Harley-Davidson Riders vs Indian Motorcycle Riders! Is one Motorcycle Company better than the other?

[@jefferyturner4675]

HD guys talk about customization and number of dealers, but there's one thing they will NEVER talk about: engineering. HD has a loooong history of terrible engineering some of which resulted in injury and death. Plus, HD knew about their cam chain issues and refused to correct them FOR YEARS. Indian engines and transmissions are bulletproof. The Indian ride is heads and tails above HD, not even close. Lastly, Indian Challenger and Pursuit are world-class bikes; they can take on the best bikes in the world and win. HD can't say the same. As for HD never going out of business, HD guys can thank AMF, Ronald Reagan and high tariffs for that. Without these things, HD would've gone out if business decades ago.

[@dysfunctionalveteranese4905]

Better said than what I put down on my comments. I just ordered a Pursuit and currently own a 22 FTR-S. Never been happier having moved to Indian from Harley--- Ride Safe

[@King-ww1kz]

Facts, If I have to buy something just to customize it. Why not just build it from scratch? Number of dealerships is a valid point but the customer service isn't being talked about. Also, "Soul of the bike" that's subjective. Not quantifiable

[@sportyonetaubert5923]

Regan and the tariffs didn't save Harley, the Evo sold like hot cakes and re-established Harley as the market leader in large bikes. Many forget what the Japanese did to deserve the tariffs, dumping surplus bikes here under cost. The best thing the tariffs may have done was give Harley time to pay off their creditor from the leverage buyout of 1981.

[@sportyonetaubert5923]

@@King-ww1kz I loved my Road King just the way it was and I could live with it stock. But it's too much fun doing things that make it even MORE to my style and fit.

[@sportyonetaubert5923]

Just checked out the Indian website and was surprised to read the honest evaluation of the Challenger by owners. Many rave how they love it and give it 5 stars. But one poor guy had a slew of electrical problems on a 2019 and on a new 2022 and gave it only 1 star.

[@EasyLube]

Dudes, I'm Indian through & through. But PLEASE... Indian is no where close to Harley when it comes to customization. Give em' time, Indian has just recently been reintroduced after 50+ years and needs time to mature. Indian is doing a great job and obviously up to the challenge. You Harley guys may have never experienced the Milwaukee 8 if it wasn't for Indian! Like Moonshine eloquently said... the competition between these two iconic brands is the best thing to happen to American bike riders... and moving these bikes in amazing directions that benefit us all. Ride safe fella's & enjoy Daytona!

[@dysfunctionalveteranese4905]

Exactly! Well said. I own both and just purchased my second Indian (the Pursuit). Great to see the rivalry renewed.

[@Calvinmob681]

I agree. Indians are amazing motorcycles.

[@DarkHorseParatrooper]

@Christopher Fitzgerald yeah that seemed to be something they avoided talking about. I rode the new 22 SG ST with 117 the other day, it was nothing compared to my Challenger, and they wanted 38k before taxes and setup!

[@zabes63]

Indian rider here but the Milwaukee 8 is more a product of Harley copying the head design of the Yamaha V-Twins.

[@drodNY]

Indian is no where close to customization?? You mean the customizations on the Harley's that relate to Stage2 so it can have the similar performance to Indian? or LED upgrade so it can have the LEDs that Indian already has? or upgrading to the shocks that Indian has? or upgrading to Apple Carplay when Indian already has it from factory? or adding remote locking bags? adding liquid cooling? you mean those customizations? sounds more like improvements that are required in order to make the bike better. Yes, both need bars and exhaust.. but there are plenty of aftermarket vendors that offer plenty of options in those areas.. The other areas mentioned are already coved by Indian. no competition..

[@chrishunter5041]

5 HD owners, 2 Indian owners! I ride a Indian "love it" Its not what you ride its that we all ride together.

[@PeterSmith-or3pq]

Tall nails it , soul power

[@Notimetoplaywu]

🍻

[@MR-yg7gd]

Grown men debating a company motorcycle brand lol. Let’s argue about your personal last name and the legacy you leaving behind for you own last name. The debate old and tiresome. Like what you like and ride what you ride. Most newcomers ride Harley’s because that’s all they see. Learned behavior and nothing wrong with that. At the same time it’s good to see people step outside the box and be different and ride a different brand.

[@StealthJackson12B]

Great point about learned behavior. I'm a novice and have to admit I see a lot of Harleys because I live 5 minutes from 1 and took my MSF course there as well. That said, I've considered Triumphs and Japanese bikes but it's something I can't shake about the Harley sound. I'm no mechanic and will eventually get what I'd like to your point and others.

[@davedubeau9124]

I totally agree with Jamie from Moonshine. It’s definitely great to have options. I’ve owned Harley Davidsons for years and then switched in 2018 for a brand new Indian Chieftain and now I’m back on a 2020 Road Glide. It’s a matter of preference.

