Test Riding 2016 Slim S Harley-Davidson: Review

[@wayneneary2321]

that dull green with the trims of black is really an awesome color scheme !

[@wayneneary2321]

Im not a fan of newer bikes but the slim style soft tails definitely catch my eye lately

[@taffymarsden]

The most intelligent and articulate road test I've seen. Really useful and I'm convinced. Placing an order tomorrow. Thanks!

[@jasonbreedlove495]

Matt, I know this is many years after this after release of the video and Slim s. I was able to finally pick one up back in Dec. It's becoming my daily driver and replaces the 2015 Slim I sold before a deployment. Again, really enjoy your reviews and opinions on the bikes.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Congrats man. Enjoy. I always like that paint.

[@bdog961]

Just took one over, had 1000+ miles on it? Funnest damn bike I ever had! It goes buddy!!! Great review.

[@scottherring8987]

Bought one with the olive paint. Stage one. 201y6. Had it for2 months. Like it a lot. Runs good and handles good. Looks great. Bobber. Had shovels. Twin cams. This bike im keeping. Its a lot different than a lot of em. Lucky ive got a 2012 ultra limited. So im very happy with harley Davidson. Like all kinds had em. But these two will be may last.

[@Waelaboulmagd]

great review. touched on all the relevant points. as an owner of a 2014 softail slim would just add that the handling of this bike is amazing due to the extremely slim rear tire. Again, Thanks for an excellent review

[@MattLaidlaw]

+Wael Aboulmagd Good point. I agree with you. Thanks for watching.

[@frosty116]

Great job on the review, I'm debating between the soft tail slim,and the street bob.

[@strix2035]

I enjoyed our talk, thank you. I get you like Harley's but you really need to open your eyes there is a whole world of motorcycles out there doing better things. Thanks again for the talk.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Like - wise. I've ridden more motorcycles in my life then you ever will. But, yes, great talk.

[@willsmit2848]

Excellent review. You capture the style and spirit, and the performance that has got me hooked on this machine, went and looked at one this weekend in Oakland. Your riding style looks very similar to mine such as how you negotiate traffic/splitting, and I like how nimble the bike seems to be even though its a big machine. What a fantastic machine this is! I am sold.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thank you for watching. Congrats on getting one in advance.

[@frednouvertne4216]

Nice review. I would like to buy HD again, however, the flywheels in the twincam engine are inferior to the EVO engine. I road tested the Slim S and I am impressed with the 110 mill. However, i am not prepared to tear the engine down after the warranty wears off to correct a problem that Harley should be addressing in the first place. I have owned two Harleys. The last one was an 86 883. I bought the third production model. Put 75k on it over 7 years. I toured it and used it as a commuter in NYC. I was impressed over the build quality over my previous 79 XLCH ironhead. I am thinking of buying an older, used Softail, and replacing the mill with an S&S. I can go over the rest of the bike and have a machine like the Slim S. Finally, I like the new Roadster. With a bar change, rearsets, performance exhaust and air cleaner it should be a sweet ride. Also would change the seat. Thanks again!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy Riding.

[@RedMephis]

This is the best Harley I've owned, to date. Can't believe I ever doubted getting one... I'd prefer pegs, instead of floorboards though.

[@jefferystephen216]

does the foot pegs increases the lean angle?

[@RedMephis]

Jeffery Stephen Yes. Because they're smaller, you can lean into the road more.

[@jefferystephen216]

Novus Kahn Ty for the reply. What kind of foot pegs do you recommend? Any photos?

[@RedMephis]

I'm currently using these -- www.harley-davidson.com/store/large-cushioned-footpeg-kit

[@pmh1nic]

Excellent review! I've got 2015 Street Bob with stage 1 (V&H Slash Cut mufflers, Big Sucker intake and V&H FP3 tuner) and the bike pulls strong right from idle so the 110ci must really be a blast. Thanks for sharing the right and info

[@MattLaidlaw]

+pmh1nic Thanks for watching. 2015 Street Bob is a cool bike. Enjoy.

[@bobmccoy4652]

I enjoyed your review of this bike!! You listed a few of the types of riders you'd recommend this bike to. My question is, would you recommend the Softtail Slim S to a first time rider?

[@mr.papalaka374]

This bike will be my 1st Harley. Question: Would you rate the 110 better than the new Milwaukee 8?

