2019 Harley-Davidson Low Rider (FXLR) │Test Ride and Review

Get a detailed look at the 2019 Model Year Harley-Davidson Low Rider. After the huge frame change that H-D made in the 2018 model year the jury is still out for a lot of people if the new softail frame is a worthy replacement for the coveted Dyna platform. Matt Laidlaw and Nick Culver take out a 2016 Dyna and match it up against the 2019 Softail Low Rider.
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#2019LowRider #HarleyDavidson #Review

[@Dave-sw2dm]

My perfect softail is a combination of several of the bikes. Love the low rider gauges and handlebars. Like the wheels and tires off the sport glide. Love the full LED treatment on the deluxe.

[@stanleygraham1389]

Liked your use of two informed viewpoints, the different perspectives, plus the extended length, made for a fine vid. Not everyone is secure enough to share screen-time. Ride safe, brother.

[@oliverrojas3185]

Thanks, over the past few years I have watchd this video three or four times, and it's becoming really interesting. Each time I watch I am getting something new, or relearning it under a different mindset. For instance, this time around, FX, standing for, Factory Experimental, really stood out to me, as a means of understanding the factory motorcycle nomenclature. It is also startling to see how much younger Nick looked only few years back and how much knowledge and understanding he has about mechanical engineering. I still have trouble theorizing how placing fins along the outside bore of cylinders allows enough air flow to keep the engine cool at different operating temperature even if partially aided by channels of recirculating oil.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thanks Oliver. Good to know you keep picking up more tid bits of info.

[@dirtyfxdls7547]

I bought my wife a new FXLR 2019 and let me tell you the ride and handling is unbelievably smooth. 🤘

[@anthonygm85]

Great info yet again. I got a 18 low rider for my birthday this year and your video helped me along many trips to the dealership. I jumped from 883 r and ironhead, the new bike blows my mind how responsive it really is and its nimble and easy to move with

[@mikevargas1545]

This is the first video that I see that someone really shows every inch of the motorcycle I appreciate that Because some people don’t even have time to go actually see it I was my favorite part that you went really into detail with it keep up the good work

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thank you.

[@Armandos82]

This is going to be my first motorcycle, fell in love with this bike. Maybe after a few years I'll get a Breakout.

[@darkoflight4938]

Propably one of the best and most versitale bikes in a great line up! Reviewed here at THE best HD channel around. Great job as always Matt! Keep em´coming sir!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thank you sir! Much appreciated.

[@calebp6667]

I agree, best bike for the price

[@Jonathan-L]

I was sort of keen on a Street Bob because of it's entry price, but to change the original seat & bars would make it as expensive as a the Low Rider, so out of the crate, the Low Rider is better value. Although I'm not a chrome guy, the Low Rider's chrome bits are really nicely done.

[@CPTBUC]

I test drove the '18 Lowrider, 18 Fat Bob, and 18 Heritage when I decided to upgrade from my 883 Iron. I found all 3 easier to ride than the 883. The weight is carried lower, so I was more confident in turning and cornering. The suspension is amazing and the bikes are way more stable on the highway. The biggest issue I had with the Lowrider though among the 3 was the shifter position was lower. I felt like I really had to flex my ankle forward and dig to get underneath it, I found it really uncomfortable. Bought the Heritage because I highway commute and the standard windscreen, bags, cruise control sealed the deal.

[@steff964]

Excellent review as always Matt!! I think I now want a Low Rider. Just discovered your channel and Vlog's about a month or so ago, and I have watched ALOT of them, and can probably watch them all day to be honest. Keep up the great work!! Loved the Zion, Utah road trip as well!! Fantastic camera and editing work!

[@paulpsyche42]

Mr Mike! I watched all of your video’s hunting from right bike. I have not road in nearly 25 years. But I took my motorcycle safety course and apparently riding my dirt bikes as a kid back in the 80s never left me. Your videos helped me tremendously as I was deciding between a Harley Davidson 1200 or higher. In this video you demonstrate how the sixth gear makes a big difference and how the frame newly made makes a difference.So with that I was lucky to find a 2018 Harley Davidson softail rider with 500 miles on it. I bought it and I absolutely love it . It took me no time at all to adjust to the power and the speed of this bike given my background although I had a 25 year break in riding (age 50 now). I would’ve been so disappointed with the 1200 because I would not have a six gear or the power for cruising around all over God’s creation. I also appreciate all feedback the other drivers gave. With this post I’m sending you a sincere thank you for all you’ve done for all of us riders out here. I do hope your family are well I look forward to your future videos take care. Paul in Buffalo New York.

