Heavyweight Cruiser Motorcycle Shootout. Harley-Davidson Breakout 117, BMW R 18, Triumph Speedmaster

We compare the spirit and essence of 3 Heavyweight Cruiser Motorcycles: the Harley-Davidson Breakout 117, Triumph Speedmaster Bonneville 1200, and the BMW R 18 1800cc Big Boxer Cruiser Motorcycle.
This is not a 'Top Trumps' review nor a spec comparison, but we get to the essence of the bikes and what different flavours they offer, to help YOU with your buying decisions.
If it's torque you're after; then these 3 Bad Boys have plenty of that!
The new 2023 Harley-Davidson Breakout 117 shows its face for the first time before our comprehensive review (coming next week!). The Ol' Man literally fresh from his testride of this motorbike, delves into this comparison review.
Which one is for YOU? Let us know n the comments below!
We have a V-Twin, a Boxer Twin, and a Parallel Twin, and theres a massive price difference between the bikes of course!
What about the Triumph Rocket 3? Listen to the Ol' Mans explanation in the video!
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If you have made money, and as a result, have some disposable income, you may look at buying a motorcycle like one of these, to invest your money in, and if you choose wisely, you may find the right bike that becomes a future classic, and actually, over time, appreciates in value. As we are entering a new era, with electric vehicles becoming more and more prevalent, the choice motorbikes of today, could be the valuable classics of tomorow. You could of course invest in gold, silver, stocks and shares or bonds, but a motorcycle is much more fun!!! This is not financial advice but merely our opinion. Choose wisely! BMW, Harley-Davidson or Triumph?
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[@gcrockford8191]

Love all three, but it is the Triumph for ME!

[@enriqueperla4939]

The Speedmaster is beautiful so is the breakout. But the Triumph is the more affordable and pratical of the three with detachable passenger seat and more than enought torque. Sweet bike.

[@sosopei]

I have both the R18 and the 114 Breakout. They are both lovely and indeed polarising. To me personally, the Harley is more "obnoxious" with its loud pipes and the R18 is more of a gentleman's hooligan machine. Both extremely fun to ride.

[@user-hl6uj1qh8s]

When I started riding in the 1970's I never thought a 1200cc bike would be called the small bike!.

[@benjaminpicton7235]

I just love the looks of the Triumph Speedmaster.

[@rohitjain3210]

Likewise 🤠 it looks the most balanced, classy and the presence is just awesome

[@shon79able]

But they should've given a bigger fuel tank, 12.5 litres is too small, even middle weight crusiers like Super meteor 650 comes with 16 litre tanks

[@user-tm9ho3bm4v]

Looks way better in person, trust me!

[@emilysimmons7318]

Can confirm as an owner of one! It is a fantastic bike. It is beautiful, balanced, powerful and drives like butter. I initially thought it would be too much bike for me, but it's so intuitive I can't imagine why I ever had any apprehension.

[@karlsquire8148]

@@rohitjain3210 It does have a very classic look to it, a bigger passenger seat would be more practical and if they did it right probably would have made the bike look even better.

[@Peter-gz6ux]

7K miles on a 2020 Speedmaster. This is so much fun to ride in the tight twisty leisurely. Riding beteween 2K-3K RPMs. The freaking torque just floats you up and down the hills. Just give it a little twist. No need to down shift. Country road, pure riding joy.

[@brenthill3241]

The Speedmaster looks to be the perfect balance of a classic motorcycle with contemporary refinement.

[@felipedourado5721]

I would go for the Harley and I will explain why. The Triumph, as much it may be, technically speaking, an excellent bike, I think it gives the impression that it is an "adaptation" of the lovable British flavor towards the cruiser style. I mean, for me it is like, despite the Speed Master being all engeneered and built on the factory, it was not born a cruiser at heart like the mighty Thunderbird line up was. The Speed master seems to me more like Triumph was trying their best to make some sort of "cruiserification" of the Bonnie. Besides that, the water cooled Bonneville line up, for me, lacks the Holy Grail that every cruiser should reach, that ineffable classic feel when being ridden. In short, water cooled Bonnies and their cousins are totally modern bikes disguised as retro and it is big 'no' for me. The BMW18, on the other hand, seems to have loads of quality, authenticity, character and even soul. But despite that "aura", I don't know, in long the term, if it gonna be a model that will endure for many years to come on the Bavarian line up. Therefore I also have doubts about parts available in, lets say, 15 or 20 years ahead and if there will be mechanics able to work on them in such future (yes I tend to "marry to my bikes). For me those points are to many and too important and the doubts they raise are, again, a big 'no'. Harleys (at least until the M8 generation) are almost what they always has been. For some it may be a bad thing that means the brand did not evolve, for others, like me, it is quite the opposite. I mean, it's good that they did not change so much their engine architecture since the mythical Knucklehead keeping their feeling and identity very recognizable but also improving reliability and performance consistently since the Evolution motors. Those characteristics give to Harleys a, lets say, sence of lineage that is unbeatable. And also give that peace of mind that, no matter what, there always be parts available and some one that will know how to work on them. That's why Harley wins here. So, for me, It's not a matter of hating other bikes and/or worshiping Harleys, it's a matter of some degree of practicality and, in a more subjective take on the big cruisers affair, feeling and staying connected and coherent to something that may be alluded to as a "philosophy". P.S. A more personal note. When I look to my old and faithfull 2002 Softail Deuce, I got a feeling that she is, if not the "grandma" of the Breakout, at least her "aunty". 😉 Best regards from Brazil. ✌

