Harley-Davidson Clutch of Choice Slipped Us a Little Favor

[@GixxerFoo]

Do you prefer a cable clutch or hydraulic clutch? What's been your experience or does it not even matter what kind of clutch you have you just ride it?

[@davidvandiver4206]

My first Harley was a cable operated clutch (02 Road King). I just acquired a 2017 Ultra and I definitely had more feel with cable operated clutch.

[@anchorsaweigh9893]

I went from lifetime of cable clutches to a hydraulic clutch system in 2019 Road Glide Special. The hydraulic clutch was not bad per se but it definitely did not really have a friction zone. Ot did have an easy pull though. I then went back to a Road King Special in 2021 which of course has the cable clutch. I prefer the cable clutch but did not dislike the hydraulic clutch either.

[@TheMachoGabacho]

My newest bike is a 2004. What’s a hydraulic clutch? 😅

[@Sport--willow]

Cable clutch, cable throttle and carburetor all day every day. IMO... All this electronic crap doesn't belong anywhere near a motorcycle

[@geraldscott4302]

Definitely a cable. I had a Goldwing once with a hydraulic clutch, and it caused me all kinds of trouble. There is a reason why disc brakes need to be hydraulic, but not clutches. Keep things simple whenever possible. Cable clutches can be adjusted, hydraulic clutched can't.

[@chrisburch9513]

Cable cable cable, cable cable. Cable cable cable. Cable!

[@GixxerFoo]

Aftermarket hydraulic clutches I have found to be nothing but problems.

[@chrisburch9513]

@@GixxerFoo all the old bikes I've seen reborn all had factory cable clutches. All the aftermarket equipped ones including hydraulic ones all needed way more work. That means less smiles per mile.

[@chrisburch9513]

@@GixxerFoo did you get eye lasered?

[@Bkamaclean]

Harleys had cable clutches for years...didn't like when they went to hydraulic...glad they returned to the cable.

[@GixxerFoo]

Same here, my dad rides a Vrod with the hydraulic clutch which works pretty good on that bike. But my preference is cable clutch as well too.

[@totoco2]

I think, hydraulics should be an option for those, who want them

[@pb68slab18]

Mousetrap! A G/F and I took a weekend trip on my '68 FLH. I broke a clutch cable! 1968 was the first year without the mousetrap. With a mousetrap, ya could put a doorknob on the spring booster assembly and work the clutch by hand if ya ever broke a cable or lever. We actually spent Sunday night in the state park rangers jail cell! Monday I had to pay a break-down pick-up fee for the nearest H'D dealership to bring a clutch cable, which they surprisingly had, and I installed. That chick never went riding with me again!

[@GixxerFoo]

That's pretty cool! Those older bikes pre 1970 were some neat setups and you could pull all kinds of cool tricks like that!

[@RNintheTrenches]

My all time favorite channel. First thing I do after work every Friday is bring up your channel and prepare to be educated. Thanks for all you do.

[@GixxerFoo]

That's awesome! I love to hear that! I do my best make sure we got something new every week for everyone!

[@jerrym2321]

My 2018 Ultra Limited was my first Harley with a hydraulic clutch....I noticed the difference immediately, both ease of operation and friction zone change, but I got used to it very quickly. Not an issue for me. You said it all, "I just ride."

[@GixxerFoo]

That's what I do but given a choice I will take a cable lol.

[@dugbucky3298]

I got both like many. I like the adjustability of the cable. the Hydraulic is no issue with the friction zone except when you first start the bike when cold t does grab a little for a few minutes. changing fluid is no bug deal, gets me out of the house and into the garage. All and All I was excited to see the cable come back.

[@GixxerFoo]

Nothing wrong if it gets you out of the house and into the garage!

[@rednkitaln]

When Harley went back to the cable clutch and put the LED daymaker headlamp in the Road king special in 2021, I decided that it was time for me to pull the trigger.

[@GixxerFoo]

Those LED headlights were about a $500 catalog add on back in the day, I am glad Harley finally went to full LED lighting on the bikes.

[@rednkitaln]

@@GixxerFoo I agree. They quoted me $1500 to supply and install a day maker headlamp on a 2020 model.

[@bradduffield9603]

I've always had a cable clutch until my 2017 street glide. Hydrologic clutches suck. I prefer the cable clutch because it gives me more control. Thanks for sticking up for Harley riders.

[@GixxerFoo]

I was pretty happy to see Harley go back to the cable on the touring bikes myself!

[@davidpasquale8498]

Since I ride a old EVO flhs, I believe clutch cable ,that's all I know, simple adjustment, cable and primary it works for me 😊

[@GixxerFoo]

Everything about the Evo just works and it does it's thing!

[@charlessexton1719]

My 08 roadking has a cable clutch system in it and I love it.

[@GixxerFoo]

I like to feel what's going on in the bike and the cable clutch does not mask that at all!

