Why the softail is the most underestimated Harley Davidson

[@martincvitkovich724]

No skulls... my philosophy; if you want a Harley that is different then anyone else. LEAVE IT STOCK

[@morteparla6926]

A lot of guys do leave their bike stock. I would even say MOST guys leave their bikes stock.

[@lemegetatchu1989]

@@morteparla6926 not true at all, well at least that's how it is here in long island. I see too many Harleys over-modded over here. And it gets waaaay worse with the sports bikes. I don't get it. These are extremely beautiful stock, at least to me.

[@lemegetatchu1989]

@John Connor very true man. I once saw a v8 motorcycle in person. I couldn't believe it! It looked impossibly awesome. Then I saw some dude take a bike that was destroyed by hurricane Sandy and completely restore it. 49' knucklehead. Thang was loud!!!

[@tomchristian4304]

LMAO

[@Rx3]

I agree with your comment but I will still customize the 96 softail if I end up purchasing it.

[@rickygarvin145]

I’m 65 and I ride an 08 softail custom. The handlebars are referred to as 4in mini apes. I have rode the dragon and she was a dream. She is now 11 years old and going strong.

[@GawgaCracka]

NICE...

[@hornett22]

I have the same bike, same year love it. I live by the dragon and never go near it.

[@jeansealy3324]

I have the same one great bike

[@jeffreyflanders4199]

I have a 1988 softail custom

[@Ironhandjohn]

My neighbor down the street rode a 1986 Softy Custom when I was in high school, and to me, it's what a Harley is supposed to look and sound like. Thirty years later, my first Harley is an old Road King, so go figure...

[@andrewmacarthur1976]

I agree

[@lucarinaldichini324]

"you can start it up without waking the dead". Proceeds passing in front of a graveyard. This is gold 😁👍

[@TimHWolfe]

I’m 68 and I bought my 09 Softail new. Rode many of the other models that just didn’t do it for me. This one just fit and I was instantly at home on it. I got a shorty backrest for mine, the 09 has a short backrest with a sissybar for the rider. I like the low seat and the forward pedals, and the handlebars are just back where it all fits me PERFECT !!

[@theblade66]

Yes same as me

[@jbhobbyist9372]

I have a 2009 Softail Custom for about 3 months now and love it. Not much on freeway riding but tried it at 75 mph. and that 6th gear is so nice. No vibration just nice and smooth. Also I agree on the long trip statement you made because my arms started to ache after about 50 miles riding. But seat is very comfortable.

[@j.martin4476]

If your arms are aching you either need a different bar set up or simply dont ride that much at all.

[@grimeyhonkyracing3938]

Hands down my favorite bike, I grew up on movies like Stone Cold with Brian Bosworth and Beyond the Law as a kid.

[@morecringe89]

That is why I like my Kawasaki vn 1600. No too quiet, no too loud, but I get myself in piece. It is my therapy for stress. Thank you for your videos

[@Planet2A]

Team vulcan here too, have a 2005 vn2000 , best bike ive ever had

[@rogal_doge]

Bought my 09 soft tail custom used, thing has more skulls than a graveyard

[@phillipdavis3705]

Word.

[@martinkeet8373]

?? Skulls??

[@TheMetalmachine467]

Lol

[@raywetter3439]

Hell yeah!!! Skulls ,spikes and a marine corps license plate tells everyone to stay …… keep your knees in the breeze brother

[@veilofpeace]

yes! I grew up with softails and they are my absolute favorite. My dad has one and it had been promised to me since I was born pretty much. Its always going to be my favorite type of Harley. Harley's are the only motorcycle for me.

[@erlsv]

Great video! I too own a Softail Custom and I will never part with it! My 92 has both a perfect riding fit for me AND it runs the ever dependable Evo motor. Fun to ride and super easy to wrench on!! Long live the FXSTC!!

[@FlameofUdun9]

erlsv I love my 89

[@simonh5110]

My dad had a 92 when I was a kid. I’m searching for one at the moment

[@MadAnthonyI]

Me, too. I have an 88

[@thomascarpenter7415]

My first HD was a 1985 Softail, rigid mount, 4 speed, chain drive with the optional kick start ! I bought it used in early 1988, had 750 miles on it . I sold it and bought a new 1988 Low Rider later in the year . The Softail was a cool ride but rode like a tank ! I wish I still had them both…

[@kevinkrekels9780]

Love my 2007 softail custom! Great bike!

