Harley-Davidson Model Failure, FXDR Went Down in Flames

[@GixxerFoo]

What did you think of the FXDR? Was it gone too soon or did Harley-Davidson really miss the mark on this one?

[@freebehindbars8654]

Not too much or too soon, just a poor design. It was worse that the Sportster S, which had/has a lot of potential.

[@Rif_Leman]

The bike looks like crap.

[@donwaltman4276]

Can't get worked up over V-rod, still mad about Road King standard, not available for last couple years

[@IRazRI]

Had both a Vrod and the sportster s, got myself an FXDR recently and frankly its the only bike i would not sell ever. Probably wont be buying another Harley if they don't come out with another FXDR style harley.

[@karlmcpheeters352]

Ha hi. HD gives a motor what we can build from it thanks beautiful !!!! I dert an street I love it you got to look in the motor with full septet of the motor happyhour

[@m.f.m.67]

Raked-out front end, forward mount pegs and "handling" are not words you find in the same sentence outside of Harley world.

[@GixxerFoo]

That whole setup was for sure a head scratcher, you don't have to be an engineer to know that's a bad idea.

[@craigkemmerzell5741]

I have never every seen one of these out on the street at a rally or in the wild 😳

[@ihateemael]

the "streets" were popular in countries that had capacity limits on new riders. But the press bagged them so much they fell by the wayside.

[@frankfurther3828]

Ditto, and sleeping fine.

[@GixxerFoo]

Closest I got to seeing one in the wild was the day I happened to be at the dealer when a kids parents bought him one, kid was like 19. I saw it in the parking lot getting loaded on a trailer till he got his endorsement, so it's likely but hopefully not wadded up.

[@murraywallace8973]

To my mind Harleys biggest problem is the retiral of Willie G. Davidson , he had an understanding of style that is totally absent with the current design team

[@RNintheTrenches]

Well said, couldn't agree more.

[@GixxerFoo]

Willie did the Vrod and it was different but it fit the mold, now that he's retired like you said it's been problem.

[@phillipcabaniss5028]

I agree, I had a conversation with a salesman at an HD, pointless but it allowed me to flesh out a very good argument, that it really feels like engineers are designing these bikes!

[@bddfc1968]

I wouldn't trade my Ole 1985 FXRD for the FXDR 😂

[@GixxerFoo]

I wouldn't trade that FXRD for anything!

[@williamwintemberg]

It isn't just this bike. Every time I walk into a HD showroom, I don't see anything that speaks to me. The baggers are nice but I'm not a bagger person. Maybe some day but my some day is running out. I'll just stick with my 13 SuperGlide.

[@carlbruhn1772]

I was traveling yesterday and stopped at a dealership in Virginia. They had a 2013 anniversary super glide with 1,120 miles. It looked brand new for $8990. To me a super glide is an iconic piece of HD history.

[@williamwintemberg]

@@carlbruhn1772 Yes! Back in 13 when I laid eyes on my SuperGlide I didn't want to leave without it. A couple of days later, with my wife's blessings, it was mine. All these years later my love of this bike has gotten stronger. It's not a perfect bike by any means but I have learned to embrace all its habits, good and bad. To me it's like riding something that's alive and at my age that makes me feel 50 years younger.

[@FranBunnyFFXII]

I'm 34, and when I walk into a Harley dealership, I see lots of things that speak to me. That Lowrider ST is great, that Nighster 975 is really interesting, the M8 Fat Boy is just AWESOME(I own one). The new Street Glide looks great and has good power. I'd never own a bagger, but I got to test ride it and tbh it's a great off the showroom floor bike, certainly better than indian's chieftain. You need to remember just because you dont see much of what you like, doesnt mean everyone thinks like you.

[@joshuaboatright6678]

Actually seems like a good deal​@@carlbruhn1772

[@ozziejim8472]

Why would you give up a SuperGlide!

[@theodavies8754]

After a '95 FXDL Evo I looked at the V rod so many times. Went with a '99 TC 88 FXDL. Looked at 103 low rider but don't want EFi. I'll dump whatever it takes into the TC to keep it going as long as I do.

[@milomanx6531]

If it ain't carbureted, I don't want it. Old school rules!

[@frankfurther3828]

Keihin Carbs Forever. Owned by Honda, I believe.

[@GixxerFoo]

That's where I am at, let's keep the old school air and oil cooled bikes alive!

[@m.f.m.67]

The guy that designed the front end wasn't in the same room as the guy that designed the rear end. As a matter of fact, they didn't even know each other! Although you have to remember, Harleys flops often become collectable. XLCR anyone?

[@GixxerFoo]

Many have said this might just become a collector item! I believe that myself, I think we just found a major problem in the math with designers not even knowing each other.

[@davidnadeau6441]

First time I saw one on the dealers floor I had to keep staring at it. Finally my brain hurt and I backed away very confused 😮

[@GixxerFoo]

I think that was a lot of people's feelings on it. They do draw a crowd, but maybe not for the right reasons.