[@andyc750]

only one winner for me and that is the HD, another great video, well filmed and put together, keep up the good work

[@saltaireorangebicyclechopp8555]

Enjoyed all that. Daily bike? Then the Triumph by a mile. A special bike for sunny Sundays? Then either of the other two.

[@timhickey9898]

I bought the Triumph because I am 60+ and it's a very good fit when you want a bike that is easy to ride and super light to move around

[@nielsyoh]

I love the Breakout. The styling, the use of materials, the finishes and the heritage of the brand make it second to none. 👌🏻I love bmw’s and triumphs as well but I love HD even more.

[@rabukan5842]

Triumph Speedmaster - not only because I own one, but because I just don't need more than 1200cc's, love the comfort, size, handling, and ride; love the excellent fuel consumption, and it is just a gorgeous bike that always gets a lot of compliments. The Harley and BMW are also beautiful bikes, but I think the Triumph is more of an all around bike. Triumph really did an amazing job with the quality of this bike, yet kept it affordable for all to enjoy.

[@IanTheEarlobe]

I love them all, I wish I had more money to cycle through a new bike each season. If I had to choose, probably the Harley for me. (I currently ride a triumph scrambler 1200

[@ianmacdonald3152]

All three are great bikes I have the speedmaster because of the cost and don’t regret my decision because at the end of the day it’s about the ride no matter what you choose

[@ecrusch]

The Triumph or the Harley. I'm not really in love with the BMW. I think the Triumph is the best "All-Aorund" bike, but that breakout really speaks to me. (and I'm not a Harley fan-boy). Needless to say; I could see any one of them in my stable...haha Good video, brother.

[@JohnSmith-xw5qe]

I do like all 3! But for me it’s the Triumph Excellent video 👍🏻😎

[@hugomondaca2173]

Speedmaster all the way! 1400 miles in 2 days with no pain in the but and lower back. Simply, is the best bike ever built

[@kaitodesire]

Love the speedmaster ❤

[@jfro5867]

Enjoyed that. Like all three but I have an R18 in my garage, I love it. Like you I appreciate big cruisers for what they can do well, not what they can’t. If I wanted a Fireblade I’d buy one 👍

[@MrDarcy-OlMan]

Right on!

[@AndoniTejerina]

It's a shame that triumph doesn't produce the thunderbird anymore. It would be the real competitor in this game

[@MrDarcy-OlMan]

Yes it would 👍🏼

[@stephensalt6787]

I love the Harley sound and generally the look of the more traditional bikes the breakout not so much. The R1800 looks good and build quality will be superb. The Triumph wins it for me on looks alone, it seems so usable and practical yet beautiful 😍.

[@inson1219]

Bmw R18 all the way , it’s a bike you need time to find it’s special character. The more I riding on it , the more love growing. Time will prove its a best classic cruiser machine on the market. ❤❤❤❤

[@ftby59mikeD]

Glad he mentioned the Rocket 3, agree too that it's a different breed.

[@mattcarroll5403]

It's a crying shame Triumph don't make the Thunderbird anymore as I'd imagine this review could be quite different. I have friends with all three of these each swears blind there's is best.