[@snakebite6511]

Agreed, ive had Harley, Victory & Indian. Today i still have my 2009 Rocker C, 2014 Wide Glide & 2021 Street Glide. Its just my preference

[@redrider0151]

100%!!! The brand on the tank isnt what speaks to you, its the bike itself...at one point my garage had 3 harleys, a Ducati, and a triumph...and everyone of them was FANTASTIC. I wish I was still in my 30's as its simply an INSANE time to be a motorcycle rider!!

[@onlyhereonce7290]

I have a Harley FatBoy. As well as a Indian Chieftain. Both great bikes. Choice is a great thing. It’s an amazing time to be a motorcycle enthusiast.

[@darkhorse1989]

The only couple things that Harley has over Indian are the plentiful amount of dealers, aftermarket parts and gear, anything else that has to do with the motorcycle Indian winds hand down. Performance, comfortable ride ability, suspension, The amount of things Indian puts on a stock motorcycle is unbelievable

[@Ridingfish]

I'm listening!!!

[@roadglide1142]

Sorry but I’ve rode a Challenger and the fit & finish, paint , & overall quality feel turned me off totally for what they were charging !

[@redrider0151]

If you think Indian puts a lot on a bike, go look at a sportbike and look at how much innovation they give you at a FRACTION of the price....its maddening to me that a 10,000 dollar sportbike has 100 times better brakes, suspension, transmission, motor than my 35k Harley. Sportbikes come stock with auto shifters, autoblippers, lean angle sensors, traction control (that actually works), adjustable antilock brakes, adjustable levers, all LED lights, and the list is pretty much endless to the smallest detail.....where Harley charges 100% more and gives you so much less. This is why I am so glad Indian is here, as thats what drives innovation....COMPETITION will FORCE harley to give us more for our dollar or people will TRULY start going to the competition instead.

[@careyonbham]

as an Indian Owner. I can say that Harley definitely has more aftermarket support. but ultimately, I get the looks and the questions at the bike nights and shows. where as Harley is a "Me too" bike, because vast majority of Harley's looks exactly the same.

[@Nolan.Gurule]

Yes they all want to be the same. Indian looks good

[@bigf1502]

I don’t own a street legal motorcycle at all. I am trying to decide on a street legal motorcycle, and it has come down to an Indian or a Harley. At 6’6”, my choices are limited. The question. I have for you, is… how does Harley have more aftermarket support, but Harley’s all look the same? Do Indians look different from the factory or something? Low rider S or what?

[@indiangroot930]

@@bigf1502 Same height for me, Ive owned Street Glide, Road Glide and Road King. Just bought a new Indian Challenger and I love it! Built for big guys all the way around. Harley has way more options than Indian on aftermarket but that is subject to change. Ive found everything ive wanted for my bike so far and im happy

[@zabes63]

I find little that I want changed on the look of my Springfield. Most of what I want changed is making the bike more comfortable on hour 7 of an 8 hour ride. And I've never had a bike that got more comments from strangers than the Indian.

[@axelfoley5155]

Amen to that! I just bought a scout Rouge

[@mikemorris4880]

I actually own a indian challenger and a harley road glide and I love both bikes. I love to rip around town on my Road Glide Special 124 build and I have no problem taking long trips with it but I believe my challenger is a little more comfortable on long rides. They're two totally different rides but both are awesome bikes.

[@michaelpresley2679]

Traveling tall should be HARLEYS #1 FAN AND PROMOTION CHANNEL!! I've been riding since the late 60s and have owned at least a dozen new Harleys first one purchased in 1972...there is no discussion about the thousands of dollars that these HD owners have spent to get their HDs to compete with Indian Challengers...this is all ego..if I wanted to drop $8-$12k on my Challenger I'm sure there wouldn't be an HD that could keep the tail lights in sight..just like John from Cyclefanatix...has almost $60k tied up in his silver Road glide...traveling tall is no longer about traveling....he's all about HDs...can't even watch his channel anymore!! RIDE WHAT YOU LIKE!! and Mr. Horsepower Harley...did you forget about the bowling ball company that saved HD from melt down in the late 60s with their junk shovelheads??? To many big mouths and even bigger Ego's!!

[@tdh72]

Harley is a Very Good Marketing/ Merchandising Company. Harley has figured out the Money is in Customization, Culture and Clothes. None of those things are what I’m looking for when it comes to Motorcycling. It takes all kinds… there is no winning a conversation like this…Harley is THE BEST at spending Money on a Bike and Parking it… The Harley needs the customization… HD figured out to make it Basic and let the customer spend more money making it look and ride like something…

[@frygron]

I don't buy or do anything to compete with the neighbors. I ride what I ride and spend what I spend for me, period. It makes ME happy. My motivation isn't to beat anyone, or better what someone else has. My ego is built up from within myself and what makes me happy.

[@SeanHaley327]

Enjoyed the video but one main thing that keeps me from buying another Harley, had a 17 roadking special, is that Harley charges a premium and gives a substandard bike. ie no led lights stock in this day and time, suspension is basic and no riding modes. All this comes on the Challenger from the factory for the same price with an adjustable windscreen. Sounds like the Harley tax to me. When Harley steps up their game and gives some value for the premium price I'll look again. But right now the Indian is the better bang for the buck.