[@rarebreed9208]

Oh, and for what it's worth, I prefer a cable to a hydraulic clutch because I feel it gives me more control over the machine, and allows me to feel what the machine is doing. To me, having to apply more rider input makes you a better, safer rider, and to develope better familiarity with it. Good video, as usual.👍

[@GixxerFoo]

That's a really good point! You can't actually feel what's going on with the clutch and the bike itself.

[@benodie02760]

Keep it simple, Cable and definitely variable pressure clutch! You are spot on except HD always will screw us, they didn’t do it to save us $$!

[@GixxerFoo]

Yeah they didn't pass that cost savings onto us that's for sure!

[@benodie02760]

@@GixxerFoo Great content, singing your praise at Laconia. Built 07 rkc with baker dd7 and everything you recommend to cam and top end. Now a ripping FM 107 woods 555.

[@libertywraith249]

I have a 2020SG. I hated the hydro clutch for a while. Mainly, seemed like it engaged all the way at the end. Was a bit of a hard pull too. I swapped out the levers with 1Fingr adjustable levers. now I love it more than my old bike with a cable clutch. It softened the pull and put the friction zone right where I want it.

[@GixxerFoo]

That's exactly why Harley went back to the cable clutch was nothing happened till you about had that lever all the way out. Adjustable levers are amazing in the difference they make!

[@TheRoadGlideRider]

I had a 2009 Road Glide with the Cable Clutch. Then when they went to the Hydraulic Clutch, I refused to get a new model. I did try the Hydraulic Clutch. My Cable was easier than my ‘09 Cable. So no Hydraulic Clutch. But traded my ‘09 for the 2021 Road Glide, now with the Cable Clutch. 👏👏👏👏

[@GixxerFoo]

I've always had a preference to the cable if given a choice, but I will ride with anything.

[@tonydanzl]

Here's a question... WHEN has HD ever, EVER listened to "rider feedback" and made production changes ??? 🤔😄🤠✌️ I heard recall expenses over the release of hydraulic clutch was the main reason.! As usual , we were the guinea pig test data. Even a simple "o-ring" changeout/mistake equates to an hour labor for every bike...🤔

[@GixxerFoo]

Harley dealer bottom line is an hour of labor for every single job, that'll be $170 for air in the tires. Harley never listens to feedback, they get it and then still do whatever. More than likely recalls and they spent a bunch of money on that and warranty service.

[@steveheizman1905]

I agree. Cable all the way. Easier maintenance, like you said plenty of upgrade options to reduce lever pull and make it more comfortable to ride. I went with a muller power clutch but wish I'd have known more of the options you srared. Research pays. I can't speak for hydraulic but have replace clutch assemblies in the past and not having a fluid system to deal with, and extra for potential leaks etc. The cable you can usually atleast find a way home or as said repair on the road. This is my 1st comment, you make awesome informative videos. Love the channel!

[@GixxerFoo]

Thank you, we appreciate the comment and watching the videos! I've seen a lot of issues with aftermarket hydraulic clutch kits, especially fluid leaks. I like the cable setups too, just so much easier for maintenance and upgrades.

[@jeremyaspen5610]

I was actually very impressed when harley came back with the cable clutch that I bought a new bike in 22. I kept my 2000 raod king but stayed away from hydraulic clutch all those years. Garbage and high maintenance. Great topic man, keep it up!

[@GixxerFoo]

Thank you! I am not a fan of the hydraulic clutch myself, my dad's Vrod has a hydraulic clutch. That one hasn't been too bad but we've kept it serviced so hopefully it doesn't become an issue.

[@MicahBell_1860]

KISS Happy trails, Cowpoke

[@GixxerFoo]

Can't beat the simplicity on the cable there!

[@thomaskirkpatrick4031]

I was a huge fan of Harley Davidson since I was a child. The last couple of years that has changed. Now I will not support the factory anymore.

[@GixxerFoo]

It's really taken a slide the past few years, after they wiped out the Dyna it just hasn't been the same.

[@HarleyGeezer1954]

I noticed the long throw right away on my 2020 from my 2016. Mine is just about all the way out. After 4 years I am used to it however. The first month I looked like a rookie.

[@GixxerFoo]

It's the same way on Vrod's too as well, I noticed it really bad the touring bikes though.

[@DevilDog59]

With the new clutch cable it is easier to add higher handle bars as they are a two piece cable. You just have to add a longer upper clutch cable and there is no need to remove the clutch release side cover on the transmission. I have a 1988 heritage Softail with a clutch cable and a 2015 streetglide special with a hydraulic clutch and have no issues going between either system.

[@GixxerFoo]

That's awesome! Yeah once you spend enough time on a bike it gets to where it doesn't matter either way.

[@joel8034]

I heard Charley Davidson is made in Milwaukee Chinatown. That explains a lot...

[@tonyculpeper6249]

I've raced bikes 57 years. I want cable clutch and throttle.

[@GixxerFoo]

I agree, I am not a huge fan of the throttle by wire myself.

[@donwaltman4276]

Cable clutch all day long, and the variable pressure plate for less strain. Great video Gixx!