[@celsoescobar9630]

I've been riding Yamahas, Hondas and Suzukis for 55 years and I always hated Harleys due to its hard-to-squeeze clutch, lack of cornering agility and heavy front forks. In 2023 I saw the FXDR for the first time and I was immediately in love with its looks so I bought a 2019 one for US$14,000 here in Rio de Janeiro. I'm very satisfied with the bike power and the awkward riding position does not bother me so much as I'm 6'1" high. The clutch is ok, the gearbox is precise, with easy neutral finding and the original piping has a very pleasant sound. The rear suspension is the only bad thing on this bike - even on its softer setting I find it hard as hell when riding on the streets. Too bad they are not made anymore... I think I'm gonna keep this one.

[@GixxerFoo]

I would own one for $14,000 US, it's a very interesting ride with the way they decided to use clip ons with forward controls. The rear suspension has the same shock as other softails but angle was changed for cornering clearance with the raked front end, I imagine that might have something to do with it.

[@evolutionaluminum2336]

​@GixxerFoo just got my 2019 and was the same I loved the Vrod and this is my favorite, but I've always had a different Outlook on things than others and as far as the handling people complain about, it a bike you have to lean any lay over when turning and boy is it easier than ever when you just go with it .

[@geraldscott4302]

That thing is UGLY. And I will never understand what performance has to do with Harley Davidson. Harley Davidsons (real ones) are about the look, the sound, the feel, the riding experience, which should be laid back and low effort.

[@GixxerFoo]

That's exactly what Harley-Davidson is all about!

[@paule.maurice1521]

Looks European , I wish Harley went back to retro looking models

[@GixxerFoo]

Since you mentioned, since Harley has been transitioning to more "modern" looking designs I have really lost interest in the new stuff. Anything after 2016 really hasn't screamed take my money.

[@canadianloon6433]

I hate the back end I hate the whole bike actually

[@GixxerFoo]

That back end reminds me of a hack job on a Sportster fender, it's better if you take the plastic off and remount the lights and relocate plate but still not quite there.

[@canadianloon6433]

@@GixxerFoo I hear you. I don't know what it needs lol A good kick maybe????

[@patrickgeorge141]

Bring back the FXR! Just take the bags of the touring model and add special fenders and an inverted fork and any othe performance mods you want.

[@GixxerFoo]

The Dyna was a step back from the FXR in my opinion, that came about as something more cost effective to build and somewhat keep along the same lines. You know the Dyna feels flexy after riding an FXR.

[@garypayton5081]

Could have something to do with that worthless shoe salesman CEO they hired.

[@frankfurther3828]

The worst thing to ever happen to HD Inc.

[@NotAffiliated]

@@frankfurther3828 yes, but is he worse than the current German guy running Harley who seems to be in love with the WEF?

[@FranBunnyFFXII]

This bike was developed before that Zeitz took the CEO position. I dont get why people keep saying this stuff.

[@GixxerFoo]

The current CEO killed the FXDR immediately, Levatich before him green lighted the idea. I do believe the current CEOS focus is going to be make all we can on what we do best and he will be gone without a long term plan.

[@NotAffiliated]

@@GixxerFoo It seems like all our CEOs of all our big important companies are selling us, and their own companies down the river. I'm finally at the point where I'm convinced that it's a part of an attack on our country. It doesn't have anything to do with motorcycles or beer. It's just straight sabotage because what ever they produce, it's not what we want.

[@NYCZ31]

Styling was too radical, the seating position was too radical, it was just “too much” in the wrong places and “not enough” where it needed to be. It could not in any real way be adapted for touring duty. Harley learned its lesson though with its superb successors, the M8 Fat Bob and Low Rider S, two of the finest handling Harleys ever made (not counting the Pan American, lol…)

[@GixxerFoo]

Even the Dyna Fat Bob was a excellent handling bike, but they really knocked it out with the M8 version of the Fat Bob and LRS.

[@jamessouthworth1699]

It's another case of you can't charge the premium price without providing the premium parts. People are catching on to the scam of having to add everything after the purchase, in addition to the premium cost of the purchase.

[@GixxerFoo]

I watched the release video of this bike, the crowd reaction was mixed and then they rolled out the 117 Screamin Eagle kit equipped one. Resounding off the record from dealers was how do we sell this as a performance model and then tell someone to make it as advertised outside of the handling is another 6 grand.

[@FranBunnyFFXII]

Lets be fair here, the FXDR only exists because people who said they would buy a harley if they made something like it would buy one, when infact they had no intention of it what so ever. HD keeps making this mistake of listening to people say "I'd buy a harley if they made This/That!" And so they make said bike, and these people had no real intention of actually buying it so instead of the bike selling these people just turn and scoff "it's a harley, Im not buying anything HD makes!" and so the cycle repeats. People cried and yelped and yapped constantly about how HD needs to make more smaller CC bikes, and so Harley did, and they made them fairly priced. A honda Shadow 750 was more expensive than a Street 750. The Street 500 was a great starter bike, nimble powerful, and priced really well. Did anyone buy them? No. Because people who say they would buy said bike, did not infact actually mean what they said. HD's biggest problem is making these moves and not realizing that these people do not actually care what harley makes, they just want to be upset that Harley exists. Case and Point, look at Indian. Indian makes all these kinds of bikes that HD has made for years if not decades. What do people do? "YEAAAAH INDIAN HELLYEAH!" Meanwhile criticising harley for making the exact same kind of motorcycle. Harley needs to stop listening to these people and respond with bike choices based on what people actually want, like the Lowrider ST.