[@Bradshaw812]

Thanks for adding the subtitles - I had the Speedmaster 1200 from 2018 - 2020 and loved it. It's worth adding that the Speedmaster is really another incarnation of the Triumph Bobber ("Black" as originally was) differing only in the seating arrangements, much was made of this at release but it seems to have died down. I exchanged that for a Rocket3 GT which is something else altogether if you can come to terms with the back brake disappearing every few months (Triumph say they've fixed it now through revised recall procedures) ; some observers rate both the Speedmaster 1200 and the R3GT as Triumph's latest "cruiser" option(s) but owners agree (somewhat anyway) that neither bike is a cruiser but each has aspects of one. I am fortunate enough to be an old bloke able to have more than one bike and so I also have a 2020 Fatboy and that bike isn't a cruiser either but again has aspects of one - if I have to take kit with me it's the easiest one to slap luggage and a screen on although a pillion passenger would be a step too far. I don't have to commute at all so my bikes are strictly leisure only but I think I'd struggle with either the H-D or the Triumph to ride daily. I have tried the R18 but it's not for me given I couldn't get used to the punching power / vibrations of that huge Boxer engine which was a shame as it's a beautiful machine; I hope I am wrong but BMW don't seem 100% committed to the R18 long-term as it's not the greatest "fit" with their usual offerings; it has some other niggles for me (would have to have footboards and a heel and toe changer for example) that might grind after a while; the Transcontinental is really only for the USA if a way could be found to prise the die-hards away from their H-D's. Good luck with the move from Wales - lovely country, scenery and people but somehow feels much further away than it really is!

[@JohnMuchowPage]

Having owned two of those bikes (the Speedmaster 1200 and still have the Breakout 117), I commend you on this objective review. It's exactly how I would describe them! Perfectly assessed IMHO. Well done!

[@mrcraighew1]

I visited Chester HD a couple of years back with the full intention of buying a bucket-list (HD) bike. Although i was well impressed with the Fat Boy i yearned for i just couldn't understand or justify the stupidly inflated price point. I watched the Ol Man's review of the Speedmaster a few nights later and saw the light. The Speedmaster is, for me, a very capable bike. It ticks all boxes except one, and that's the bucket-list HD name badge. I'm well chuffed with it.

[@MrDarcy-OlMan]

I emailed Chester HD a couple of years ago about a Breakout with only a few miles on the clock; they never got back to me; but BMW did!

[@diverbob471]

I have to say the speedmaster for me too, being a Shorthouse it would fit perfectly, and aesthetically looks the dog danglies IMO, Of course there is and always will be the cost element. My other point is that depends what you want the bike for, I live on a small island so i see no point in having some huge monster cruiser of 1700/1800cc if you can only have short ride outs.

[@petyrkowalski9887]

Great bikes, all three but the Speedmaster would be my choice.

[@billgraham4630]

I love all three bikes choose one I would have to go with the break out!

[@olliereed4206]

I am moving on to this style of bike so the Triumph gets my vote. It is best of both worlds. That and the fact that if I went for one this season I could actually get it. The lead times in Harley’s and the R18 is crazy at the moment. I am a one bike person and I can’t be without a bike!

[@nigelgreen1246]

I have an R18 and love it having been Harley all my life. I find it is better engineered and finished than HD

[@CW4PWR]

To me, it looks like the P-47 Thunderbolt, the FW190 Folks-Wulf and the Spitfire. The Spitfire being the most beautiful airplane ever built. I would take the Triumph of the three.

[@Twin_solo_az]

I just decided that I’m buying a bike recently. I want to make sure I’ve done my research before going to test drive anything, and this channel is proving to be a huge help with that. The first video of yours I watched was your review of the BMW R Nine T, which I was sure was it, the bike for me. But then I started looking into others. Enter the Triumph Speedmaster, which brought me to another of your videos. At a dealer I was in awe of the R18, so huge. So I searched it up on KZbin and found myself in the English countryside with the Ol’ Man yet again. My dad rode a Harley, and there’s a lot of Harley riders where I live, and yes I have a bit of a bias against them, but I find myself liking the Fat Bob and could see myself on my own Harley. Anyway, long comment to say your channel is helping me explore while I save up a down payment and get my motorcycle license, and it’s entertaining. Much rather listen to an English gentleman motoring through the countryside than somebody else fighting American suburban traffic jams. Of those three bikes it’d be the Speedmaster for me. Just love the looks and more than enough power for my needs.

[@s.venkateswarpatnaik2484]

Hello Ol'man you're an Legendary Person because your motorcycles reviews are very useful for everyone

[@gzk6nk]

I really don't class the Speedmaster as a cruiser - and your comment in this video pretty much back that up. What you have here is two cruisers and a relaxed road bike.

[@ronny-drz]

I have an older Harley Ultra, but here I pick The Triumph Speedmaster all the way! Thank you for the nice video, all great bikes.