[@phishin81]

Cable. Let's keep motorcycles simple. All I do is maintain vehicles, I just want my bikes to be easy

[@KruseProductions]

Thanks for the content. I have both a cable and hydraulic clutch on 2 of my bikes and I don’t really notice much difference in the operation. What I see as an issue is the throttle by wire being an issue starting at a light or starting and turning immediately. It can be difficult. Take care and thanks again.

[@GixxerFoo]

So interesting you mentioned that, the throttle by wire isn't exactly perfectly tune and it does have a bit of a delay in throttle response.

[@geraldgoodiii6993]

With the hydraulic clutch set up properly (at min .. softbrake lever)… U KNOW exactly where the friction zone is. It never Changes like the cable can. My only complaint about the hyro clutch is that it was so damn heavy when combined with the start of friction zone out in the next time zone

[@GixxerFoo]

You gotta really be paying attention to the hydraulic clutch to notice a difference with clutch fade.

[@frankmarkovcijr5459]

The cable clutch in my Sportster is 25 years old and all original.

[@GixxerFoo]

Those cables can live forever if you take of them and keep them lubed propery!

[@frankmarkovcijr5459]

@@GixxerFoo l have replaced clutch cables when they break.l was referring to the clutch basket and plates.

[@georgesmith5624]

Cable with a barnett coil spring pressure plate,beautiful

[@GixxerFoo]

Barnett makes some killer products!

[@bullast2046]

To clarify, you’re referring to the ~200$ coil spring plate, yes? I might try that out

[@mobilemechanix1]

Cable only!

[@GixxerFoo]

I am all about the cable myself!

[@keithhogan3199]

You must have the friction zone on a heavy bike or you’re going to eventually have a bad day. However the hydraulic clutch can have a friction zone but it takes time to learn it.

[@GixxerFoo]

The big bikes is about all they had the hydraulic clutch on the Harley and there was really no in between. You pretty much had the lever released before you felt anything as far as the friction zone.

[@FriedPi-mc5yt]

My 2018 Road King has a hydraulic clutch. No issues so far and my arthritic hands don’t mind the hydraulic clutch at all.

[@GixxerFoo]

That's a big benefit of hydraulic clutches is keeping us riding longer!

[@chrisl.7345]

I own a 2017 E-Glide I have pepped up pretty good with a Torque Cam (468 Zippers) and S&S everything + a 2-1 Customized Exhaust System. My Bike takes off from 1700 rpms and easily hits 120-125 and that’s it,.. I know that and that’s it. Do I do that when out cruising ? Of’course not,.. but my hydraulic clutch has never let me down at ANY type of ride ! What you do is first : Install a quality set of Kevlar Soft Plates, replace the old HD Pressure Plate with a Centrifugal Weight Pressure Plate…that’s what they do their names might be more dramatic.., and finally a thicker Release Rod that don’t “rattle” around and flex but fit’s perfectly in the High Gear Shaft and really really improves the Clutch Handling from the Lever/Hydraulic Unit and down to an impressively responsive gearshift ! Having troubles finding the “Clutch point” ?…Not with this set up I guarantee, and it’s absolutely not that I am against Cables,..routed correctly and lubricated they last for years… I just like the Hose solution with my choice of Silicon Juice.. perfectly controlling my Clutch ! 😃✊🏻🇺🇸

[@upsidedowndog1256]

I have a Suzuki SV1000S with a hydraulic clutch. I never noticed until someone else rode it and commented that the friction zone was almost like a switch. I had never really thought about it. I hate any clutch system that is out of wack, cable or hydraulic! The Screamin Eagle clutch in my Dyna feels about perfect.

[@GixxerFoo]

That's exactly how I was with hydraulic clutches, I never noticed it till someone said something to me. I guess we just ride with it and don't worry about it!

[@davemagee]

Hey brother Hydraulic clutch are awesome when running right but when it goes wrong it's a mission of elimination of time and money I've been through it all learnt a crap load though and solved the problem and now have a awesome hydraulic clutch. Thanks to the awesome Manual and some wise advice.All the best from NZ 🇳🇿

[@GixxerFoo]

Hope you have a big weekend of riding ahead! I been there too chasing down clutch issues with hydraulic systems, it's a time consuming and expensive pain.

[@davemagee]

I'm bloody glad I'm not the only one lmao. My Dad taught me to start with the easiest then follow all the way. Thanks brother

[@heathwest3718]

Excellent video!!! Less glare from the glasses. Great content!

[@GixxerFoo]

I was wondering if that would make a difference with the lighting! Thank you as always for watching!

[@jdflhr]

Like my hydra clutch with a vpc on my m8 124. Never goes out of adjustment and remains constant

[@echevarriawilson]

I love the hydraulic clutch. I do slow speed and friction zone drills on my police road king and that clutch is solid.

[@GixxerFoo]

I was surprised the police bikes used hydraulic clutches, I honestly thought they would use cable clutches for more friction zone feel. But honestly a clutch is clutch whether it engages right off the bar or almost all the way out you get used to it.

[@HarleyRog]

My 2007 CVO hydraulic clutch (110” motor) starts to engage almost immediately off the handlebar. I would prefer a mid range zone, but it is a lot easier than my EVO cable… AND you can find neutral every time you need it!