[@El_Peto]

Harley makes poorly engineered, unreliable, slow trash for posers who want the Harley lifestyle. And the generations who wanted that are dying off

[@FranBunnyFFXII]

@@El_Peto Blah blah Lies, BS, blah blah go suck off indian for a bit, you seem bored.

[@harleyhawk7959]

some loser posers love bashing anything and everything ​@fowyb

[@ericalger5003]

​@fowybThere's more than one. I FUCKING HATE harleys AND the motherfuckers that own and pose on those slow, awful handling piles of shit. Fuck you.

[@Mike-jv8bv]

@@El_Peto their newer bikes are just as reliable as metrics. I own both. the issue with reliability comes with dummies putting big bore kits on them and strokers and the big cam and not correctly reinforcing the other bits to handle the added HP. The M8 is a proven engine that can easily clock over 100k miles worry free, this isn't the 70's anymore.

[@tomkarnes69]

Looked at it, but bought the 48 instead, right decision

[@ozziejim8472]

Make no mistake, sporties are a great bike!

[@GixxerFoo]

I had a 48 and to be honest that was the best handling Harley I ever road. It was more responsive than most sport bikes I have owned but didn't have the ground clearance to really run it in the corners.

[@JA-zh5xi]

I must be in the minority, but I had a 2019 FXDR and loved the look. EVERYONE, always talked about how much they loved it and I got stopped way more in parking lots on that bike by people than any other Harley I ever owned. Now, why did I get rid of it? It was terrible to ride and corners were horrible.

[@brucebr1037]

Coulda just kept it in your living room....

[@GixxerFoo]

They drew a crowd and garnered a lot of curiosity, I rode one at a demo day and wasn't crazy about the riding position and as you mentioned they didn't corner like they should of. I would own one if I had the extra cash for a once and a while bike to ride but it would have to be steal.

[@Rif_Leman]

The Breakout is the only vehicle made by HD since 1999 that has sparked my interest. But they missed the mark on that one too. The rear fender looks like they ran out of material before they finished the end and went to a truck stop and bought some generic marker lights. The air filter... really? A bull horn hung on the side? The wheels were almost cool, but they over did it trying to be trendy. The topper is a 114 cubic inch engine making 100 horsepower? That is .88 HP per cubic inch. My Evo makes .94 HP per cubic inch. And it can be yours for just $22,000!

[@GixxerFoo]

Hardest sell for any dealer with integrity was let me show you something else. It wasn't fast, it handled well but not like they said it did. I love the CVO Break Out from 2013 and 2014, those were some beautiful machines.

[@stephendrake8145]

Stylistically the bike looked pretty good, however replacing the VRod motor with a stock big twin was a losing proposition…

[@GixxerFoo]

I do believe a lot of people felt you took the Vrod and gave us this thing?! They could of saved a little face with at least a littler hotter cam in that 114.

[@joeplem5329]

The concept was good but the execution was a bit short. Definitely felt odd even sitting on one at the dealerships.

[@GixxerFoo]

Not gonna like, it for sure stuck out in the dealer. Whether that was good or bad opinions vary but most people didn't care for it.

[@flatout5815]

We quit making Corvettes and made a new model to replace them called a Cheviot. 😂

[@GixxerFoo]

Lol that's kinda what Harley has been doing.

[@MicahBell_1860]

FranBunny pretty much said what I was going to say Happy trails, Cowpoke

[@carlbruhn1772]

I saw the orange colored fxdr at the Myrtle rally with a trask turbo.

[@GixxerFoo]

I could get past the looks for a turbo... probably regret it but it would be fun while it lasted.

[@Aprojeep]

I've had two V-Rods and loved them! But when I test drove the FXDR, I literally got down the block and turned around because my lower back was SCREAMING at me to stop. Looks great but not for me.

[@kelvinhammond7341]

Maybe we’d have to put on a Sundowner, because the Vrod ride wasn’t anything to write home about until you change seats.

[@GixxerFoo]

I love the seat on the NightRod, that perfectly supported my lower back!

[@Aprojeep]

@@GixxerFoo I agree, when I had the Night Rod that was more comfortable than the Muscle.

[@scottarmstrong1172]

This is one of those deals when splitting the difference doesn't really work. Is it a sport bike? Is it a cruiser? Is it a drag bike? I think Harley tried to make the FXDR all things to all people and ended up missing the mark on all of it. To each their own, but I never had any interest.

[@GixxerFoo]

That's exactly what they tried to do and found it just doesn't work, I think that's what they did the Sportster S too. I think they tried to split the difference between the Indian FTR1200 and the Scout.

[@mikesnodgrass4311]

The rear just looks unfinished to me. To be fair to Harley, I feel that way about all bikes with this chopped back end.

[@GixxerFoo]

I am just not on with that style where they put plastic over the rear tire and then hang the signals and plate off an arm around the tire.

[@tex9280]

Big G'day GixxerFoo from Down Under 🇦🇺 Love ya work, both Vrod & the FXDR have & continue being heavily desired by the younger generation here in 🇦🇺 Mate had a FXDR & had to put a 120r motor in it, to suit his rid'in. May all your days be Harley days Safe travels 🙏♥️🐾🐾🇦🇺

[@GixxerFoo]

That's awesome to hear! Even the Vrod didn't really catch on here in the states, everywhere else in the world that bike was absolute fire! It's good to hear the FXDR found somewhere it became popular, I hate to see any Harley model go to waste.

