My 2017 Harley Roadster Review - A Sport Bike Riders Opinion.

I went out and got myself a Harley Davidson XL1200CX Roadster, Yeeeeee Hawwwww. Tune in for an in depth ride and review of the gorgeous hunk of metal.

[@biggee9266]

I was just about to go to bed but after watching this I'm going to have to masturbate

[@Revvinthe417]

Understandable.

[@samuelcabe3372]

Revvin the 417 you mentioned wanting some pipes that would add some power, and sound while not being overly loud. Check out TBR Comp S. They've got a great sound, actually pretty mellow at idle, but come alive under throttle. Sound is different than Harley "potato" pipes, best way to describe the sound is more metric. I'm a bug fan of them. They're and so great Dyno performers for numbers.

[@dmgomez100974]

Big Gee haha

[@mohammedalharbi3191]

I just bought mine 2018 and can't wait to ride it.. Cheers from Saudi Arabia.. We love Harleys.. Keep making them please

[@johnshell5113]

Revvin, I have a 2016 1/2 and put on a new breather and flashed the ECM with the Vance and Hines Fuel Pack 3. This eliminated that hesitation into second gear plus gives a little better throttle response overall. I also put on the rear sets, I prefer this riding position to the mid sets, gives you a lot more lean angle. Next up will be some pipes, maybe the VH 2-1 upsweep. Great vid!

[@Revvinthe417]

Sounds awesome. I am not sure what I want to do to mine yet. I have considered clip ons... but I don't know about rearsets. I really like the mid controls so far. If I start dragging all the time, I may switch. I have also considered some SE Shorty mufflers and a nice intake. I feel that a full exhaust will be a bit too loud for my taste. Let me know what pipes you get and how they sound.

[@LoudValves]

really nice to get a perspective from someone who is not a Harley fanboy... excellent stuff

[@Revvinthe417]

Glad you appreciate it!

[@JonathanLeggs]

I've not really been a fan of HD's, but this and the new Street Rod 750 definitely have my attention.

[@Revvinthe417]

They are definitely trying to pull in a new segment of the motorcycling community. It seems to be working. That Street Rod looks sweet.

[@dippitydoinit]

I apologize if you know this already but you can adjust the shift lever to suit you.

[@joelarmstrong4157]

He might have,but I didn't so thanks for the advice

[@marioidoatelarequi2042]

Your thorough review made me buy my roadster and the only I can say is that's awesome.

[@Revvinthe417]

Thank you!

[@willywig]

Nice I just picked up this same bike with ABS and in the Silver... it is such an awesome looking bike.

[@Revvinthe417]

I couldn't find an ABS model, not that I would pay nearly $800 more for ABS. I did want the silver though... but the flat black has really grown on me.

[@willywig]

I am a new Rider so ABS is a "Feel Good" Feature... (the Dealer has a lot of wiggle room on that 800) ... I actually wanted the Flat Black.... but the silver was a close second

[@Revvinthe417]

Yeah, ABS isn't a bad feature at all. Especially for first timers on such a heavy bike. I talked them down on the silver I was looking at. It would have been over $1000 less than I paid for this one. They were going to shaft me on the interest rate though. Overall the Black was a better deal with more honest people.

[@garyshinn4626]

You have to lock the forks with a pad lock on my Sportster and it weights 490 pounds it is a 02 model. The new models do weight more like you said. I have put 40,000 miles on mine, still runs and looks new. I think you made a good choice buying the Sportster, take care of it and it will last many many years.

[@bleepsblops]

I came from cruisers and dirty bikes and the first 30 seconds on this bike I was sold. It is comfortable and extremely fun to ride!

[@chopperwizard666]

You can adjust the position of the shifter up or down if you don't like wear it rides. I like the Roadster!! Great choice.

[@michaelshenck9559]

The shifter lever should be easy to adjust to your preference. If you adjust it, all your gears and neutral will be easier to select once the bike is broken in. BTW if you preload the shifter slightly before pulling the clutch, you will have smoother shifts and less (or no) false neutrals.

[@RS-io6vm]

I agree not into big bikes. Lighter bikes are more fun. And this bike is perfect for a daily driver. Harley doesn't make many choices in a daily driver. And the Harley sportser is the longest running motorcycle still being built .

[@davetechme]

Great looking bike! This and the XSR900 are my top contenders for my next bike. Brain says XSR, heart wants a Roadster. What to do... I agree with you about small bikes being fun. I started on a GSXR 600, put 20,000 miles on it and had a blast in the twisties and track. Next bike was a DRZ400SM and I liked it even more other than not handling freeways well. I also rode a Ninja 250 and Rebel 250 and thought they were fun too. The GSXR is a scare yourself type of fun whereas the small bikes let you have fun without that law breaking temptation.