[@jeffallen5758]

Always learn something new about Harley’s from your channel.

[@Caseysays]

Always loved the style of the Low Rider. Great video content as always! Keep 'em coming!

[@Brink1957]

I just bought a 2019 FXLR softail low rider and I’m loving it. So far, I’ve fitted some V&H twin slash mufflers and a pair of Willie G tear drop mirrors. A nice and unexpected bonus is that the compact windshield off my Dyna FXDC super glide custom actually fits my FXLR, which is great for those longer trips!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Congrats man. That is convenient that your windshield fits.

[@J-Etch23]

Big fan of the addition of the possible customization options in the bike review video. Very useful information!

[@jamesmenard5450]

I like the Low Rider but I wish you could get it blacked out from the dealer, so I guess it’s the Street Bob for me, that one had a 5 Gallon tank.

[@mattthegreeter9074]

The more I ride my '09, the better the bike gets. I love the paint-can shaker aspect of the dyna, and it's loud enough to send people indoors. It's a real living, breathing machine you've really got to buckle onto and I love that about it. That having been said, I'm really looking forward to checking out the '19. I like that the "plain jane" aspect opens it up to genuine customization. The Low Rider is without a doubt a sleeper here in the Boston area. It gets cold here & I think most people go for fairing models, and that makes my FXDL stand out. Keep up the good work Matt.

[@jaydeering9092]

I did a lot of research on which Harley would be my first to purchase. Matt's test rides and reviews were really helpful and I ended up buying a 2020 Low Rider from Victoria, BC H-D. It's been one month now and I love it!

[@_007B]

What else were you looking at during that time? Any test rides on other bikes? Also, what’s your 2 year review of your low rider?

[@mdarnell08]

Picking mine up tomorrow at noon! Great ride and looks awesome! Can’t wait til noon!

[@Brink1957]

I love this bike. Reminds me of my beloved Dyna Super Glide Custom. Think I’m gonna get one real soon!

[@captainsuburbia8956]

I have not heard or read one comment about the new Softails having a death wobble. Personally experienced death wobble on my old Dyna even after throwing a few grand at it. Suspension, swing arm, motor mounts, Fall Away, tire pressure, you name it I did it.

[@paulbaker1000]

Brilliant review, Matt. I’m hoping to get mine delivered in December and am really looking forward to it! I live in southern England so hope our weather will allow me to get it run in quickly! It’ll be my eighth Harley and my second Lowrider, the first being a 2014 FXDL. Best wishes Paul Baker

[@usarmy3111]

Cool bikes, and great videos as always Matt! 👍🏻👍🏻

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thank you !

[@eladiovelez2760]

Do you think Harley will come out with an all blacked out 114 cubic inch Low Rider S softail. That’s what I’m waiting for to get for myself.

[@Silidons91]

You know it's only like 11 ftlbs of torque difference right

[@1550tc]

Matt can’t believe you guys in LA actually tested bikes with no 12inch T bars ....these dynatails are better all around bikes then the previous dynas and softails

[@tawaitai]

In my personal opinion the three biggest factors I’m looking to purchase the HD-Sport Glide is the 1. Minimal fairing w/ sporty look & inverted front cartridge forks. 2. The 2-in-1 versatility of this model easy-detach bags and easy-detach sport fairing for a slim-down look. 3. HD soft-tail platform w/ adjustable rear dial-in suspension and tons of upgrade support. Of course I can’t leave anything stock (oem) so a Cam, Exhaust, 4” pull-back risers w/ moto-bar, Bajadesigns LP6 led headlight upgrade, mid-controls, upgrade rear-shock w/ lift, upgrade front cartridges, front & rear turn signals & delete, Saddlemen seat upgrade, upgrade levers, upgrade & flip mirrors etc. Maybe even a 19” front wheel swap???