[@user-sw2lv3zp6o]

R 18 for me, even before you start. I like the gym analogy. I'm like a Super Meteor, then. Great wheels on the H-D. Love the pipes on the BMW. Overall, the Triumph is a better-looking bike than the H-D. It has a particularly nice profile.

[@t1201971]

I have five Triumphs including three Meriden bikes so I'm not even going to attempt any type of objectivity. I bought a Speedmaster Gold Line last year and I absolutely love it. I put 7,000 miles on it last year and I use it to commute to work, which is 30 miles round trip. I took a 300 mile trip to Wisconsin from Chicago, absolutely unflappable. I got the factory apes and BC straight pipes and a friend fabbed up a sissy bar out of stainless. I rode an R18 First Edition in 2021 and I was not impressed. The suspension is absolutely brutal and the seat feels like a block of wood wrapped in leather. However I think BMW did an excellent job on the styling, and everybody knows how good their engineering is. Great review and best of luck with your move to Spain!

[@cornishreptiles]

So, I’ve owned a Speedmaster 1200, I’ve owned an R18 and now own a Low Rider S 114. So not quite the full set. The Speedmaster I loved. The bike feels great, is super easy to live with and I found on mine with the rear shock stiffened up incredibly competent at fast road riding. From a standstill being so small and “under powered” you can dump the clutch and disappear up to road legal speeds. Upset a GSXR 750 rider twice from two sets of lights before he went past me like a rocket down a dual carriageway and then within a mile there was a speed camera on a bridge, so that was three times he was disappointed and upset within minutes. The only things I didn’t like with the Speedmaster, the small fuel tank. Yes it’s frugal but if you ride it hard 12ltrs is not enough. And the bike feels small, with a large pillion it’s just not really practical. I would love to see Triumph bring out a 1800cc+ Thunderbird with the Speedmaster styling, that would absolutely be a winner. The R18 I had for a very short time. Parts availability where I live is absolutely horrendous, it was constantly broken and the dealer was one of the worst I’ve ever come across. I had the bike 3 months and it spent most of that time at the dealers waiting for parts on 3 separate occasions. When it did work, the stock seat is absolutely awful, woeful in-fact. Suspension isn’t bad once set up for your weight and ground clearance not too bad. Goes quick enough, the bike feels solid but in my experience definitely isn’t and as a whole package the looks, fit and finish are really really good (there’s very few exposed wires or anything ugly). Also when riding looking down at the cylinder heads is absolutely ridiculous and just makes you smile. Shaft drive is a massive bonus, valve clearances every 6000 miles not so. Also makes a very addictive sound and can be spec’d with actual useful extras. My Harley, “feels” super light weight in comparison to the R18, but everything you touch feels less well built than the BMW. However I’ve had zero problems with my FXLRS. I test rode a 117 and a 114, I much preferred the 114. To me riding back to back the 114 feels more eager to rev up, although once going the 117 feels a lot more powerful. But for me and my bum it felt more powerful when rolling on and the 114 when accelerating from slow speeds. Where I live everything’s super tight and twisty so it was the 114 for me. Suspension wise I’m amazed at how hard the Harley feels, front and back. Makes it feel stable at speed but bumpy pot holed roads are not fun. However the benefits of Harley is any and all complaints or parts I don’t like are easily fixed relatively cheaply with a massive amount of after market parts. Every single thing I bought for the BMW was even more expensive than Harley’s own parts catalogue. But here’s the thing. The Triumph dealer near me is one of the best dealers I’ve used anywhere, they also own the Harley dealership next door and they have been really easy to deal with. My two local BMW dealers are the same franchise and they are the worst I’ve come across. I think really you hope to never see a dealer for problems, but a good dealer should always be a big part of the decision on the bike you choose. Good dealers are hard to find.

[@MrDarcy-OlMan]

Good points there. 👍🏼👍🏼

[@cornishreptiles]

@@MrDarcy-OlMan for what it is the Speedmaster is a superb bike. Triumph has hit the styling, hiding coolers in plain sight, hit the balance between affordability and component performance to produce a bike that works, on most roads, most of the time. It’s just let down in some very small areas like physical size and tank size for me. But not everyone’s a large person, and for the right people it will be the perfect bike. The BMW is super heavy to get off the side stand, it won’t be for everyone, just like the Harley. But I do feel any cruiser rider and Harley lover could ride the Speedmaster and be blown away with what it actually offers for the price. You could get two and some parts for the price of the Breakout. Or, buy a Speedmaster for light touring and a Bobber so solo duties. I will never ever own another BMW product, Triumph and Harley I would in a heart beat.