[@Revvinthe417]

Exactly, a lot of people ask me why I ride small bikes when I have so much experience. I guess some people just don't get it. The XSR is an awesome bike. In my experience, you will be much happier following your heart on these decisions. Something I don't normally condone... as an upcoming video explains haha. Good value for good performance is great, but a bike that speaks to you emotionally is unbeatable. Let me know what you end up with when you get a new bike!

[@behalsingh1290]

Hey bro I’m in same situation as you were. I’m not sure which bike I should buy xsr900 or roadster could you tell me what was your choice between these two. 13k is my budget for my bike if i have more then street bob would be my choice

[@vikasdp3188]

The new camera view looks awesome. Stick to this view if possible for your future videos. This makes us more involved in the video for some odd reason.

[@Revvinthe417]

I ended up liking it a lot too. I am going to have to work on it though. It fell off shortly after I made this video haha.

[@determinedbrothers3578]

Cobra 2in1 has a nice tone, seems just a bit louder than stock but not too loud just a really nice sound

[@markgamble8377]

yes screaming eagle.was too quiet .dont want loud.didnt like sound at first.couple hundred miles seems to sound better.especially 2500-3000 if ya make it work a bit. put small cary bag hitches front of engine lower.handy plus keeps crap outa frame from front tire. stock air cleaner looking all open in the back.so no rain problem

[@Revvinthe417]

I guess they just need to be worn in a bit.

[@sivaraj3312]

Hi...brother. im 5ft 5inch height . Is it comfortable to ride this xl1200cx roadster bike ?

[@Revvinthe417]

I think it would be just fine for you.

[@joelarmstrong4157]

Speaking from experience, it's heavy enough to break your leg when it falls over on it

[@markgamble8377]

bought 2016 roadster 9/20/16.at 1000 mi had dealer install stage one. eliminated lean .they come from factory lean.plus can get it in 5th at 50.Before couldnt get in 5th under 60+ without lugging. goina put bar in front for feet. i wash mine blow off with leafblower i dont rub it. i got the jet black one. ive dragged the pegs earlier with two on it. +im 65.nice bike

[@Revvinthe417]

What pipes did they use? I assume Screamin' Eagle? That is what I have been looking at.

[@markgamble8377]

Yup

[@markgamble8377]

the pipes they installed a litttle louder dont want it real loud.has that harley sound bout 2500-3000. plus dealer said can rev to 6500. have 1200mi on bike.

[@alfu6180]

A digital display with a gear and fuel indicator and led lights all around would be awesome

[@VictorRodriguez-gg6pb]

Just got delivery on mine, a few things I want to mod but will take it slowly. You got a subscriber here in Illinois Btw, same color

[@Revvinthe417]

Victor Rodriguez Delivery, fancy! Haha. Nice color choice. I've been thinking about a few mods myself. There will be a video on it soon. I appreciate it!

[@MyDyerMaker]

Cobra makes pipes that aren't annoyingly loud.

[@garyshinn4626]

The front fork on my Sportster locks with a pad lock. You supply the pad lock.

[@okiepowa5187]

Nice review man! The bike looks good, I'd love to try one and compare things to the old iron

[@Revvinthe417]

Thanks! They are a world apart in comparison. Mostly due to the seating position and suspension differences, but also the extra punch of the 1200. Hope you can get your hands on one. You'll love it.

[@imaquis8368]

Hey man great vid! I'm actually Springfield local! Lol 😆 Love the bike! Definitely thinking about getting a Roadster myself!

[@Revvinthe417]

Awesome! Love having locals. Go grab the red one at Dennys! haha

[@MrAndrew1953]

Z bars and bar end mirrors. Definitely want a Roadster 1200

[@Revvinthe417]

Haha, to each their own, I guess.

[@frednouvertne4216]

My legs and pants often caught in the foot pegs.

[@ernietorres182]

I love this bike!

[@prometheus5311]

I'm looking to buy my first harley, and my eye fell on this, the 48, and if i save up some, the fatbob. The thing that worries me is i'm 6foot 3 and it seems this bike would fold me in two or wouldn't it?

[@Revvinthe417]

Well this bike is quite a bit different than the 48. As for this bike, I am around 6'2 and if feels just fine. I would say you would be fine... especially on a 48 since it has forward controls.

[@astar5w]

I have a debate about the Iron 883 and the Roadster! I'll just go with the Roadster but the Iron 883 is so beautiful but to upgrade it to a 1200 is 2500 dollars extra! What you think? I'm 5'11 and you think a Iron 883 is just as good?

[@Revvinthe417]

The Iron does make a bit more power when converted... but that is a lot of work. Going by looks, it is the Roadster every time.