[@2warhammer34]

I’m an Indian owner and I’ll be honest, I considered Harley, but wanted something a little more exclusive. When you individualize an Indian, you are truly getting to the essence of “custom”.

[@darkhorse1989]

Man I wanna be part of this conversation. I came from a street glide and went to a chieftain it's not even comparable how much better the chieftain is than the streetglide I have never rode a challenger and I have never rode a roadglude

[@mikedanaher2409]

I agree with Jamie from Moonshine. He was spot on when he said both brands are great and they are both needed to make each other better. Look at the race to the top in snowmobile and side by sides right now. Skidoo and their can am are at the top spot and Polaris is pushing them hard to take that spot. I’m a snowmobile rider in the winter and I can tell you both brands are excellent and we are now riding the pinnacle of snowmobiles in the market today because of it. What hurts Harley in my opinion is the dealers and the Motor Company turns a blind eye to it. Most dealers bump sticker and surcharge above and beyond what the Motor Company does. 90% of dealerships don’t have a clue about customer service. I service my own bike because of it and when there is something I need done I go to a independent shop or my local Kawasaki dealership. I do this because I’m tired of paying for service that isn’t done properly or correctly. However I’ll still buy the Harley. I just don’t give the dealers any money.

[@PeterSmith-or3pq]

Get the chrome Bible HD. 🎅

[@superskeeter788]

You guys are all right, most important thing is that you are a motorcyclist! But Harley is not only a motorcycle it’s a life style!

[@tigerluv8]

The last sentence is spot on bro!!!

[@johnstone2103]

South Park perfectly displayed that lifestyle

[@williamfranklin5917]

I love my Harley. This is great dialogue, love it. I think it’s about what you like. If I liked a particle Indian motorcycle and I was able to buy it, I would just buy it, regardless of dealership support, etc., I truly believe that we, (Harley fans), should be grateful and appreciate any competition that Harley has. Otherwise, Harleys would be more expensive and probably lack even more innovation….

[@Superbikeman]

I'm a metric rider (06 Gixer1000, 1998 Honda magna 750, 1996 VFR750, 1987Gsxr1100) and I like both Harley and Indian (wish Victory was still around). The way I see it Harley guys are like the car guys who buy a standard mustang then drop a more powerful engine, Koni shocks, upgrade sway bars add a short shifter etc. Indian guys are the guys who go and buy a Super Cobrajet mustang and make a lot less changes to it. Performance wise the Cobrajet will smoke a standard mustang out the box and out perform it in everyway. But the custom mustang guys spend a lot of cash to get even or beat the Cobrajet. Harley has to & now is boosting its performance level. Indian already has the performance and needs to boost its customization levels.

[@kyletoomersr.6305]

We’ll said….

[@royrnc]

Nailed it!

[@darrinburnet1477]

Harley still doesn't have a bagger that can keep up to my 20yr old goldwing pretty sad.I wint even get into my 9sec gen2 vmax vs any flavor of Harley . Life goes by to fast to ride a slow cruiser.

[@MichaelH416]

C’mon Tall. You outnumbered the Indian riders considerably. And Jamie from Moonshine was just an outright bully. Kept interrupting the Indian guys. Truth is Indian makes a more reliable bike off the floor. There’s no arguing that one. Truth is that H-D offers so much more customization options and a much larger support network. But this wasn’t even a discussion.

[@morriscovington732]

Troll On Two Wheels I've had my 2016 SG brand new put a stage ll on it and never looked back never a problem not one I have over 50,000 mi on her and she is going strong so I disagree with you on reliability it's very reliable

[@ernesthairston8683]

He needs to have a a conversation with Loyd After his tune

[@Desmo1]

My buddy and I both bought our baggers within a month from each other basically, he bought the Indian and I bought a HD. Since, he’s had his radiator crack on him leaving him on the side of the road, Apple Car play issues and a motorized wind screen that broke all of which took time to fix due to lack of dealer support and manufacturer knowledge of their own products. I’ve had zero issues with my HD. I’ve also owned an Indian and like Tall says, they remind me of a metric bike more than anything, not what I’m looking for.

[@BlackbirdSSR]

Having a "bigger aftermarket catalog" is nice, but remember it comes with a shady dealer experience, warranty blackmail, embarrassing sales videos with bell ringing and hollering like a circus clown, M8 sumping issues and most importantly, having the SAME bike as your neighbor, and your father, and the guy at the office and his dad. It's generic in my eyes and Indian is different.