[@51minx]

Hi, we bought a 2018 Low rider here in Australia. Have fitted the Sundowner seat, sissy bar and rack with a set of Screamin Eagle slip ons. Absolutely love it and I think your review matches the bike very well. Only thing we are going to do is fit some louder pipes. Great bike and thanks for your reviews.

[@Anthony071177]

Appreciate the very detailed and informative video.

[@hexhead5732]

Love the camera angle makes me feel like I’m riding the bike

[@Sr.D]

Can't believe hd discontinued the standard low rider

[@Walt1960]

You described this bike perfectly. I have a 2020 and I love it.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Right on. Glad you feel I did it justice.

[@oliverrojas3185]

I have liked, but did not follow the evoliution of Harley Davidson motorcycle models in the 80's or 90s, or early 2000s. Although that is true, in my mind, the Low Rider name and the bike itself elicit what appears to be among the most iconic examples of a Harley Davidson motorcycle.

[@JL-rc9ro]

I want one! Great videos. Cheers from Boston, Mass!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Whats up Boston!

[@Alexgvigo]

J L i missed Boston , but not the 9 months long winter 😜

[@80sruler]

Nice review - I own a pretty modded Dyna Low Rider which I love and I’ll add the new one to go with it - probably a Stage 2 and T bars

[@kevinkrekels9780]

Great softail and with the big tank!

[@gorion70]

I think the FXLR is the best bang for the buck Harley offers right now. The only issue I have on my 18 is the speedo fogs up in the sun. They all do it and there's no fix. You can get a new one but they'll do it too.

[@paulleaver6747]

Hey great video I have 1 which I'm customizing now love my low rider.

[@derekroser498]

Love tour vids man love the fact your a harley dealer and still have an honest opinion

[@kaishaku83]

Love the new GoPro mount! I always prefered chin mounts. As for the Low Rider: it's always been my favorite HD (I ride a 15 FXDL) and it continues to be whatever platform on (FXR, FXD or Dynatail)

[@LarryRickenbacker]

If and when this long-time Honda rider gets a Harley, it'll be one with the exciting Twin-Cam engine. Recently test-drove my first H-D, which had the Twin-Cam 88. What an exciting engine!! It roared, it vibrated and VROOMED! It's air-cooled engine means one less thing to go wrong.

[@jayakrishna5693]

I own a Royal Enfield bullet and recently test rode the low rider, it was like butter

[@davebusch4397]

Another great video Matt!!!!

[@klh3244]

Another good review Matt! Ride Safe!

[@stevenbrooks1243]

Matt Laidlaw you do great video reviews I'll definitely make the trip from Reno NV to LA to buy a Harley Davidson from you !

[@sf940477]

Yeh things constantly improve and move on. Do you think HD will put a monoshock on the touring models ? I think they will at some point . Good vlog 👍

[@davidknows3320]

Such a simple paint set, yet so stunningly awesome!

[@James-hh7hp]

Do you think they will do any blacked out versions of these softails. They all have so much chrome!

[@MattLaidlaw]

If they are smart they will. It’s hard to say when though. This version of the low rider has only been out 2 years now.

[@irishdunn3455]

You could alway get the chrome powder coated black. I have an 18 Low Rider and I’m having most of the chrome powder coated gloss black. Only costing $170

[@James-hh7hp]

Irish Dunn you on Instagram? would love to see your progress. A low rider is something I would consider

[@irishdunn3455]

Facebook once I have my bike all done and outta winter storage I’ll be posting a video of everything on here come April

[@cormschr]

Ever get that chrome powder coated?

[@thomasangelo4219]

I think the 77 was a 61 in motor it's come a long way since then it's still an old school looking Harley-Davidson which is great take care

[@jamesmenard5450]

Meaning I wish the Street Bob has the 5 gallon tank or the Low Rider came Blacked Out.

[@3334-n7s]

I have to disagree with the logic here, they have 5 and 6 gallon loaded down long distance baggers already several models, there is only one street bob and its made to jump on and cruise across town without strapping down luggage and compartments and I like the no wind shield also do not have to clean the bugs off every fuel stop.