[@astar5w]

Revvin the 417 okay, thanks buddy!

[@funguseater40]

Cobra slip-ons, RPT. low rumble not loud like Vance and hines

[@vincentdavidson755]

They are tough bikes except the 883, I have the 1200 it spins back tire in the rain I would rather have a kawaski 900 rs for menny reasons

[@Orban_rides1]

Great video. Thanks for sharing the information.

[@Revvinthe417]

No problem!

[@JonnyMoto]

Finally, a motovlogger with this bike :D

[@Revvinthe417]

Awe yeah! haha

Hey, good work

[@Revvinthe417]

Hey, thanks.

[@MrPetrion]

As for he gas gauge, there might be a miles to go indicator in your odometer.

[@Revvinthe417]

It pops up when you get low. It will say 40 miles one minute, then 0 the next, then 15 or something. haha

[@MrPetrion]

it's a mean ol' world, friend. keep the shiney side up.

[@DroidsRGod]

How tall are you? I'm 6'3'' and I'm afraid it's too small for me.

[@Revvinthe417]

DroidsRGod I am about 6'2". Feels great to me.

[@velezwill]

I got the same bike. I love it;

[@Revvinthe417]

Nice!

[@SSJ.77]

Do you think the Roadster would look good on a 6' tall and above? Or it would look like the bike is too small

[@Revvinthe417]

Suliman J Well, I am about 6'2 and I feel I look dang good haha. It isn't a small bike, but it isn't huge. You'd be just fine.

[@danilocapellan1316]

Great video thanks 😊

[@tonytaylor5868]

Yeah mine Rumbles, Awesome bike.

[@AntontheRoad]

I love this bike, but I worry you're gonna go broke buying all the Harley branded gear that is 100% necessary to ride one. lol Nice video man.

[@Revvinthe417]

Don't worry, everything Harley makes for it someone else also makes for a third the price haha.

[@AntontheRoad]

Revvin the 417 As long as it has a Harley logo on it.

[@Revvinthe417]

I can draw one on haha

[@AntontheRoad]

Revvin the 417 Lmao that works.

[@davesurrey5889]

wait till you do a stage 1 on it

[@Revvinthe417]

'If' haha. I usually keep my bikes mostly stock.

[@InsanityHere]

It's a sportster, ok? it has some options. I know. I had a sporty, and tried out all sorts of accessories on it. That's what it was made for - to test out all the accessories available - sad really. Go with a Street Bob, at least.

[@Revvinthe417]

Much like the XR1200, this isn't your average sportster... it is actually sporty. Looking at it like a normal sportster with accessories is incorrect. Street bobs aren't anywhere near the Roadster in looks, or curve carving ability. They cater to a completely different crowd.

[@Revvinthe417]

Not overpriced, if it were they wouldn't dominate the market... that goes for quality and performance as well. I would like to hear of one japanese vtwin in the 1200 category that could best the Roadster. I do not see the big deal on having a 6th gear on a bike like this. It isn't needed for what these bikes are made for. I cant even give your arguments any merit when you are basing your opinion on a bike you had 25 years ago. Actually, all street 500 and 750 models sold in the US and Canada are made in the Kansas City plant. You are commenting on a video about the Roadster. Nobody who is interested in the Roadster is going to be interested in big twins. Completely different audience. This is not a straight-line touring bike. You seem to ultimately be confused about the intended usage of the different models of bikes. Normal sportsters=commuter cruisers, Roadster=curve carver/commuter, XR1200=performance, big twins=touring cruisers, Street models=Pure city commuting.

[@davesurrey5889]

you might like having forward controls,if the mid controls get in the way

[@Revvinthe417]

Nah, I would have gotten a forty eight if that was the case. If anything, I would put rear controls on. I actually got used to the mid control placement very quickly. I appreciate your comments!

[@roadrash76]

I just installed rear sets on my Roadster. I also replaced the stock handle bars with Iron 883 bars. The bike's handling dynamics were changed dramatically for the better in my opinion. Try riding with your feet on the passenger pegs and you will get an idea of what rear sets feel like. The rear sets mount in the exact spot where the passenger pegs are.

[@Revvinthe417]

I will give that a try. I figured it would be pretty sweet with some rearsets. How is the comfort changed on it?

[@grayghost1423]

Do you still have the bike?

[@pamsimonson5500]

This bike stock is my favorite looking Harley

[@mikeessary7691]

Nice bike! How tall are you?

[@TheUrbanEpicure]

Horsepower is actually 67hp. Reviewers said you can't read the speedometer in sunlight - surprised you didn't mention that. Also, what is the point of a small sports bike when you have the money and skill to get a big one? The point of a sport bike is going fast - an RC390 or Ninja 250 doesn't exactly go fast.