[@jordanjoestar8839]

We took in 80+ Harleys over bike week, traded for Indians. Can't say Indian isn't making moves. Dominating the bagger championship, flat track (7 years running), and the Chief just won the Big V race series first try. FTR1200 setting high speed wheelie records over seas. Glad Indian finally showed HD the potential of water cooled motors, unlike the Vrod they dropped. Also, at 9:45- That is in looks only, also, it is much closer to a street glide in that regard, so wrong either way. The Chieftain sports inverted forks, braided brake lines, cradle frame low center of gravity motor positioning and a Fox Performance rear shock, electric windshield... none of which are found on what you claim they mechanically copied. To put it not-so-politely, seems Jamie's mouth is outpacing his brain. Great video though! The competition is fierce, but I was dissapointed by how immature and uninformed some people on both sides are. Lots of good talking points went missing.

[@jefftodd2598]

STOP thinking you’ll “fit in” by the type of bike you ride. Funny how folks think the brand of motorcycle they ride is important. I’ve found folks ride certain brands because they feel others will perceive them in a different “light” based off the motorcycle they ride. HD is genius in their marketing of this. Just ride what you like. KZbin “influencers” own and ride HD because of the massive following….as they get paid $$$ for viewership. I’ve owned Harley’s and Indians. I now ride a Goldwing and a Harley. Quit worrying about what others think and just ride what you like. Peace and be cool to others.

[@MR-yg7gd]

Couldn’t have said that any better.

[@stevenguajardo6049]

I'm a Harley rider all the way,but let me say,I'm happy that Indian is back and we have another great American bike. I'm saddened that Victory and Buell went down,but I guess it had to be. I now Buell is back,but it's not the same. I'm considering an Indian for my next bike. I already have a Harley,but I would like to have one of each brand. It's just a matter of preference. Both companies make beautiful reliable bikes.

[@michaelschmitzerle2587]

Love those Indian motorcycles! They just keep getting better and better!!👍

[@geoffcapes9905]

Owned Honda's, Yamaha's and Harley's - Honda is the largest motorcycle manufacturer in the WORLD. My 2001 Honda Valkyrie, flat six with 6 carbs and 6 individual exhausts from each cylinder having 110HP (then) was the most enjoyable and torqued riding experience one could every have. Very reliable and a great bike, just like the Goldwing - like it or not. Harley is fun too, lacks HP but ownership is built on a life style and brand. So ride what you like and enjoy!

[@roguecheddar]

My stunning 2019 Indian Springfield in steel gray and metallic burgundy, and I, take copious righteous umbrage to all this HD peter metering. Indian Springfield, Cruiser Heaven, all day, every day.

[@alp3781]

If I was looking for a bike, these day, after the beautiful and well designed Indian line, no brainer for me. Indian 100%. In the coming years, Indian will have plenty accessories available.

[@cahall1071]

There was a brief merger between HD and AMF in 1969. So not all "Harleys" were considered "Harleys". Although Harley has been around the longest, the Indian brand was the first.

[@Brian-zg9ff]

The first to go out if business 65 years ago

[@rustyjohnston1024]

2009 King's Mountain, Nobody Ever talk's about them, First Indian Bike to come back and it's a Great Motorcycle and and it's All American No Chinese Parts. Polaris engineer told me when I call to ask a question that they did not care about those bike. But I found an older Harley mechanic And he has taken very good care of my Bike for over ten years. So I Love my Indian and God Bless Harley-Davidson.

[@CHRIS_CREATIONS]

I think the Harley Guys were weigh to stacked against the Indian Guys 2 versus 6 lol

[@peachstate08]

I prefer my Indian because EVERYONE has a Harley and I dont want what everyone else has

[@curbsidecritiqe2066]

I really enjoyed this podcast. For starters, I’ve been a loyal Bmw rider for the last 25 years and I currently have a K series touring bike. However, the new dealership in San Antonio is somewhat refusing to work on my bike since it’s 20 years old. so I’m looking to venture out into a bike that’s going to be serviceable and personable. The input that was provided on both sides is appreciative, and I agree as long as you’re on two wheels we’re already in a fraternity itself. I’m leaning towards a Harley, but I’ll give Indian a chance and see what they have, and how they ride. Once again, great podcast. Be safe.

[@Nolan.Gurule]

Indians are the best overall. Everyone wants a Harley bc everyone has one. Standout people.

[@edsbikerstuff]

What would happen if Indian and Harley engineers teamed up and made the ultimate bagger. I think they could blow away anything from Europe or Japan.

[@Mortiz350]

Had 3 Harleys within 3 years of riding. My 2018 RG started giving me tranny issues at 6k miles and a bit over 2 years of ownership. Took it to California Harley and they told me to kick rocks. I had to pay to get it diagnosed and fixed. Forgot to mention that this was the 2nd time having tranny issues with it. The first time happened around 1000 miles. They didn’t care. They just wanted their money. I also had some issues with Huntington Beach Harley. They have some of the worst trickery with financing. I’ve caught them trying to sneak in packages I didn’t ask for in the financing. Apparently this is done a lot by them. This was told to me by the finance person down at California Harley. Love Harley but you just can’t trust these dealerships anymore. I’ll never own a Harley again thanks to these bad experiences.