[@Rich.Fishing]

I ride a 2014 Heritage Softail. Love my bike very comfortable. Just rode to Red River, NM great ride

[@GawgaCracka]

NICE!!

[@eligarcia215]

I picked up a 2000 standard with 18” apes. Nothing but fun on the road, I love it.

[@tylerhubbell6410]

I have a 2000 softail standard that my dad handed over to me.He bought it brand new and now Im restoring it because it sat outside for a few years....kinda happens when you move to a house with no garage.

[@johncleaver1975]

Ty for showing one of the best bikes on the market. Also God bless you. Thanks for bringing God back into the world. If it wasn't for Christ we would be dead.

[@zeronomon]

Exactly my thoughts too :)

[@billycollins2100]

Good for you John so nice to see someone recognize who makes it all possible!

[@stephenbangle6699]

Love my 1990 Softail Custom!

[@aaronscott260]

I’ve been a dirt bike rider for a lot of my life and have watched your videos for a while now. It’s come down to (praying to God) getting an 08softail custom tomorrow with a 103ci stage 1 in it all blacked out. Watching your videos has been a big influence on what to get and I really appreciate it. Also a student at mmi. Maybe hoping to show you what I get?

[@MarkMeadows90]

My dream Harley, alongside the Dyna Wide Glide. Any Softail Custom or Dyna Wide Glide with the Evo motor gets me going. I hope to own either bike SOMEDAY.

[@OkinInc]

Mark Meadows Ditto here too bro! One day soon for both of us I hope. 🤙🏻

[@bradboisvert4892]

Love them both as well I have a beauty 97 wide glide very happy with it

[@darth_birb6614]

My dad has an 03 night train with the older 88 cubic inch engine you mentioned. He hasn’t ridden it in years and I asked him if I could have it when the time comes. He said yes as long as I learn how to ride first. So, as soon as I can I’m gonna buy a grom and rip that thing like a squid till I get out of college and can go pick up the Harley.

[@johnnyalvidrezjr1790]

I own a 1990 softail fxstc. Black with purple flames, 18"apes,vance&hines straight pipes, lowered rear suspension, chrome rear swing arm, detachable rear back rest, front and rear mini bullet signals (front:amber,rear:red),18"rear wheel, 21" front wheel (both rims are twisted spokes).

[@robertmoore1123]

That's got to be a sweet ass bike .

[@johnnyalvidrezjr1790]

@@robertmoore1123 thank you

[@robertmoore1123]

Welcome . Been thinking about putting apes on my Sportster . Do they handle well . I have never had them . Bit hate the stock bars on my 2008 883 iron . Like the 1200 bars better

[@johnnyalvidrezjr1790]

@@robertmoore1123 depends on your height.ím 5'7" I have 18” apes on mine.they are cool and comfortable

[@johnnyalvidrezjr1790]

I think for a Sportster 12"-14"should be cool.

[@johnnyalvidrezjr1790]

You are right, they ride pretty smooth.

[@lawrencetrapani5623]

I have been riding a softail 1986 for many years now and it's my favorite also have a 2002 Road King its great for criss country trips which don't happen often and the softail is my daily weather permitting. Great Video and that bike will sell Quickly, Be Blessed and have a good one! Daily

[@jimmycecil1287]

My exact bike, even the color, & year. Love my fxstc. Currently running a stage 1 kit, looking to upgrade cams to tw222 cams this winter..... and for the record, no skulls or spikes, lol

[@richardbadish6990]

I just bought a 2010 Harley Davidson Softail Custom with 19k for $6,000. Did I get a good deal? It's in great shape, drove it an hour home. And had zero issues with it.

[@grimeyhonkyracing3938]

Yeah that's a pretty good deal, I would expect your bike to go for at least $7-8k or more.

[@alextrainor2552]

6k for any harley is a good deal

[@dannywilliams3928]

Beautiful Softail custom Sean I really like that one. Love the position of the handlebars on that one too. And it sounds awesome. Thank you for the video take care and be safe.

[@danwustrack]

I love the videos guys, keep them commin. Love the words of wisdom as well! Im big into motorsports but none more than snowmobiles and motorcycles and atvs. Breaks my heart not to have a bike for the 2nd straight summer. Hopefully next year!