[@tabaccoal1970]

I really like your reviews I bought a soft tail slim s 2017 just because of your review on this bike it was either this or the 2017 road king special but I ended up getting the softail slim s because I mostly ride and commute A to B in the city but once a month I do ride 220 miles to my other home and back so it's technically 440 miles lol but anyways because I'm 5,9 and weigh 148 to 150 and the fact that I also mostly had rice rockets growing up I felt more comfortable and felt this bike was a more balance fit for me compared to the road king special.

[@Neocleese]

I loved that ride through your facility on The Slim. Very impressed with your riding and your place of work. Thank you for the video. Harley needs to bring back The Night Train, Softail Custom and The Deuce to The Softail family.

[@MattLaidlaw]

+Clint Young Thanks. Let's just say I'm well-practiced after riding through there everyday. I agree, I think the Night Train would be awesome to bring back. That bike was ahead of it's time.

[@boring5718]

Only problems I have with the Slim S is the license plate placement, and the footboards, but I can always just but a license plate relocation kit and I've been told that the FL Softail Foward Control Kit should fit just fine.

[@AbogadongKalye]

Awesome review as always! Anyhow, I need help purchasing my first Harley (and first cruiser for that matter). I ride a Ducati, actually, but I've always been drawn to the raw-classic look of (pre-2018) Harley-Davidson bikes. I love the looks of the (2017 and earlier) Fat Bob, Fat Boy S, and Softail Slim S. I'm 6'0" and I weigh 180 lbs. That said, would you recommend the Softail Slim S for my height and build? In your opinion, which between the Slim S and the Fat Boy S has better handling? I thank you in advance for your response. All the best!

[@bikeknight54]

Hey, Matt. Great review as usual. Can you replace the lowered shocks with standard height to make the Slim ride more like a Fat Boy?

[@robertplank6284]

Finally! A good review!

[@MattLaidlaw]

+Bob Plank Thanks and thanks for watching.

[@DizzyDog303]

Awesome video I was stuck between deciding on getting this bike or the lowrider and after riding the lowrider it won me over thanks for the review

[@lovingmylifeasIage6741]

I test road a Slim and it fit me very well. I might have gotten it except I couldn't reach the kick stand to get it up. I have a 28" inseam and loved the low seat hight. I have owned a soft tail Deuce and road it from Kentucky out to Montana twice. I had to get air shocks for it and a wind shield first though. It had 59k miles on it and I never had a minute of problems with it. Love the looks but I'm also spoiled with my 08" Street Glide now.

[@MattLaidlaw]

The kick-stand issue is no problem. There are kick-stand extenders.

[@larente203]

Great damn review. I'm looking to switch over from my 2012 ninja zx6r. I'm a short rider. Been looking to get 1 of these, still doing my research. I heard to go with at least 2018 and up.

[@ncklara21]

Will you ever do a video on the personal bikes that you own like walk arounds, start ups, revs, and updates

[@MattLaidlaw]

+Nick Lara Yes, I will. Very soon

[@RM-rj6gp]

Really enjoyed the review, I'm looking for all of that in a bike, and it's prefect, now my questions are that I'm 6'1 200 pounds, and if would I would fit well, and it would be my first bike, and I'd it would do alright at me getting used to it. thanks.

[@MattLaidlaw]

I always tell people that Harley designs their bikes for people that are 6 feet tall. That's a nice bike for your first one! Yes, it's low to the ground and easy to handle. You should do fine. Enjoy.

[@daileywarren7202]

That was a really good review. Well done!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Glad I could help

[@vikingmanagement8556]

Great review. I am curious to know how it's performance with the 110 stacks up against the stock dyna's and especially the sportsters. Is it faster than the sportster 1200's?

[@MattLaidlaw]

+viking management Yes, the 110 CI bike is a lot faster than the Sportster. The 1200cc is a 74 Cubic inch motor. of Course the Sportster weighs about about 100lbs less which helps but the 110 will kill a Sportster. It is also faster than a stock Dyna. The Dyna has a 103 CI and the bikes weigh about the same. The Dynas will perform a little better in the corners because they have a larger lean angle available and narrower tires.

