Rabid Hedgehog reviews the Ultra Limited/ Classic

[@mr.random20]

I was a goldwing rider for years and just bought my first Harley ultra classic limited a month ago. Not saying one is better than the other, they are both awsome touring bikes. Took a little getting used to the handling of the Harley from a fixed fairing to a fork mounted fairing. The ultra has more leg room then the goldwing. It all comes down to what style of ride you want. I was almost going to buy the new 2018 goldwing but after test driving and seeing it in person , the bags were smaller and the overall bike was smaller. They changed the style more to a sportier look. It looked good but not what I wanted in a touring bike so I test road a few Harleys and fell in love with the ultra classic limited.

[@pinkiewerewolf]

The Wings are impressive, for sure. They tempted me... oh how they tempted me. But, I love my Ultra Classic so I'm very happy with the purchase.

[@dennism103]

Welcome to the family. I came from BMW. I'm a diehard convert. I use to be the biggest shittalker about hd, I'm ashamed of that. I was so wrong! Hd are incredible machines...

[@mevik3835]

I hope ur still loveing your bike nothing like a ride on a Harley ultra..say safe my friend

[@OzBloke]

It’s a real conflict isn’t it? I have owned several touring Harleys Electraglide Std - Streetglide and Uktra (amongst others) and several of Goldwings - two 1500’s and onev1800. The Goldwings are a magnificent touring bike - ultra reliable and well built......I have covered many touring mikes on both. A the end of the day after considering all factors - my head says Goldwing, but my Heart says Ultra Classic. So here I am at almost 70 years old with a 2009 Ultra Classic in the Garage - it suits my soul - flaws and all - but would never put down a Goldwing 😎

[@scooterman4363]

Very good review, your audio and video quality is great. I've had a few ultra classic and the limited bikes and looking for another one probably used this time or maybe a freewheeler. Thanks for taking us along for the ride. You explained the bike very well and hd is making nice stuff. Keep up the good work.

[@DarioCruz92]

I've watched other reviews on the touring models but you're probably the only one that bothered to demonstrate the linked brake system. That's why I love watching your vids, RH; you go the extra mile ;-) You know, if I was buying a dresser, I'd have to strongly consider the Ultra Classic over the SGS when you consider it's only $450 more. The tour pak & mount and lower fairings, while not only fairly easy to remove (from what I understand), but would cost over 2 grand to purchase separately. What is the Ultra Classic - an extra 30-40 bucks more in monthly payments? And that's not even factoring the more comfortable passenger seat and better ground clearance. Oh well, maybe that's just me. Anyway, thanks for the review.

[@pinkiewerewolf]

Matt Laidlaw pretty much recommends going with an Ultra or limited if people want the bags and better lights/heated grips, and buying the quick detach system. He says that it is much cheaper than turning the SGS into a full bagger with options.

[@JMonty-ct3en]

I just picked one of these up Friday, your review is spot on. Thank you for taking the time to highlight the differences between models, I'm pretty sure you were the only reviewer that did that.

[@RabidHedgehog]

J. Monty Thanks for the support!

[@PA30Pilot]

Thanks for taking the time to do this. I’ve owned my 2001 GL1800 wing since new, and am looking for a different experience in a new bike. Almost convinced the anniversary limited is the way to go. Excellent review.

[@RabidHedgehog]

That you for the support! Hope you find the right one for you. The anniversary is a great looking model, love the color scheme on it.

[@mikeusnfr]

I picked up the 115th Anniversary Ultra Limited and love it. I had a 2008 100th Anniversary Police Electra Glide. What a difference and as Rabid explained, the center of gravity makes it feel much lighter and nimble. The ride is sweet, big improvement all the way around. Harley has come along way in 10 years. Im still breaking mine in , but the throttle response is much improved. I am in a Motorcycle Ministry and we ride cross country, this is the bike to do it on. This is my 5th bike 2nd Harley and definitely my favorite! Hand down. I checked out the Yamaha Venture and Indian Road master, . Happy I stayed with Harley.