[@jameshall2017]

throughout the years the softails only gotten better with the standards and going up to the 107. The 107(1750cc) engine is my favorite for the softails. You get just a bit more power and oomph for if you gotta cross highways or whatever it may be. Not to powerful, not underpowered and had great balance in my opinion. Rode a softail standard for first time 2-3 weeks ago after being on sportster 1200 or honda 450. I was a little nervous at first but once i got done with the ride, i dont want to go back to the 1200 unless i have too

[@Anthony071177]

That particular bike has always been my dream bike but even used they hold their value better than most others.

[@simonh5110]

Totally agree. Man people can’t decide what these things are worth! Bipolar pricing for sure.

[@williamgainford9332]

OH man i thought i was the only one who hates all the skulls, and bullshit, that most hog owners feel the need to put on their bikes, cool

[@barcodefly]

Always loved the looks of those, especially the rear fender. Almost got one some years ago but went for a '91 Fat Boy/Extended Springer Softail. Still have it but wish I had went with just a stock Custom. Really nice looking bikes.

[@scottiortiz5853]

My favorite of the Harley family, so much u can do with it.

[@MegaGuitman]

I love my 2010 fxstc...I could have bought any bike...but I had to have the soft tail custom...I sold my shovel and my bobber sporty and it’s been a love affair with my bike

[@tylerlavertu6417]

I bought my first Harley in August 2019... 2010 fxstc, I could not be happier with it!!

[@JM-ro1io]

I'm a beginner rider. I'm focusing on these for my first. I'm so excited for the experience and the journeys to come.

[@dadeo3162]

I love those longshot pipes on Harley's!!!!

[@mikesperko3921]

Me too

[@reddsshaker3477]

I love Harleys...more specifically OLD Harleys...but the Softail is easily one of their worse ergonomic designs. Foot forward, slouch position is the WORST position to ride in. Unless your bar hopping or ‘rounding the block’. Destroys your back, and reduces your reaction time. Proved this to my Dad when we rode from Baltimore MD to The Dragon at Deal’s Gap. Him on his ‘96 Low Rider, me on my ‘04 Triumph Bonneville. We switched bikes a few times, and he couldn’t get over how much better the upright position on the Bonneville felt. Especially after HOURS on the bikes, through the twisties, blasting the straights, etc. Actual seat time tells the REAL story.

[@reddsshaker3477]

....oh, and start using your signals. Besides good riding gear, loud pipes and signals are your best defense against the chronically distracted cagers.

[@mikehenthorn1778]

i love my 2007 soft tail std. i will admit that i will be adding some skulls as i am planing a greatful dead paint job.

[@caferacervic]

Best of the best Harley for the money at the moment tmm, I owned one 07 injected, balanced, 200mm rear, and its love for the rest of life.

[@mitch6969123]

Nice bike. Lookin for my first harley, trying to decide between a dyna and softail. I do love the 70’s look, I wanna be leaning back. I like them bars, not seeing bars like that on the newer Harley’s. Thanks buddy, I’m really leaning towards the soft tail.

[@GoldenGateNum9]

*Sounds and looks incredible! and still looks like it is from the 80's, but why the hell would you want to change this bikes original beautiful looks?*

[@simonh5110]

I just looked at a 97 softail custom today. I want it. The guy is a good friend to. I trust him. 39,000 miles with a few nice upgrades and all the paperwork to prove all parts and service done. He wants 5000$ but it needs new tires and a battery. Should I go for it?

[@OG_BillionaireMotivation]

The new 21 softtails have mid controls like you stated. I’m definitely throwing forward controls on it

[@christopherconnors6092]

Hey man, just picked up a 94 gsxr750wr for free. Just needs some love, carbs cleaned, chain, fuel hoses, and a battery. Hopefully that's it. I will post some videos of the work I do so you can laugh at the little things I miss...

[@Srkcycles]

Awesome

[@christopherconnors6092]

Hopefully gonna get the guts ripped out Sunday evening. Was gonna do it tonight, but working 2 jobs takes its toll. Any input from any interested parties is welcome. Also if anyone is knowledgeable in paperwork issues, that would make my day.