[@robertherrick6703]

@@3334-n7sThe Depends on what you're used to. A lot of riders don't care about having to fill up every 100 miles or so. But the Dyna Street Bob had a bigger gas tank than the Softail Street Bob. Why would HD make the the tank more than a gallon smaller? Coming from a Honda Shadow Phantom where I got at least 150 miles out of a tank, I wanted similar range in a bigger bike. That eliminated the Softail Street Bob from my list. I went with the Low Rider even though I dislike chrome.

[@3334-n7s]

@@robertherrick6703 YOU ARE CORRECT MY APOLLOGY I THINK NOW SINCE DROPPING THE DELUXE ON A SLOW TURN ALL MOTOCYCLES ARE NOT SAFE TO RIDE

[@robertherrick6703]

@@3334-n7s Sorry to hear that.

[@dansmusic5749]

Not to disagree with you, Matt, great channel, but I think the Low Rider is one of Harleys best looking bikes. And bang for the buck, can't be beat. Looked seriously at one, but went with the Road Glide. I needed a touring bike. Thanks for all your great content.

[@cowboy80ez]

👍on mustache. The view on the camera is much better now. Great review Matt thanks!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thank you!

[@zombiestation]

Why does HD mount the front turn indicators on the handlebars? I don’t like it. Most motorcycle manufacturers mount on the forks.

[@jerryhurst396]

I would like to see you review the 2019 Tri-Glide.

[@c360c9c2]

I was interested in getting one of the '18s but was waiting for forward controls to become available. Guess I'll keep waiting.

[@jetdoctn]

I like it, if I wasn't looking for a low rider S this would be a model I definitely would be interested in. Good looking machine.

[@scootjockey]

Nice history lesson thank you i enjoyed that. The filming just get,s better maybe you could consider doing a dokumentry or even a film one day:-).

[@splodge57]

Love that blacked out Low Rider. If only it came from the factory like that.

[@robertherrick6703]

I hope by the time I can afford one of these, HD will offer that as an option. I really can't be bothered to clean all that chrome. Last car I bought was in 2014 and I haven't washed it once.

[@xxkalevalaxx]

Keep the mustache! lol Nice review Matt

[@gorion70]

Love my 2018 Low

[@bobbyparson9229]

Great Vid. You do an amazing job...

[@lafomerrick9631]

Great video. Would be awesome to see you customize the Low Rider.

[@marablack1233]

I bought this bike and I can’t wait!! I’m in Canada, so a looong winter 🥶😢 I’m looking for a back rest for me, are they available?🙏😊

[@thano40]

Great content keep up the videos

[@Juliang61]

Really great video, thanks for all the info

[@thunder8cat]

I learned a lot from this video Matt. I dug the history explanation at the first. I really like the new Low Rider. Nice bike. You may have said but, is the forward control option available on the '19? I know you said it was a mid/forward on the older one.

[@bavarikus4103]

I like that model. Chance the handlebars and its perfekt. Ok, as a Dyna, much perfekt ;-) great video Matt. Cheers from Bavaria.

[@roblord7610]

I like the bars on Nick's bike, - are they stock from a Wideglide ?

[@TH3G0ODGUY]

Those are actually stock dyna lowrider s bars on my bike. Thanks for the comment!

[@stanleygraham1389]

The new camera position loses the distraction of the helmet in the left frame; I think that’s a big improvement. Really like the riders POV the chin mount offers - way better than the over-the-shoulder, pirate’s parrot POV 😉😇 Short riders with chin mounts get great dash footage on bikes with fairings. For some reason I think yours will be better. You put together great pieces and you keep looking for ways to make them better.👍 Keep on keeping on!

[@brianallison8700]

Great Video as usual Matt. I was wondering if FX= Factory Experimental, what does FL = ???

[@MattLaidlaw]

I’m not sure exactly. Good question.

[@steelhorsecountry5245]

I looked up FL it means Floorboards. I like to the FLH means Fast Like Hell!

[@MattLaidlaw]

@@steelhorsecountry5245 Really? I mean I know what the FLH designates the Touring chassis with the Hydraulic front end. I just don't know if FL specifically for a word or phrase. Never heard the Floor Board thing although that kinda makes sense.