[@PA30Pilot]

Mike Probst thanks for the encouragement. I just bought my first Harley-a 2018 Ultra Limited. Only 100 miles so far, but looking forward to taking the wife on the road this summer. Merry Christmas!

[@RabidHedgehog]

That is awesome glad to hear that you purchased the Limited! I hope that you and yours will have many memories on it for the years to come. Merry Christmas and Ride safe!

[@mikeusnfr]

That's awesome Frank! Congratulations! Enjoy and Merry Christmas!

[@kev1163]

Thanks for the review, im considering trading my 2018 heritage in for an ultra, trying to get all the info I can before I make my decision...

[@RabidHedgehog]

You're welcome!

[@roadglide1142]

I have a 2017 Ultra Limited with 10 K miles on it and still luv it!

[@17ultralimited69]

I have the 17 Ultra and it’s an awesome ride.

[@karlschwartz1856]

Hi Rabid buying my 2018 FLHTCU Electra Glide Ultra Classic TOMORROW , you mentioned the rushmore package .I noticed our bike has the luggage rack is this part of the package and if any additional upgrades er come with the rushmore series. its pre owned 22k miles . Thank you for your road test you answered alot of questions . Karl &Liz Camarillo Ca.

[@brianprovorse7103]

As a Hedgehog Dad (not currently as my children have all passed), I love your name. I think I may have commented on it before.

[@mrdanny5]

Great Review, Thank you. Really good audio and video

[@dennism103]

The road king is hard to beat. I don't need a GPS and stereo I have that on my phone, saved $6,000. I'm smart af!

[@RabidHedgehog]

I tend to agree on that. I like the simple machines more.

[@marvinr5054]

I just watched your video and I was a little sad to see that at the end of your review you made the bike sound like an average motorcycle that you really couldn't put through its paces and lean into turns and ride aggressively with. I have to say I've owned a Electra Glide Ultra Classic since 2006 and I've done my share of modifications to the motor to make it fast and my bike handles well I can lean into turns I can ride aggressive with my buddies who own faster bikes and it is a joy to own and ride even a older Electra Glide. After watching this review a average person might feel that they might be better off purchasing a Kawasaki or a Yamaha and just putting off buying their dream bike because it's average. I'd like to see is a video on how well the Electra Glide handles in turns braking and acceleration in real traffic.

[@frankieoliver1]

I have a 17 Limited and It is an Awesome ride. Had an 06 Electra glide that I really liked but no comparison.

[@Freespiritphil]

For such a big bike, I'm amazed at how nimble it rides. Does it carry it's weight high or low?

[@RabidHedgehog]

The Twin Cam versions were all high and the Milwaukee 8 has kind of made it feel more like in the middle to high side so not as top heavy as before.

[@7ludig]

Rabid Hedgehog Agreed!!!!

[@adamjaeger4189]

Note, be sure to load your side bags with even weight. The bike will pull to the heavier side.

[@99killerb]

I wasn’t necessarily badmouthing HD, but I was certainly not a fan.. I test road 2012 and rented a 2014 EG classic and was not impressed. Ended up buying a used Victory Vision because the price was a steal. Fast forward to 2017, one ride on the M8 Ultra Classic and I was blown away. The motor and suspension are simply awesome compared to earlier versions. The Victory 106 motor is a gutless wonder it was easy to service but that’s about the only impressive thing about it. The day after Xmas 2017, I traded the Victory for a 2018 Ultra Classic and have never looked back. It never fails to give a huge grin on my face when running through twisty back roads, I find that I rarely ride my other bike ( Aprilia RST1000 ) because the HD is so damn comfortable and fun to ride. HD has come along way and is making some really great bikes these days..

[@bobellis2912]

Man, I gotta stop watching your reviews. Now I want yet another bike. My only hope now is to get my wife to the MSF course, maybe I can get her hooked too.

[@RabidHedgehog]

Bob Ellis Mine got so hooked she rides her own.

[@mevik3835]

i just got the 2017 ultra C with 5400 miles on it ...THE BIKE IS BAD ASS I RIDE ON I 20 EVERY DAY 40 MILES OF HWY I LOVE IT

[@RabidHedgehog]

Keep the rubber side down good sir!