[@itsme92075]

I sold my Electra Glide classic. I’m a big guy 6’3 300lbs I went to Harley in Murfreesboro TN road a 23 Road Glide I felt so cramped up on it. Went across the street and road a Indian Challenger fell in love, so I ordered a Dark horse Pursuit premium stage 2 upgrade, mid rise bars, adaptive, LED headlight Pathfinder S LED driving lights $38k Now the road glide was 38k stock no extras how much more would I had to spend at Harley Davidson to get the extras that I got with the Indian pursuit? It’s all about how much your willing to pay but both manufactures has great bikes, just matter which one you like better

[@erics9754]

I find Harleys are better suited for short guys. I had the same experience you had when my bike came loaded I just added some cosmetic stuff.

[@bctruck]

Here’s my 2 cents. I was very interested in an Indian. The lack of dealer network concerned me, but not enough to dissuade me from buying. Then, a freind bought a brand new Indian and had nothing but electrical issues. That wouldn’t be such a bad thing, but the dealership (Shreveport Louisiana) treated him so poorly and never did get it fixed and his experience is what made me buy an ultra limited CVO.

[@erics9754]

That can happen to any bike i have had zero issues with my 2020 Roadmaster and a friend of mine has had nothing but trouble with his Roadglide. I do not think all Harleys are like this though any brand can make a lemon.

[@harrienking2985]

This was awesome, hope to see more videos like this in the future.

[@adamperez7427]

To each is own. I have a Harley but my next bike will be a Indian.

[@jessstearns4534]

I started on a Suzuki Boulevard M50. Then almost immediately turned around and sold it and upgraded to a Victory Vegas. Still have it to this day. I also own a Victory Cross Country and a Harley Road King. All great bikes. Was tempted to go the Indian route, but like you guys mentioned there's not a whole lot of customization options for them.

[@jamesarthofer3413]

Just the Harley "holier than thou" mind set makes it clear the better brand.

[@irreccon]

I'm just going to say that bolting on fancy doodads on a Harley isn't customizing. It's still going to get lost in the crowd.

[@djh3_88hinskey5]

Fun to listen. Sounds like my bunch from when we were in high school arguing about Chevy VS Ford and Mopar. I'm a Victory Cross Country owner and enjoy just riding. A jab back and forth once in awhile between friends is just sport. LOL What ever fits your style and what your looking for. Appreciate the video Tall.

[@cosef4491]

LOL I remember the days when I used to debate Harley vs Indian. I was on both side having owned all the air cooled models from Harley including a CVO and 2 Indians and have modded all of them out. It’s nice being on the outside looking in LOL. I no longer own either and neither company has anything that interest but both Brands of motorcycle was amazing to ride, own and experience.

[@detroit19531]

I have a Harley, I ride Harley, but I would ride a Indian Motorcycle anyday. And I love my Harley.

[@martyneilan8947]

I have had TwinCam 88, ThunderStroke 111, and Evo 80. Wife said she could hear the Harleys but FEEL the Indian when starting up in the garage.

[@JhonnyROGUE]

Indian guys are more chill and not on edge. I rather be with chill guys not someone to explode about a Harley being better

[@FranBunnyFFXII]

This is interesting but the brand ambassador for Indian saying that harley doesn't have more customization than indian is just really cringe. There is customization for Indian sure but... not even close to HD. And then saying there's a 131 for the Indian is just fiction as well. Indian has 116 kits, and Llyods makes a 121 kit that needs machining, and 126. There's no bolt on or even available machined 131 kit for an indian. The guy kinda made a little bit of a fool out of himself even though there were obvious biased HD riders with him.

[@Ridingfish]

Just for the fun of this video... I would suggest maybe you re-look at Indian Motorcycle of Charlotte and Lloyd'z Garage again about that 131... I know at just during Daytona Bike Week indian motorcycle of Daytona had 3 or 4 bikes with 131 in them!! I appreciate you trying to keep me straight!!

[@FranBunnyFFXII]

​@@Ridingfish Lloyds doesn't have a 131 kit on their site yet if there is. Even if there are 131s for indian now, it doesnt change the fact that the guy who said there isn't more customization for HD is absolutely wrong. Harley has that massive upperhand and there's no denying that. You aren't buying a 131 kit and installing it in your garage like you can with HD too. I could buy a 128 or 131 kit for my bike right now, no special order or anything like that. Super custom jobs arent really an available to the public thing.

[@tinman3586]

Indian's smaller more nimble bikes like the Scout series are way, WAY better than the Sporster series (Not the new S of course).

[@scrogfpv7443]

Most Indian owners have rode tons of Harleys and still decided to pay more for an Indian. Most Harley owners have never rode an Indian but say they know their Harley’s are better. One group has data and the other is just on a team lol

[@erics9754]

Seem like the Indian riders have a higher IQ lol.