[@barkeater8733]

just bought the slim s. so far I love it. still breaking it in. the only problem is after reading some of the blogs in the hd forums it puts down the 110 engine. alot of it was tech talk, but a lot of questions were brought up and now has me concerned.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Benjamin Zink The HD forums are littered with so called "experts" who fill them with a lot of bad information. If you're concerned at all get the Extended service plan and ride it and enjoy it.

[@dianascott6147]

iam 5"5.i wasent going cross country but like a 2 to 3 hr trip it's awesome and looks sharp too

[@derp119]

What would be the best thing to do of I wanted the look of a standard slim, but wanted the motor of a slim s, ABS really isn't a big deal, and I'd prefer not having it, if anything, but I've seen on Harleys website that you can upgrade the 110ci, to like a 113ci, but you can't upgrade the 103, to 113, even after purchasing the bolt on kit to make the 103ci a 110ci

[@roxer4life77]

cool review man love the bike i want to get one, Hows the seat comfort? Also is the stock bike a Keyless ignition? I never saw you put a key in or take it out

[@MattLaidlaw]

+Justin Barnow Awesome man. The seat is not that comfortable. It's built for "looks" more than comfort. Once the bike is unlocked and the key fob is in range than, yes, it's keyless ignition. The key stays in your pocket. You need the fob to be within range when starting it.

[@newalex1970]

thanks for the great information I'm reading everything I can on both bike . but it always good to ask someone who has ride both bikes . will you be doing a video on the Dayna Wide Glide ? thanks from NYC .

[@MattLaidlaw]

+alexander melendez I probably won't be in the near future.

[@leland4831]

I'm 6' 7" about 285 but I love this bike. I'm looking to get one for short runs and an occasional commute of 20 miles one way to work. already figured a spring seat and tall bars. What's your take on this bike for me?

[@MattLaidlaw]

You're obviously a big guy. Your knees will be a little above the tank when you ride with the stock floor boards. If you change the bars to make them taller then that will make the profile of the bike fit your frame a little better. As a second bike for you it might be okay. So a guy your size I would recommend a touring chassis bike though.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Yes, You can easily get a passenger seat on there and a sissy bar. You Can put a little taller shocks in the suspension to increase the ground clearance. This will help increase the lean angle a bit.

[@sirtooby]

Thanx for the review, very good.

[@marymadeiras294]

Question: should I purchase a 2017 Slim S? or wait for Harley to bring Milwaukee Eight engine into the Dynas and Softails? Im a previous softail owner..love them

[@MattLaidlaw]

Mary Madeiras That's a tough question. That's something you'll have to decide yourself.

[@newalex1970]

great video. I'm looking into my fist HD .but love the Slim S & the Dyna Wide Glide . what's your take between the two ? hello from NYC

[@MattLaidlaw]

The Slim is on the Softail Chassis. It had the "B" motor (counter balanced). Wide glide is on the Dyna chassis With the rubber mounted motor. Wide Glide has more of a rake to the front end. Do your home work on the two different frames. Both good bikes. Wide Glide is going to have a slightly more forgiving ride at high way speeds. Slim has a lower seat height.

[@MattLaidlaw]

+zeallistic of course the Slim S has the 110 motor as opposed to the 103 inch on the wideglide. So, significantly more power from the Slim S. You're also probably paying about 4 grand more for the slim S.

[@oleestarstoneswg]

Hello Mr.Laidlaw. I'd like to first say thank you for your wonderful reviews. Currently I'm stuck between a 2016/17 softail slim and a 2008 xbones. How much differently do the two ride in your opinion? Do you think either of these bikes will suite me as my first bike? I'm somewhat limited in choice OEM as I'm 5'6/150lbs. Thank you for any insight you can provide.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Eli Strukely they ride significantly different. The cross bones had a higher seat height because of the sprung seat. The front end is very cool and nostalgic but doesn't handle high speed twisties as good as the slim. The cross bones is just nostalgic and bad ass. It's a pure cruiser though.

[@oleestarstoneswg]

Matt Laidlaw Awesome, thanks man! Keep on doing what you're doing, I think you're helping a lot of people out.

[@ashten92]

Great review man,very informative, what I would like to know is does the fat boy s have better ground clearance then the slim? or is it pretty much the same? you were barley turning and it scraped.ouch. And thanks again,I will be sure to like and subscribe.

[@MattLaidlaw]

+freddy fuss I appreciate it. To answer your question, the ground clearance is the same on either bike.