[@dingbial9796]

Awesome bike! Not for kids under 30..it won't wipe your nose for you like mama did! You better know how to ride first. Then you realize how good it is.

[@dr.phil-federalinspector6023]

I know I am way behind..cause I be old. (68)..I Was trying to see if you had a review on the 2016 Ultra Classic..why?..I found one with less than 1000 miles on it in Texas..at a dealer ( H-D )..and am not that educated on that model..it is priced right..is it a good bike? Phil- Wichita Ks..

[@RabidHedgehog]

To be honest it has the same stuff on it except the engine and it's not that much shy of the M8 in power overall just hard acceleration the M8 powered system will pull a bike length out over the 103. Also the 103 has a bit more vibes in it all around but is still a smooth rider on the open road.

[@dennism103]

Please distill the difference between road and street glides. It's a tough choice I'm leaning towards the road glide ultra...

[@pinkiewerewolf]

Great video, I enjoyed the ride along and info. What was the two obnoxious flashing dots on the gauges? (Please tell me it is a reflection from your camera.) That would be a deal killer for me. Road King, here I come.

[@JMonty-ct3en]

If you look at 10:52 as he goes under the bridge the lights don't blink, so I think the blinking effect has to do with the camera and sunlight. I've seen other videos from other channels do the same thing.

[@pinkiewerewolf]

Thanks for the answer. I don't know why I didn't get a notification. I ended up buying an Ultra Classic. Yep, no blinking lights on the dash. Very well put together bike and I'm enjoying the infotainment system. Low RPM torque is impressive compared to the Evolution and 88 cu in engines that were in my older H-D bikes. Like McDonald's. I'm loving it. BTW, Rabid Hedgehog, thanks for this video. There are very few dedicated M8 Ultra Classic videos on the internet when researching these bikes.

[@JMonty-ct3en]

I bought one as well

[@pinkiewerewolf]

Congrats J. Monty! I've only put 2K on it so far but its a sweetie. Mine is just like the Ultra that Rabid rides in this video. larger infotainment system, color, identical bikes.

[@dennism103]

I bought those heated grips for my road king, holy fuck those get hot, they go from 1-6 on a 22° day. I could only stand it on 3...

[@grizzly_xavier]

Great review, actually provided some useful information! Thanks!

[@RabidHedgehog]

You're welcome thanks for the support!

[@N617A]

Hey bro! So I got a chance to catch the demo truck and rode the Milwaukee 8 road king and road glide! I hope you don't mind a thought share (if you do just let me know.) So the new M8 engine is super awesome and cool! It vibrates at idle but smooths out at anything above idle! Harley did a great job with the engine and mount design and the engine itself. However... I will say this: the actual power delivery (the smoothness to the back wheel from the engine) feels rubbery and a bit rough except in clutch release. The Bonnie series from triumph and the Indians feel more like a brand new calibrated elevator... you know? That silky buttery smooth feeling? I didn't notice that on the harley. The ultra I've noticed is super heavy... but the road glide isn't so much. Nice and light. Like the Indian roadmaster. Well... perspective counts on that statement I guess... lol. Now the last thing I've noticed... the suspension and the brakes... the suspension on the road king was rough unlike the Springfield but the road glide was a little bit closer... a little. The brakes were alright but could be improved imho. The ride by wire however id rate above what the Indians had... little more responsive... now I love all bikes and I know it sounds like I've got some negative stuff to say about them... but if I am honest, they are essentially the same "bluh bluh bluh bluh" sounding bike as when they came out. And I don't believe they are worth 20-30,000 bucks but I do think indian is..: I feel like they keep the vintage feel but also make new designes for the modern age... harley... more like the money is in the name. The bikes are awesome! And they have a feel that certain people love. Including me I love them! But like I say it also seems like the exact same bike as when it first came out with a few tiny little touches here and there. Now before my harley friends get all mad I did approach the M8 series with optimism and again for what I have said about it in this thought share I do love Harley... but it literally felt no different than the previous generations except for a few minor differences. Anyways that being said thanks for bringing us this review rabid! Love your videos bro! And also please keep in mind anyone reading this that this is just an opinion. I say again I'm not a harley hater.

