Why Everyone HATES Harley Riders

Let's discuss why everyone "hates" Harley riders. What is it about Harley Davidson motorcycles and the people that ride them that creates so much controversy, drama and hate.
Emotion is an interesting energy that many don't realize is distinctly different to feeling. Don't let it destroy you.
Join me as I ride with the boys on the Harley Heaven Dandenong "shop ride" - awesome ride with great bikes and music.
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[@OldNotDead-Club]

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[@tiredpatriot5205]

I am a 57 year old man who just bought a new H-D Street Glide. I sold my last bike (kawasaki Vulcan) 20 years ago to pay for a surgery my 1 year old daughter needed. My wife of 24 years passed away last October and I needed something to keep my mind right. I went back to what I remembered made me happy years ago and that's riding. I am in Indiana and bought my bike in February so not much riding has been done yet but I have been working/customizing on the bike since it came home with me. So I guess I fall into the middle aged just getting back into riding category. Of course new pipes were one of the first mods so it actually sounds like a Harley now. I started riding at 16 and bought my first bike at 18, a Yamaha Maxim 550. I personally don't care what bike you ride just ride. This is my first Harley Davidson and I am amazed at the family atmosphere around the brand. Joined my local HOG group and cant wait for better weather! Keep up the great vids!! Keep the shiny side up and enjoy your life no matter what brand your sitting on!!!

[@OldNotDead-Club]

You are going to love the bike! What mods are you doing?

[@tommylitchfield3450]

It's good to hear when somebody gets back in the saddle. Good on ya for giving your scoot some pipes so she can talk out loud!

[@tiredpatriot5205]

@@OldNotDead-Club Nothing crazy.... Rinehart pipes, Klok Werks windshield, Floor boards, Saddlebag crash bars, Different grips, Live to ride fuel door, a CVO style tank badge, adjustable front brake and clutch levers, a rear soft brake pedal and a few other cosmetic pieces.

[@artmchugh5644]

I fuckin hate the way these chopper jockeys NEED to make their shit obnoxiously loud!!! One of the biggest reasons I won't ride with them !!! My shirt reads " LOUD PIPES POOR SUBSTITUTE FOR NO SKILL " 😊😊😊😊

[@falconseyeaerialservicesll8176]

@Tired Patriot, sorry about ur loss, my condolences. I also live in Indiana (Vincennes), someday we can meet and ride………..🤔

[@WOLFIE-96B-UK]

For years I dissed Harleys. Then I bought one and realised what I had been missing. 100% bought into the Harley life and love it!

[@Onewholovesrock]

I was curious about this. As many say this same thing. So I finally bought one. A Road King. I wanted to see if I was really missing something. It didn’t happen for me. The Harley doesn’t do anything special for me compared with my other motorcycles. Just a different bike. Personally. I like all motorcycles I guess. Next up, I’m probably gonna try a Goldwing

[@WOLFIE-96B-UK]

I've had many bikes over the years, British, Japanese, German and Italian, including 7 of the new Hinckley Triumphs. I live in Scotland and love cruising round the Highlands on my Softail Custom, not racing around on a sports bike. Always been into bikes and rock music, the Harley seems to suit that lifestyle. Maybe it's an old rocker thing!

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Great isn't it

[@mattwilliams9758]

…curious to know, as you’re newly 100% bought in, will you acknowledge non-HD riders with a nod or a wave, or are you HD only now?

[@kkiwi54]

I think you nailed why HD is not for me - "bought into the Harley life" - I enjoy riding my motorcycle, I don't want the lifestyle/image thing that goes with HD ownership

[@johnjarrett3311]

I own a harley, but most harley riders have an attitude problem about its the only real bike, which is a joke

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Not sure about "most" but you are correct heaps of great bikes and brands

[@BossMan302]

Definitely not “most” unless you hang out with a bunch of tools. I’ve been riding Harleys for 21 years and 95% of people I met love motorcycles they just wouldn’t buy anything but a Harley.

[@RealSuperRando]

But it is the only bike.

[@ridesingles]

I think there’s huge misconceptions about harley riders, I’m not one myself (yet) I ride dirt bikes. But I have a lot come into my work place, every me has been polite and easy to get along with. Usually big gentle giants, their appearance can be intimidating and I’m sure you wouldn’t want to fuck with some of them. But all in all their just normal people just enjoying riding bikes

[@OldNotDead-Club]

@@ridesingles very true and riding dirt bikes is more difficult than Harely's (just not as much fun lol)

[@DrDetfink]

I’m gonna be honest. Nearly 30 yrs ago when I was in my 20s I always stereotyped Harley riders as aging yuppies who bought into a very commercialized brand (just count number of people who wear the t-shirt but never rode or even owned the bike). As I’ve grown and moved up from a teenager on a vesper to Japanese motorbikes to even trying expensive Italian bikes…it wasn’t until my mid 40s when I started to appreciate the zen of a Harley. It’s more than just a bike but there’s a zen quality you don’t see with other riders. The funny irony is that now I’ve built a solid life for myself, I’ve become the aging yuppie going Harley BUT I’m happier than I’ve ever been. Thanks for the video.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Great comment - you hit the nail on the head

[@elbowsout6301]

Back in 2005'ish when everyone was wearing OCC and West coast chopper shirts I was rocking a T-shirt from Wicked Jester that read "I own a Bike not just a T-shirt" :) A bit obnoxious of me maybe. Wish I still had that shirt though.

[@aucklandsadventures]

That’s because 30 years ago, HD had a waiting list and bikes cost almost double what they should have been. Hence, mainly only Doctors and Dentists could afford them.

[@ripmax333]

@@aucklandsadventures I think that didn't change, or at least here in my Country the cost is way too much even in the second head market.

[@chenzog6657]

@@elbowsout6301judge Harley riders to their face you’ll get smashed

[@JR-bj3uf]

I am a sport bike guy. "Form follows function" is my motto. After working at at a Harley Dealership I realized that there is very little similarity between heavy cruisers and sport bikes other than they both run on two wheels. The difference between Harley and Ducati is like chalk and cheese.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Spot on, like tools for a specific job. You need both

[@littlet-rex8839]

My requirements for a bike are that it loves switch back turns , mid pegs, sits upright. Name that bike?

[@OldNotDead-Club]

@@littlet-rex8839 lol low rider s, it really depends on how fast you want to make those turns heaps of bikes will do that.

[@littlet-rex8839]

@TonyMcGurk great bike for the job 😎

[@artmchugh5644]

Well said my learned friend!!!😊😊😊😊

[@gerhardklopper6513]

Working at a hospital I can tell you that wearing protective gear can be the difference between a minor and major injury especially skin grafts and an open fracture and with the helmet you are wearing you are in line for severe disfiguring injuries since the point of impact will be on your chin and facial areas a large amount of times It might be the end of your passion due to being blaze

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Thanks for the advice

[@ccdeweese]

I worked for Harley Davidson in Brooklyn, NY. Having gear Is to protect you from dying or being severely damaged in a crash. This is more important than looking cool or not sweating in the heat. Wearing T shirts on a bike is unwise.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

That is true and many people will agree with you

[@ma3stro681]

And brain bucket helmets. Ridiculous how Harley riders never wear full face helmets because they think they don’t look tough. You’re not so tough when your head hits the asphalt …

[@videotosse]

To set things straight I used to ride a Sportster, but was not impressed and sold it after a single Summer. Apart from that Harley I've owned a dozen bikes from sports bikes to touring bikes. Japanese and European. I've met a lot of bikers, all kinds. But there's a story I have to tell. Once I was riding with a small group of friends. Going from our machine shop to our garage. Carrying all kinds of tools and spares. All on Japanese bikes (by sheer coincidence). We passed a Harley rider stranded by the side of the country road. Sitting on the tarmac next to his bike. We knew the area had no cell phone cover. We turned back to give him a hand. Being sure we'd be able to help. We'll all a brotherhood of bikers, to my understanding. I was the first of our group to get back to the guy. As soon as I turned off the engine of my (then) Suzuki RG500 I said: "We've got all the tools, can we help you?" His reply was not to be misunderstood: "I want no help from rice cookers." Unfortunately that was all we could offer on this particular day. So much for the brotherhood. Saying I hate Harley riders is wrong. But I'm not impressed with people turning down good hearted help with harsh words.