[@ashten92]

So foward controls should help with that right?

[@MattLaidlaw]

Yes, Forward controls should raise the lean angle slightly.

[@rodolfogarcia3344]

I'm interested in the softail slim. But my only concern is that I will be too big for it. I stand 6ft tall and I weigh 285lbs. I love the look of the bike. Let me know what you think. Thanks.. By the way you where cruising through my neighborhood.

[@DeusExHonda]

I've got one, I'm 265, 6'1", and it's a great fit.

[@frankieh9233]

CAN you please make a test ride / review of the 2016 Iron 883 ? please i wanna get the bike but not sure 2015 or 16 .. is it worth the price !! please ?

[@MattLaidlaw]

Sure I'll post a video as soon as I can. But just so you know, the 2016 has better rear suspension, better seat, and new graphics etc. it's a better bike. Go with the 2016

[@CamelKSA]

good job ... I'm really confused regarding this bike ... not sure yet if it worths it or not . I was thinking of trading my Electra glide 2009 with this bike ... please note that I have a heritage softail 2012 as well.

[@ALEXdaG]

I had an 07 bmw r1200 gsa and hated the hydraulic clutch with a passion. Could never get clean shifts. Cringe. I hope Harley does it better

[@khalilismyname]

loved the review.. just a quick question, you said the cruise control option is only available to 2016 bikes. Reason being that they are throttle by wire, but would it not be possible to change the throttle system on 2015 to a throttle by wire?

[@MattLaidlaw]

+Khalil Al Janahi Good question. I'm sure you probably could if you wanted to spend the money and found someone willing to do it. It wouldn't be cost effective though. The short answer is "no" it isn't a simple, straightforward fix

[@khalilismyname]

+zeallistic I thought as much thay it wouldn't be a plug and play option for us 2015 owners. Thanks for the update..

[@trishmcd1986]

I heard you say the slim s is not a canyon carver. So what harleys would you recommend for a 5'6" woman? This is the bike I was looking to upgrade from my iron 883, but I live in the mountains. I need a bike that can handle the twisties

[@scottseo9611]

Fantastic review!! I see many Softail Slim owners lower their Slim 1"-2" in the rear to give it that slammed look. On Softail S, would lowering the rear affect lean angle where it will scrape the pegs constantly? Also, does Slim S comes with factory battery charging plug? Thanks

[@MattLaidlaw]

+SCOTT SEO Yes, lowering the bike will lessen the available lean angle. On my first turn in this video I scraped the floor boards. The bike is a factory lowered Softail, much like the Deluxe. I NEVER recommend lowering this bike. You will compromise the ride and functionality. The only time I would lower it is if the bike was used primarily for shows and you wanted that "slammed" look. No, the battery lead is not installed at the factory. A lot of dealers will put it on at setup like my dealer.

[@Madcatdave]

I loved the review. I was going to get this bike but I would be riding long distances alot so would you suggest a fatboy for long distance riding?? Also it's very funny the dealer you work at is close to where I used to live. I was in West Covina. I would always come in to the dealer and dream of getting harlydavison.

[@MattLaidlaw]

For long distance get a touring chassis bike.

[@robertmorgan9242]

Matt Laidlaw indian would be a good choice

[@LivingTheLifeRetired]

Hi, great video. You probably cannot answer all comments, but what is the big difference between a Softail Slim S and a Fatboy S. I am on the market to buy a new bike (currently a BMW K1200S owner). The fellow at the dealership said he would recommend the Softail Slim S over the FBS but then again he only had a Slim in stock. Thanks and great video.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thank you. Sorry about the delayed response. Really they are both softails on the same chassis. Your decision should mostly be based on which one's cosmetics you prefer. The Fat boy S has the fatter rear tire. The seat is a little taller and more comfortable. You have more options with the fatboy has far as saddle bags and back rests for passenger. The slim is a very retro, post-world-war II era stylized bike. Both are cool. They are going to perform and handle very similar. same engine. etc

[@stefaneberle2267]

thank you for the review. how tall are you ? as you mentioned, it is ok for a rear passenger ? i really want to buy on but feel that i may have to add bar raisers on.. different seat.. i am 6.1 thank you for your experienced feedback

[@MattLaidlaw]

Stefan Eberle I'm 6'6''. Pretty dang tall. The bike doesn't come with a passenger seat or pegs. You can buy the small pillion Harley has for the bike or you can get a new seat altogether and get a 2-up seat. There is also a passenger back rest you can buy. Then just buy some passenger pegs

[@SwayzeGray]

@@MattLaidlaw I'm 6'4" about 200 pounds. I've tried to catch up in the comments if this has been covered. This would be my first bike (looking at one online for sale, a 2016). Would this be a comfortable fit for me? Curious since it's my first bike, what price would you pay for a 2016 stock with less than 3,000 miles? Great review and thank you!