[@Bkamaclean]

I think they missed on the new Sportsters as well...the S isn't bad...but the other ones.

[@getoffmygrass6974]

%100. They should have kept the traditional sportster which is so much sexier and launched the new Sporty “S” as the Bronx or anything other than sportster

[@martymcfly1776]

If the price wasn't close to double of any of it's Japanese competitors I might be tempted by the Nightster. The forward controls on the S, and the fat front tire are strictly for the Harley faithful. Harley's problem isn't selling bikes to the faithful.

[@GixxerFoo]

I like the shadow on the Nightster and how they blended the old and the new. It took some getting used to, the S model I sure with they would of done the 150 horsepower like the Pan America. I think they wanted to keep it more around the Vrod power. My dad owns a Vrod and we argue all the time between the Sportster S and the Vrod. The Sportster S has the same horsepower but has more torque and weighs far less.

[@FriedPi-mc5yt]

If you’re going to make a bike that looks fast. It better perform. It’s really that simple. Harley messed up by not heavily testing a couple prototypes and getting the defects corrected.

[@GixxerFoo]

That bike should of had a hotter cam, albeit even a Screamin Eagle cam. It just wasn't even close to what it needed to be without spending bucks to get it there.

[@johnsinico9970]

Hey gixxerfoo , off topic I know but I got a opportunity to buy a 66 flh for 5 grand . %100 original sitting for many years. It was my good friends father's bike. I've known the bike my entire life being 55 years old. Any thoughts.

[@GixxerFoo]

It is 5 grand but they aren't exactly everywhere these days and they are only going to go up in value!

[@mikaldene7146]

Never rode one myself. I've seen one or two at rallies but I thought they were modified. Now I know. Thanks for the info Gixxerfoo...

[@GixxerFoo]

Any time! I rode one and it was as uncomfortable as everyone said it is lol.

[@robertray213]

Where are you located? I am having a problem getting Neutral 2016 ,103 road glide stock, hydraulic clutch, I've done everything that is serviceable to get it right accept going into the transmission could be bent transmission forks, It'd be cool if you could fix this up for me like your videos these bikes!

[@GixxerFoo]

I appreciate the support! The hydraulic clutch on those bikes makes it difficult to hit neutral on those bikes, if the bike is shifting normally up and down and the only issue is finding neutral it's more than likely related to the hydraulic clutch. I hate to say it but it's not abnormal on bikes with a hydraulic clutch. One thing that I have found that does help is using Amsoil in the primary and transmission. Amsoil makes the claim that it makes the bikes easier to find neutral and I have found that to be true in my experience. I'm not sponsored by them or anything, it's just what I have had good luck with.

[@robertray213]

It does shift normally no problem. I can hit neutral as I'm rolling to a stop. But not if I'm setting still, it's aggravating to have to shut the bike off to put it in neutral settings still.

[@FXFBS540]

I test rode one. It was pretty goofy. It bent you in a weird clamshell with the forwards and clip ons. Giant mailbox intake. Goofy rear tire.

[@GixxerFoo]

Mailbox, that's what that intake looks like! I kept thinking it looked like something but I just couldn't think of what, yes a mailbox.

[@chriszasada9756]

One of my favorite dealers has one and its been sitting for more than a year of not longer . Its got the looks but not the bite thats for sure

[@GixxerFoo]

They for sure get looks, I rode one at a demo day and it was interesting but not something I pick personally.

[@carlbruhn1772]

Would you please share what dealer this bike is at.

[@jimthomas9292]

I absolutely LOVED the looks of the FXDR.

[@GixxerFoo]

I think you're the first person that's said they actually loved the looks, personally I think it's going to be a collector bike one day.

[@celsoescobar9630]

Me too, so I bought a 2019, used for 4 years, with only 4800 Km.

[@upsidedowndog1256]

An actual Dyna, 120R Twincam. The best HD they never made.

[@GixxerFoo]

That's just pure fun right there!

[@larrys.3992]

I never got into that rear on the FXDR.

[@GixxerFoo]

That was a turn off for me too, I think that's what got a lot of people.

[@markmcintosh7095]

I'm a Harley fan, but I didn't care for that model.

[@GixxerFoo]

I love all Harleys, but this one was a very hard sell on me.

[@Hog-g2z]

Hi 👋, GixxerFoo, great review as always, or Not in this case, it looks like it it was cobbled together with some ideas around the table that never worked, I have ridden a V Rod twice, and found it very enjoyable, but as you know there is only one bike that I am happy with, My DEUCE, Or well be when I receive my parts that I have ordered, I placed my order then was told that 4-6 weeks for delivery, + I was sent a email this week, when I translate it I will post it, I should of gone down the route of aftermarket parts, as I would have received them by now, Stay safe, ride free.