[@fxrmike5145]

Some people are stupid assholes ... doesn't matter what they are riding or doing. Good for you guys offering to help. I stop and ask anyone on the side of the road if they need help. 👍

[@OldNotDead-Club]

That's a bummer and sad for the rider who you tried to help

[@markwilkinson2389]

Man, that’s not good at all. I can assure you none of the Harley riders I ride with are like that. Please don’t let your experience tarnish your opinion on the rest of us Harley owners.

[@bharrison]

This story is the REAL reason people hate HD riders. The arrogance. I see it all the time. Yes, a small percentage will ride other brands (very small percentage) but the rest of them think they are better. F them.

[@mcross320]

@@bharrison HD riders are some of the most indifferent riders and actually think everybody else who rides made a mistake and got the wrong bike. I had one new HD (6 months) out of 50 and over the past 60 years. Will never own another one or try and ride with them.

[@KeanonGilliamSlang369]

I'm a proud Harley rider. However before I got my first Harley I asked a guy about his Harley at a gas pump, I pulled up in my 1998 Honda Magna. He said to me, get one and we can talk, other than that don't talked to me. Right now I'm blessed with owning a 2014 Street Glide Special. So when a none Harley rider walks up to me, and ask me about my bike, I talk to him with respect.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Thank you i do the same - show others respect!

[@bilward9186]

So, when you own a Harley, you DO look down your nose at anyone on a different bike.

[@KeanonGilliamSlang369]

@Bil Ward The reverse. I was saying when I didn't own a Harely, a guy disrespected me because I didn't own one. I now a Harley owner would never disrespect a rider who doesn't own one. It's about the ride no matter what you're riding.

[@mixalis6168]

He was just a dick @@

[@johnrhodes101875]

@@KeanonGilliamSlang369 that guy sound like a dick the Honda Magna was a legend not a Vmax, but it was bad a@@ I believe the 750 was built after Honda VFR sport bike motor Ill respect all riders I just may not like your flavor of motorcycle but it's a motorcycle now I do find myself looking at the sportster s lol and I did like the v rod I just wish they would do it themself they don't need Porsche lol

[@RhodesTTU]

My distaste for HD comes from the bikes and the riders themselves. I will say I have met some truly amazing people/riders that ride HD and I would ride with them anytime. That being said I’ve heard, “you need a real bike,” so many times it make me sick. So if loud pipes save lives image what learning how to actually ride would do. There is an arrogance that is carried which is not at all deserved. Anytime I’ve been on a larger/mixed group ride the bikes that break down and leave us working on the side of the road is always an HD. HD is basically at this point the world’s largest cosplay company, and trust me; absolutely no one is jealous or envious of an over priced shiny marital aid that has been good at nothing but turning gasoline into noise without the side affect of power since 1903.

[@AyaWetts]

yeah, I am not sure why people call it jealousy. Being jealous would be wanting something that someone else has, which you cannot have yourself... I could easily get a few Harleys if I wanted them, but I do get tired of people who tell me I need to get a "real bike." Was on my Rebel 1100 and someone told me that, and that I should look at a Nightster because they are very similar... then they got mad at me when I said the Rebel was still a better bike, and the Nightster costs 150% the price, and started trying to defend everything about Harley. I'm like... ride whatever you want, I just go for what is best for me, and I don't care what anyone else thinks about me or what I ride. Wish more people were like that.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Cosplay is fun! but yeah the comment "get a real bike" is a bit too much

[@bharrison]

I absolutely agree. The arrogance is why I'll never step into a HD showroom.

[@tomek.karpinski]

​@@AyaWetts I love my 1100!

[@colnuttall9035]

It’s a shame some people need to talk down to others. A lot of the time, the ones with the arrogance only got a Harley because Grandma left them money in he will. It doesn’t make you better. The ones who truely have experienced life, and ride a Harley, are more likely to be humble, quietly spoken and reluctant to give advice. But they are often the ones who know., life is a journey, one day you’re riding a Hog, the next day you’re in the gutter penniless. Those who know, don’t judge. We are all the same, all in the road of life and we are no better than anyone else. Perhaps we’ve seen more, perhaps you have. But compassion and empathy are the currency of life. Tread softly for you don’t know what your brother has just suffered.

[@nyannyan123456]

I tease my Harley riding buddies because they are the definition of fair-weather riders. I ride a KLR 650, ZX12R, Z125, and a Yamaha 1300 vstar. Here in the States, riders tend to wave to each other, but some Harley guys only wave to other Harleys. I know this because they confuse my Vstar for one of their own.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

lol, they are a pain in the but to wash - especially the chrome ones (that's why I have a vblacked out one)

[@brianbalcer]

I have no problem with any rider of any type of bike. But, if someone is being an ass on the road or off the road, Its more often then not a Harley rider. It seems to usually stem from me not being on a Harley. I ride a Yamaha Raider 1900, I get the rice burner comments all the time, and I get it and typically think it's funny and just laugh it off. Some of them seem to not respect me because I am on a metric bike. On the road, they will invade my personal space often. If they are next to me they will constantly be revving their engine trying to impart some kind of dominance over me, wont wave, wont let me pass, will get angry if I pass, give me rude gestures, talk shit if I am wearing any type of protection, and will just generally act juvinile. Now, I am not saying all Harley riders. You can find asses of all sorts on any type of bike. I just find it's a higher chance for it to be a Harley rider, especially if not on a Harley yourself. However, I do find it ridiculous to say anyone is jealous over someone on a Harley.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

We have all had different experiences - there is a bit of humour tucked into the video, maybe it doesn't translate well to other counties?

[@rahjr65]

I started riding, finally, 6 years ago at 51. Always wanted a bike, but my dad would say “over my dead body” even till I was 30 and out on my own. Was finally able to do it and started with a smaller Honda. That lasted 7 month till I got my dream bike, a ‘18 Triumph Street Triple, which will never go away. Almost 2 years ago I got my ‘21 HD Sport Glide after decades of saying I will never buy a Harley. It’s a different vibe / feel riding it than the Triumph.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

It certainly is

[@jdubxi11]

The Harley crowd gives me the same fanatic vibe I dislike about most fanatic groups. Like Apple people... Those Jeep psychos... I especially enjoy how they play the I'm unique card, it's hilarious. Large Harley community here. All got their biker clubs and so on. Often snobbish. Super love it when you get one of these guys as a neighbor when you got kids in diapers. Randomly starting up the bike and throttling just enough to wake up kids in the middle of the night, then the s.o.b. doesn't even leave, goes back to bed. Yep, no idea why some don't care for the Harley folk at all!

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Lol, who does that?

[@jdubxi11]

@@OldNotDead-Club Central Iowa, USA has quite a few of these types. Actually, I have quite a few "Harley Guys" that are good friends. But like any group there are some bad actors. Just like the import crowd, American Muscle guys, Power Rangers (hilarious, keeping it). Jerks like cars and bikes too I suppose. But seriously, this has gone on as a mystery in my own personal world. Why do so many Harley guys randomly start up the bike just to throttle it a couple times just to cut the motor and walk away? I've seen this many times and just chalked it up to neighbors being annoying.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

@@jdubxi11 lol I've never seen that. Maybe if you have a visitor that says "what does your bike sound like?"

[@Drstrapps]

The noise - which is simple lack of respect for other people. You want people to respect you, start by showing respect for them by not roaring through residential neighborhoods. It's not jealousy, anyone can be loud. No trick to that.