[@christopherconnors6092]

Oh, and srk cycles are some cool mf'ers. Love the channel.

[@cpmunson2807]

I agree with you 100% I have an 1986 fxstc I have brought it back to life after sitting in the woods in Northern California for 4years rain and all. I have change a couple things out of necessity but other than that I kept it original even nicks and dings. This is the a great motorcycle and deserves a bit more credit. Tons of guys want them just to trash them out with skulls etc. Sorry but I’m old school. Thanks for this video.

[@kaldicuct]

I recently got a 06 Harley Softail, like a few weeks ago as my starter bike. Can't wait to learn and just cruise. got 11k and change miles on it. I also got my adoptive grandfather one, mine's red, his is blue, his is an 02 I think, got 6k and change miles. He's been riding forever and a day, he's gonna teach me and I'm really looking forward to it.

[@terrycarl8923]

I'm looking at an 09 softail this video was very helpful thanks

[@tankeater]

4:55 DEFINITELY INCORRECT... The beter your posture is on uh DirtBike, the better control you have across the entire spectrum of riding.

[@A-Z__124]

Those are not aftermarket handle bars. My 100 year anniversary Softail Standard came stock with this handle bar. She is Black and Chrome with a Mustang bolstered seat. She has the perfect color and I love her. I have been riding since 1976. This was and is my first Harley.

[@The77Game]

I love those. If i'm not mistaken it is the one(though older version) they use in "Renegade". Which only makes it even cooler.

[@The77Game]

If i ever went to america to do a coast to coast this would be the one i would like to do it on. Maybe with forward controls or just highway pegs and my baggage packed to double as a backrest. That would be so awesome.

[@The77Game]

@Spacecoastz i have heard some talk about it as not being comfortable to drive but i haven't heard that about why. Is it the seat, the shocks, the riding position or a mix? I would like to try it.

[@The77Game]

@Spacecoastz I didn't say it was a touring bike. Plenty of people have taken long rides on bikes that weren't touring bikes. That doesn't mean that you can't or shouldn't. Of course if you often go touring you should probably get a touring bike. But for a one time tour i would be fine with this. Plus from what i understand coast to coast is about half the distance you mentioned.

[@The77Game]

@Spacecoastz I doubt i will ever be able to afford it. The trip to america is one thing and then there is the bike itself and every expence along the ride. Plus it would be weird to go on the trip without my wife and daughter. It's one of those dreams that are out of reach.

[@tetlow2]

@@The77Game I don't know what that guy is talking about. People use these bikes a lot to go across country. Not everyone wants a couch on wheels with radios. I would love to one day make it a long way on my dyna if I ever get away from work long enough. I hope you get your dream one day. Ride safe.

[@Rokonroller]

Softails are by far the epitome of HD in every way. X between a cruiser & a chopper, it put HD on mainstream & too many magazines to mention

[@markharris6171]

I have an 06 FXST, bone stock, except the Vance and Hines slip ons. Clean.

[@derekquinones8614]

Love my 01 softtail deuce it’s unmolested also only 17k miles on it 2 owner !!

[@davidlabar-jn2ig]

I have a 2009 FXSTC love the bike I did do some things to make it the way I like. I lowered it about 3/4” in the rear , I put Burly brand 1-1/4 pullback tee bars, put a 2up brawler seat, not very comfortable unfortunately. For the engine I did a 103 cylinder kit heads with ACRs and SE204 cams, V&H Big Shots staggered and Thundermax ECM. The bike goes great. The biggest difference between the Standard and the Custom is the blond engine compared to the Customs black and chrome and various more chrome pieces.

[@IsaacDanos-s3i]

I love my 2009 softail custom. I just put drag bars on it, it rides real good with them love them. I also put a racing chain and sprocket on it because I’m a hard rider I broke five belts. I just ordered some new rims. Can’t wait to see what it’s going to look like.One came in today waiting on the other one.✌🏻😎👍

[@kcookish]

i had a 1988 Soft Tail Custom, adorned with a 96 S&S, loved the bike. my next bike WILL BE another Soft Tail Custom

[@kevincorkery6292]

Those are the stock bars. I have an ‘08 softail custom.

