations?

[@ajprickett7272]

Took me awhile to get used to my bagger but I love it now. With the right boots, I wear cowboy boots, you can hit the downshift with an upstroke of the heel. Never have to pick my feet up. Never ridden a Milwaukee 8. Pretty happy with an old Evo.

[@albertharper9048]

I enjoyed the video and yes I've experienced some of the issues especially when I first got my Road Glide. When I encountered seams and bumps on my Road KIng I could hear them more than feel but those same things are felt with the Glide, until I adjusted my rear shock travel then the ride smoothed out. My bike's EITMS was not activated when I got it but after my 15k service I was at a light with my HOG when I noticed something different, different feel, different sound but it wasn't till I was alone at a light I had no doubt it was my ride. I knew of the feature but didn't think I was eqiuiped because it wasn't activated at pick up or during any of the oil changes or service appointments. I have fun on the twisties and can ride all day on the highway. Thank you for the video!

[@Trump_Vance2024]

Did you pump up the air shocks Love my 2014 Electroglide Ultra

[@koukiguy4163]

I lived out in LA for many years and that bike isn't the best tool for the job. I have to agree with your point there. Glad you both finally made it out there. There is something savage yet magical about LA.

[@joshquick1836]

i ride a road king at the moment, it felt very unwieldy at first but now i can throw it around pretty easy, i think it just kind of goes along with knowing your bike

[@dbzacs]

Not that it would have completely change your opinion of the bike, but: did you know that you can adjust the rear shock pre-load for changes in load? Also, you can shut off the cylinder drop fuction by holding the throttle forward

[@bigwallyhdfb]

I have the 2017 Roadglide ultra bought in April and have 6000 miles on it already it is a great bike sounds like you do not normally ride a touring bike how many miles to ride in a year 200 on your rental bike that you just bike up

[@hobsdigree2]

I'm getting one this week. I am retiring my rocket. It sounds like a comfy ride.

[@GuyFromLV]

Yes! Was waiting for this video for a while after seeing the pictures! Hey man, every adventure is not a good one if you don't have something shitty happening to you, you know?! :D We need these bad things happening to us so we can truly enjoy it when it's all good! Nice video brother!!

[@Malcivious]

Yeah, I can see your view on the Road Glide as a highway cruiser. Definitely the most comfortable bike I've put highway miles on, by far. Still it's not a perfect bike by far... however, I've yet to find one. My BMW K1600 comes closer than my Harley Road Glide did though.

[@fbvilela]

Awesome video as always! Cheers mate

[@bobbertandsammy]

That scenery is like a support act for what we have in Scotland dude, you should come visit sometime

[@TheBlueBikeDoyle]

I love my road glide it drop a cylinder for reducing heat . I ride the dragon tail and I drag it on ever curve once you get hang over it it not bad you learn how far you can lean in cruve great video

[@spacystacy51]

nice feeling to be riding along the tops of trees & more. good times.

[@johnbowman74]

Cool video, and the scenery was amazing as well. I am from North Texas so I don't see a lot of mountains eather haha. I would love to get my bike out on those turns, I ride a 2009 Harley Davidson XL 1200 Nightster and it would hug the hell out of them corners. Until next time.

[@goyeabuddy]

you guys with all your hi-tech gadgets. i rode my '89 FXLR in every state west of the Mississippi river with no electronic stuff of any kind. over coffee in the morning i brought out my paper map & planned my route for the day, worked very well.. didn't have a cell phone, oh yea there was a couple of times it would been handy.. i miss that EVO, but those days are gone for sure.

[@michaelbayliss1794]

I once killed a goffer with a stick .

[@batman66ism]

I am so happy you guys were able to get out and my condolences to Jessica's mother

[@drcoolio93]

That mountain gets nuts past 9pm on the weekend. But it's my favorite road to drive. I never ride up there because the cars are just too nuts.

[@WiscoRider]

Shadetree... Love your videos. A lot of your comments are based on not being familiar with the bike (my opinion). The EITMS is easily shut off. However, it is awesome when you are stuck in traffic for an hour. I leave it on, as I get a benefit from it. 6th gear is a 1:1. If you want to speed up on the highway, we drop down into 5th. Plenty of power in that gear to do what you need to. A lot of us will do a Stage I or higher. If you get into those configurations, you certainly can twist it in 6th and have fun. I have more comments on other points you made, but just thought I would comment on a few. Keep up the great videos! Oh, I agree with you on the passenger foot boards! When my wife rides with me, I always end up hitting my calf or trapping my heals. Not sure what they can do for designing it better though!

[@wallyfronzaglio372]

How much did Polaris Indian pay you to do that test ?I have a 10 limited and love it

[@jerlaine1638]

ahh so glad that youtube keeps recommending the old Shadetree video's. That said, those are hills not mountains and yes I love hearing the bashing on the glide series lol