[@breakoutpete210]

The noise is so you can be heard, and noticed...so you don't get back ended at a stop sign, or get cut off, and run off the road. Have a great day 🇨🇦✌️😎

[@Drstrapps]

@@breakoutpete210 “Loud pipes save lives” has been repeatedly proven to be false. In fact bikers with loud bikes are statistically more likely to have accidents because they believe it and therefore drive more recklessly.

[@breakoutpete210]

@@Drstrapps… I don’t agree, I’ve experienced everything that I’m saying… people notice me more around them when they can hear me… and I don’t ride recklessly, I take my time…

[@Drstrapps]

@@breakoutpete210 You can not agree, that’s fine, but the facts are the facts. “Loud pipes DON’T save lives”

[@breakoutpete210]

@@Drstrapps… believe what you wish, still… have yourself the greatest day ever and stay safe✌️

[@user-vm2yd1dg4z]

Once I was driving in the center of one of the most beautiful cities in the world, with magnificent architecture. At the square opposite the palace, I saw two guys on a pair of mopeds, something broke in them and they could not ride. The problem on one moped was with the carburetor, it didn’t idle. On the spot, his problem could not be solved, but I made it so that he could drive home / to the service on a moped. There are a lot of motorcycles in that place, but no one stopped except me. I can imagine how surprised the guys were that a brutal man on a Harley stopped and helped them in a couple of minutes.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Thanks for the comment. I have seen similar happen many times!

[@Peter-wc4kr]

It would be silly to judge a person on what bike they ride. I’m sure in every brand or type of bike you’ll have a cross section of characters from the salt of the earth to the anti social and a vast array of people in between. I own and love my Victory and often have fantastic conversations with Harley riders about each other’s bikes. Live and let live should be the biker way. 😊

[@bilward9186]

I love "Live and let live should be the biker way." However, you will rarely hear a Harley rider compliment a sport bike riders ride. A Victory is another animal. More akin to a Harley (American, cruiser), so not as open to disdain as anyone on a Japanese bike.

[@bharrison]

That's exactly the problem. HD rider DO JUDGE other riders which why I mock them constantly. There are HD riders and then there is everyone else.

[@Mikego55]

How you feel about yourself and others whatever motorcycle you or they choose to ride,says a lot about YOUR character, whether it’s “I love my Honda” or “I hate Harley riders“. Ride what you like and keep the rubber side down.

[@geneclarke2205]

I didn't realize what a closed minded community Harley was until I switch brands - Sport Glide to Z900RS. Very happy now.

[@guins99]

Well, bye…

[@OldNotDead-Club]

I found the opposite, very open minded and welcoming. The z is a great bike got one when it came out (I'm riding one in this video) but I eventually sold it.

[@geneclarke2205]

@@OldNotDead-Club I'm in the US, home of the culture wars and hate groups. Boycott a beer because of a marketing campaign. The country has real serious problems but the headlines are focused on everything that divides us - it sells media. Morgan Stanley just did an interview with CEO Zeitz and he embraced diversity and inclusion saying "Harley stands for we ride united, not we ride divided" if your butt is on a Harley your a member of the family. I get the feeling Zeitz doesn't get out of his office much. I used to ride with the local HOG but when I switch to the z other rides quit talking to me or made comments like "when are you coming back to the group". The message was clear, go ride someplace else. Actually I got the z when Harley didn't deliver the Bronx which is the bike I would stand in line for, but still waiting. Maybe I should just move down under.

[@paulhorvath9784]

I thoroughly Loved my 19gsxs 750z ,just wasn't practical for me to have two new bikes on DSP and a car also..What can I say tho ,,This Harley fills me with joy whether I'm just looking at it or Riding ..Ride safe bro..

[@danstenberg760]

Harley Davison is the best bike no doubt . I had a Flhs before and I was so nice to ride so I just stop to refill petrol or when it was time for a cup of Coffee. I think my next bike will be a Harley to hopefully a Electrafile ultraglde classic mire Chrome mire fun . My first bike was a Suzuki 1100 EF but with that of bike made me drive faster and faster so I realised it was dangerous to me because when you ride a Harley you dont need to ride in 200 km/h or more to have fun on a bike..I must agree on ljud pipes saves life.

[@stevenguajardo6049]

As a kid I couldn't get over the way Harleys looked and sounded. The beautiful paint jobs, the sound of the engine,they were works of art. The sport bikes were just plastic.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Great point

[@bilward9186]

So, form before function?

[@OldNotDead-Club]

@@bilward9186 I know you are not asking me - but personally I believe form is way under rated and more important to you soul than people give credit for. Just look at the most expensive products in the world. Look at the people who can afford them and could have anything - they buy form with function which is expensive.

[@redbear1935]

i can see you have no clue about motors and technology or performance :))) Harley motors sounds like that just because poor design flaw , they could not design timing right :))))

[@robertoakley9609]

The best advice I can give to both old and young riders is don't buy into the myth that chrome and loud pipes saves lives because everyone is looking at you on that shiney loud HD !! If you want to live a long life then ride the bike as if your invisible , I don't care if your best friend is hanging half way out of the car window waving his arms and calling your name don't believe he see's you as long as your feet are on the pegs no one can see you. Drive that way and you will arrive alive.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Thank you I would say both. Ride defensively with loud pipes

[@timothywald9079]

Agree - you want to live long as a rider, in must understand the most dangerous situations and plan for them. Uncontrolled intersections are top issues and should have u driving Uber defensive. Then controll intersections, followed by blind spot avoidance, followed by.....you can squid out but pick the least dangerous places to have your fun. Btw - my independent experience is not loud pipes but triangular light configuration is easier for cagers to pickup (headlight+ 2 lower fog lights). They unconsciously pick up the motorcycle while a single headlight with blinkers gets lost and not recognized by most cagers.

[@arthol51]

​@@OldNotDead-Club a bit of sugar in your tank and brake fluid on the paintwork should give your poor suffering neighbours some peace for a while. FFS how old are you ?

[@henrikpedersen5380]

I think its funny how Harley rider are so concerned what people think about them. People dont care, unless you are a loudmouth or your bike is making their ears bleed.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

I dont think Harley riders are concerned with what people think?

[@James-dt7ky]

@@OldNotDead-Club But you made a video about it.

[@ruben1966cexi]

I know some of HD riders that are cool down to earth fun riding blokes but I also know a lot who ride one for the image and do give a shit about what people think of them they want people to admire respect and be intimidated by them ....I respect anyone that rides on 2 wheels each to their own about what they ride it's all about what that bikes Stirs in you that's all ....enjoy it my roads brothers coz the way these governments are going they won't let us get out of our driveways in the future if we all don't push back

[@OldNotDead-Club]

@@James-dt7ky errr you do know this is YT and not serious lol

[@James-dt7ky]

@@OldNotDead-Club You made 33 videos about it. That seems a bit obsessive. Just my not serious opinion. :p

[@chilligoz]

As a 50 year old who finally got my learners, riding a Royal Enfield ….. I can’t wait to be fully licensed so I can get a Harley…. Don’t give a stuff what others think… all I know is that I bloody want one👍😀

[@jasong546]

I did the same thing and found nothing but positive experiences with in person interactions. I think people are much more vocal in comments online than in person.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

That are fun, you will love it

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Thats spot on, keyboard warriors everywhere

[@tommylitchfield3450]

Life is far too short to worry about what other people think about what YOU want. You're doing it right! Learn on something that you ain't skeered of laying down, then buy what YOU want! Damn the haters! And don't sell your little bike. Keep 'em all, and ride the wheels off 'em!

[@chilligoz]

@@tommylitchfield3450 spot on Tommy👍 Plus my 12 year old daughter wants to ride so that bike will be hers😂

[@silvajay6443]

I don't hate specifically Harley Riders just motorcycle riders in general who feel the need to rev the motor continuously all the time especially when sitting at a red light

[@AyaWetts]

The joke is... Harley riders have to rev the engine at lights to make sure the engine doesn't die... lol

[@OldNotDead-Club]

it comes from setting the idle low to get a particular sound - but it feels like the bike will stall.