[@teddyr7901]

I don't see why we have to be divided I like the Harley Road King I also like the Indian chief I like the look of both manufactured bikes there's nobody there to represent both I like them both and I like to have both of them

[@jamess3532]

I made the switch back in 2017. I owned an Indian Chieftain and went back to a Harley. Harley may not offer the best numbers or the most features out of the box but they have a higher ceiling thanks to an aftermarket where the sky is the limit. Indian has a long way to go to catch up in that respect. My 2020 Road Glide Limited is built with a 150+ HP and TQ S&S 128 and is the most fun I've ever had on two wheels. I gave an Indian a try, rode it for 3 years and getting rid of it was one of the happiest days of my life. If you want a good stock bike get an Indian. If you want a good stock bike you can fully customize and truly make your own get the Harley never look back.

[@j-bird1707]

Tall said it best. Harley’s have a soul. I’ve never drove or rode something I’ve truly felt connected with like my Harley(s)

[@DarkHorseParatrooper]

I rode a 22 SG ST 117 the other day. It felt like it had no soul. It felt terrible. Engine was okay, but the whole ride was mediocre at best.

[@mrroger3rd]

It’s a good trash talking with a lot of respect as it should be . Ride what you ride .

[@royrnc]

HD has so many customization options because there is so much wrong with them that needs fixing. You can buy an Indian and keep it stock and have a better bike than a stock Harley. After spending $10-$15k your Harley can match a stock Indian. Why would anyone buy a motorcycle that needs you to “fix” it to get it right?? BTW Moonshiner dude you know the Roadglide copied the BMW R/80.

[@morriscovington732]

The truth of the matter is when you see your bike if you smile every time that is what it's all about...I have a 16 cvo sg and it has a soul that I connected with and for me Harley Davidson got it right the look and finish is the best if I want to go fast I would have got a crouch rocket...Love my Harley

[@mydamhouse]

Does anyone realize that Indian is a couple of years older than harley?

[@vitalimage]

“It felt Metric” that’s a compliment. Opposed to feeling like a tractor….

[@scrogfpv7443]

“The soul of a Harley” = sloppy feeling

[@JungleFromHempstead-qv7kz]

I don’t even know how to ride yet but it’s in the plans this yr …but what I do know is it’s Harley Davidson for me ….ima traditional kinda brother!! I’m Otown so ima come looking for you guys within the next 14months!! Salute to all these riders!!

[@TinyDragon]

HD wins in the marketing, making riders part of the “club”, merch, and ability to customize within the HD catalog and an even wider of array of customization aftermarket bc there is more of a demand- there is MORE for HD. Indian isn’t as popular and that is just fact. As for aesthetics I think HD is more pleasing to look at. I am sure I have bought into HD marketing but after Harley, everything else seems less.

[@TravelingTall]

Well said

[@HDR20]

Not to mention the fit and finish on Harley is superior to Indians' plastic and rough-looking finish

[@redrider0151]

Harleys best sales tactic is they LITERALLY "Sell you a lifestyle"!!! They profit more from all the merchandise than they do the motorcycles I would bet!!

[@jeraldhogan]

​@@redrider0151Harley does a better job competing with Nike and Michael Kors than they do with Indian. The Indian sells a better stock bike than Harley. Harley sells merchandise and accessories more than anyone.

[@tomchristian4304]

It's all about preference. Both are very nice brands and I'd ride either, however, I prefer the HD including the accessories and aftermarket options. I love the brand, but I grew up outside of Milwaukee and the brand has just been iconic for me growing up.

[@GEN084]

Only argument I have that Harley can’t top is that Indian motorcycles comes with all the tech, and fob lock saddlebags and alarm on their lower models.. you can only get that on cvo. The challenger has the look and tech in a model that’s on 29k compared to 42-49k cvo by Harley, way over priced for things that shud be standard on all models other than base models like Indians(baggers).. now their cruiser it’s the same.. if I get the chief dark horse I get gps and all compared to a low rider, fat bob, break out don’t have.. now if Harley wasn’t so over priced I bet more Indian riders wud have went Harley because of aesthetic.. Harleys are prettier but Indians stock feels like a Harley stage 2 with time out the box

[@jeffshultz3883]

Soon as I saw this I watched. At about 14:20 was my first thought. There's 3 Harley dealers less than 1 hour away from me. Closest Indian place is more than 2 hours away. They're still a young company and I'm sure that will get better. But for now I'll stick with Harley just for dealer support. Great review though!

[@royrnc]

If you have to worry about the closest dealer constantly then maybe you should consider a more reliable bike. Just saying….how often are you in the dealership for “problems.” Probably not often so having a dealer every 30 miles is pointless. Plus the cost to maintain these dealerships and inter-competition to maintain cashflow is why everything they sell is so expensive.

[@jeffshultz3883]

@@royrnc Service is not the problem at all. I can do all my own routine maintenance issues. The problem is that Indian just doesn't have dealers just near me. But dealer support for Indian is a problem everywhere. When you ride more than fifteen thousand miles a year or more you can't just get parts or service at AutoZone. Don't get all butthurt about Harley Davidson as I refuse to buy a gold wing or any other land yachts. Indian is a fine motorcycle! Just not working for me right now.