[@Hog-g2z]

Been dismantling my primary site today, I even managed to disconnect the starter motor without taking oil tank out, As I am replacing the main dry belt, the rear wheel is obviously got to come out, so I removed the splash guard mudguard, and the electric panel at the back swing it round to the right hand side, tidy up in place which then gave me access to the back Top starter motor Alan key Bolt, this was very easy, it took me about an hour to make up an extension socket with a knuckle drive Allen key, once made up, less than 30 seconds to remove, I’m now on a roll, Especially as many years ago, I had made a 1 , 7/8” socket . Which obviously fits the main output drive sprocket, and I’m now going to make a clamp with two lugs on it to hold the output shaft pulley, And yesterday I went out to go and buy a three-quarter inch drive bar, ended up buying a complete socket set, cheaper than what I was going to pay for the three-quarter inch drive bar, that was a result. I will let you know in due course how I get on.. I think the biggest problem is removing the sleeve off the main shaft, I thought I had got a puller, but I think it was stolen back in 2019 when I got burgled.

[@GixxerFoo]

I love the Softail Deuce, that to me is one of the most comfortable Harleys out there. The seating position and the bars just fit so well together!

[@Hog-g2z]

@@GixxerFoo my original dose that I purchased in 2000, one road trip just over 4000 miles in two weeks, As I have said before, sadly, I had to sell it in 2019 , I’ve been scammed by my ex female partner, it’s taken approximately five years to sort out finances, I ended up keeping the property in France where I now live and I’ve got a little bit of money, So I brought myself another deuce, sadly this one is a bit of state, When I sold my original in 2019, it was still in mint condition. I had looked after it and I had actually actually spent a lot of money on it., Anyway, today I finally got output sprocket shaft sleeve removed drive belt pulley, Now waiting for new seals and bearings and gaskets. And for what I can gather, I’ve still got to wait another 3 to 4 weeks before they’ll be in the country , This is from HD themselves. I might bite the bullet and see whether I can sort some through another outlet, Custom bike shop , market parts , I know more tomorrow or Wednesday. Stay safe keep up the great work dodge those cars as you say,

[@hellbilly6532]

Without a doubt one of the most butt ugly bikes H-D has come out with in a while

[@GixxerFoo]

I have heard a lot of people say it very well could end up as a collector bike one day. It was only around a few years cause it for sure lacked in the looks.

[@Dbiker75Tex24]

FXDR? That would be a no! More importantly, why did the dump the V Rod?

[@GixxerFoo]

They closed the plant in Missouri where they built the Vrod, Dyna and Sportster and the engine wasn't going to meet the upcoming emissions standards. Harley also cited slow sales, which means it was selling just not like they wanted it to be.

[@jimanderson6255]

Without some modifications and money spent on it, it's just ugly and disappointing. I've never even seen one and didn't know that the model existed until your video. Thanks, great job.

[@GixxerFoo]

Thank you! That's my biggest issue with it, being sold as a performance model with a stock 114. Not even a hotter cam or anything else.

[@s.charter]

Don't mind it actually. Like the styling more than the vrod and breakout. In 2021 when I went to order the street Bob , I almost went with a used fxdr, with 16" apes, and stage 3 instead.

[@GixxerFoo]

I've seen Vrod with apes on them and doing more of the traditional Harley styling. I didn't like it at first but it did grow on me though!

[@catesg]

I thought the forward controls and handlebar setup very uncomfortable on test rides.

[@GixxerFoo]

The rider triangle was just all wrong for what they were going for, I felt the same way too.

[@kerrymcclure7503]

When Those bikes were brand new.Just come out.I rode into bluegrass harley In Louisville, Kentucky. They They were having demo rides. I would not even ride the thing. I rode a ultra limited.😂😂😂

[@GixxerFoo]

I rode one at a demo day and I can confirm it felt and rode just like you would expect from looking at it if you know anything about bikes. Forward controls, clip on bars, seat sits you back, big rear and raked front end. Threw you forward with slow and lazy handling, it handled well but it was slow, couldn't enjoy the ride cause your butt was so far back and you're leaned over with your feet way out front.

[@petemathieson333]

Bring back the Dynas!

[@GixxerFoo]

I would love to see that platform make a return, I bet they would see a huge bump in sales.

[@RNintheTrenches]

Never cared for the aesthetics of the FXDR. Will never forget seeing it in the showroom for the first time, its proportions seemed "off". Last true to the roots H-D's were made in the mid 80's to mid 90's IMHO. I have a Heritage Softail 114, incredible bike, does everything I want it to do very well, comfortable as all get out. Not one issue with it ever, currently at 12,700 miles. Having said that, I'm currently looking for 1340 Evo to put in my garage, will keep the Heritage though.

[@GixxerFoo]

I love the Heritage, that's a great bike for being lighter with plenty of power. It's perfect if you're not wanting a full on touring bike with all the weight.

[@Mytriumph650pre-unit]

Looks like they added a lot of rice into the styling.

[@GixxerFoo]

There was quite a bit of plastic on that bike.

[@jmendizabal1025]

I was looking at one that had 1500 miles and I love the look but sucks on the comfort level.

[@GixxerFoo]

The riding position just wasn't there, to me the raked front end with the clip ons just didn't work together very well.

[@jkmoa415]

What's your thoughts on the fatbob 114 compared to the fxdr?

[@GixxerFoo]

There's absolutely no comparison in my book, to me the Fat Bob will out handle the FXDR at every level. That was what I felt when I rode both of them back to back at a demo day. The Fat Bob to me is more functional and much easier to make a mini sport tourer out of. That's important to me at least to be able to put bags and windshield on for a long day trip or over night and still make it look right. It's nice to be able to put a back rest on it and it's much more comfortable for you and your passenger if you want to go two up.