[@GixxerFoo]

Oh yeah I can say for sure the 110's were a bit more refined that Evo's, but the Evo just does what it does!

[@Hoodsolo]

My 2018 road glide special had hydraulic clutch once I got used to it, 100 miles or so, I loved it... my 2023 lowrider st has cable. Only plus to cable is feeling friction zone. Pro to both as cons. All riders preference.

[@GixxerFoo]

That's really what it comes down to at the end of the day is personal preference. Maybe one of these days we'll re-invent the wheel for something that falls in between... I sure hope we don't move to electronic operation.

[@d1mennis]

The only problem I have with the cable clutch is if it is not adjusted properly it makes it hard to find neutral.

[@JoeFurtado-xv5no]

Cable all day long I’ve ridden bikes with both cable and hydraulic clutches and hands down cable is where it’s at. Great point on the variable pressure clutch plate. Glad Harley went back to cables way easier and cheaper to maintain

[@GixxerFoo]

I love variable pressure clutch setups, easy to install and they can you by without having to tear the primary down and install a full on performance clutch and basket.

[@readtheinstructions1407]

All I know is cable clutch, and I'm satisfied with it. Great content, thanks for the report and keeping us in the loop.

[@GixxerFoo]

Absolutely, any time! The cable clutch is my choice as well!

[@cnyjody9650]

Had to laugh when you said one finger clutch control. Try that on my 2010 twin cam, with a Barnett heavy duty clutch spring. Last week I had a friendly chat with 3 young lads riding MT-09's at the gas pumps. They all wanted to know what it was like riding an Ultra Classic. I told all of them to come over and pull in the clutch handle. The look on each of their faces when they pulled it in was priceless. One of the kids could barely pull it in. Funny as hell.

[@Old940]

Hope you don't have problems with the throw out bearing, mine came apart, then you can't disengage, what a ride home.

[@cnyjody9650]

@@Old940 Was yours a heavy duty clutch?

[@Old940]

The clutch was an Evolution Industries Billet Diamond Terminator Clutch/ Basket Assembly. Just to much pressure on the little throw out bearing.

[@GixxerFoo]

Oh yeah you get a heavy duty clutch spring in there and they will hold the clutch all you want.

[@wcraiderevo8078]

I have a 97 Heritage with a cable clutch which I prefer over the hydraulic clutch on the 19 Eltra Glide Police, it is much easier to ride in the friction zone for slow turns and slow speeds with the cable.

[@GixxerFoo]

That's always made me wonder why the police bikes didn't have cable clutches with the kind of riding they are required to do with all the slow speed maneuvers.

[@vmotobiker]

Never noticed cool video. I have had Harley Davidson bikes from 2007 to 2024

[@GixxerFoo]

Thank you, I never really paid attention to it till I was curious why they went back to the cable clutches and dug into it. I never heard any complaints outside of the normal with hydraulic clutches and that was more related to personal preference.

[@theodavies8754]

I don't notice the cable clutch on a TC 88 being heavy until I think about it. It's really heavy with uprated springs. It is what it is, works great.

[@GixxerFoo]

Heavy springs work very well, heavier pull is worth the trade off!

[@superplumber5]

Fuck hydraulic clutches , they make a easy pull cable ramp to make heavy springs pull easy as stock . Good shit Gixxer

[@GixxerFoo]

I appreciate the support! I prefer cable but I would take a hydraulic over anything electronic any day.

[@jamessmoth8683]

In my first year of owning my 2011 streetglide, the clutch cable broke right at the clutch lever on the bars. Under warranty, but still a major inconvenience. My 2019 is hydrolic, no issues so far, has the SE Stage 4 clutch upgrade

[@GixxerFoo]

Very nice setup you have now! I can't believe you had a cable failure with the bike still under warranty! That's crazy but it does happen, good thing it was still under warranty.

[@jamessmoth8683]

@@GixxerFoo on my '19 I paid for the ESP with tire and wheel just because I knew about the m8 sumping issue. It was a used bike at the dealer but only 9 months old and 7k miles. After I bought it, I found out it was a "buy back" but they wouldn't tell me the reason. In '20 I hit a bad pot hole that took out my front tire and rim, the ESP replaced the wheel, TPMS monitor, bearings and tire.

[@stevenbrown5213]

Great topic. Recently when riding to a HOG rally my ride buddies clutch cable broke. It had been on the bike for 160,000 kms. We still made it to the rally as we pushed him to a speed he could put it in first gear. Local dealer was able to help with a new cable and the road trip continued. Question: What would you suggest is a reasonable mileage to change your clutch cable?

[@GixxerFoo]

That's awesome! Your chances of getting a cable are a lot greater than having everything to fix a hydraulic setup! That's hard to say what mileage, you've got age, enviroment and just overall maintenance of cables. They can outlive a motorcyle sometimes, but if I had to throw a mileage out change it just because I would say the 50K miles service.