[@Planet2A]

Going to send this to my ex girlfriend, she still rides a sportster and they are not good for long distance. I suggested a softail to her because she turns her nose up at metrics but doesnt have new harley money,lol

[@GawgaCracka]

Softail would be much easier for her to ride, as you sit down in a softail, opposed to on top of a sporty...my 70 year old Mom bought a sporty, and she was scared of it, but she road my Nightrain and loved it so much she traded up and got a st custom.

[@r8cerx669]

Another awesome vid I’m about to hit the road but that’s good stuff... you should merch out “words of wisdom”

[@danielcoganmanzanas3676]

Bro whats with all the safety gear

[@AlmostLakai94]

A softail standard(or custom if its similarly stock looking like this one) is my dream Harley. Its what I think when I think of a HD

[@smrtrbl86]

Amen brother. I agree about the skulls. I got an 03 fatboy. It's not all stock but I have all the original parts in boxes from the original owner. And when I go shopping for stuff I can't look at anything without being bombarded with skull stuff.

[@KipDingo]

Question for you, I'm thinking about getting one of these, just wondering how tall you are as I don't want to look like a giant on a minimoto!

[@cl3290]

Love my 07 soft tail custom. Found it this past fall with only 7k miles on it

[@furrrankkk3980]

Hardly saw any cars your whole ride so having not so loud pipes is not such a bad thing but somewhere like California where there’s cars everywhere and everyone is on their phones all the times having loud pipes is a must… nice review/ ride 👍

[@keithhults8986]

I own a 2002FXSTDI Deuce. I rescued it from a garden shed with 3100miles. It has 8200 miles now. I love my Deuce! It fits my body size perfect. It really is like riding a couch!! Bone stock with V&H big shots. Soft tails have a twin cam B engine. No shaking.. Mine does NOT potato. It idles bam bam, like a beating war drum. 😆

[@kyleyork1212]

My dad has a 2008 Softail custom anniversary edition he hasn't rode in 3 yrs and has a grand total of 3,553 miles on the clock. Been trying to get that in my garage for a while now

[@jthfaith3573]

Still have my 98 soft tail custom with python 3 pipes over size cam it is awesome My wife and I have been riding together for over 40 years and the 98 is still our favorite bike

[@thelost_woods]

Current softails just don't have the same vibe as these older ones. Hoping soon we stop the black out craze and go back to the chromed out 70s inspired feel

[@Wooley689]

Been riding since 1973, never was in to all the skull stuff either, it was to shock the citizens, but became main stream. Be just like every ship in the harbor flying a Jolly Roger, after awhile it becomes ho hum laughable.

[@michaelmcginnis9029]

I agree with you hate the skull and spike stuff that is a beautiful bike wouldnt mind that eather. That or the fat boy with fuel injection is what id like. God bless see ya on the next one

[@jeffjohnson4664]

HD Nerfed the Softail in 07. They put a 66 tooth sprocket on the rear and 32 tooth drive sprocket to get more milage. If you want to really "wake up" an FXSTC.... Put a 30tooth sprocket up front and a 70 tooth on the rear.....hello 13% more torque. I own two of these....both 08's....on for around town and one for highway....modded the around town and it is fun to drive...but it will suck down more fuel.

[@billbowyer8745]

God bless brother, what are those gloves again? Thanks

[@jayteesgear]

I LOVE these and Ive had the Sons of Anarchy elitists tell me it wouldnt be cool to ride one. Well guess what im 44 and dont give a sh&t

[@danmaltby3271]

what do you use to talk and record wehile you ride, I have. ago pro, and do videos but cant hear yself, do you do it ridden, or do you ad lib the talking after?

[@chiefXofXsinners]

I have a 1997 Softail Custom with 81,000 miles on it! Evo was a hell of an engine!

[@simonh5110]

I’m looking at a 97 right now!

[@dougturngren5027]

I have a 2000 FXST, with the 88in motor, that I have a cam and a super E carb on it, runs and rides great, has good power and the handling is awesome, also mustang seat with a backrest, can ride it all day

[@robertmoore1123]

Ok I have a question for you . I'm only asking your opinion. I have a sporster 883 it's the first bike in 25 years . But the next step up what do you think would be better . Lowrider s, sport glide , street Bob for every day riding and long rides ? All opinions appreciated and respected. Thanks in advance . Not wanting yo run around at a 150 mph but like power if I want or need it .