[@andrerobertdrouin3642]

I prefer the Triumph because of weight , handling , miles per gallon , looks , cost of buying and probably cheaper to fix also , then this bike will cart you crap anywhere you want to go on a lower budget to boot , plus i am a short old fart that loves retro and mechanical watches so they go well together like mom and pops

[@big500]

There’s no way I could justify £24k on the Harley, no matter how much I liked it.. Speedy for me which is why I’m on my second one😎

[@stevenchapman5620]

Another great and watchable review. As I have commented on a previous video today, I’m waiting for my shiny new Speedmaster Chrome edition. This is bike number 25 for me, so over my motorcycling ‘career’ I have ridden lots of bikes and owned lots of bikes. I once rode a Hayabuser at 160mph….but what was the point. All but a few have been brand new bikes, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha, Honda in my early days moving onto BMW (K1200RS, RT 1150 @ 1200, several GS’s, a Harley, 3 Triumphs, K1600B, a K1200LT which was the heaviest bike. I can ride fast (ex police rider, DSA motorcycle Instructor) on any machine, but…I enjoy riding..slowly…taking in the scenery, enjoying getting there, savouring the journey. I learnt years ago that riding fast isn’t actually fun….breaking speed limits has its risks for one’s licence..and do you actually get there any faster? People should give these cruiser bikes ago and realise they do bring a smile to one’s face and they are still fun to ride. I think you portray this message brilliantly and again it is great you let us listen to the sound these bikes make….I switch off to too much commentary over the sound of the bike…it annoys me. If I were to make a bike video, I wouldn’t go into any detail of the specs..as specs don’t portray the character of the bike. I’d go for more on how the bike makes one feel…after all, that’s what motorcycling is all about…passion…for the ride.👌

[@robertsutton3439]

r18 best bike i have ever owned

[@AnandChakraborty]

All three bikes are good but I would pick the Triumph Speedmaster, because of its classic lines and more manageable size.

[@cranklesnacks]

Ever since you picked the R18 and did those reviews, absolutely fell in love with it. I was looking for a first bike at the time and it was just too big and intimidating for me, so I ended up with a T100 black which has been perfect and absolutely love it! However, someday when I get to a certain level of experience and confidence, will be getting the R18, hands down!

[@MrDarcy-OlMan]

Excellent. A perfect stepping stone 👌🏼

[@kenmason9354]

The Speed masters for me, but they have a awesome style 😎

[@geraldmerkel7145]

Yo Ol' Man, I fell in love with the R18 back in 2017 or 18 when I saw the first concept photo in a Motorsickle magazine. I ride Honda flat 6 engines 97 Valkyrie (my 3rd), 93 Goldwing. So I love the boxer engine. Never see any R18's on the road here in the USA 🇺🇸. I finally sat on my first R18 at the BMW shop the other day. I'm in love. They gave me a price that is going to be very difficult to ignore. You Meet the Nicest People on a Honda Valkyrie/Goldwing. Keep the Shiny Side Up.

[@robbiesloan3992]

i would go for the speedmaster

[@stevegodfrey626]

Great review. I looked at the black and white Speedmaster before ordering a new HD Lowrider S 117. It seemed and felt too small for me after 6 HD’s although I’m only 6’. Anyway, as you know, after back to back rising the new HD Lowrider and the R18 FE it was the R18 for me. Better specs, nothing to spend extra unless one doesn’t like the pipes…. I like them. I’m still very happy with the R18. The new Breakout looks nice, much better than the earthier model one I had. R18 is a keeper for me!

[@user-mj6pd7ct9v]

I love the BMW. R18. Totally original bike and I just purchased the 2023 R18 100 anniversary and absolutely love it ! I have owned two Harley Davidson, cruisers, and the BMW is in a league of its own. I love the styling and the smooth ride of the boxer.

[@MrDarcy-OlMan]

Excellent! There’s nothing like it! 💯👌🏼

[@stevegodfrey626]

Me too after 6 new HD’s.

[@homesteadpickers]

I own both a 2021 R18 and a 2022 Rocker 3R. Love them both, 2 different types of bikes. I am 6'2" 190lbs so the fit is great for both bikes. I do like you reviews on these bikes and has a lot of value. Thanks for all the work you do with the reviews.