[@grahamchiz6076]

Great video, many thanks. One question; does it have a gear indicator? I've ordered a xl1200 Custom but will change it to one of these. Graham, Australia.

[@CC-ys8qq]

Great info. I have the 2014 low rider and the fit is perfect! I have long arms and legs 5’9”. This bike is a perfect fit. The new Softail my hands holding the bars are almost touching my knees. Are these bars adjustable like the 2014??

[@ajeetvirk]

I’m looking at buying either a 2016 Low Rider S or a 2018 Low Rider. Both are going for the same price and both have 7000 miles. I’ll be testing riding both of them soon, but I was wondering how the two compare out on the road.

[@racinchef]

Love the history lessons!

[@steelhorsecountry5245]

Excellent video and clear! I feel the Street Bob, Low Rider and Slim are the perfect starting base for a custom made bike. I would like to see Street Bob with a stringer front an a tank lift from factory, wish a taller sissy bar 3' with rear rack with slide out sides also with a rear fender rack. Shorter rider should look at the Slim. I like the new frame over the old dual shocks. Lets face it dual rear shock are out dated, dirt bikes been mono-shock for years. I hope Harley-Davidson comes out with the new rear mono-shock on touring bikes. The new front fork suspension dual valve rocks! The Milwaukee engines are way better over the twin cam. Less shake mean you can put on more miles. Do a video on 2019 and old bikes on Street Bob, Slim and Heritage/Deluxe. I feel this time next year you will being one on the Sportster. I also have an old 2006 Sportster 1200 Custom love it the right amount of shake and smooths out.

[@franzhansen5369]

Hi Matt Are forward controls available for the Low Rider? Possibly Floorboards? What is your opinion on the Stage 2 SE kit with the Power Cam? Keep up the good work 👍

[@clarkbabin9799]

Bought a19 FLTRXS with 114MWK 8 with stage 1 and Rineharts. Sounds different but awsome.

[@clarkbabin9799]

I can vouch for the power on rolling the throttle at highway speeds. I tested mine to see what it would do at 70 miles per hour. Omg it's got power to burn.

[@cormschr]

I am currently looking into one of these but am concerned about those controls. I currently have an iron 1200 with forward controls. Not sure if these mids will be to cramped. Really looking to take advantage of that freedom promise.

[@SooHighFashion]

Wondering if the low rider tank would fit on a 2020 softail standard/street bob. Thought the smaller tank wouldn't be an Issue but boy I was wrong. Probably would have gotten this bike over the standard if they still made them/had any

[@upStomp]

I think I'm sold. I'll have to "tallboy" it out, but I love the overall styling and value. I've heard that putting forward controls isn't as straightforward as with previous models. Any truth to that? Love your videos, Matt. Keep up the great work!

[@Axl_colts]

How long have the low riders had the buck horn handle bars?

[@MattLaidlaw]

On and off since 1971. It hasn’t been consistent.

[@JP1970]

Nic bike, man....I wish it was blacked out. I'm liking chrome less and less these days. Do they have that option available on this bike?

[@MattLaidlaw]

No not yet. Hopefully in the future.

[@dheller777]

How does the 107 compare to the Low rider S 110 engine?

[@FranBunnyFFXII]

Honestly, I'd say the sport glide is probably the biggest contender for value. It comes with stock bags, cruise control, quick remove fairing, and ABS in a 18,500$ package, with some pretty impressive wheels, and a well made stock 2 into 1 header pipe where a slip-on swap is all you really need to get that great mid range power. It also has a great seat setup. The only thing that bugs me about the sport glide is the mismatched colors on it. I dont know why they went with black rockerbox covers, derby cover, and aft heatshield. All things I would outright have to replace immediately if I wanted the bike, which kills the value of it. I really wish they had gone with full chrome for the sport glide's power train system like the Low Rider. Doesn't make a lot of sense to have such a beautiful chromed out engine, with black rockerboxes, black aft heatshield, and a seemingly completely random ass black derby cover. You can replace all that an get a 909 Cobra slip on and fix all that but it would cost at least 1000$+ accounting for the without tools, gaskets or labor, ect. If you like the look of the sport glide, it's a hell of a great value of a motorcycle, but if you wanna change the mismatched parts, it gets real expensive to fix. The bags and cruise control setup really push up the value, considering the quick swap bags from HD's catalog are something like 700~800$ if you want them on any other Softail. Cruise control module for 250$. ABS for any of the bikes that dont have is what 800$ and you have to get the factory to ship you the bike to a dealer for $400? I'm still sold on the fat boy, but I love hearing about how much improvement the new softail frame has achieved.