[@beecherspreacher5392]

thats a beautiful bike.

[@harley-davidsonofkokomosal4092]

awesome video and insight! Maybe I missed it, but I would recommend making sure people know your name and what dealership you are at, as well as a phone number or email address.

[@nietsnief]

Since it already has the stage 1 on it, does it still need to be remapped once an aftermarket exhaust is installed?

[@MattLaidlaw]

+Edward Feinstein it depends on the exhaust. If it's a full system then you'll need a tuner and a re-map. If you're just replacing mufflers then you won't need to.

[@strix2035]

The bike looks great ! I would say better in person, but with a price tag near 20k I don't think it's worth it. We are over paying for paint and the 110. Harley in general need to come down on there prices. Let's face it we let them over charge us for there name.

[@MattLaidlaw]

+strix2035 This is a popular thing to say and I disagree. If you put a Harley-Davidson next to a competing model it's very easy to see that Harley-Davidson's quality is a lot better. Everything from the quality of materials to the paint and finish on everything. The price of a Harley is really not that much more than say a yamaha V-Star, victory, triumph etc. That being said their cost for the 110 inch motor vs the 103 CI motor is not proportionate to the increase in MSRP. However you get more than just the motor. You get Cruise control, hydraulic clutch, and a bunch of blacked -out components. I feel like the price is very fair for what you get. Also Harley-Davidsons hold their value Way better than other makes I have mentioned. Bottom line: they ARE NOT just charging for the name. I don't care what anyone says.

[@strix2035]

Like I said it's 7k more then the victory gunner that has a more reliable (106) yes like I said the paint and Finnish is nicer on the Harley, but that's where it ends. It will not out perform or outlast before a problem comes before the victory or Yamaha that you mentioned. Sorry that's just a fact.

[@MattLaidlaw]

+strix2035 Sorry that's not a fact. Harley-Davidson has had some reliability problems in its distant past but for some reason people still think that's the case 40 years later. Harley-Davidsons are extremely reliable. Bottom line, you get what you pay for. The Slim S will out perform, outlast, and maintain its value a lot better than a victory Gunner will.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thanks man. Thanks for the comment.

[@JerryWhatshisface]

A little confused. So all 2016 Slims have throttle-by-wire. Do all Slims (including the 103B) have hydraulic clutches?

[@MattLaidlaw]

+Jerry Whatshisface All Softail models in the 2016 model year have throttle-by-wire. Only the "S" series bikes in the softail line-up have the Hydraulic clutch as well. So the SLIM S and the FatBoy S have it.

[@JerryWhatshisface]

zeallistic Thanks for clearing that up.

[@o.h.d.4516]

Do you know if you can put pegs from the Breakout on it. I thought the bike was great expect the floorboards...You can't lean the bike which makes no sense on the motorcycle......Thanks and really likes your videos.

[@MattLaidlaw]

There is no easy quick install kit that Harley sells. There's always a way with enough know how and $$ though.

[@sawsickness]

Wonder if it could keep up with my 1200 Yamaha Vmax??

[@gut69wrench]

You have any feedback on the 2016 Fatboy S?

[@MattLaidlaw]

Yes I do kzbin.info/www/bejne/gnTVpY2Qm5qosKM

[@izzojoseph2]

Matt, I've heard that the floorboards scrape quite a bit. Then, that's been countered with "Learn to lean". What's your take?

[@MattLaidlaw]

Joseph Izzo Yea, the bike is low and the boards will scrape will any type of hard lean angle. After riding it for awhile you learn the bikes limits. Bottom line is you just can't ride really fast through the turns and get aggressive. The comment "learn to lean" is B.S. Most guys that ride these hard just accept the fact that they scrape and get enjoyment out of it. If your looking for a canyon-Carver bike then this isn't the one for you.