[@andrewdyson4255]

Don’t hate any but prefer the Triumph even though I’m a BMW rider. The triumph just looks good in my eyes. That said boy are they all heavy machines

[@johneli495]

I'd probably go with the R18 since the engine and drivetrain is kinda unusual

[@chirag4]

Speedmaster is Triumph's most beautiful bike (even more than Thruxton & Bobber), but I already have 2021 Trident-660 and won't repeat the brand, so, from Breakout-117 & R-18 ... I would get BMW as I don't have a Beemer/Boxer/Shaft-Driven Bike in my Fleet ... & 10 days ago I bought my 4th bike -- 2023 Ducati XDiavel (1260 V2 Belt-driven Cruiser with 240mm rear-tyre) ... thus, no point getting another V-Twin like Harley, that too having the similar 240mm section tyre, otherwise I love the look of the new Breakout. Although in reality, I was not considering the R18, rather, the R-nine-T (retro-classic) as my 5th bike. Also, I purchased a new 2022 Hayabusa, 6 months back. My first bike was & is the 2020 KTM Duke 390

[@EminBastea]

thruxton is the most beautiful bike IMO

[@chirag4]

@@EminBastea probably & possibly YES !

[@oicu81too]

The beemer is a beauty. Harleys are well crafted bikes, and the Breakout is a great chopperesque alternative. But I bought the Speedmaster as it looks so true to the beginning era of ‘custom’ (later called cruiser) bikes, while including great modern tech. Plus, even fully kitted with add-on accessories it was far less expensive than an entry Harley model. This will allow me more easily to follow up adding a much larger & comfortable 2-up long-distance tourer. Win-win 😊

[@Arthur_the_Lazy]

I wish you could compare the triumph with the royal enfield supermeteor :)

[@DrBrito]

That would be something I’d like to see as well. Although they are in different leagues, since the super meteor has half of Triumph’s cc ! But the comparison of design and comfort are valid imho.

[@garyrhode3755]

I would probably choose The BMW R18 overall comparing these bikes. (I own a 2021 Street Bob), and really like it. The R18 is a stunning design.

[@shaunlayton9814]

I’ve just got my first bike at 61 😂 I went for the speedmaster I love it but I like all three bikes 👍

[@stevenpaynter4463]

My last bike was a 20 speedmaster,did hit a uneven part of a back road came close to crashing but loved the bike ,then i traded it in for my 107 slim which has a st 2 torque cam ,more stable if i hit ditchs and ive lowered it by a inch.Also had a 13 model Breakout and i still wish i had kept that bike.Thanks for the review.

[@spudgunson]

Harley Breakout. Superbly designed with perfect proportions. Power with acceptable handling for any road and forgiving stability on the horrendous potholed roads we have in the UK. If it’s handling isn’t good enough for you then you should be riding on a closed circuit race track. If you’re after something unique it has to be the BMW. Whilst there are several Harley copies for looks there is absolutely nothing that compares to the BMW. Both those bikes will easily do 130k miles which speaks volumes for their engineering. Great review and photography 👍

[@Ron-bo6tb]

I started riding in the mid sixties, I rode most all of them, the last five were Harley's, the big thing I hated about Harley was the Stealer's! I asked why I couldn't I order my Harley the way I wanted from the factory with things like 12 inch pull back bars and stage one kit, I always got the run around, so being a pretty good Mechanic, I bought a service manual and torque wrenches and did my own service. I look back on it now and the best Bike I ever owned was a 1970 Honda 4, the only thing I did to it was change oil, lube the chain, keep the four carbs adjusted and rode!

[@wolfster2287]

What the hell were they thinking when they put that tiny speedometer on the Breakout??? Glasses required! Ridiculous!

[@breakoutpete210]

The twin cam Breakouts, 2013-2017 had a better analog speedometer, longer rake, and sexier lines...oh yes, the twin cam motors had more Harley character and soul...

[@MrDarcy-OlMan]

Tbh, I can see it perfectly well and my short vision isn’t perfect

[@tjf2258]

Awesome video...all three are just tremendous examples of the genre they aspire to...I mean seriously can one really be better than the other. The Harley is an incredible piece of American iron/icon, the Triumph a British tradition, and the BMW is a blast to the past and modern day throwback. If I had to choose I’d go Harley, BMW, and then Triumph --no reason other than like you I am 6’2” and 260 Lbs. Harley’s fit dudes like me!

[@andrewnewman8850]

The Breakout every day mate. Replace the bars with 14” highballs or apes and it’s perfect 🤩

[@HamRidez]

I’m a Harley guy and ride a Low Rider S, so it would be the Breakout for me. The 2023 breakout is absolutely stunning with all the chrome bits and the bigger 117 engine. Even considered trading my Low S in for it….Second for me is the speedmaster. Always thought they were lovely classic looking bikes with that triumph quality. Exhaust note sounds awesome even in standard trim. BMW would be 3rd for me, sorry! Overall I like the look of the bike but I hate the look of a boxer engine.