[@victorpopurhedoff8828]

I am in my mid 60's and have been riding bikes since I was 16. I love all bikes and have found that bikers are very helpful to other riders who are having troubles with their rides. I currently ride an Ultra Limited Lo, love the bike and great on long road trips. I tend to ride mostly by myself, I enjoy the scenery and in no hurry to get anywhere... I consider it "Asphalt Theory". Enjoy yourselves on what ever brand you ride... riding is riding.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Wise words thanks

[@bill45colt]

my first rides were behind my dad on a green harley with white seat and fringe all around the edge,,,,to kindergarten and then to first and second grade,,,,im 78 now

[@wirenutt57]

Mid 60's here and been riding since my first min-bike at age 10. I ride old Japanese bikes that I have resurrected from sitting in a barn for 20-40 years, now mostly Yamaha XS650s - love those bikes. I have 4 of them and a 99 Kawasaki ZG1000 Concours I resurrected as well. I probably have half as much money into all of them as a new HD would cost. But that's me and my individual situation. I appreciate ALL bikes, and if I found an old HD that needed my TLC for the right price, I'd buy it in a heartbeat. There is an extra thrill riding a bike that you've had in boxes and carefully assembled yourself, and then had the confidence to ride several hundred miles from home. Anyone can take out a mortgage on a new $40,000 HD or BMW or Gold Wing. And no, I'm not disparaging people who do that. You get on two wheels the best way you can, and the way that makes you happy. Making $700 payments on a motorcycle is just not my thing, I'm too damn cheap. Not everyone can take a 45 year old Japanese bike that's been sitting in a barn for 30 years, buy it for $300 and be riding it in a month or two after increasing its value by a factor of 10 just by applying hours of TLC. That's MY therapy - then riding it is a type of satisfaction that only a few of us can experience, that I cannot describe in words. I wish I could. But I promise you I have just as much fun on my $300 antique as anyone riding a new $40,000 anything. And I could not care less what others think of my bike. No, it's not shiny and perfect and new, but old timers like myself get a real kick out of seeing them still on the road. And yes, riding is riding no matter what you got between your legs, even a Can-Am 3-wheeler.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

@@wirenutt57 thanks great comment

[@johnmacdonald1878]

I retired after 30 years of working on a ferry. We carried a lot of Harley. They weren’t the only ones who liked to rev their bikes. Harley were the most noticeable. Many of us also rode bikes, including Harleys. I guess I didn’t like inconsiderate riders. I never had any issue with the members of a certain well known club. They were usually quite polite and respectful.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Thanks, great comment

[@johnDukemaster]

I had my part of Harley's through 20 years. As a Harley owner, I beleived that everybody wanted one. That showed not to be the case. I sold my last one in -08 and will never look back. 20 years of constant "update" and improvements. Those who wants one, fine with me. But for me, there's no model that can live up to what I want. And yes, the best bike is the one we have!

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Wise words, not everyone wants one, all bikes are fun!

[@tommylitchfield3450]

Judging by your comment, you put a lot of value on what you think other people believe about what you ride. So when you found out that what you think other people believed about your choice of bikes was not what you had always thought other people thought about the bike that you chose to ride, you no longer wanted to ride the bike that you wanted to ride because of what other people thought about what you ride. Gotcha. Maybe if you ride wtf YOU want to ride, you wouldn't have wasted so many years of your life riding something YOU didn't want to ride... Seems sus...

[@Bikerbug2020]

Honestly don’t hate Harley Riders…. What I used to not like about Harley Motorcycles was the fact that they shook like freaking crazy and parts falling off (according to a friend of mine who owns a Harley.) Bought my first American Bagger (Indian Challenger Dark Horse ) 3 weeks ago, almost bought a HD Road Glide ST, but the dealers were just too proud of the bike to actually sell it. LOL

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Lol,gotta buy what makes you happy

[@jackrobinson8945]

The only thing I notice is nowadays there are too many people out there on a Harley that think they're something they're not.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Interesting call, how do you tell?

[@jackrobinson8945]

@@OldNotDead-Club Guess I'm just going by now it used to be. For instance, after having a beer or 2 we used to leave a bar kind of quietly so not to draw attention from the local law. The other day we were out for a cold one and just about every bike that left the place had their bike revved right up and the stereo was blaring. It's not gonna be long before the locals are on the horn to the cops. Mostly a bunch of rubs pretending to be badasses.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

@@jackrobinson8945 yeah ok i get it. As an aside, Ive had SG's for 7 or 8 years now and haven't used the stereo once - I don't get the loud music on a motorcycle thing?

[@michaelroth6273]

A few years back I got into biking again. When it came time to buy a bike the first decision I made was “Anything but a Harley.” Hate is way to strong of a word. Silly seems more appropriate.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

and what do you ride that's not silly?

[@michaelroth6273]

@@OldNotDead-Club Triumph Speedmaster and Yamaha T7. That combo allows me to do all the riding possibilities I’m interested in.

[@littlet-rex8839]

​@@michaelroth6273if I had the money I might buy a pro street cvo but my Triumph gets it done in the N Georgia hills.

[@ma3stro681]

‘Anything but a Harley’ should be on t-shirts 😅

[@bonnevillebagger9147]

The arrogance from the interview sequence, is why motorcyclists look down on the typical Harley rider. The bikes are fine, but the brand attracts people who think buying something is part of their personality.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Thats partly what makes it fun!

[@Andrea-ue6vq]

Other bikers think that the Harley rider isn't a real biker! He doesn't go fast, he doesn't know how to bend, he doesn't know how to brake.... But we reply that it's not true and when we take our Harley we like to go at the right speed, take turns calmly and feel like we're inside the panorama we're passing through... It's just another way of being a biker! And I like it a lot!

[@Magic_Toaster]

I view Harley riders now as dentists, they're not tough, but they want the "image" of being tough and are now the only ones who can afford to buy them.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Lol they certainly are expensive, but I think they always were?

[@I_HateClickBait]

First reason is WRONG! Most people DON’T envy a Harley rider. Most people put them in the same category as guys who drive huge jacked up trucks…..compensating for something lacking within themselves.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

I have a big Harley, would love a big USA style truck and have a big nose too so ...?

[@chuckwilson2301]

Can’t be anything worse than having our 14 year old grandson telling me and his grandmother that we’re not cool anymore because we have Cam-Am trikes! And that they were not Harleys. He did say later that they were cool. I had to laugh at him for changing his mind.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

LOL, that's a classic. You know what to do - follow his advice!

[@dickrichardson2626]

My main issue is they don’t offer a beginners bike. Name one successful bike they’ve made in the last 20 years that’s under 1000 ccs / cubic inches I’ll wait.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Great, but that's not everyone's issue. They have just released two new small cc models

[@bilward9186]

I once had a Harley rider say to me: "See that thing over there (pointing to my Suzuki GS550)? My Harley buddies and I would burn that thing to the ground." When I inquired why he would want to burn down my bike, his false bravado shrank and he became very quiet. Want to be loved, present a loving persona. MOST Harley riders, though they may be decent humans, feel this need to project this image of being toughs and thugs. By the way, I was born and grew up in Milwaukee. I rode a Sportster exactly once and that was enough for me. Uncomfortable, unruly and damn near launched me over the bike trying to kick start it.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Some people are dills, and a true motorcyclist would appreciate anything on two wheels

[@daveraaymakers7496]

Because there’re slow and get in the way on the windies

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Lol you need to check out the later models, not so slow. Re in the way on the twisties - sometimes but I've seen plenty of sports bike riders in the way

[@dzliferider2141]

I'm not a Harley rider, but I do have friends who work in Harley and ride Harleys. In my experience, people judge even if you ride a bicycle!! One thing that I always hope and think of whenever I see a Harley rider, I'm like where the F is your riding gear!! Safety first, you're not a robot than enjoy your ride on whatever you like and appreciate for this sport, passion, art .... God bless you brothers and sisters, one more time safety first you're not tougher than pavement

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Thank you, wise words - people do judge you no matter what

[@mikesr3407]

I live in Illinoid and ride 1/2 time with no helmet , love it . 30 thou + miles on 650 versys small town , mostly country daily drive ! My body my choice 😂 but yeah I don't ride the same when I've got no gear.