[@David-cz4km]

I have a 2005 Ultra with a screaming eagle hydraulic clutch. I had it installed when new. Why? Because the 1987 softail custom I had with a cable clutch I couldn’t get it to adjust right. I would adjust it in the morning then during my ride it would change. I would lube it, I changed the cable but I could never it to be just right and stay just right. Then I road a bike with a hydraulic clutch. It stayed the same hot, cold, day, night and next week. The Screaming eagles hydraulic clutch works the way they are supposed to work. Fast forward to the newer Harley touring bikes and they finally started putting hydraulic clutches on them but they were different in the action. So different is the action on those bikes that it makes it harder to get used to it. I rode one and it just didn’t feel right no matter what I did. Then I pumped my motor to about 111hp 119 torque and tried putting in another clutch, but it didn’t work right with the hydraulic system that I had, so back to stock with the weights on it so the faster it would spin the more pressure it had on the clutch plates, BUT my power comes on at about 3100 rpm and up to about 6200 rpm, I shift at about 6000 but those weights don’t release until the engine speed drops to about 4200 rpm! So while I am waiting for the engine to slow down everyone on less powered bikes are passing me wondering why I slowing down. Very long story short, I now have a stock clutch basket with a screaming eagle 9 plate with a heavier spring. I did put a cable on for a short time but then I had to adjust it all of the time. By the way, changing the cable involves taking off the transmission side cover which means you have to take off the pipes. I’ll stick to my hydraulic clutch that I never have to adjust and just have to change fluid every now and then.

[@GixxerFoo]

Nothing wrong with that at all! Just keeping up on fluid changes goes a long ways!

[@robertlumsden942]

prefer cable. i bought a 21 rode glide special and was so glad they had went back to cable.

[@GixxerFoo]

It's been pretty unanimous most folks have been happy they went to a cable.

[@elviejogo2008]

I've only ever had a cable clutch so I can't really jump in on this one. If I could afford a new touring model Harley has made that decision for me. Thanks for sharing this info.

[@GixxerFoo]

I've rode Harleys and metrics with hydraulic clutches and to be honest Harley's hydraulic clutch wasn't quite as good as the metrics clutches.

[@davidfaria6194]

Cables on everything I know we’re talking about clutches, but when I got my 08 street glide I was blown away on the fly by wire throttle. I had no clue when I bought it that it had it but I prefer cables all the way.

[@GixxerFoo]

I was very skeptical of throttle by wire, never seen or heard of it till about 2008 when I was working at Mercruiser and saw throttle by wire for the first time in development for marine use. We called it digital throttle cable (DTC), and yes it went wide open with no way to shut it down on the test boat without killing the key. Engineering got it sorted but it made me leary of it for a while lol.

[@michaelrodgers6559]

Cable clutch for life, even though the stock setup from harley is lacking. Even just a proper aftermarket lever helps a lot. If i go to a heavier clutch, I'll put in one of those ball-ramp pieces in to help even more.

[@GixxerFoo]

The centrifugal add ons work very very well in my experience, a lot cheaper than a full on performance clutch!

[@rgh622]

I have both. It doesn't make a riding difference to me, but cable is definitely much less labor/time/cost to maintain.

[@GixxerFoo]

I like cable clutches personally but I will just ride it either way myself too.

[@kenh9097]

I have a 2018 Road-Glide Ultra, had terrible oil migration into my primary, installed a 9 mm shaft which helps,, lost 17oz of transmission oil in under 2000 miles. All went into the primary! Cable is definitely simple compared!!

[@peteryeanacopolis2037]

Did you install a Gregg Williams push rod? That’s what I did on my 2015 RG CVO. I wasn’t experiencing any oil migration but for the money I thought it was a good idea. Considerable difference in the size.

[@kenh9097]

I ordered it through a company in Michigan, and I need to add the slinger next.,

[@GixxerFoo]

Dang that's really excessive oil transfer! I hope you got that issue solved now!

[@kenh9097]

It still loses a few Oz's, but not near what it did, maybe 5-6 oz in 5000 miles

[@ampini212]

I don't think it's ever about the clutch itself. It's all about the geometry of the lever. If the fulcrum point is too far, more work for you. Especially if you have shorter fingers and that lever is far from the bar. Plenty of after market clutch perches to remedy that issue. All about the set up

[@GixxerFoo]

That's exactly what Harley focused on when they went back to the cable clutch with the new perch and lever. You can still improve that further with an aftermarket setup.

[@nickglorioso6266]

I got both, on my hydraulic I installed the PSE adjutable levers.So now both feel the same near or in the friction zone.

[@GixxerFoo]

I've often wondered about an adjustable lever on a hydraulic clutch.

[@robertjeffery6100]

My 2000 carbed roadglide still has its original cables 67000 miles

[@GixxerFoo]

They will last forever with just a little maintenance!

[@gnsmk357]

Man love your videos, they are allways right to the hart of the issues. I have a 131 Tri Glede and a Cholo show softail bike. So I have both style clutch types. I do ride the softail and it is at dealer now for a recluse clutch so I do not have to think about stalling the bike at slow speed uo hill corners. The bike has over sized apes and a 22 inch front wheel. So I think I hae the right clutch on both and glade that can be done, Again great videos.