[@jkmoa415]

@GixxerFoo Thank you sir! Great information and content you work hard to create for us!!

[@joetroutt7425]

I think what was the better of the three was the Breakout. Thats a great looking bike. Im not sure about performance but i know ppl that have them and they have never complained about them.

[@smallfry0764]

I have a 2016 breakout. It’s slow as hell, uncomfortable, handles like shit, but it does look sweet.

[@white_devil73]

20 Breakout here. It's cammed and tuned. She makes 103hp and 121 torque. Tops out at 130mph. That's a Harley tune. There's a local tuner that will do a full tune, and that's my next stop. She doesn't like to corner very well, but I love her. I've never smiled so much.

[@smallfry0764]

@@white_devil73 that’s crazy. Cam and tune and you broke 100hp. That’s where the M8 shines! I think I’m making like 65hp. Lol

[@white_devil73]

@@smallfry0764 I've got the heavy breather intake, bassani radial sweepers, a dynojet tune, and a Wood Knight Prowler 22x cam. It's quick enough to make me happy.

[@smallfry0764]

@@white_devil73 Nice! I’ve got a screaming eagle intake, Vance and Hines 2 into 2 big radius, and I do think it’s cammed by the previous owner. It chops pretty hard. It gets eaten by a stage 1 96ci Dyna and it drives me nuts how slow it is.

[@d1mennis]

When the V-rod first came out I was not interested for the following reasons. 1- it was a Porsche motor. 2- it was expensive. 3- it went fast in a straight line. It was not a canyon carver and finally you could buy any Japanese crotch rocket that would leave the V-rod in the dust for thousands cheaper! The FXDR was a lame attempt by the factory to lure riders in thinking that they were getting a super fast bike.

[@GixxerFoo]

It did not go well and it was totally behind the Vrod in power and arguably handling.

[@phillipcabaniss5028]

I had one, for about 3 weeks, took it in on trade, absolutely hated it! Probably the most uncomfortable bike to ride, styling was terrible and just couldn’t ever get into it.

[@GixxerFoo]

That's what I got when I rode one is that it was just not comfortable at all. I've only seen two outside a dealer, one I rode and the one I saw get sold. From what I've heard anyone that owned one didn't have it very long.

[@TheRoadGlideRider]

I thought about getting a VRod. Then mounting a Road Glide Fairing with Saddlebags. Making it a Road Rod. But they never got Cruise Control, as far as I know. So I just continued with my Road Glide. 😄🏍💨🏍💨

[@m.f.m.67]

You and a lot of others. Harley just let the V Rod platform sit. No major changes, same frame design from day one to the last day. Just a few tack-on parts here and there.

[@GixxerFoo]

They never did put cruise control on them, I am not a fan of the old school throttle lock trigger either. That cruise control is very valuable after a long day!

[@Markotto09]

If they made a modern FXR, I think HD would clean up.

[@GixxerFoo]

I do believe they are missing a huge opportunity there!

[@MrHypervtwin]

I’ve never heard of it😂😂😂. If only Eric Buell stuffed the Vrod motor in the S1 Lightning, HD would’ve had a legit performance bike.

[@steverollins4690]

Still riding my vrod, xr, buell and lust for a fxdr!

[@GixxerFoo]

You got the garage lineup I would like to have!

[@timmcpeck7527]

It never really did it for me. The image far outweighed the finished product. Way too ticky tacky.

[@GixxerFoo]

I just couldn't get past what they were doing with back end and the plastic cover that came stock.

[@turbohusque]

I checked out of Harley World so long ago I didn't even know the FXDR existed until this video. HD has been perfectly clear that I am not their target market being a 1991 FXR rider, and I'm not buying an overpriced uninspired bagger.

[@jeffreysheridan5205]

Really awkward look. Saw one, exactly one, in the showroom.

[@GixxerFoo]

I rode one at a demo day and just happened to be at my local dealer when they sold one. Those are the only ones I have ever seen.

[@johnludmon510]

The problem with the FXDR was it was a sadly halfarsed take on a Ducati diavel with less performance and a it also cost more . The bikes didn’t sell and I can remember seeing them still in dealerships 18 months after it had been cut from the lineup. The sad thing was that with a little bit more thought it could have been a winner . Compare the FXDR with the buell super cruiser and it shows how wrong they got the bike and I think with the resources that Harley have they could have got there first with a road legal bike and even the stock 114 would have been good enough .

[@GixxerFoo]

I was thinking the same thing Mr. Buell has to be laughing right now shaking his head, that Super Cruiser got it right.

[@highwayman1218]

Never cared for or took seriously any HD with a ridicuously large rear tire.... Not sure who they were trying to fool ....

[@GixxerFoo]

As soon as I saw that rear tire I didn't care what they said anyone who knows anything about motorcycles knows a large rear tire like that equals slow handling. Add that with the rake in the front end it's going to handle very lazy, it will sweep corners but not in a big hurry.

[@coldairbuick]

I tried to like the FXDR but it really missed the mark. I always liked the V-Rod but it was waaaaay overpriced. Then they orphaned it by never making any improvements after the bump in displacement. The Muscle had some cool style but it needed some horsepower to back it up.