[@executioner_ecgbert884]

I used to only ride dirt bikes, but I recently bought a couple harleys and there's really no other feeling like it. I would describe it as riding thunder. It's also made me realize that many of the false narratives and assumptions people make about harley riders is because they've never experienced riding one, or just couldn't handle it when they did. Everyone should at least try riding one once, even if it's in a very controlled environment. There's really nothing like it

[@OldNotDead-Club]

good comment thanks

[@executioner_ecgbert884]

​@OldNotDead-Club Thanks brother, good video ✌️

[@masterchief586]

I am a Harley rider and have been for 43 years and have owned 10 Harley bikes. I currently ride a 03 Ultra Classic Anniversary. 😊 My bike is my only mode of transport. On this bike I have 48,678 miles on it .

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Thanks for watching

[@davidfaria6194]

Loud pipes definitely do save lives. There is no doubt about that but some people go to a real extreme. I agree with you some exhausts are obnoxiously loud. I do like modified exhaust but not straight pipes not on a modern Harley. It is actually performance hampering.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Thanks, yeah it can be, you need the tuner to determine

[@bloodymarvelous4790]

The noise comes out the back, and most cages are pretty well soundproofed. Loud pipes only save lives when you're already next to them or ahead of them. When you're approaching from behind, even the loudest pipes won't do shit. What saves lives is being aware of your surroundings and anticipating road hazards. As a bike you need your eyes on everything all the time. The wheels of the car you're next to, the approach speed of the car behind you, the distance to the car ahead of you, the condition of the road, traffic coming from side roads, animals, kids, gaps that other vehicles may want to fill. Riding demands your full attention. You need to be able to stop in time, swerve in time, or accelerate out of a dangerous situation.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

@@bloodymarvelous4790 the noise is an addition to what you are talking about - not a replacement. Even an extra split second helps

[@mjonas1452]

If loud pipes saved lives, they’d be federally mandated.

[@executioner_ecgbert884]

My father once used his loud ass pipes to wake up an old man who was ASLEEP going 70 on the highway. His horn didn't wake him up, but his exhaust sure did.

[@BFBC22]

I ride adventure bikes, and a lot of times, I get looks from dudes on Harleys, with no gear looking at me like I'm the biggest loser on the planet. A lot of harley guys are the coolest people ever. Some though are overgrown children who never grew out of their high-school bully phase. And harley dealers are usually filled with those types.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Interesting perspective, thanks

[@oogiemaster]

From a riders opinion, my reason, I think eveeyone hates Harle riders is that they don't reciprocate, not even a little but, as well as other groups of motorcycle riders. One very good example is that they hardly give a "hello" signal. Of all my time riding, besides my Harley buddies, I've only encountered a handful of Harley riders that ever gave that "hello" signal. Since they didn't, eventually, I stopped giving as well. From a bystander's option, NO! I don't see any reason to hate Harley riders.😊😊😊

[@bigblue3568]

Harley riders are a "community"... You don't see Jeep owners or Corvette owners giving other random cars a wave.

[@aussiemotolife347]

@@bigblue3568 I think that’s just an bit unfriendly. I ride a Harley and Sport Bike - I’d even wave to a scooter.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

I have found the opposite, always friendly and great community

[@ckfvideo]

There's certainly a "thing" to being a Harley rider. I've rode many brands of bikes over the years but for the last 10 years or so the Harley has been calling to me. I'd like to say I am a brand agnostic rider and gear, technique and the sense of being a "good" rider have always been important to me. So I figured sure, I'll be the same motorcyclist but I'll just be doing that on a Harley Davidson. I won't wear the brand gear, make pointless cosmetic mods to the bike, hang at the dealer, etc etc. But it creeps in to you. Yeah, I rock a Shoei RF1400 with an HD textile jacket. Thrashin' Supply gloves with Dianese boots. I do ride to HD dealers and buy t-shirts. People can say I've been sucked in by marketing but I really feel there is a great sense of culture and belonging with the HD crowd. Just stay true to yourself. Accept what is useful and reject what is useless. And they are damn good bikes.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Thanks, agree with you except for the Tshirts lol

[@mrjon75]

Yes they're great bikes IMO. They feel solid and ride solid.

[@blakepistofian7370]

I used to think Harley's were shit bikes. My brother brought one when we were in our early 20s and I gave him hell for buying a Harley. He said take it for a spin. I now have 3 Harley's 😂

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Thank you thats a common story, lol even happened to me

[@waynestirling7231]

I am a 75 year old Harley Rider, I don't ride as often as I should but I have had bikes since age 16, which was a 500 cc Matchless. I still love to ride but not as fast as before. I feel OLD sometimes but when I hop on my FXSTC I feel younger and enjoy myself a lot.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Thank you you are an inspiration riding at 75

[@DennisMerwood-xk8wp]

@@OldNotDead-Club This 74-year-old just traded in my 2012 BMW R1200RT (my 29th bike!) on a HD Milwaukee 8 Road King Road it Seattle to Chicago and back to see my grandkids. And at every gas station people came up to me - saying they wish they could what I was doing. Whereas on my BMW I was invisible. HD's are people magnets. Wonderful! Best bike I ever had. And I've had em all. Why did it take me so long to realize what it was all about eh?

[@OldNotDead-Club]

@@DennisMerwood-xk8wp you are spot on with this comment - and also inspiring that you are riding at 74

[@sierravalleyandharborjunction]

I grew up with a motorcycle family…. I was taught respect and honor and discipline…. It doesn’t matter what you ride… what matters is that you ride…

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Good advice, thank you

[@tpiper1976]

As an American motorcyclist now sixty six. Spent my years on Japanese sport bikes and sport touring bikes! Then not to long ago a long time older friend who was a hard core biker was passing away. We were popping a couple of good by shots and mentioned that I was going to buy another bike. He told me to buy his bike which was a 2002 Dyna wide glide. It was everything I never wanted. Shiny front wheel single front disk brake. Long story short after buying and riding the bike I got it. Relaxed super torquey and beautiful. I get such much more comments about the bikes looks and how it sounds! Beautiful bike and I think about him every time I ride it! Having multiple bikes is a blast just like having multiple girlfriends just with out the drama and cost!

[@JW-ym5yb]

I've seen both sides as i've ridden many bikes besides HD. Some people just hate motorcycles and those who ride them. Recently I sold a BMW and purchased a Street Bob, that I enjoy immensely, when I told a guy that I've been riding with for years, he quit talking to me. I don't miss riding with him. I have no tattoos, I'm not "big", I have stock pipes because I love they way the look, and tend to ride alone and the preceding causes consternation with some Harley owners. With all that i just enjoy the ride.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Thanks, some people are funny, glad you are e joking the experience

[@IanCazabat]

Same as a lot of other posts here. I rode a crotch rocket as an 18 year old & trash talked Harley's (and their riders). Fast forward 30 years (of no riding) and I know I'm on an Electra Glide. Hanging out with a great chill group of (mostly) like minded individuals. We all wear the gear we're comfortable with, helmet, no helmet, full leathers, t-shirt & jeans. Nobody (almost) gives you grief about gear since you're riding your ride & they're riding theirs.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Thanks, familiar but great story, that's the way for many of us, ride safe

[@Amerigo73]

We don't hate them. They just don't greet others on the road, and that's a bit awkward. Most of them don't ride their bikes, they own them. Therefore, they have little to no experience on their machines, can't ride, never went to advanced trainings etc. but they're generally nice folks, easy to get along with. Usually, they sell insurances or are sitting in any boring office - the outlaw image isn't based on reality.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Thanks

[@randymaio3616]

When I was going to buy my first motorcycle in 1974 I looked at all bike Harley included. They were owned by AMF at the time and all new bikes the Showroom had foil pans under the motor to catch the leaking oil. I said to the salesman why would I buy a new bike that leaks oil? He said because it's a Harley. (that was AMFs doing). Since then I appreciate ALL riders no matter what brand they ride cause we all ride for the same reasons. I'm retired and have riden most brands and models because I custom upholster seats. I've owned kawasaki, Yamaha, BMW, Indian. Only one chain drive, others were shaftdrive or belt. I can relax and unwind, I've been in 10 major car accidents and feel safer on a bike, how messed up is that 😅

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Thanks, Harley has come a long way since then

[@dtogo4286]

I got no problem with HD, I just find the Japanese bikes offer a better value.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

That I agree with!