[@TheMrkabinet]

N617A p

[@dennism103]

My bmw 1200LT was heavy af too about 850 lbs. But it had reverse.

[@joedangelo5640]

FYI - the reflex breaks only engage above 25mph

[@RabidHedgehog]

That is correct. It was on my mind to say it, but with everything else on the bike to go over it was forgotten. Thank you for getting the information out!

[@austinquinn2107]

Rabid, I am in the process of getting the Road King Special. I thank you for your videos as just doing 10 minute demos is hard to notice everything. One question I have to ask is would you or anyone else consider a Road King special in Olive Gold MSRP at $22,499 and the dealership is trying to get me to pay $26,750. Should I hold out and negotiate or is this a fair price. I thought about even waiting for the 2018 to see if the new frame for the bikes is coming out. Any advice from anyone is much appreciated.

[@RabidHedgehog]

See what is going into that price like extras such as extended warranty, what kind of fees they are charging, etc. Then negotiate that down from there as some of those things could be extra fluff.

[@dmcharley64]

I believe the gauge cluster is different between both.

[@RabidHedgehog]

Doug mcgilbra same config but probably slightly different graphics. Then there's the 6.5GT vs 4.3 and that's it.

[@dennism103]

Instinctive understanding of counter steering is essential to not becoming a statistic. I was a sport bike guy years ago. Kind've a pet peeve. Just ckn don't want see u get hurt...

[@markp5737]

Great review man, thanks :)

[@RabidHedgehog]

Thank you!

[@regfeener]

What are the blinking lights on the Speedo and Tach.? they never stop throughout the whole video..

[@peteleiberwitz5035]

The camera is doing that. They stay on...no blinking

[@landau393]

Good review ...... legend

[@HarleyBreakoutGuy]

Wow nice bike thanks for the review

[@RabidHedgehog]

Thanks for the support!

[@chrisseratte]

My 2015 limited low does have heated grips standard

[@RabidHedgehog]

Interesting as the low has never featured them without needed to be added first. Maybe the dealer pre-installed them or something to sell as from the factory they do not have them.

[@dennism103]

Why not a heated seat too!?

[@Tracks777]

Nice video!

[@jeffforquer2075]

Love Edmond!

[@RabidHedgehog]

It has its days.

[@123JumpingJacks]

what head head set or microphone so you use. sound is really clean.

[@RabidHedgehog]

The combination used on this ride was a Sena 10S Bluetooth Headset in UHD voicemode and a GoPro Hero 4 Silver with the Sena Bluetooth backpack on board to receive. The Helmet is also nice and quite and it is an HJC CL-17.

[@123JumpingJacks]

Rabid Hedgehog thanks so much

[@7ludig]

Solid review. 86° is nothing.

[@grayboo212]

Around the 11:00 mark you talk about the wind and buffeting. I have to ask, when you rode this did you get hit in the chest and neck from the wind coming up from the tank? I’m on a 2005 Heritage Classic right now with just over 78,000 miles, all but 4,200 I’ve put on myself. Pretty much the only thing that’s ever bugged me about my bike is that damn wind violently coming up from around the tank and hitting me in the chest (causing the upper part of my shirt to whip around) and like an uppercut to the chin. Mild speeds under 40 mph is no big deal. Anything over 60 mph and, after 11 years on it, is really starting to annoy me. I’m wondering if in stock form, these Ultras don’t do the same thing. A friend has the same bike I do and has those “fangs” (wind deflectors) mounted to his forks. In my opinion, they do next to nothing.

[@RabidHedgehog]

The wind and buffeting was more hitting the upper end of the helmet and also the neck area where the helmet was being tugged and pulled. There was not much hitting me in the chest.

[@FrancisJSmith]

I had the same problem on my 2018 Ultra Limited at 75 mph until I replaced stock windshield for the clear 15 inch screen.