[@GixxerFoo]

The FXDR was way off the mark, the Vrod had a lot of potential and they did upgrade it over the years in styling and with a bit of displacement. I agree it was overpriced just like every other Harley, I think they dumped it because of emissions standards increasing.

[@brando81]

The only dude I've seen on a fxdr is Sonny from the SEAL Team show lol.

[@GixxerFoo]

Outside a demo day and the one I saw get sold I didn't even know there was one on a tv show.

[@lancek3387]

There is nothing new coming out from HD that is making me excited when in the showroom. I don't like the new technology, much of the new styling, and of course the "new" pricing. 😮 my stripped down 09 Ultra is doing just fine for me, thank you very much.....and that is about as new as I care to go.

[@GixxerFoo]

2016 is about as new as I would be willing to go, anything older I can really get behind myself as well.

[@NotAffiliated]

Could you not get one and then give it *rear* sets for it? It seems that the clip ons and the fork rake and rear sets would be a good drag race position. Get a super charger or a build motor and your racing!

[@GixxerFoo]

They made "mid control" sets which put the pegs back where they should of been given what they were going for. But that's another 600 bucks at a minimum from Harley. They tried to make a drag racing, cruiser, sport bike mashup and it just fit.

[@NotAffiliated]

@@GixxerFoo ​ I agree. They need a kit for *rear* sets and should have offered it with a hotter cam. I would have had all 3 of them sets, front, mid or rear as an option upon initial purchase, if I was master of the universe. I keep on telling them, they should make me CEO but they never listen! Now the whole world has to suffer because they don't have enough sense put me in charge. Jeesh!

[@CaffeineThrottle]

Can't stand forward controls on a sport style Harley.It's not natural nor does it inspire confidence.Dude the next town up from me has an FXDR , not a fast,nor quick bike. Lowrider S or Breakout are much more usable all the way around.👋💀

[@GixxerFoo]

Absolutely, the Low Rider S is way better for a sporty bike. The Fat Bob handles, don't get me wrong even with the forward controls, but you put mids on those and your off to the races. Stretched cruiser is the Break Out all the way.

[@i3g6o9r]

Thanx for your worthful content. Best regards from Russia 👍

[@GixxerFoo]

Thank you for taking the time to check out the videos! Stay safe over there and ride on my friend!

[@petercallen6172]

I don't know anyone who fell for that. In fact, most (but not all) people I know are hanging on to their (much) older bikes...for so many reasons.

[@GixxerFoo]

Oh yeah you look at the new ones these days and it's no wonder everyone wants to keep what they have.

[@bryanlohmiller9242]

kinda remindes me of a harleys attempt at a cafe racer

[@GixxerFoo]

Ah yes trying to keep up with the metrics back in 70's while still using the old 1000 iron head... pretty cool looking bike but it didn't perform on the level they tried to make it look.

[@pld1112]

I didn’t even know they made that bike. It’s ugly!

[@GixxerFoo]

I am really surprised they let that bike out of the design room. Not one person raised their hand and said I don't think this a good idea.

[@El_Peto]

The glasses are back

[@GixxerFoo]

I was surprised how many actually took notice!

[@daneagle6099]

I have a 2019 fxdr I have made changes on my bike yes I enjoy riding it and I still got it😊

[@GixxerFoo]

That's awesome to hear, I always like to hear that someone has one and enjoys it. They really do get some attention and the few years it was available they only made a limited number. It's going to be a collector item one day.

[@fastsilverado]

I'll just keep my dyna. Unless I buy a RG3.

[@GixxerFoo]

I like that RG3 with the black finishes, to be honest if I was going to get a touring bike that would be the way I would go without having to deal with the mass and weight.

[@westcoast3595]

Don’t forget. It was ugly too.

[@GixxerFoo]

I didn't want to directly address the elephant in the room but at the end of the day it was ugly.

[@OLICIT]

For less money than a used FXDR, you can get a new Sportster S, besides the sound, wouldn’t most people then choose the Sportster S?

[@GixxerFoo]

I have some arguments with my dad on the Vrod vs. the Sportster S. He has Vrod and really can't wrap his mind around the Sportster S, same horsepower but more torque and the S is lighter.

[@Tedthetech50]

I own this bike and the vrox muscle. Love both and have to agree it has very little after market parts and things for this bike. It's just for me fun and mine has the 131 engine so it's fast and just nasty. I bought it used for cheap but did make it better? To me yes. Most Harley enthusiasts are going to disagree and that's why I love this rare monster. Thanks for the video though.

[@STIFFRIDES]

👊🏻Yo yo yo!👊🏻It’s a try at the new generations

[@GixxerFoo]

It was some younger rich kids I saw on them to be honest, funny you mentioned that is a 18-19 year old got one from my local dealer. Of course his parents got it for him cause not many kids have 20 grand in their pocket.

[@STIFFRIDES]

@@GixxerFoo it’s the way of the world.

[@karlmcpheeters352]

Ha hi. They looking at the races track ! Come up under the baggers ? 🤯🤪

[@GixxerFoo]

I will give the FXDR that, it does handle pretty dang well with the rake that it has. But the seating position is crazy on the FXDR.

[@DE-gb3wq]

Can’t say I’ve ever seen one.

[@GixxerFoo]

I rode one at a demo day and saw one get sold out of the local dealer and that's it.

