H-D Sport Glide secrets you need to know

[@RevelatorAlf]

Thanks for watching. Let me know what you think in the comments below. More videos like this here: kzbin.info/aero/PLmgCmljtdCzVONymdAQaATNeRMwEQ77af

[@thomasgrabener8624]

I am Thomas from Germany and I ride my Sport Glide since 2 years. I have changed from an 1150 tourer, and I like the torkey ride instead of the high rev ranges that you find even on BMW`s. From the first ride on my "Tealey" (I had the pleasure to aquire the last available bike for Europe in the beautiful colour "Haitian Teal" in 2020) I was extremely surprised aboui the easiness, the comfort, and the astonishing performance of the motorcycle. For the moment I will keep my BMW in parallel, but for the future I tend more towards the Harleys. Best regards Thomas

[@RevelatorAlf]

thanks Thomas

[@Hiwheelman]

I didn't love or want a Softail but, with the demise of the Dyna, I was left with no other choice when it came time to return to HD. I must say, the Sport Glide has been a revelation. I love it. The only thing is, out of the box, they are not suited for taller riders. I've had to undertake a few mods to make it fit.

[@leewood9220]

Good video just brought a new Sport Glide 2022, so very informative, and have no regrets and enjoyed riding it for the 2 month's I've had it.

[@VadimNYC]

Enjoyed your honest review. Love it when people talk about the good and bad not just how the bike corners at speed....LOL. Wish more reviewers would mention real world maintenance difficulties. Subscribed.

[@RevelatorAlf]

Thanks so much

[@ThePat1962]

I'm literally waiting for a price from HD to trade in my 21 Heritage for a 24 SG ..mainly to get away from spokes (too many punctures) and lighter bike ...but you've convinced me not to ...thank you for this excellent video.

[@HighlandRider]

very useful. Looking at buying one of these and this is exactly the type of video I want to see as a potential buyer, not to be put off but to be forewarned how to look after it.

[@doylehurt2014]

Hello from the US, your videos are very thorough! Well done as usual.

[@RevelatorAlf]

Ah thank you so much. Glad they are useful. Cheers

[@roycelabor4339]

Great video, as always Alf! The SG is the most versatile bike in the Softail line & one of THE most of all of the Harleys.

[@RevelatorAlf]

Thanks you Royce. Good to hear from you again. Best wishes

[@ruibiscaya872]

I agree completely

[@nerzhul1104]

Great video. I'm currently thinking to buy a SG. So, thanks for your advices.

[@sluf1963]

Bought my 2020 Softail in December 2019 , got my factory H-D service manual right away , not sure why he says ones not available . Some good information is shared in this video , watch , and ride safe .

[@Teatimeted]

Aye, deffo. Wouldn't buy a Harley without one. Get it included in the purchase price when you buy the bike.

[@johnhannon7318]

Excellent review! The information you provided can't be found anywhere else. Thanks

[@RevelatorAlf]

Glad it was helpful!

[@miketodd8640]

Again, another good look at our favorite Harley. I replaced my front blinkers with LED inserts from Custom Dynamics. They are white when on but yellow when uses as turn signal or emergency flasher, don't know if they are legal in other parts of the world. They do add a good bit of light when white, raising your visibility. Also, Harley just announced the they are ceasing production of the following models, FXDR, Heritage and Breakout effective immediately. New CEO, trying to get some RED out of the bottom line? Ride safe.

[@nog4026]

Hi Mike I got the same lights from custom dynamics, a lot brighter than the standard ones

[@toddwells2]

This is incredibly helpful. Just bought a new HD SG. Already ordered a fender extension and oil filter cover. Please let me know if you are aware of a voltage regulator cover that would fit.

[@RevelatorAlf]

Good to hear

[@Titocore71]

Thank you for the vid. Was thinking about getting this bike. Not so sure now.

[@RevelatorAlf]

Still the best all around Harley for the money I would say

[@XL883CNick]

Excellent information! The little nuances that only come from ownership, just like what I've learned in owning my 883C.