[@izzojoseph2]

Cool, thanks. I wasn't learning for a 'canyon carver' but I did want to hear what you had to say - whether it was guys that were screwing up or they really did scrap. Not too worried, if that gets to me I can always switch to pegs and add the extended shock for a bit more clearance. Either way, I get that it's a touring bike but I've heard more about scraping with the slim. Thanks so much for your response. Your review was really fantastic.

[@fililoboesparza5784]

So Matt on the Softail Slim S any new changes or upgrades for 2017.

[@MattLaidlaw]

No, the bike is the same for 2017

[@fililoboesparza5784]

+zeallistic Thanks for getting back on the info for the 2017 Slim S..

[@krisgreen8795]

How does the SE117 kit performance differ from the 110? Is it really that much more powerful better on short freeway rides with a passenger? Or is the new Milwaukee eight the better way to go all the way around? Looking for a new Harley road king or softail s..... which is the better option for all around performance? I'm just planning on short freeway trips and around town rides with the wife thanks again for your response.

[@MattLaidlaw]

The 117 Inch kit is a very noticeable power increase. The Milwaukee 8 has more benefits other than just power over a Twin cam 103. It runs cooler, less vibration (if you care about that), new clutch, new suspension in 2017 touring bikes, better charging system, Less mechanical noise (if you care about that). If you plan on riding with the wife you and her will be more comfy on a Road king compared to a Slim. A Slim S is a great stipped-down-go-fast solo rider bike.

[@louisturner7716]

Hi Matt - Reviving an older video here but I was wondering if there were any differences within the short production lifespan of the Softail Slim S. ie. between the MY16 and MY17 models. Thanks

[@MattLaidlaw]

No, exactly the same bike.

[@TheVirtualFuture-By-WB]

Considering... The one Im looking at has tall APEs though.. Not sure I will like the handling

[@matrox]

Please do a review on the Silent Grey Fellow.

[@MattLaidlaw]

+matrox Who is the Silent Grey Fellow?

[@newalex1970]

thanks . should I be concerned about the narrow Wheel on the Wilde glide ? and how's the handling ? and I be 80% city and 20% Highways on weekends .would the wheel hold up to NYC streets ? thanks from NYC

[@MattLaidlaw]

+alexander melendez a Narrower wheel like the one on the wide glide will not absorb road grooves and imperfections like the fatter, thicker tire on the slim. The raked out front end takes away from the handling slightly. It's done for style not so much function. So if you're going down the road and hitting rain grooves etc you'll feel them a lot less with the Slim tire than the Wide Glide. For tight city riding I would prefer the Slim functional-wise. But also take into account your style preference - you are getting a Harley

[@lawrencelim6481]

i would like to listen to the exhaust sound of this model.

[@7heRedBaron]

I ride a 2010 Dyna with a 96 ci engine. With simple exhaust and intake modifications and re-tuning with a Power Vision (stock cams), I have achieved significant power increases beyond any of my original hopes. I have not dyno tested it, so I cannot discuss hard numbers. But my general feeling after riding one of the Fat Boy S models recently is that my bike isn't anywhere near outrun by the stock Fat Boy. You are obviously very experienced with many Harley models and configurations. My question is, do you believe the better value for riders is still in upgrading their existing bikes if they have not, or that this bike in it's stock configuration already exceeds what anyone can hope to achieve in their older bikes with modest upgrades?

[@MattLaidlaw]

+7heRedBaron The bikes come very "De-tuned" from the factory for reliability and emission reasons. With intake, exhaust, and a tuner on a 96CI your bike is not going to put up close numbers to the 110CI. Where you'll see this the most is at higher speeds. Harley's all have great torque so from 0-40 on a test ride you're not going to feel a huge dramatic difference. Did you just take a casual test ride on the FAT Boy S? What speeds did you get up to? What RPMS did you get up to? The bike doesn't produce it's max torque until about 3,700 RPMS. You're going to feel the biggest power discrepancy from 50 MPH - 80 MPH. The 110 will really out pull your 96 with the modest upgrades you have done. Now if you did heads and cams that would be a different story. That being said the 110CI is detuned as well and can be "livened" up with a few motor mods as well.