[@Revvinthe417]

ToxicDonut81 67... close enough to whatever I said haha. I did address the speedo sunlight thing. It never gets hard enough to see to complain/worry about. The point of a bike, regardless of the size or type, is whatever you want it to be. Ninja 250's and RC390's go plenty fast... especially in the bends. But, I ride on streets. I don't pretend they are race tracks, and I don't frequently break the law. Small bikes are more fun because you can wring them out on the streets. You can use all the power.

[@DB-sd3cw]

The point of a sport bike is to express/enhance/show off your riding skill. Going around right corners on a ninja 300 is hella more fun than straight line pulls on an r1.

[@frednouvertne4216]

Harley offers fuel gauge in accessory catalog.

[@Revvinthe417]

Yeah, it is pretty cool. Probably too pricey for me to want though.

[@dustintaylor7843]

what do u think of the 2017 thruxron r

[@Revvinthe417]

I think it is very cool. I have always loved the thruxton. It is a bit more money than I was looking to spend though.

[@marquinimb4073]

How do you feel the heat of the engine?

[@Revvinthe417]

It definitely keeps you warm on chilly mornings!

[@jeffreyreano3814]

Nice bike oh by the way how much is it

[@Revvinthe417]

I got it new for a little over 11K back in 2017. They go used these days around 8K. Denim black ones are a little more rare, it seems.

[@JohnBoy973]

Dude you jerk that throttle faster than anyone I've ever seen. Is that because you're used to the ricers?

[@Revvinthe417]

Haha, I don't know what you mean by the ricer comment. I guess it is how I have always done it. Faster makes it smoother. I have been a drummer all my life... maybe that contributes to fast hands.

[@martincvitkovich724]

I can't even think that fast! cool bike

[@hfr8343]

Ricer?

[@opmike343]

Ricers? Really? Can you Harley guys at least TRY to not act like total meatheads. I love their bikes, but the community is shit.

[@MrPetrion]

Opmike343, no. And your community is feminized. Ricer was the used terminology. Deal with it.

[@markfraser6307]

Nija 250 that's no sportsbike get a old gpz500 they cost peanuts and go like Fuck

[@Revvinthe417]

Well, technically they are. Too bad those are hard to find and kind of ugly! Haha

[@nrsimhavallabha5128]

Sport Bike rider having ridden an RC 390??? Don't make me laugh...You have no idea what a sport bike is sir.

[@Revvinthe417]

Nrsimha Vallabha Right, because you know what all I've owned and ridden? Take your ignorance somewhere else.

[@nrsimhavallabha5128]

I go by what you said on your video...or maybe you think a Ninja 250 is a sport bike. Your video is very instructive but saying that the review is from a sport bike rider point of view is at least ingenious . I'm a sport bike rider and currently own, among other bikes, a 2016 GSXR 1000, the last of a generation. For a real sport bike rider Harleys are extremely heavy and sluggish but Im considering one for a very long trip because they are known for being really comfortable. I don't like the big ones, actually I like the looks of the 883 but I don't want to spend time doing engine upgrade. So my choice will be between the Roadster and the 48. The 48 looks nice but the tank capacity sucks so I may be getting the Roadster. I'm not sure for how long I will keep it though. Thank you for your video anyways.

[@Revvinthe417]

You'd fit in perfectly with the typical Harley community, go for it.

[@boostx40]

While I agree with your assessment of the Rev417 thinking Ninja 250s & Rc390s are sport bikes (more like beginner commuters unless you're a class racer), I do not agree with the Harley comment. I traded my '15 Z1000 w/ every upgrade possible done to it for the '18 Fat Bob 114. I've been riding either sport bikes (mostly liter bikes) and super naked for the better part of 30 years. The new Milwaukee 8 is a real peach in the Fat Bob. I just bought a used '16 Sporty Roadster for another toy. Don't discount the newer Harley's, they are moving in the right direction.

[@filoIII]

Doesn't sound like a Harley.

[@Revvinthe417]

It's a Harley, so whatever it sounds like is what a Harley sounds like. Hahaha

[@vincentdavidson755]

I have a 1200, with 150,000 mi. 99,. The only thing I don't like about it is Harleys don't hold the road well if u are in the rain , my tire spens and fish tail. I would much rather have a z Kawasaki rs 900 for cross country trip they handle great in the rain, more power, more argal on the freeway They are super reliable. The 114 Harley only has 95 Hp.117 only 103 hp. The 900 is lighter with 113 hp big difference. My Harley clutch cable has broke twice and I replace the clutch plates once on the Kawasaki nothing never went out . For cross country give me a kawaski🧝⚡

[@jamesclaptrap614]

You're hugging the wrong part of the lane. 1 2 3 are the three parts of a lane, you're in "3", move to "1".