[@RevelatorAlf]

Cheers

[@feloniousmonk3049]

Any news on the problems with the oil pumps/cam plate for oil sumping problems on pre 2020 M* motors, and whether HD covers that under warranty?

[@grantminor2784]

Thanks for the video. I have a 2021 Sport Glide. I'll be adding some of the tips you provided.

[@RevelatorAlf]

Cheers

[@charlescastell4638]

Thanks very much for this video, much appreciated. I'm off to test ride a 2018 Sport Glide tomorrow, with hopes of buying, so having your info is very helpful. Be well.

[@RevelatorAlf]

Glad it helped cheers

[@jefflittle8872]

Loved mine but mind and check the mono shock is in full working order..massive flaw in the whole softail range.

[@carlwilliamsaxton2146]

My 2021 sport glide is great, I do love it. Though one of my fork tube seals has sprung a leak. This bike runs great, handles great and now I'm just waiting for more in depth service manual . I do take my fairing off and clean all areas and that oil cooler, pressure washing has worked so far, I do need a debris gard Thanks for the vid.

[@RevelatorAlf]

Cheers

[@samestuffdifferentday5712]

Already after a year ? Smh oh Harley Davidson 😂

[@kenmunozatmmrrailroad6853]

First time at your channel here in fire stricken California; great review. Wouldn’t that spark plug issue be endemic across all M8’s? I’ve spent my entire 15 years of ownership attempting to customize my ‘05 Softail in similar concept (I used fender extenders in the leading and trailing edge of my front fender). This review will compel me to stick with my trusty twin cam and stop looking at greener grass. Being my first Harley and chromed it to the hilt, I chuckled when you spoke of the exercise in pride of ownership... all that chrome was a steep learning curve! Glad you enjoy your ride!

[@RevelatorAlf]

Thanks so much Ken, yes it would apply to all M8s. Cheers

[@brian833]

Just bought a 2019 SGL and I sure liked your Vids! Thanks

[@RevelatorAlf]

Glad you like them!

[@six-pack1332]

Great observations, also I'd like to point out, the side stand is sub-par.

[@RevelatorAlf]

Yes for sure

[@sportglidejim9001]

Nice video Alf! Couldn't agree more on your assessment best Softail made. Love my Glide........Ride hard or stay home😎

[@RevelatorAlf]

Thanks fella. Yes indeed

[@urdo5348]

Helpful informations. All your other videos are very interesting, too. I just start my Sport Glide adventure after buying a 2020 model last Decembre and hopefully I can avoid driving in bad weather. And as you know, Germany is a sunny country.

[@RevelatorAlf]

Ah yes indeed. Enjoy when you can

[@msciciel7333]

Excellent work as always Alf! Thorough and succinct. Cheers bro.

[@RevelatorAlf]

Thanks so much. Cheers

[@hootertexas9711]

IMO the best HD to but if you plan on term ownership and touring, is the FLHR standard. You can keep it going forever. Not a bunch of electronics, tons of parts out there. FLHR is the bike of all bikes.

[@OldSkoolBiker62]

Great video.. cheers for the info was just about to buy a Sports Glide but been put off buying one now I may go back to my original plan and buy the Lowrider S, Hopefully this doesn't have as many problems.. Thanks again, subscribed.

[@RevelatorAlf]

Yep great bike too

[@kobyk9681]

Appreciate and enjoy your videos but I at times I think you are too much of a perfectionist and give the wrong impression of this fabulous ride. The Sport Glide is one of the most perfect, well balanced bikes from all aspects coming off the line. I purchased mine exactly 2 years ago and after 10,000 miles, I have never had any of the problems you have mentioned. All bikes are extremely tightly assembled and as with everything there's wear and tear. over time. Turning away one potential SG rider is simply preventing them from enjoying/experiencing an incredible machine. Been riding different bikes since '71 and this bike is as perfect as one can expect and shame to knock it incredibly minute wear and tear issues or reaching particular parts of the bike. That's part of the fun of the ride! Enjoyed your other videos.