[@SwiftyMcVeigh851]

Im about to sell everything, for a Buell Super Cruiser..... idgaf.

[@GixxerFoo]

That's going to be a killer motorcycle, that thing is going to be able to run with the sport bikes if you can hang on to it without the body work.

[@eliinthewolverinestate6729]

The problem with Harley is management and stock holders. Quality has suffered in the name of profits,

[@Charger1908]

It’s ugly but I think the rocker was worse. They should have continued to make the deuce, I love mine.

[@GixxerFoo]

They really should bring back the Deuce with an M8 on the the new Softail platform!

[@Truthdosentexist69]

H.F.D.If you're a dad Gixxerfoo

[@GixxerFoo]

Thank you! I really appreciate that, I was taking the weekend off this week just for that!

[@motorcitymadman146]

Went to the dealer. Did not see anything new I want under 40000 lol good luck with that.

[@GixxerFoo]

Yeah I agree, they don't have anything anymore I just can't live without. I wouldn't trade my older bike for any of the newer bikes.

[@rugershooter5268]

I sat on one, and Fat Bob right beside it..... didn't ride no intention of buying, I would get fat bob first just from sitting on one, but honestly I would rather have a dyna street bob the

[@GixxerFoo]

Those late model Twin Cam Fat Bobs were super comfortable bikes, the M8 models aren't too bad. I really like the the Twin Cam Street Bob, but they still did a good job on the M8 version.

[@rarebreed9208]

The FXDR looks like a transsexual V Rod with a helicopter tail boom. Good video as usual.👍

[@GixxerFoo]

That's the most interesting way I have heard someone describe it but the same premise has been pretty resounding.

[@bigj200016]

Interesting idea, horrible execution. But the taco shaped rider triangle was just bad. Had that bike had mids or rear sets, it might have been a winner.

[@GixxerFoo]

I like that, the taco shaped rider triangle, that's exactly what it was.

[@johnmacias01]

You make some great points. I’m about to sell my money pit Harley. It appears KTM has what I’m looking for at this time. It’s also has a lot more hp & only about 500 pounds! Cya Hd!

[@GixxerFoo]

KTM makes some solid bikes, they have come a long way. I will say though to watch their pay to use features already on the bikes like the quick shifter and paying to use the track mode.

[@edpetrocelli2633]

I live in Daytona and I ride the harleys every year. They ran out of V-rods one year cause they all got wrecked in 3 days, my favorite one was a roadglide, my least favorite was the FXDR, it was uncomfortable, more to the liking of a much younger man. Plenty fast but wobley at very slow speed, of course some of that was me, Im a old guy and I have an 01 springer so thats what Im comparing other Harleys to. It seems the outboard shock models are easier to handle without the 300mm back tire. Then again what do I know.

[@GixxerFoo]

That huge back tire makes it turn slow and lazy like Vrod, it handles pretty well just really slow.

[@raygarcia-pg7wr]

This bike was sick looking

[@GixxerFoo]

I don't know if was just the wrong time for that kind of look, there are more bikes going for that look.

[@browngreen933]

Ugly bike. No surprise it bombed.

[@GixxerFoo]

Crazy thing is might just become a collector bike one day, the old XR1000 was a terrible flop but now the price is going crazy on those.

[@browngreen933]

@@GixxerFoo Very true. Willie G.'s XLCR Cafe Racer bombed but later became a collector item. Same thing with the original alligator/boat tail Super Glide.

[@jamesbobo5377]

Well, I wanted one, now not so much...

[@GixxerFoo]

They aren't the greatest bikes for comfort, I would own one but I would have to get it very very cheap.

[@jamesbobo5377]

Do you think the FXDR would be a better handling bike with midframe controls rather than forward. I liked the looks, but handling was an issue with the guys I've talked to. Sport cruiser should be just that, handling and power.

[@dennisthemenace5150]

The FXLRST is the best motorcycle Harley Davidson ever built

[@GixxerFoo]

I gotta admit if I was going to get a new Harley that would be the one I would get.

[@anchorsaweigh9893]

I think they should have offered the FXDR with a high performance motor. It’s not really my style but I think it’s okay.

[@GixxerFoo]

The sad part is they advertised it as the performance model with a stock 114. It should of at least had a hotter cam if nothing else.

[@anchorsaweigh9893]

@@GixxerFoo At LEAST! 🤙🏽

[@mauser8515]

Harley should havs made a sport bike thats a cam driven, liquid cooled V4 in the 749cc range. that weighs in around 350lbs wet. They could have made a 650cc parallel twin adventure bike under 350lbs. Instead they made the same shit, except with a guaranteed lower lumbar strain. f that bike

[@GixxerFoo]

They were at a crossroads in 80's they had the Nova Project which were V4 liquid cooled bikes and the Evo. The Evo was obviously the right choice with government protection, but they really should of continued development on the V4 and tried to expand on the VR1000 platform.

[@frankfurther3828]

The V-Rod was quite a performance machine with its Porsche-designed motor. Yankin' Jochen needs to attend the Jeffery Bluestein School of Corporate Common Sense. Stockholders who care about the Co. should demand he go away.

[@GixxerFoo]

He's making them money right now, the last CEO was behind the FXDR. Zeitz actually killed that thing off on day one.

[@frankfurther3828]

@@GixxerFoo so wow he's great.