[@ma3stro681]

Plus better handling, acceleration, braking, cornering etc etc etc …

[@bobkare1015]

Main reason. Lound bikes. For some reason, some (not all) HD riders think being loud is cool. It is not. It is just desperate. I do not agree with your comment that HD riders look scary. Fat is not scary, fat is sad. I understand many HD riders hope they are hated due to others finding them scary. But no. Most people are just laughing about men desperately trying too hard to be cool. South Park was 100% accurate.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Many people appreciate the sound of different engines.

[@executioner_ecgbert884]

I personally like being loud because it increases the likelihood of motorists seeing and therefore not killing me

[@Mikego55]

I’ve been riding bikes for 55 years, early on was a lover of Honda. When I switched My first Harley was a rattling noisy leaking bike I put 76,000 miles on. I’m on my third twin cam now, I miss my old rattler.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Thanks

[@cyclesaviorn2700]

As the guy who owns a built street bike and a hd, the problem is the riders own ego and their lack of throttle discipline when it comes to respecting the public. Each has their own unique feel and as far as machines go anything can make your ears bleed, its the rider doing it not the machine.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

thank you - spot on

[@bill45colt]

ive ridden since 1950,,,,and always have found motorcycle riders to be more compassionate to others than most car or truck drivers. And when it comes to harley, the ones ive met once i grew up were even more helpful, considerate, patriotic, and strong to help others when the need arose,,,,i can see emotion is a large part of this all,,,,but ive been greatly blessed by not meeting them,,,,,

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Thanks good comment

[@trfisher78]

I've been riding for over 50 years and Harleys for 30 years and I've never had the felling that people hated Harleys. As for me, you will never hear me bad mouth a metric bike.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Thank you

[@hammanvideo]

I'm 27 and got my first bike in 2020. I was never interested in going hard and fast on sport bikes and wanted something I could relax on. Cruisers were it. Got my first Sportster and tinkered with it for a while until I got bored and wanted to go on longer rides. Rode it 200 miles one way for a shooting competition, ran the comp, and rode 200 miles home. Once i did that, I realized why they make big bikes and a couple months later got a second hand 2019 Electra Glide Standard (didn't care much about the head unit and speakers). Been tinkering away on that since and loving it. Everyone compares their bike to a Harley and how much Harleys are missing from the factory. Didn't care and still don't. If I wanted to go fast as possible I'd have gotten something else and modding is part of my love affair with Harley. Myself I've done the exhaust and tune, bars, LED lighting all the way around, 475 cam, oil pump, cam plate, frame mounted highway pegs, shocks, windshield, and seat. Been a ton of fun and will be for a long time. they hate us cause they aint us

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Thank you, great comment and wise words

[@trez2187]

Nothing puts a smile on your face like Harley and good friends.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Spot on

[@matthewb8229]

My '84 Sportster 1000 set off car alarms. Neighbors didn't care. I haven't really run into anyone who "hated" me for my ride. On top of that, my attitude about what people thought of me after my divorce. There are maybe 7 people whose opinion of me matters to me. If you aren't on that list, you can go pound sand with your opinion.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Thanks - that's a good way to live

[@747fa]

"Hates" is a bit strong. Loved Peter Fonda's character and chopper in Easy Rider. He was cool, man. And number 1. issue with Harley Davidson to my mind, is the deliberate loud noise created to attract attention, you know, like children do sometimes, except children are not THAT loud. "An empty drum makes the most noise", was the saying I was told when I was younger.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Great movie - that's an oldie.

[@khpjackson1]

I don't hate anyone, but what I don't like about my Harley friends is that they are always trying to prove something. Every time they pull up next to another motorcycle at a red light, there is going to be a race. Everything is a competition. They are quick to get offended.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

That's a bummer. I guess many guys are competitive

[@ET0000]

I got my first Harley at 50.....been riding like yourself for over 35 years, mainly sport bikes and dirt bikes. Most people i come across are usually positive towards me and the bike. Is it loud? Yep and i like it! At the end of the day, if people want to complain about bikes and noise, then they need to have a really good look around their neighborhoods. I'm pretty sure those 2 wide burnout tire marks on the roads weren't put there by a Harley rider!!!! 😎

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Right on!

[@BabysanBabysan]

Almost all riders will wave to fellow riders. Almost all who don’t are riding Harleys.

[@jasong546]

That’s not the case at all where I live. I have been in many situations where I am following another Harley and see them wave back to a guy on a sv650, or even a nice scooter. I always do if I can, and I think I see that because people here feel that riders of all kinds have a common enemy in bad car and truck drivers and we show that we see each other even if the vehicles don’t seem to. Last year I rented a street glide way up north on a trip and I found the same thing there. So I respectfully disagree with that. Sometimes you are in the middle of shifting or maneuvering and you just miss the chance to acknowledge someone going the other way at a good speed!

[@OldNotDead-Club]

I find the opposite, I always wave and sports bike riders don't

[@BabysanBabysan]

Could be geographic. I ride an Indian cruiser . I can’t ever recall a guy on a sport bike not waving back. Had a guy on a Harley ignored me just yesterday. First of the season! Many more to come…

[@BabysanBabysan]

Could be geographic. I ride an Indian cruiser . I can’t ever recall a guy on a sport bike not waving back. Had a guy on a Harley ignored me just yesterday. First of the season! Many more to come…

[@BabysanBabysan]

Could be geographic. I ride an Indian cruiser . I can’t ever recall a guy on a sport bike not waving back. Had a guy on a Harley ignored me just yesterday. First of the season! Many more to come…

[@MrBradfordchild]

Most people who bag Harleys haven't ridden one. I did. Now my Road King is the only bike I own, and I love it.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Love the RK

[@yolandalindsay8368]

Today's Harley Davidson is a Giant Rolling Symbol THAT has NOT gotten over "The Fact" that iT started life as a modest powered bicycle frame on wheels. It was born to run the open freeways and back roads of North America AND not the twisted & mountain roads of Italy, France and Spain's European Terrain. In other words, Harley Davidson iS an Uncompromisingly LOUD Attitude.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Lol perhaps you haven't ridden a worked HD around the twisties?

[@jamesedward3960]

Been on a Harley since I was 19, so over 40 years. I've also owned other bikes at the same time, and I loved them too. However, there is nothing like being on a Harley.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Thanks I agree

[@andresrubalcava_]

Just started riding for the first time ever in my life a little over a year ago at 48 and my first bike is a Harley. My closest friends ride Harley’s and would give me shit if I got anything else! 😂. But honestly, I didn’t think of riding anything else and the aura that surrounds the Harley brand is strong and unmistakable. Now I know what people meant about the feeling of freedom and the wind in your face as well as the camaraderie. I also now understand the cost behind it, but think it’s all worth it to feel alive! 🤙

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Thanks I agree

[@ma3stro681]

You’ll never experience what’s it like to really ride, bro, fast through mountain twisties …

[@andresrubalcava_]

@@ma3stro681 yeah, most likely not at this point of my life. I like to just cruise it. Be safe!