[@mihaimike2500]

Triumph 👍🏻

[@awfulwarlock91]

I own a Speedmaster and its my favorite bike I have ever owned. I have had a VRod in the past and I did test a Breakout. The Breakout's large front wheel made it feel less nimble to me. I have never ridden the R18, but I do like them. I am 5'9" so I think the Speedmaster just fit me best. Besides my Speedmaster, the Yamaha Road Warrior was my favorite cruiser. I wish they still made them.

[@stevieneilson2451]

I rather have two Speedmasters than one of the other two.. 😊

[@ryanh4707]

I've been waiting on this 'shoot-out' review ever since you lads teased it a view videos back - excellent work as usual men 👍

[@JustFiddlinAround09]

I've got the R18 Bagger and it is an amazing bike. Been riding for 40 years and it is by far my favorite.

[@christianmouraux7269]

Excellent review, like always ! Thanks 👍

[@lancerbiker5263]

Not a Harley hater, just think the price has always been too high for what they offer. Love the R18, however a bit of "overkill" in terms of size for me. First motorcycle I sat on was as a pillion on my brothers 1968 650 Bonneville. Fell in love with the baby blue teardrop tank and the sound. Cheers

[@alkiviadiskatsos9932]

HD Breakout with my eyes closed. I've been a fan, owner and follower all my life. "Alicat".

[@shaglioni]

Outstanding editing done in this video and well done comparisons. Just picked up a 24' White Breakout. Didn't entertain the other two reviewed cruisers but had a Triumph Speedtwin before and a Dyna Low Rider S. Never rode a BMW of any kind. Great work.

[@MrDarcy-OlMan]

Many thanks and enjoy your Breakout 😊 Definitely have a test on a BMW R18 and see what you think. I the Old Man have owned a few Harleys and love the R18 also 👍🏼

[@Gibs-BCN]

All three are wonderful and I would like to try the Breakout some days... But for now a ride a Speedmaster 865 and I love it, it's my first Triumph and I have to thanks also you and you videos for this great choose. Wait you in Spain!🇬🇧🇪🇸

[@nielsmeer]

I have the R18 in the Classic variant. Tried multiple Harley’s, Indians, Rocket 3 & the Bobber (similar to Speedmaster), but the R18 resonated the most with me. My second choice was the Bobber & I still may add one to the fleet in the future. I’m tall at 6’4” and personally find forward controls uncomfortable, which is why the Harleys & Indians didn’t vibe with me. So much pressure on my tailbone, I was eager to get off the Harley & Indian bikes after only 20 minutes. Neither the Bobber nor the R18 which both have mid controls had that effect & I ride my R18 all day with no issues. Each of the bikes in this review have their own character that you can appreciate (Harley burble is quite nice), but one has to see what works best for them overall.

[@neilallen460]

I love the Speedmaster, but I would have liked to see the Rocket 3 comparison. Nice vid.

[@w.nicholasgarifalakis4382]

As always, you do many credible and thorough reviews. You're also very likable, as is your son, and deliberate in your choice of words in, what appears to be, an effort not to displease the manufacturers or any of your followers! I commend you for treading this fine line of journalism so nicely and skillfully managing to highlight those areas where one would choose one model over the other. Since many of us in the Northeastern United States contend with traffic issues on our congested Interstates, I would have liked to hear your perspective on how each model deals with heat management while encountering stop-and-go traffic in warmer weather. Keep up the great work!

[@666louis]

If I had the frame of the Ol' Man, and lived where there are long sweeping corners, I would go for the Harley. But since I weigh only 64Kgs, I better stick to a smaller bike to not look like a teenager that stole someone elses bike ^.^

[@Maggieismydog]

Great review and great analogy with the gym!

[@tw1340]

Thank you for your vid...in my opinion you have to change the Thunderbird 1700 into your video...that would be very interested!

[@raffaeleraff6440]

3 masterpiece !! Super video 👍

[@MrBurlybiker]

I bought the break out in vivid black! This is the bike you need!!! Beautiful!!!

[@grantsmythe8625]

Very interesting, lot of data and facts. Good review.

[@erLLOSU2]

Really well described! I too fell the soul/fun of all and the R18 after a few test rides stands out. Would be my 2nd BMW. The K1200RS pulled me in in a similar way over 10 years ago. Current daily is also a Heritage. Thank you!