[@priestharis1565]

Best looking Harley EVER

[@DLSWV]

👍😉. My 1996 Softail custom all stock was my favorite bike. Only had Eagle stick on gas cap emblems. And was red. 😉

[@mikemcguire7579]

Words of Wisdom 👍

[@tims72demon]

I’ve got a back rest on mine. It’s great. I’m too old for the rice rockets.

[@airsoftsnipes100]

i just got a 92 on trade for a piece of equipment, it sat in a barn winterized for ten years so it runs perfect but i really gotta tear it apart to clean everything. It has a screaming eagle kit on it so it flys

[@jackthebass2]

With some risers and a saddleman seat and that thing would look sweet. This is for sure a Harley I would get

[@ricb123]

Is it possible to make their look more modern e.g. change out rear fender?

[@aaronstanley35]

Is bike sold yet? Where can I find your listings

[@marvinr5054]

A good buddy of mine had a 07 like that and it was the first year of the 96 inch motor and the 6 speed gear box. His was slow as heck. even after changing the exhaust putting in a stage 1 air cleaner and a power comander My 2002 Duece with the Tc88 inch motor would beat the snot out of it when I would race. He finally got rid of it only after 2 yrs not sure why though. Shame because it really was good looking. Thanks for the video.

[@jameslaperouse3976]

The skulls Pay tribute to My man and friend Willie G

[@tonymarcos8640]

Is this a good starter bike?

[@vicsponjr]

Softails are the best riding Harleys. I have a 2009 Custom and a 2008 Heritage. I rode Dynas and Touring bikes for over 10 years and I was always trying to lower the seat height ( I have a 30” inseam) and soften the ride. Softails have a lower seat height and much smoother ride.

[@benstayskal9804]

Hey Sean, what do you think about a 1998 Softail custom? I found a good deal on one and have heard great things about them. It has some engine health sort of mods to it, but other than that it’s pretty close to stock.

[@benstayskal9804]

Oh and it’s got nearly 40,000 miles.

I think I would prefer to have a bit more rubber up front to help with braking all that weight.

[@joehendricks6355]

I own one and I love the bike. The fx softail is very comfortable to ride. Sorry but mine is skulled out and all chromed up. Sorry but I think it looks awesome that way. It runs like a clock. But I had to put alot of money into the motor 1 because of the chain guides. So while I was in there we redid the whole motor and compensator. Extremely dependable bike now. Would go cross country with no worries. Harleys can be extremely dependable if you take care of the factory defects. Maybe someday Harley will start building reliable bikes out of the factory. If you think your Harley does not have defects either you have not been around Harleys long enough or you have not ridden yours long enough. My suggestion is to look up your defects for your model and year and correct them and you will have a great bike. Don't wait until it blows up, then you are buying a new motor with the same issues. IE twice the money.

[@13AAC]

Love the videos fellas !!

[@demetriuscooksey7147]

I agree. Skulls, spikes, and tassels are tacky. Equivalent to having a disco ball or fuzzy dice hanging from the rear view mirror of your car.

[@trfmcdeathwish4312]

That's a good looking bike man grtz from Belgium

[@eshaanreza832]

Is this bike for beginners?

[@TiK2theToK]

My old man passed away and left me his ‘99 softail FXST. The only mods im doing is led lights, I want hard saddles no leather , I siwtched out the stock 2 seater seat to a solo seat , and I want apes at some point.

[@vladimirpopovic8136]

What a bike, I love it

[@DonutLord32]

Man that's one sweet sounding ride. If j ever had the funds to get one I would

[@subotica1974]

Hi Sean, awesome video, got a question I bought 2000 HD Deuce and iy has sticker on his Air filter 95Cubbic what is this? is this upgraded from 88cubic, dealer i got bike from was telling me its 88cubic with stage one just want to know if you think someone just put sticker or its posible to replace engine it has only 9900km oo btw I am in Canada Alberta

[@Srkcycles]

I believe it was also a factory upgrade to put a 95 ci in those bikes. Not very common hD also made a 95 ci fat boy to celebrate an anniversary.

[@subotica1974]

@@Srkcycles i supposedly have stage 1 but not sure why bike is prety slow to me and is my bike 4 speed or 6 anyone nows

[@georgerobinson9275]

An old sleeping bag makes a great backrest as well!