[@MarkPalmer1000]

I don't hate H-D, and I own a vintage Harley. But I started riding in 1986 at age 17, and got a 500cc Honda I rode for many years as it's what I could afford. I never let anyone stop me from enjoying my ride, but I vividly remember being ridiculed by many Harley riders out on the street when I was a beginner. Those guys felt that riding a Harley gave them some sort of special power to bully other motorcyclists, and it was their god given right to do so. It was a joke back in those days, and it's an even bigger joke now as H-D has become little more than a boutique store for the wealthy.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Thanks they certainly cost a lot over here. If i look at USA prices - well they are cheap

[@yorkiegilly4355]

Loved the intricate story why people should at least "respect" Harley"s even if they don"t want to own one ! . But as a [very] old biker who started riding at the end of the golden years for bikes and mostly rode old British bikes starting with sidecars because in the U.K. you could ride one whatever the size as a learner at 16 and I never liked motorcycle tiddlers .Had a Triumph 500cc 5t Speedtwin at 16 and a B.S.A. 500 cc A7 with sport sidecar that I passed my test on age 17 . I had a very generous Ma and most of my immediate family were bikers and nobody in our home owned a car . My Dad , Grandfather and a Cousin were killed in bike accidents ,but it never put anybody off and nobody spoke of it while in my teens . Not many adventures with Harley"s till a mate owned a grotty ,oily ex - W.D. Flathead in 1967 ,I suppose he paid the equivalent of $ 10 Dollars for it then ?. Got my first Harley in a deal for a " newish" Triumph Bonneville for a Iron head Sportster 1000 which a mate bought new from a visit to the states but hated ,so we did a deal ,but I only owned it a few weeks cos a Guy offered me money for it I couldn"t refuse . A old Glide in the late 70s and then just about every 2 wheeled & three wheeled machine ,till today and I am now left with a Kawasaki Chips ex Highway Patrol 1000 ,a Honda Vt 800 ,XVs Wildstar 1600 cc Yamaha and my late wife"s Harley Sporster 1200 which I now ride due to my age and I love as it"s 22 year old and looks & rides like a new bike ,not as reliable as the Wildstar but is a much smoother and nicer bike to ride . My oldest son thinks I am nuts and wont go near a Harley although he admits he likes the looks ,surprising really as he is 55 y.o the perfect age for Sunday cruising on a big twin ?. I rarely break down ,but it"s nearly always a Harley rider + his friends that stop to assist at the side of the road - no matter what bike I am on ,never a bad word from me about H.D.s or the owners - safe & happy riding ! .

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Thanks for your comment much appreciated

[@FXFBS23]

Thanks. Enjoyed the video. In my opinion it’s Envy/Unrealized dreams or aspirations that make some people hate us, non-riders and riders of other brands alike. But I’m speculating. I’ve had 9 bikes so far, on my 3rd Harley now, a Fat Bob, and love the brand. I almost always try to positively represent the Harley community when I am on my bike, mostly by having good situational awareness and showing respect to cagers, cyclists, pedestrians, etc. but there are exceptions where I am shaking my head at the occasional animosity I see and feel when I’m out on the road

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Thanks much appreciated

[@bilward9186]

In your post, you have shown how much respect you show to "cagers". A slur for sure.

[@fsriccobon8279]

I am not a HD rider (own a Kawasaki Voyager 1700, very similar to a Ultraglide). I simply can't afford a HD, but love to feel and sound of the big V twins. I ride with lots of Harley guys as part of the Ulysses club. We just enjoy the ride and passion of being on the road. I like your channel and 'call it as it is' comments. Keep up the good work. 👍

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Thank you

[@fallin1275]

I don't always Rev my Harley......but when I do, I'm just making sure it's still on.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Lol, oh that's what I do

[@Magicinstalls]

Nobody’s jealous. Don’t flatter yourself.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

But I like flattering myself, I even spend time in front of the mirror, don't you?

[@62harleyboy66]

I'm 65 now, and have ridden many brands and sizes of bikes. But that rumble of a 45° V-twin just gets into your soul. It's always been the perfect therapy for me! And you will never find a better group of people than Harley riders. They'll help anybody in need wherever, whenever, with whatever! Good neighbors! Loud or not!

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Great to see you riding at 65 and wise words, thank you

[@chassisresearchkid]

Most hate the fact that every Harley comes from the factory with a plugged idle circuit and will only stay running with a solid throttle whack every 1.12 seconds.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

lol

[@heathenbiker]

Only ever road 1 Harley. After years of riding honda valkyrie. Friend and I swapped bikes. It shook so bad i pulled over. I told him somethings wrong it's shaking like crazy. He burst out laughing! We joked about that for months. Now i got my eye on a road king!

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Lol, the RK is great

[@sonofadoc]

One day I was leaving a store and mounting my Indian Scout when a gentleman that was walking by stopped to take a look at my bike. We began to talk and he went on to say that he grew up riding Harley's since he was 12 years old (he was probably about 50) and they were part of his blood and DNA. He went on to prove it to me by pulling up his t-shirt revealing a large tattoo across his chest in bold script that said "Harley Davidson". Having said that he went on to compliment my bike saying that it was one sweet ride I was on and congratulated me on my new buy. Well, I don't know about all Harley riders but that one had a lot of class. I didn't get a chance to say so to the gentleman as he looked like he was on his way somewhere and was gone before I could. But I've always liked Harley's since I was a kid too. And I still do. I like Triumphs, and Ducati's also as I had the opportunity to ride those back in the day. Remember Hodaka's? They were a kick!

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Great comment and story, thanks

[@stuartmacdonald9289]

I don't ride a harley and I don't hate harley riders. I respect all riders, I don't give a fuck what bike you ride, you ride a bike...respect !

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Thank you, wise words

[@bajatuna]

I never had any issues with Harley riders. My one biggest thing I’ve noticed is that (I ride a KTM adv) I’ll get the wave from all other motorcyclists except most Harley riders. It’s not the bike that you wave, it’s us against the cage drivers.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Common complaint, thanks and wish it wasn't so

[@ziegaubrey1643]

I'm on my second harley but also have 2 adv bikes. I'd wave at your ktm lol, and wanna see it

[@rockyescape8989]

i think harley is a great alternative for those that do not like sportsbikes and i'm glad it has always been there. there are young riders like myself that don't quite like fast bikes and prefer lifestyle motorcycles. for the record i am a triumph rider and i commute to work daily with a bonneville. riding is not just for fun for me it's a necessity.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Triumph make great bikes. I had a thruxton R and it was sensational - just too small for me

[@RideFree317]

The adventure bike is also another good option .I've got a triumph tiger ,good for everyday riding and comfortable on longer trips as well.

[@billreynolds2221]

I’ve owned a couple of harleys but never bought into the culture. My general impression of Harley riders isn’t even worth mentioning. I enjoyed the bikes and had nothing to do with the posers. I now own a bmw r1250gs and trust me there are plenty of adventure posers. Again, I have nothing in common with them either. My wife and I ride alone and prefer it that way. Bikers can be a strange bunch and generally ride beyond their skill levels. I actually like harleys. The lifestyle I can do without.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Fair enough! Thanks for your comment

[@The_Impulse]

Instead of squid, here in the states, we use the term RUB Rich Urban Biker. Which usually refers to the guys that have very new bikes and leathers that don’t have a scratch on them. They more often than not can’t really ride for shit either.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Yeah that's a good one too. I wish I was one.. I would immediately fill the garage

[@brodiebh]

I just like Harley's because I can enjoy riding and not feel obligated to speed just because I'm riding a bike. Sounds like a backhanded compliment I know but Harley's seem to be way more comfortable riding upright as opposed to having to lean constantly. My coworker rides a sport bike but complains he can't ride at low speeds because it jolts. It's his style and my style is my style.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Thanks for watching

[@jasong546]

I looked into a sports bike a year or so ago, and I went to a place in Tampa that had about 8 of the most expensive Ducati super sport bikes available, used. Every one of them had like 600 miles, or 1100 miles but no more. I think a lot of people think they don’t like harleys but after buying a 30k$ sports bike, they find it is uncomfortable and way too fast and they regret it!