[@GixxerFoo]

Thank you, I appreciate the support! You've got some awesome bikes it sounds like! Love to hear about a 131 making it into a Trike, I bet that's a lot of fun to ride!

[@paulsartorello836]

I always wanted the hydraulic clutch option, just for the symmetry on the handlebars. Glad I didn’t get it! The cable is much easier to maintain.

[@GixxerFoo]

It's much easier to take care of and a lot of aftermarket hydraulic clutches I've seen will give you nothing but issues.

[@Prometheus1979]

The only bike I owned with a hydraulic clutch were a new 2013 streetglide. All my other bikes have been cable including my newest one. I definitely prefer cable. I also ran dirt bikes when I were younger. There’s Just something about the feel of a cable clutch.

[@GixxerFoo]

I love the cable clutch, a lot of motocross bikes today have hydraulic clutches. Never rode a dirt bike with one but I can imagine it might be interesting.

[@rickvia8435]

Of the three FLH baggers I've owned, none had a hydraulic clutch (:30).

[@GixxerFoo]

That's a good thing, once they switched to hydraulic clutches on the tourers it cost more than it was worth to change one over to a cable.

[@karldoerr9456]

Hydraulic clutch on my 18 flhr, I don't mind it but I know full well that if it takes a dump on the side of the road...I'm screwed! My 11 fxdc is cable and my 87 fxst/c was cable. There is hope if cable malfunctions on the road.

[@GixxerFoo]

We've rigged up some contraptions for broken cables on the side of the road, may not of been legal or safe but it got the job done lol. Not much you can do with a hydraulic unit if you get a leak or have any line issues.

[@totoco2]

Got myself a super clutch. Almost as effortless as a hydraulic clutch, using stock springs. I had hydraulics on my 1992 suzuki intruder vs800 and yeah, fear of losing clutch due to unexpected leak in the middle of nowhere is scary. Had to have a bottle of dot4 on me just in case

[@GixxerFoo]

I've road some intruders with hydraulic clutches, I will say they were better than the Harley hydraulic clutches but still prefer a cable myself.

[@pb68slab18]

How come whenever H-D gets all the bugs worked out of a motor/trans/clutch/whatever, they throw the entire design out and totally change it!?!?!? The early Evos had a decent clutch for a stock motor ridden sensibly. Then they went to that one my '97 FLHPi had with the DOUBLER plate in the stack, which was basically a hand grenade in the clutch pack! Yeah, mine went KA-BOOM and came apart, with no way to disengage the clutch!!!! Then H-D dropped it and went back to one similar to the old original Evo design! Installed a stock unit from a wrecked '05 and a Barrnett extra-plate kit. I went to a PM hydraulic actuator on the trans end, a V-Rod handlebar master cylinder, 2pc line and a brake-line junction block w/juice brake light switch mounted to the frame/highway bar tab. I've been experimenting with different bars, and it's easier and CHEAPER to change a half-line than a full cable.

[@GixxerFoo]

That's pretty cool idea using some Vrod parts on there! I didn't mention the cost of bar swaps and the added steps with a hydraulic clutches.

[@scrumthebum2451]

My twin cam has cable & Barnett x plate kit w/ SE diaphragm spring it the lever pull gets to me when in light to light traffic. On my shovel I have a evo industries stage 1 terminator 6 springs running the medium springs and it pulls much easier and also holds more power 🤷‍♂️

[@GixxerFoo]

Some of those heavy clutches are an absolute bear to pull the lever on! But if you want to hold back some big power that's what you gotta do!

[@scrumthebum2451]

@@GixxerFoo I have a heavy duty Barnett diaphragm spring, used it for a month & had to take it out. It was brutal.

[@johnsb1550]

Cable all the way! Just for the simple fact that you can set your own freeplay. A neighbor just picked up a 21 Freewheeler with a cable clutch, I have to admit that his seems pretty stiff, but maybe I'm just getting old. I just assume that the 114 is going to need a stiff spring to keep from slipping.

[@GixxerFoo]

There's really no adjustment to speak of on the hydraulic clutches, the 114's aren't too bad at all even with cable clutches.

[@normanmatura]

I've had experience with friends that have had cable clutches or hydraulic failure. I had a friend whose cable broke while he was in traffic and the bike started pulling off on its own, and friends that have had hydraulic clutch failure because they didn't keep up on their service and change out the fluid I'd rather change fluid than change cables. I can get that for brake fluid from any auto parts store or Walmart

[@GixxerFoo]

It really does all come down maintenance and you for sure want to keep up on the fluid changes with hydraulic clutches.

[@fq7879]

I understand they had problems with the hydraulic clutches and thats why they went back to cable.

[@GixxerFoo]

They did and just didn't put the money into trying to perfect it, made more sense to go back to the cable.

[@ALPHAFTUCK]

First ever Hydraulic clutch on my '17 RG. Wayyy prefer my cable clutches!!!