[@mopar21]

Not everyone wants bags and windshield.

[@FranBunnyFFXII]

@@mopar21 Reguardless, it's value is what matters. If you're someone who wants all that stuff, the sport glide offers it in a package that's incredibly valauble when you compare to a bike that you'd ahve to add it to.

[@galentong4783]

I agree. I just rode most of the big twin Harleys yesterday at the Long Beach motorcycle show. I am looking to buy either the sport glide or the low rider. The low rider is a great bike and has a lot of value due to its price point. But for what I am looking for, the sport glide presents great value for the money. The sport glide had ABS and cruise control standard, bags, and removable fairing. I have been researching and found a $300 slip on that improves HP by like 3% with a great sound. I also really like the wheel design. The sport glide is like $3500 more but it is very modular in its design and more versatile.

[@edwardweiszbeck1649]

Good history. Thanks

[@leftyoverton4347]

Matt, why is the 114 not available on the new Low Riders?? I was ready to buy a new one, trading in my 2006, but no 114 stopped me.

[@satudave3728]

Really enjoyed this type of opinion on the reviews. Ya outta get Nick and Andrew to join you on a more adventurous kinda ride 👍👍PS. Nick did great 🤘

[@Vince_inTX]

Matt, are you getting any inquiries, or intell, about when a factory Low Rider S will be available? Hopefully they'll "surprise" us and make them available Mid-Year 2019. When they do, I will go into my local dealer and ride home on one! And thanks for all your excellent videos!!!

[@sebasdanielquiroga]

I wish you where working at the Argentina dealership when i bought my Harley, my choose would had been so much better.

[@RollinThankful]

👊😎 good vid man Southern Virginia

[@alanbstard4]

like the buckhorn bars

[@davidknowles3459]

I owned an FX Lowrider back in 1980.A brilliant bike.Haven't liked the Modern Low rider so much.

[@kylecraig6789]

Any suggestions on a detachable backrest and pad where I don't have to spend $300?? I'm amazed at the lack of options out there.

[@janisemmanouilidis7008]

Dear Matt, dear Nick, great, very informative video. It helped me enormously when deciding to buy a 2019 Low Rider. One question: I’m not really satisfied with the handlebars. Which alternatives would you propose? Thanks. Greetings from good old Europe, Janis

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thanks and thank you for watching. Glad we could help with your purchase of the Low Rider. There are tons of bars you could go with for that bike. So I guess it depends on what you don’t like about the stock bars and what style you like. If you want to go with something that won’t cost much to change I’d look for a bar that can utilize the existing riser and cable length. Maybe. Something that has less bend (buck horn) in the bar. Maybe get something that is more of a drag bar. You just need to decide what compliments your height/reach etc.

[@janisemmanouilidis7008]

Dear Matt, thanks for your reply. Very nice of you! Yes, going for a drag bar sounds very good. I like the one used on the Breakout, but I guess that I would need a riser for that (my height is 5.7). Best, Janis

[@rowdyrodb]

Great vid....

[@Wesleycreardon]

So softail slim vs lowrider as a "do all" bike? Not ready for a bagger but want a bike that can take me to the store and to another state

[@wdstauter8429]

You mentioned changing out the exhaust pipes. What slip on would you recommend for Harley sound at gold price?

[@XCRiders]

I didn’t think I cared for the guy with the dark hair as I watch this channel I love the guy he’s so smart and Matt is just awesome too It’s a great channel And I’ll be buying me one of these low rider S Oh yes

[@insideout2600]

Doin a good job matt .

[@adam6ism]

No to the Mo but thumbs up anyhow. Great video as always thanks Matt 🤙