[@steveottavaino3804]

Excellent review well presented with professional production value, getting beamed up and back seamlessly fun for Star Trek fans. Was looking to replace my FJR1300 with the BMW R1250RT until becoming aware of FJR resale values, game over. The dealer had a few R18’s and the look intriguing me so I set up a test ride. 38 degrees on test day had me chilled to the bone so a quick ride; the only test ride ever where I wasn’t sure of my opinion after stepping off, usually I know within in a mile if it’s what I want. Researched a ton finding hugely varying opinions, yours a key player in me deciding to purchase a ‘23 R18 100 Years Edition. Beyond happy I did, I love everything about the bike (cleaning it sure is a pain but worth it), I’d been too long without a cruiser and additionally a boxer twin powered bike. I tried negotiating a Breakout but the rape incurred at the dealer level was absurd, the plus pluses, limited availability charges, and additional fees from both HD and the dealer a cold hard stop for me. In stark contrast the BMW dealership acted as true professionals start to finish. I own a Triumph T120 Diamond Edition and painfully state it won’t get ridden much, the BMW is a better Bonneville than the Bonneville, in my humble opinion and I absolutely love my Bonnie, a beautiful classic. I’ve owned over 50 motorcycles in my 60 plus years (3 of them HD’s, 3 Triumphs) and feel the R18 offers everything I need and want in copious quantities. It is not an everyday, everything motorcycle to everyone, but nothing makes me laugh as hard as looking down on those enormous pushrod laden cylinders which I’ve affectionally named Cheech (left side) and Chong (right side). Actually thinking of selling my FJR, ZX14, and the T120 and purchasing another R18 in the Classic configuration, make mine Galaxy Dust/Titan Silver please. Thanks for sharing. Cheers!!!

[@paulross9287]

Great to the point video.

[@LuisCipher]

Thank you. Nice review. You need to do a follow-up video in the future with reliability and breakdown percentages.

[@bigjwiz]

I love the Speedmaster something about that bike just says classic! But if I had the money I would go with the Harley, it’s an absolute stunner of a bike and if the steering is as friendly as you say it’s a great bike to have!

[@internetcruiser]

Well done comparison. Always good to see the seating position in a comparison video. 👍

[@russellnewcomb8542]

I have road both the HD and the BMW and really like them. Have never been on that model of Triumph but am going to go ride one after watching this. Thinking of getting rid of my CVO Ultra Classic and going to something smaller and these are on the list. Great review as always, Chears from Minnesota USA.

[@tomkarnes69]

Hands down the 2024 "Rocktaine", there 5th release and they finely nailed it

[@chrisbolton5461]

All three seem great bikes. Good comparison video, with a solid understanding of what the bikes are about.

[@TheRealChetManley]

Love the gym analogies, it works for sport bikes too, super sports are like Usain Bolt, hyper nakeds are like track and field athletes.

[@bradminor9657]

My personal preference is the Speedmaster. I have '22 Goldline edition and and it's phenomenal. It suits my style of riding and being 5'9" it's like it was designed to fit me. I also love the Breakout probably my favorite HD. If i loved somewhere that I could ride year round the extra cost would make sense. As it is the Speedmaster made the most sense cost wise and style wise. It also rides very similar to my first street bike which was a 2003 V-Star Classic. Very similar handling and ergonomics so sitting on the Triumph felt very familiar. I appreciate the BMW R18 but it's definitely not my style aesthetically. Hard to go wrong with these three bikes.

[@78Outlaw]

Great video as ever old bean, as an ex Rocket 3R owner I loved that bike and was arguably the best handling 300kg bike ever made and power was on another level but 💯 agree on the ‘retro’ comments. The Rocket was a bit confused with some Bonneville elements but also modern. Last Rocket was way more retro. I then went more retro with the CB1100RS (*after your video) as wanted the lighter bike and more retro and had the turn of speed I like and handling for the twisties. Of the three I gravitate to the Speedmaster, something quintessentially British, sounds great and a bit lighter and more chuckable. Between HD and R18 I’d probably go for the beemer, more retro looking, the Breakout for me sits in the middle, not a full retro but a good looking bike but just not set up for the sort of A-B road riding I like to do. Keep on riding, keep on smiling sir 👋 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@tonibeitlich9948]

Danke für das schöne Video 👍. Die Breakout ist für mich die schönste Harley aus der aktuellen HD Modellpalette.

[@wizurd77]

The torque outputs for the r18 and breakout are crazy numbers, will have to try one of them at some point. I actually really like the look of the breakout and the more classic r18 styling but still got to be the triumph for me.

[@paulsymonds820]

Brilliant video I loved it!