[@GixxerFoo]

The easier pull is nice but the feel of the hydraulic takes a lot away from what you get on the cable.

[@thomashall6937]

Not sure why Harley went to hydraulic clutch, but I bought a 2014 limited so I have no choice, I think the only downside is you just won’t know when the clutches worn out.

[@benkrom2737]

I've always preferred cable activated clutches. They engage much faster and aren't temperature sensitive. Also cable doesn't mess with your clamping force like hydraulic clutches do. 🧐 clutches tend to last longer when cable activated ! 😁

[@GixxerFoo]

Temperature sensitivity is a big factor! The fluid heats up and the clutch action fades!

[@benkrom2737]

@@GixxerFoo And if it's cold outside they're slooow motion. And in today's world having a Master and a Slave IS A BIG NO NO 😆

[@socaltriker4212]

I've always had a cable actuated clutch in the past until I bought my 2019 Freewheeler Trike. The 2019 Trike came with a hydraulic actuated clutch and frankly I love it. First of all I don't like diaphragm springs because at high rpm they seem to float more and not produce enough bite on the take off due to centrifugal force. I don't "dump" the clutch on take off and only apply full throttle after release of the clutch and it's fully engaged. BTW my Freewheeler has 63,000 + miles on the stock clutch and it still locks up nicely enough so that with a snap of the trottle I can pull the front end up off the ground without damaging my clutch. Knowing how and when to apply power is much more important than what to use in disengaging one's clutch i.e. cable assist or hydraulic assist clutches.

[@GixxerFoo]

That's awesome and some really impressive mileage on the stock clutch, really shows you know how and when to apply the power and you're not riding that clutch burning it up!

[@hotdotdog]

My local dealership does a lot of police work and many officers want the cable clutch because they can adjust the friction zone location on the lever.

[@GixxerFoo]

That's one thing about a Harley cable clutch that gets me is you don't have the adjuster on the bar and you can't adjust it on the fly like other manufacturers.

[@Old940]

High performance clutches are great but the stock throw out bearing my not last very long.

[@GixxerFoo]

That is very true, they do put a lot of stress on anything before or after where you install them.

[@pu1fjb0]

Nothing to do with clutches, my head can't stop thinking of porting and polishing heads. At $1200 total cost, is it really worth it? How much HP/torque is expected? My bike has a Twin Cam 103" motor. My only upgrade is an S&S MR103 cam, which has been great. Another thought is just to buy the S&S heads, instead of the porting/polishing. Your thoughts would be appreciated.

[@GixxerFoo]

Heads won't do a lot for you with just a performance cam and stock compression. Unless your going up to 10.5:1 compression the head work isn't going to be worth the cost personally.

[@edwardsmith7501]

I like the cable clutches for the simplicity of them and I can work on them and like the feel wouldn't buy a Harley with a hydraulic clutch.

[@GixxerFoo]

That's why I am a cable clutch fan, they hydraulic clutches are a nice pull but you don't have a feel of the clutch.

[@martinkies6580]

If it ain't broke, no need to fix: cable clutch all the way.

[@captainsuburbia8956]

I switched my 2020 low rider s to a hydraulic clutch. cable clutch kept stretching repeatedly. Now I have cruise control, which didn't come on my bike originally. all harley parts.

[@GixxerFoo]

That's the first I've heard of switching over to a hydraulic on a Softail, cruise control makes a big difference on a bike. I never thought it was needed till I rode one with it.

[@mauser8515]

Hydro is the way to go. F cables. I can bleed a hydro system with a 30ml syringe in about 5 by flushing from the slave up to the master cylinder. I race a KTM and thank God for a hydro clutch.

[@murraytaylor9878]

Hey gixx ,good video man.. I've got a sportster with cable clutch,and a cvo with hyd clutch..I don't mind either but if I had to choose I'd go with the cable..,better feed back and mechanical control... cheers

[@GixxerFoo]

You got the setup having a Sportster and a CVO!

[@murraytaylor9878]

The sportsters an ol Beata,but it's so much fun,cheap and cheerful... keep up the good work gixx

[@scottarmstrong1172]

Old guy likes a cable.

[@GixxerFoo]

I prefer a cable myself!

[@tobinlakeguideservices]

I’m a fan of cable clutch system. With a little lubrication cables will last a very long time.

[@GixxerFoo]

I've seen cables that are decades old with just a little love and they operate like new. If they aren't frayed or hanging up they are still good to go.

[@tobinlakeguideservices]

@@GixxerFoo I understand. My FLSTF has had the same clutch cable and throttle cables for 27 years. No lie ! Every spring I make sure they are lubricated well and they will last. My Fatboy is a 1996.

[@WillieDavis-d6z]

😆 If Harley Davidson slipped up and done us any money saving changes.... It's by accident 😝😂🤣!!!

[@GixxerFoo]

That's no joke, I can guarantee they ain't passing any cost savings along to us.

[@nhzxboi]

Many times, especially upshifting, I don't bother with the clutch. Maybe it's my truck driving background..