[@RevelatorAlf]

Actually I am always very positive about the Sport Glide but I will always be honest about any issues I find. Honesty is not negativity and having a balanced approach gives everyone a much better understanding. There is no perfect bike in the world without some minor or major issue. That’s just the way it is I’m aftiad

[@Only9mm]

Mr.Alf! Thank you for the videos. I love my sport glide, the dealerships cant keep them in stock and yet i never see them on the roads! Hey do you have the problem of your Speedometer fogging up? Mine does very horribly and the dealership wont do anything about it. Thank you again, please keep it up!

[@RevelatorAlf]

PaP actually it’s just started on mine. I did a video about this before as there is a leak in the back of the module. It should be replaced under warranty especially if it obscures any reading. There is a fix which I’ll try to bring soon too. Cheers

[@navyone1978]

Same here. Haven’t approached Harley yet to see what they say

[@alanbriggs7177]

I had no problem getting mine replaced under warranty. Maybe it's time to think about changing dealer if they aren't interested in helping you.

[@Marcus_from_OZ]

Just ordered a 2020 model, there's a lot of good info on here, thanks and kudos. I'm wondering if it's possible to fit a mudflap to the front mudguard or do you think the extra weight will fatigue the mounting brackets?

[@RevelatorAlf]

Yes you can! If you watch one of my latest videos, it's all about that. Cheers

[@Marcus_from_OZ]

@@RevelatorAlf No worries, I'll have a poke around and check it out. Thanks.

[@GraemeBlore]

Excellent comments Alf. In this day and age, and for the price I would expect far better engineering, particularly re oil cooler and voltage regulator. One thing I am interested in, given the disgraceful state of Australian roads, is the suspension. Is it the usual Harley rubbish, or have they actually made an effort with this model? I am also surprised that they didn't provide a dual disc front end. Would have looked a lot more balanced, and the bike IS called a Sport Glide!

[@RevelatorAlf]

Thanks Graeme, yes the dual brakes at the front is a common item on the wish list and the suspension is fine for the most part but there have been some adjustment seizures with the rear shock on some Softails but certainly not widespread, however overall it rides great. I feel your pain about the roads too, they're not that great over here either. Cheers

[@GraemeBlore]

John Lightfoot, I have in Tassie. I have travelled widely in ‘God’s playground’ (New Zealand), but sadly not by bike. Would absolutely love to ride there brother!

[@oliverrojas7117]

Lots of good information. Thanks

[@RevelatorAlf]

Cheers

[@mizwolf7146]

liked your video. I just bought a 2019, wish I would have known some of these things. my question is does anyone sell a screen to protect the oil cooler and what do yous suggest for protecting the voltage regulator? I am a woman rider (old bike is a 2006 Low Rider, put over 80,000 miles on her) so some of these things I probably cannot do (especially since my riding partner passed away a few years ago). I am glad I watched the way to change the seat before I tackled that job.

[@RevelatorAlf]

Yes I have so many videos on the Sport Glide and Softails in general. If you go to my website and Harley Parley page you’ll find templates for covers. I ask made a simple voltage regulator protector too so go check the videos. Enjoy. Cheers

[@bryanmiller5074]

Traded my street glide for one... No regrets

[@RevelatorAlf]

Nice

[@petershute3580]

On eBay you can buy replacement led globes instead of going to the expensive path and keep the covers and no change to the fittings

[@RevelatorAlf]

yes very true cheers

[@mikemitchell3889]

Alf, As always, insightful and helpful. Thank--You for keeping me mindful about such things. I have a habit of blithely riding-off into the sunset (or rise) while ignorant of things like rocks pelting my, (I mean the bile's) neither bits! -M p.s. -- my newest vlog features a photo study of our noble, handsome, and heroic steeds...