[@cliftonhorhn1888]

Great conversation fellas, let’s get atleast 2-3 more Indian guys next round chair discussion.

[@dysfunctionalveteranese4905]

Your Subway analogy is way off and the "Soul" point just doesn't cut it for me--- Istarted on Harleys over 20 yrs ago and still own my three Harleys. However, I have recently gone to Indian and have an FTR-s and just purchased a 22 Pursuit. I have no plans of ever returning to Harley. Same goes for aftermarket argument---that doesn't sell me on staying with or returning to Harley. I think this is a Chevy Vs Ford argument where neither side will ever change their minds. Just happy to be alive to see Indian come back and to see the rivalry between HD and Indian come back to life.

[@scrogfpv7443]

Harley isn’t growing. It’s closing shops and moving over seas. I heard most of the bikes aren’t made in America now or something. I hope that it’s passing because I love Harley’s. Just not sure I could give up the challenger/pursuit’s liquid cooled motor with more power out of the box

[@mdragon99]

Thanks for this awesome silliness today! It's good for the soul!

[@joebieksha2766]

Agree Harley has more upgrade options to customize a bike. I have a 2015 deluxe and a 2015 indian cheif classic. So kinda apples to apples same year. The indian came with led lights, abs,and chromed out front forks , ambient outside temp on speedo and 111 which was bigger than the cvo at the time . All from factory. But harley has dealerships all over which goes along way. Harley has dealerships all over that means another. I love both my bikes. Keep a open mind and keep riding

[@dnice4431]

I have watched riding fish’s channel. He has pointed out the the trim around the lcd screen isn’t snug and vibrates. Several other fit and finish issues as well.

[@sergeantscuba7677]

Dear Harley riders. Don’t forget when Kawasaki was your owner. Company ownership has changed hands several times.

[@MattieXMoto]

I believe Indian missed the mark on naming the Challenger. The name asumes it is a new kid on block trying to take out the leader. It screams "not the best". But their naming of the "Chief" is fantastic. Also the new Sport Chief looks very similar in design as the Dyna. Almost like a new version of the Dyna with a different badge

[@Taino871]

Love the discussion, I’ve been blessed enough to have both. To ride hard with my friends I take my Harley. When I go to church I ride my Indian.

[@dysfunctionalveteranese4905]

Well said and it was nice to see the discussion. I own both as well. Three Harleys, a Buell, and an Indian (soon to be two Indians with the Pursuit I ordered). I prefer my Indian to my Harleys, although I will never get rid of those three H-Ds... ;) Ride Safe

[@benjaminfishburn6114]

I noticed that in the video and in the comments not one thing was mentioned about what the frame is made of between both bike. Harley has a steel frame and Indian has a cast aluminum frame.

[@darkhorse2reign]

Tall was like "I liked the bike but it didn't have the soul of a Harley." I've been riding for 30 years and owned 8 bikes. My Goldwing has the same soul as my V twin Kawasaki (totaled). Riding IS the soul in my opinion. :-) As soon as the wind hits my face I feel FREEEEEEE❤! Still not sure which bike I want next though. Harley? Indian? Tough choice!

[@chiefjoseph8154]

Good thing there’s no comparison to the GoldWing. It’s good to be in a class all yourself. My friend told me once Harley Davidson and Indian are t-shirt companies that happen to make motorcycles also.

[@chiefjoseph8154]

Update: Foot in mouth. I purchased a Polaris Challenger. Ooops.

[@marcusturner5291]

Nice review keep up the good work Traveling tall

[@tbet64]

These group of Harley riders are narrow minded.. and I had both. That's the reason I switched to Indian chieftain. It's so much more comfortable lol

[@donrudeboyt1895]

Got to get some popcorn for this one.

[@newlifegroupinc]

Customization, paint jobs….Harley hands down. Technology? Indian all day. I love’em both.

[@vtwinlife4940]

Harley makes a bike that screams customize me so they can further sell parts. They have their own bank so they can manipulate the value and purchasing of their bikes new and used. I do agree. Harley Owners need Indian Owners and vice versa. Competition makes for better products for the consumer. I don't care what you ride, I just want to ride.

[@Toplessghost97]

Yo Tall.... this is the funniest video you have ever made. The HD boys got me cracking up. Lol

[@Heritagejim5339]

No one has pointed out that the Challenger is a 60 degree water cooled engine. If you want to compare apples to apples the 1250 Revolution Max on the Pan Am as engines go is a good comparison. Tall you are so right the Challenger feels and looks metric😎

[@denisrodrigue8531]

that was entertaining and awesome, loved it!!

[@the-d-man1013]

I thought you were going to have to put on a referee shirt. It doesn't matter if you ride a Harley or Indian, because I got a Can-Am spider that will outrun both of those 🤣🤣.

[@kyletoomersr.6305]

Now that’s funny!!!!!