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Thats spot on great comment!

[@edritchotte6659]

Ducatis get sold early so often when people realize how expensive regular maintenance on them is. Desmodromic valve adjustment is not cheap!

[@OldNotDead-Club]

@@edritchotte6659 spot on

[@58astroboy]

Good video exposure! I’ve only had one hate incident where a bloke tried to run me into a concrete barrier, I braked to get rid of him and pulled over for a bit as my life flashed before my eyes. I’m 65 now and there’s nothing like having a Harley under your bum.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Great to see you are riding at 65 !!

[@fl2222]

I started out on a Yamaha XV1100 and as soon as its engine caught a knock I went straight for a Road King. For me, the choice was in large part because you're almost never going to have a hard time finding parts. I still have the Yamaha, and I fiddle with it and fix it myself, but it's so difficult and pricey to find parts for it that I don't want to have it as my only bike because if something quits working and needs replacing, I might be riding in a cage for a fairly long time before I get to ride again.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Love the RK

[@blandrooker6541]

"Envy and jealousy"? No, you're confusing that with contempt and derision. Right of the bat, you've nailed it: the stultifying ARROGANCE displayed by so many Harley riders, thinking that they're somehow superior to other riders and motorcycles. There's nothing to envy about jerks that run straight pipes that shake houses with no regard for anyone else using the excuse that "loud pipes save lives" which has been proven to be utterly false, won't even deign to wave back on the road because "they're too cool", run in packs blocking traffic thinking that they're the "Wild Ones" , plus comments like "when are you going to get a real motorcycle" like Harleys are the only bike on the planet worth riding, conflating their lifestyle and brand choice with jingoistic nationalism. Nobody is envious or jealous of cult members that wrap their whole identity around a brand and look down on others, being just as bad as MAGA Republicans. Keep in mind that this is an American perspective, things may be different with riders in other countries that I can't speak to since I haven't ridden with them and it's been decades since I've lived in Europe.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Thanks for your input, did you watch the part on emotion?

[@blandrooker6541]

@Old Not Dead Did you stop to think that a root cause of emotion is a reaction to external stimuli that's patently offensive? Or put in another way, millions of people in this country have had enough of assholes that think that they are somehow "better" or "righteous" based on their belief system. Here's a thought: in this country, Harley has a long history of government involvement in trade embargoes and tariffs to protect the company, therefore tieing the brand to national identity. In a way, Harley can be perceived as being "bike supremacists" to make an analogy to the current social and political climate in America.

[@mariog4707]

To a Harley owner their total brand loyalty is viewed as a strength - to other motorcyclists it’s viewed as a weakness that blinkers their views. To Harley owners the herding together in exclusive Harley only groups is brotherhood - to other motorcyclists they are a gang of clones with not an individual thought amongst them. Harley owners see the company as upholding tradition - other motorcyclists see HD as a company stuck in the past. Harley owners think owning a HD makes them special - other motorcyclists think Harley owners think they are special just because they own a HD. Its laughable, all motorcycles are simply metal, plastic and rubber and if I walked into a dealer and came out riding a Fat Boy or a R1200GS I’d be exactly the same person I was when I went in. We the riders are what matter, not what piece of machinery we throw our leg over - we are one, or we should be!

[@ilu51vLRS]

I got into Harley's once I got into my 30s once I stopped caring about outright power in cars or bikes. My dad on the other hand hates them for the obnoxious noise.. haven't told him i plan on getting an exhaust for the new softy 😂

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Lol, you are in trouble

[@ilu51vLRS]

Ah he'll get over it like he did with the cars when I chucked an exhaust on those too haha

[@DuaneLittle-um6yj]

Had a harley rider stop and check that I was alright,I stopped to get a vicious bug out of my helmet.Thinking of trading Down from my hunter 350 for a forty eight or a street bob.🤔

[@OldNotDead-Club]

You will love it

[@nop3noperson]

Bikes are fun. I'm just watching content. Absolutely love group riding. I like seeing people out being adventurous. It costs me 13 cents a minute to enjoy too. 2000 electra glide slightly modified with aftermarket accessories.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Thanks great bike

[@PyroIsMight]

Alot of this stuff really depends on where you live. Before I moved, while we had some really great guys on harleys, it was more often than not you would hear jearing comments about "Buy a real bike" "Buy a real mans bike" even to there own people (specifically at the sportster owners). Aside from those youd also have the suburban dads that want to cosplay as a 'badass biker' on the weekends and want to make sure you know about it. After I moved my experience completely changed. People just enjoying the ride became the norm and there was palpable respect in the air for your fellow riders.

[@marcorussellOG]

I think people are triggered by sport bike riders more than Harley riders. I get compliments on my Harley all the time. I do know some arrogant Harley riders but most of them are the nicest people.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Thanks, I find them the nicest people too

[@Beef8Cake]

I don’t know anyone that hates Harley riders. Everyone I know hates the dirt bikes and 4 wheelers harassing people and drivers.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Yeah that's a good one.

[@tomeverett2212]

Harley Davidson is a marketing company, not a motorcycle company. Case in point: I picked up a can of Harley Davidson coffee. It's perfectly marketed go the Harley rider. It's harsh. It's bitter and has no taste. Years ago, I rode down to Hollister for the 50th anniversary of the riot there. It was filled with old grey haired riders with ponytails looking at other old, grey haired riders with ponytails. I left and rode the back roads home. Had to pass a bunch of motorhomes being held up by a group of Harley riders on the mountain road.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Yes I get your point, but i would say that anything that sells has marketing behind it or it won't sell. As for god bad riders - same with all brands when riding solo or in a group

[@thesoftailstable]

I'm sure you're correct with a lot of your views. We've all heard the lines from sports bike riders, anti HD crowds etc. I used to put it down to people having a bad experience with someone riding a Harley, jealousy and the like. I've not had anyone really tell me to my face that they hate Harley riders. The opposite really. Im not intimidating by any stretch of the imagination. I very rarely take my bikes out and someone doesn't give them a compliment. Usually from old fellas like myself but I've had ladies with kids come up to me at Woolworths and the servo and ask can they get a pic with their kid and the bikes. I think the feeling amongst my friends (riders and non riders) is that I've worked hard for a long time to be able to buy my bikes. Good on me. I also think that because I work away, when I come home I look forward to going for a ride but half the time the weather is shit and I don't have anyone to go riding with anyway, so the Odometer reading on my bikes are low. Lastly as you and most of your viewers will know. If you spend 30 to 40K on any vehicle you're gonna wanna have it looking the way you want it and treat it with respect. That hurts you in the hip pocket but its all worth it when youve had a good hit out, cleared you're thoughts and got a heap of compliments about your bike along the way. Keep up the good content.

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Thank you

[@silverdale3207]

Here's my take, I rode dirtbikes for years and it's one big community no matter what brand you ride everyone talks to each other. Just started riding road bikes for the first time at 58 and I've quickly realised that the Harley riders generally won't wave or talk to you, (I have a Jap ADV bike),But most others are always up for a yarn, so it kind of makes Harley riders come across as aloof and like they think they are better, not all of course but just what I've noticed. Personally I like the look of Harleys and understand why people own them,but I think being a fairly closed community within a larger riding community is probably most of the reason you get a hard time. Not trying to be critical but just offering my observations .

[@OldNotDead-Club]

Thank you that's what the comments are for! Much appreciated

[@harryflashman4542]

Agree. Even Ducati owners are friendlier.