[@RevelatorAlf]

Ah fantastic. Cheers

[@arlenewolf5260]

Great video, can you provide information on the protective oil cooler scree.n

[@RevelatorAlf]

thanks, es if you go back into my archive you'll find the video on how to make one or go to the website Harley Parley page where you will find the template. Cheers

[@Motoscotty]

Any links for the oil protector

[@beazerthebiker]

Good video! Just subbed

[@RevelatorAlf]

Cheers

[@MikeM91320]

Like your videos--love my 2019 Sport Glide.

[@RevelatorAlf]

Greatly appreciated. Cheers

[@Rajvirdee]

This is excellent thank you

[@lassekivinen6348]

The same situation with the Deuce. Any thoughts?

[@williamschimelfenig1797]

Good afternoon from Brazil! Could anyone help me with the amount of oil in the original/stock SportGlide 2019 suspension? Thank you very much.

[@chrisjones6020]

Great content as usual Alf.

[@RevelatorAlf]

Thanks Chris

[@kalaga2k]

Thank you, Sir for the Info. 👍

[@RevelatorAlf]

Always welcome Cheers

[@karengill8234]

Love your videos. Many thanks. .....

[@simonhouel1984]

The Sport Glide will suffer the same problems as the late Switchback, parts wise. It has too many ''model specific'' requirements to be a fair investment for after market to develop a decent line of products.

[@HarleyFirestorm]

Its also a very popular model I am sure give it a few years it will generate loads of aftermarket parts.

[@markusfarncombe-fischer5053]

Cheers Mate, very helpful ! (as all of your Vids - great work) Ride Safe

[@RevelatorAlf]

Thanks Markus. Much appreciated

[@saddle8bag]

Great info. While I like the sporty look of the Sport Glide, that fender might be reason enough to go Heritage. The fact that the Heritage gets the full travel shock, better lighting, and useful windshield are kinda icing on the cake. Now that they make a colorful version that doesn't look like it just got rolled out of the barn with the Ford tractor, seems like the most practical option, though I'm still smitten by the looks of the Breakout. Maybe with the raked out front end, the cooler/regulator take less of a beating?

[@RevelatorAlf]

Thanks so much. Yes that has so much to offer is a neat package. Cheers

[@miketodd8640]

@@RevelatorAlf FYI - HD just announced that the Heritage and Breakout will no longer be produced, effective immediately!!! So if you want one, don't hesitate.

[@RevelatorAlf]

Mike Todd oh wow that’s interesting. I was wondering which would be cut

[@sluf1963]

I love a Heritage , definitely my favorite H-D out there , chrome for me , and a classic color , just the best of both worlds . Classic style , yet modern upgrades , finish it off with some accessories , and you have a great machine .

[@peterconnell3162]

Pyramid Plastics have a Sport Glide fender extender under development. Launch delayed by the virus but should be this year. They make good products. You failed to mention the brakes!. Single disk on a light tourer is a major design fault. In normal riding they are ok, but touring with two people in twisting roads exposes the weakness. The only affordable solution is the Arlen Ness big brake rotor, which was due for the Sport Glide in April, but again launch delayed due to the virus.

[@RevelatorAlf]

Yes very true

[@daveo226]

Pyramid plastics should be producing a fender extender by June as I contacted them originally for one they said they didn't do one so I sent them my own SG front fender as a template to use in return for a free extender , I'm now running a pyramid extender on my SG and it works a treat it doesn't protect the regulator but it does a good job of keeping shite out of the oil cooler . 👍👍

[@reddog907]

Hey Pete thanks for the info on the brake rotor, I thought the same, mind you it does grab well even when I have a full luggage onboard but not a second rider.