[@dennism103]

Wow no offense but the way u turn into a curve suggests that u don't understand counter steering?

[@buschmaster4600]

Why are you cruising at 70 mph in 5th?

[@RabidHedgehog]

I prefer the power band and engine feel in 5th gear for the M8 engine if it was a Twinkie it would have been in 6th.

[@philbuglass4857]

Nice bike, but so far out of my price range it isn't even funny... You might want to think about doing the dash/radio demo before coming outside. You were demonstrating stuff and pointing, but all we can see is sky and clouds reflected off every glass surface. Nice balanced review, though.

[@mikeusnfr]

If your talking serious touring, your going to pay this range. Yamaha Venture may be a grand less (Air Cooled) and Indian Road Master a few grand more (limited after market accessories). Full touring is this price range.

[@pinkiewerewolf]

I agree with your comment for new bikes. Like cars, if you buy a bike that is a couple of years old though a buyer can escape the depreciation. Phil, there are a lot of good used Harleys out there and I'm sure they'd appreciate a loving new owner.

[@LLG47]

Personally, thats about $20,000 more than I would pay for a motorcycle, or a car for that matter. I just cannot see this being a true motorcycle experience. Heated handlebars? what? Really? Maybe I'm oldschool.

[@RabidHedgehog]

For all year riding the extras do become a very nice thing to have. However, I am like you at this time as I prefer an authentic ride without electronics and other overlords watching over me or entertaining me. But I know a large amount of people that buy this over a car and maintain the motorcycle and use it on rides across the country in rain, shine, cold, hot, and crazy windy and such and have a nice but used car in the garage for when they need it and they just live the lifestyle out.

[@LLG47]

Uh ... yeah? What? You are just ok with being totally shafted with an object that depreciates at like 25% per year for some vehicles? Jeez, I'd rather have a Harley like this than a new car, because at least it will hold its value longer. Buying a new car is often a poor financial decision. Anyway, yeah I can understand the comfort idea. I just feel as though there is a fine line between the authenticity of motorcycle ownership, and how many of these vehicles are just couches on two wheels. Amenities are nice, but when you have all the "rough and tough" Harley paraphernalia on, it just seems silly to have an lcd screen and speakers on your bike. (Not you, just.. people). Obviously people are entirely entitled to what they want, but I just can't imagine taking the plunge with a price like this even if it did appeal to me. I feel as though there is a certain appeal to suiting up, and getting a little frosty in the knuckles on a long ride. To me, motorcycle ownership is, and should be, an extension of minimalism. I mean, I feel as though most could truly function with a reliable engine, 2 wheels, 40-50hp, a speedo, maybe a fuel light, and not much more in the bells and whistles department. Again, maybe I'm old school.

[@RabidHedgehog]

LLG47 Not old school, just want the authentic experience and there are many bikes that fit that bill as well for sure.

[@radioroadie]

If this bike had nothing at all it’s a great bike ..I bought one last week

[@mikeusnfr]

I agree, I ride 12 months out of the year and my bike is priority #1, cage 2nd. I feel it is worth the investment if you use it and I feel all the creature comforts come into play if you take two week vacations on your bike riding several thousand miles. To each their own. Ride On.

[@Daddyduck88]

These bikes would be pretty much useless in the UK. Way too big for these tiny ass roads. They are probably awesome bikes but i could not see myself having these and using them regularly. And they are way too expensive to have as second bikes.

[@Daddyduck88]

I have to add, it would be amazing to go on a cross European tour on one of these mighty machines!

[@RabidHedgehog]

It would be the machine for it!

[@rhowell52]

It is surprising how responsive and nimble they are. My previous bike was the Yamy Roadstar 1700 (Midnight Silverado) and that felt like a big heavy bike, whether stopped or on the road. My 2015 CVO Limited is completely different. Heavy yes, but so quick to response and cornering. Teton Pass, Beartooth Pass and Chief Joseph Highway were a treat. I've driven up the side of the mountains in Italy and this bike would not be out of place. Also lived in Bracknell for 7 months. No issues for me. And that was a Canadian driving on the wrong side of the road lol.