[@traeucity6087]

A trike, Bro? This is a MOTORCYCLE conversation. How can you referee when you're still using training wheels?

[@DarkHorseParatrooper]

Lol he thinks he's people

[@darrenparkin3090]

Spiders are essentially bikes with permanent training wheels. Big boys ride on 2 wheels.

[@deathklipelite8029]

I am about to buy my first bike. What I noticed is I can get the ABS, cruise control, LED lights, and a touch screen speedometer for the same price as a Standard Harley where you have to pay extra to get what the Indian already offers standard. However, I agree Harley owns the after market and the ability to drive cross country and have a Harley dealership almost on every corner. Just what you want. I am still leaning to the Harley Sportster. It has all the tech I want in a Harley.

[@fredcailloux2526]

That's why I purchase a 2019 Chieftain base 111ci Thunderstroke instead of a HD standard 107ci M8. For $100 less I got ABS, cruise control , touch screen radio info system, 3 performance selectable mode, electric windshield, 4,5" rear suspension travel and LED lights . I add a GPS option for $400! Ugrading the HD standard suspension and adding an integrate GPS/radio/speaker info system may cost you a arm and a leg.

[@ryker4124]

I love how all the Harley riders put $1000's into their bikes to get what that wanted. Waste of money you'll never get back. Our of the box the Indian blows HD out of the water.

[@robertluttrell2058]

Just ride, enjoy what you have and ride!

[@fittytucker999]

I would be in the middle considering I own both a 15’victory Vegas built and a HD soft tail springer lol. Both are great bikes honestly

[@rocwarrior1]

I have a 2018 Breakout, my best buddy has an Indian Scout, we both customized our bike to various degrees BUT... my buddy customized his so ridiculously that my bike doesn't even get looked at!🤣🤣. That being said, I love my bike and Harley Davidson to the end!

[@grootsgracemission]

I just sold my 2018 Road Glide Ultra. Cash in hand went to go buy a new 2022 Indian Pursuit. The Indian dealer didn’t have one, couldn’t find one and if I ordered one it would take 8months to get here( Edmonton AB). I walked into a Harley Dealer, saw the colour combination I wanted, and now I’m just waiting for the customization to be done. Just saying, I’m disappointed that someone can say we want to compete, tell people that they launched a new product and when people go look for it, it’s going to take 10months. Make a fist and twist, keep your knees in the breeze and ride your stuff, if you can find it.

[@kevinjones6623]

I have owned 6 Harleys. I recently sold my 5th and tried to purchase and Indian Challenger. The Indian dealer network was a dumpster fire. Some were terrible at communication, some acted like they didn’t want to sell me a bike, and some where just down right rude. I finally found a good dealer, put down my deposit and was told it was would be 6 weeks. 6 turned to 8, 8 turned to 12 ad 12 turned into maybe June or July. I went back to Harley. Ordered a new Road Glide, and got it in less than 30 days from the factory. I would agree that Indian produces a great motorcycle but Polaris has a long way to go. Maybe next time but back to Harley now.

[@johnbotwright5016]

Good discussion, I wish I could afford to have one of each I have a 2019 CVO road glide would love to own a challenger, but you’re right it does feel metric.

[@mydamhouse]

I enjoyed this type of conversation amongst bikers.

[@QWill02]

This is the BEST… Hulk, Daddy Cool, Preacher Man, and Jamie from Moonshine Harley! Epic!

[@iujmedw]

Great discussion. My Indian folks missed the main point. Most things HD buyers do to their bike and pay extra for to improve ride and comfort, Indian has standard. I’ve had 8 HD and one Indian. Currently have a SGS and RKS. One for fun one for cruising.

[@bradmilkowski9786]

I love the topic. I ride em both and love the diversity that Indian brings. I ride a 06 street glide and 21 cheiftain limited. Great bikes

[@Mr20west]

sooooooooooooo we just going to leave my Yamaha stratoliner out of the mix okay. Ill let myself out the room hahaha love this. Harley and Indians are just amazing bikes all the way around and super comfortable.

[@erics9754]

Yamaha Stratoliner is a gorgeous bike i was looking for one for years but could not find a good used one in my area so i settled for a Roadmaster very happy I did as it has all the modern upgrades I wanted but if i ever come across the Yamaha Stratoliner I would buy it just a cool looking bike that Yamaha made.

[@johnsharp7931]

“Victory Vision was not a copy of a Harley” yeah that’s way I own one.

[@RidingandWrenching]

Nice job Tall! I rode a couple of Indians in Daytona. The new Pursuit is very smooth!

[@francoalfaro7750]

Great video!!!!! Ride what makes you happy ✌️

[@StealthJackson12B]

I'm a novice and have to admit I see a lot of Harleys because I live 5 minutes from 1 and took my MSF course there as well. That said, I've considered Triumphs and Japanese bikes but it's something I can't shake about the Harley sound. I'm no mechanic and will eventually get what I'd like to your point and others.