[@HarleyFirestorm]

To be honest I don't see any of these as issues, try getting to most inline 4 sports bike spark plugs some models are a bloody nightmare. The cooler and regulator are in a pretty typical place, just keep them clean, and do what you said with a little cover, I haven't had any issues with the screen dirt build up scratching, the fender isn't that bad, pretty typical stuff for a motorcycle, the saddle bags, you have to be pretty stupid to not put them on properly and not someone I would trust holding a new born baby if they can't do something as simple as that. The brake pads, you don't have to replace rears that often enough for it to be a major issue the rear muffler comes off pretty easy and quickly, the oil you keep an eye on is the engine oil I have only had to top it up once in 1500 miles from last service. If you want a Harley to moan about try the old AMF Harleys you really have to be into motorcycles mechanics to own something like an old Iron head. My biggest complaint of the new Harley Davidson and to be fair most brands of motorcycles is the paper thin shitey paint work, you only have to rub the tank and it scratches, bloody shame for a bike that cost the wrong side of £15K.

[@daveo226]

Agree totally the rectifier is exposed on most Harley's so it's pretty standard procedure as is short front mudguards apart from tourers mostly the rest I can put up with as I prefer doing my own spannering even over Harley dealers at least I know it's done right I've seen some pretty slack work coming back from supposed Harley workshops.

[@HarleyFirestorm]

@@daveo226 To be fair because I bought my bike from new I will let main dealer service it to keep the service dealer stamp, I know its odd for someone who can work his way round a bike mechanically but its a new bike so I will do that. I have another second hand bike without much service from the dealer so I will play with that one myself. My local main dealer I haven't had any issues with regard service.

[@vrugtmanable]

I agree 100% with you. If the mentioned items are issues life must be very difficult for the founder 🤣😉. This is my 5th Harley and the best I have ever owned.

[@gunner9010]

I don't get short fenders. I like the bike!

[@RevelatorAlf]

Yep 👍

[@lewcarrumjohnson2786]

There must be a full length front mudguard available, this is a Harley after all.

[@tobias-wr4nx]

great, thanks!

[@garrycooke7518]

Always helpful

[@RevelatorAlf]

Glad you think so! Cheers

[@tonybattaglio4625]

got a 19 been good so far but i see your issues

[@JP-tx7du]

Vinyl tape ? Around the bottom of cowl and triple tree. Really...need to see that I can't imagine anyone doing that

[@jeremyneufeld6541]

I've been considering a Sport Glide for two years and now I know to not touch one with a ten foot pole. Thanks!

[@RevelatorAlf]

Well I think you’ll be missing out but up to you.

[@timh4886]

I was thinking "slightly" the same thing. I wouldn't not purchase a HD based on a single review per say, but as he kept going over everything, and then going over even more issues, it definately gave me pause. I dont turn a wrench per say, so all of it in my mind, is cost at the dealerships, in particular when the warranty ends. I have an XSR 900, and so far been very impressed with the reliability. I get it bikes are expensive regardless. But that just seems like a lot right out of the gate.

[@clarkbabin9799]

Would maybe the lower frame scoop fit over the oil cooler and voltage regulator. I know that some of the soft tales have them.

[@RevelatorAlf]

Yes it is wrong for me, needs redesigning. Cheers

[@shadesshades397]

Thanks some rest tips

[@johnbennett5705]

Thanks for a great video! I currently own a 2020 Sport Glide that I just bought. One of the things that frosted me was the inavailability of a decent windshield. The optional 5.5" shield is no better than the stock shield. Tried a Clock Werks shield, but experienced a good deal of buffeting. If someone out there has had any experience with Gufstaffen (sp) shields, please let us know.

[@RevelatorAlf]

Yes there are quite a few out there. Hopefully you’ll get the info soon. Cheers

[@vrugtmanable]

The 5.5" shield works for me. Could be the difference of your seat to head height. Mine is 92 cm. The taller the rider the more buffeting. In addition a full face helmet definitly helps as well, especially at higher speeds.

[@RevelatorAlf]

Ton Vrugtman yes indeed cheers

[@jerryknapp136]

@@RevelatorAlf we bought an 8 inch windshield from Dennis Kirk. My wife is about 5’9”. She loves it.

[@blujack100]

I have very inconsistent high rpms coming to a stop. Using the clutch friction zone in a parking lot it happens a lot. It’s very annoying. Dealer tried fixing it several times.