[@GixxerFoo]

Ain't nothing wrong with that at all if you can do it! In my opinion it's probably better if you can do it!

[@tommydemis9094]

My 2014 CVO Road King has the hydraulic clutch and I HATED having to let the handle ALL THE WAY OUT before the clutch would engage... So I went with the chineseium adjustable clutch lever to make the clutch engage sooner (right off the grip if needed)... Cable clutches are MUCH easier to adjust, maintain and drive than a hydraulic system... IMHO

[@GixxerFoo]

Sounds like you experienced the issue Harley-Davidson said was the reason behind going back to the cable clutch. Those adjustable levers make a huge difference!

[@stevenpierce4359]

I have a 2020Rks hyd clutch don’t like having to change oil

[@GixxerFoo]

It's a pain and an extra step but you gotta do it or else action will fade over time.

[@robynjones4837]

Can you convert a hydraulic clutch to a cable clutch on my 2017 ultra limited, I have not had any problems but it was weird at first it released way late when releasing.

[@GixxerFoo]

You actually can, check out Ratty Fab. They have a kit to convert the hydraulic clutch to a cable.

[@Chrisgaskill75]

Hey buddy need a little advice ? We just purchased a 2024 street bob 114 . Cats are in mufflers can I put Vance and Hines slash cut slip ons with no tune ? We are leaving factory air intake . Thanks in advance

[@GixxerFoo]

I don't like it, but yes you can with the air cleaner. I am just a die hard about flash tuning due to the sheer benefits and power gain with the new mufflers. Even a bone stock bike benefits from an improved tune. You might have to decel pop but it won't hurt anything on an M8.

[@Chrisgaskill75]

@@GixxerFoo thank you ! I have decided to put a tune on it

[@GusPineda-ev5uk]

Just was looking at a Harley Davidson dealership near me they want a little over 50,000$ for a CVO , over $50,.000 that's just not right , to someone like me that's just never going to be possible

[@GixxerFoo]

I just can't justify that kind of money on a motorcycle, there's a doctor or a lawyer out there that will pay that for a CVO and that's why they keep building them.

[@ckthompson7928]

I prefer cable operated clutches in my cars and bikes. Better control in my opinion. Not to mention hydraulic can leak , and as Mr foo said having to perform fluid service. I had a older guy tell me about the difference between metric and American cruisers. He said " metric cruisers are for anyone who wants to ride a bike that has no mechanical abilities, a Harley is a mechanics bike. Maintaining one requires decent mechanical abilities " so far no matter who's feelings are hurt he's been right. Take two grow-acet's and pull that cable 😂

[@GixxerFoo]

That's a great analogy between metric and Harley, Harley will do anything and everything while still being serviceable at in your own garage. Fluid services I will say are much easier on a Harley vs. the hydraulic clutch on a lot of metric bikes.

[@jamessouthworth1699]

I've noticed my clutch hand cramps up more as I get older. I think for me the solution will be a Recluse clutch.

[@GixxerFoo]

They make a dang good clutch and you can get adjustable levers which make the action a lot easier.

[@shep68]

The hyd clutch on my 14 Limited does have a somewhat hard pull and the friction zone is quite a ways out. But it’s always in the same spot and never needs adjusting. I have no issues with it. Anyone having an accident due to clutch operation was simply an inexperienced rider who didn’t know or understand what they were doing. IMO of course. ✌️

[@GixxerFoo]

That was my opinion about complaints on hydraulic clutches, clutch is a clutch to me and you feel out each one cause no two operate exactly a like.

[@hunterbrooks389]

Cable all the way! Easier to work on too!

[@GixxerFoo]

Simple is good, and plus you can rig a cable on the side of the road. We've all at some point if you've rode long enough to rig up a questionable road side get home setup lol.

[@bryanashirley1327]

I much prefer the hydraulic. I bought a ‘17 Ultra Limited specifically because it had a hydraulic clutch. Never had any problem with it. Did a 131 upgrade with commensurate clutch upgrades, yes the clutch is stiffer, but I still like it. I recently bought a 23 Road Glide Limited with the cable clutch. I do not like it as much.

[@jamesball2128]

Never used a hydraulic clutch, but always knew that I wouldn't like it, because I knew that I would lose the feel of the clutch, altogether.

[@GixxerFoo]

That's my biggest issue with them is not being able to feel what's really going on with the bike.

[@GusPineda-ev5uk]

1:18 1:18 Sorry this has nothing to do with this video, but I want to know if you have seen or heard anything about the , the speed glide a up. Sorry speed glider up graded slim , I have to say that for my own opinion it's hands down the best looking Harley-Davidson I've ever seen, it's just truly awesome, no technical computer crap just pure raw HP and torque , I'm in love with this bike if ever would win the lottery this would be the bike, just awesome, look it up and please let me know what you think please

[@GusPineda-ev5uk]

Sorry it's called the speed glider , just awesome, please let me know what you think please

[@GixxerFoo]

That's pretty cool! I have never seen a softail slim customized so much! I love that transparent cam cover, you can keep and eye on the tensioners.