[@RevelatorAlf]

Ok to me that sounds like a faltering ET sensor or more likely a TMAP sensor. I assume they have been checked?

[@HarleyFirestorm]

Just take your hand off the throttle I think its a fairly normal issue with the flybywirethrottlethingy.

[@ivannagy9668]

Would it be too much of a bike for a beginner or should I not worry about its weight? Thanx.

[@RevelatorAlf]

No I think it’ll be fine it’s just a matter of getting used to it that’s all

[@ivannagy9668]

@@RevelatorAlf thank you!!

[@billernst631]

Thanks Alf - love my sport glide. But have you had issues with oil level checks? Like gassing up, checking, and reading over-full? Then letting cool, and reading 1/2 a quart below full? Might be my oil cooler failing? Idk... Also, how do I post a pic of mine? I chopped the hell out it and would love to share with our Sport Glide community my creation... Bill.

[@RevelatorAlf]

Ah thanks Bill. Don’t think you can post photos here but you can email me via website perhaps. As for oil, yes I’ve noticed that both on engine and trans oil too but don’t think there’s any issue. I tend to do mostly cold checks anyway. Cheers

[@jefflittle8872]

Great bike but the front fender is a waste of time..rectifier and radiator need guards. lets not mention the mono shock...cant believe they bury their heads over this.

[@jsprite123]

One thing to note as a Harley owner: The brakes on most Harleys, even the newest ones, totally suck. They are OK to stop the bike on a level surface, but on an incline or emergency braking, that is something to be aware of.

[@damarisduna]

What the heck are you talking about? I have a 2021 Sport Glide and the damn brakes on it are amazing.

[@chrislight6920]

Soft tail battery replacement 😩😩 probably not the best part of the design

[@RevelatorAlf]

Ah yes. Wouldn’t it be great to have simple access

[@didierlevy4268]

That's due to the mono-shock location. On "old" Softails, it's much more easier to remove the battery (in my case, I do have to take it off during winter and that's one of the reasons I'm reluctant to change for an M8 Softail...)

[@vrugtmanable]

@@RevelatorAlf Wouldent it be great if life was more simple 😉

[@HD2O13XL12OOC]

Haha okay I get it. You're pretty picky but all these things that you talk about come with owning a motorcycle any motorcycle and yeah you always got to watch out and do things properly thanks for the tips but these things are not a deal breaker in any means.... I still like the sport glide.

[@RevelatorAlf]

I never said they were. Just an honest appraisal that’s all

[@HD2O13XL12OOC]

@@RevelatorAlf true you did not say they were a deal beaker. but jeez some comments are like nah... and I was surprised. So to all the "other" folks out there. Don't let these things keep you you from considering this bike. It's a good one. See motobarista and dcycle for their takes. Let's ride!

[@investlikeawarrior]

Is it true they canceled the sport glide ?

[@RevelatorAlf]

In America yes

[@nitrocell9287]

Bro needs to lookup the definition for secret.

[@raloud8317]

Consider covering window at rear of frame, wearing dark clothing and lighting the shot. For those of us not familiar with this model a full wide shot in opening statements would illuminate the subject. Enough we convicts must put up with the whiny pommy accent, please provide clearer images, and why the cramped space, is it raining out?

[@RevelatorAlf]

Watch all my videos on each subject and it will be very clear to you as each is explained fully

[@TeensierPython]

I come from the future… The sport glide is pretty much gone.

[@pierremiscio6792]

You should change your header from Secrets to common sense. This is a silly video and surprising since your other vids are great.

[@RevelatorAlf]

ok

[@davidyersz8668]

The problem I have with this bike is the same as lots of Harley's the tank mounted clocks and guages that you have to keep taking your eyes off the road to look at this is a big safety issue for me and should be for everyone the next one is the missing brake disc from the front wheel these bikes are no lightweights and really should have 2 brake discs on the front wheel, appart from that its a great looking bike but I won't be buying one because of these serious safety issues