[@ansuman732]

Wish to seek some information and advice..Currently, which HD bike has the fattest tank and the longest in length??..Is it possible to lower the seat height on fat boy as compared to fat boy lo??..Can 240mm tires be installed in a fat boy slim s and lastly what's the difference between fat boy,fat boy lo & fat boy slim S in terms of design and engine performance though it looks almost the same to me..

[@MattLaidlaw]

+ansuman732 The fattest tank is found on any touring chassis bike. It's H-D's 6 gallon tank. The longest chassis is, again, the touring chassis. The Fatboy comes with the full height softail suspension. The Fatboy Lo is the lowered socks found on bikes like the Deluxe and Slim. So you could install those lower shocks on the Fatboy standard to give it the Lo height. There are after market options to lower the Fatboy Lo even further, although I would not recommend it. No, the 240mm rear tire cannot be installed on the stock Slim unless you replace the whole rear-end (swing arm and fender). There is no such bike as a fatboy slim S. Those are two different bikes. The 3 bikes you mentioned above are similar in the fact that they are all softails. Beyond that they have different cosmetics. The Fatboy Lo uses more blacked-out components. The Fatboy standard uses more chrome. The Lo has lowered shocks and gives it a lowered seat height. The Slim S has a 110 inch motor which is a significant power increase.

[@gatesb7757]

Nice review. Just curious could this bike be had without the floorboards? Would this slightly increase the lean angle? Also wondering about the fit of the wide tank and a reduce reach seat. Could you put one on this bike? Thanks.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Harley doesn't offer any kit that replaces the floor boards with pegs. I'm sure there is an aftermarket kit of some kind though. It won't increase the lean angle much. This bike is a factory lowered bike. Replacing suspension would increase the lean more than anything.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Because of the rear-end this bike requires a different seat than most other softails. It shares the same seat fitment as the FXS Blackline that is now discontinued. I believe they might have a reduced reach seat for this bike but the seat height is already one of the lowest you can buy

[@gatesb7757]

+zeallistic thanks appreciate the reply!

[@VitalSignAndGraphicsCo]

Harley floorboard to forward control kit for this bike and the fatboy. www.harley-davidson.com/store/fl-softail-forward-control-kit

[@JennyChampagnecovers]

I've watched so many H-D videos, at first because a friend of mine is a manager in one of UT, H-D dealership and I've been ''daydreaming'' about riding one someday mostly because of her and her passion that did influence me and got me curious. My motorcycle instructor made me sit on ... I can't remember what H-D bike it was, but the girl riding it was even shorter than me (4'10''); I'm 4'11''. How's that even possible? What H-D could be small enough for short girls who weight 105 pounds?? It was definitely an old H-D, but that's all I remember. And just so you know: don't judge, but I just bought a 2014 Spyder ST cause I'm too short and small for anything else (what I was told anyway). But although I surprisingly fell in love with my fat baby (+ I plan on riding the route 66 with it because of safety and comfort), I keep thinking about riding a H-D someday, but more of a city bike, such as the Slim S. Should I just stop hoping for such a day and get into the mourning mode and start going through the ''acceptance'' stage? Thanks in advance for responding! Hello from Québec, Canada

[@MattLaidlaw]

+Jenny Champagne Your height does make things a bit difficult. With your weight too, it would probably difficult for you to handle a heavy cruiser like a Harley-Davidson as well. Have you ever tried sitting on a Street 500? They are lighter and I think you could probably handle the weight of it. However, it still make be too tall of a bike. A few things that can be done to help you touch the ground better: Wear a thick soled boot, change the seat to a lower profile, put on lower shocks. There is always the Harley-Davidson trike as well.

[@JennyChampagnecovers]

I looked up the street 500 on youtube and I've read some really good feedback comments. I think I'm just gonna sit on one, just to see how much more is needed for me to touch the ground and be safe. I went on a H-D website to see how much lower it can get with a lower profile seat as you said and looks like with the original seat it's about 25 inches from the ground and with the one I looked up it does'nt say how many inches. But I have hope. Mostly if I do everything you mentionned to make it possible for me to ride one. Thanks a lot for the information!

[@NikolausLamb]

Subbed! Are you going to test ride the Fat Boy S?

[@MattLaidlaw]

+neovirusII Yes, as soon as Harley-Davidson will ship some of them. No one has them yet.

[@NikolausLamb]

+zeallistic Thanks for the reply. Do you know when they will release the 2016 models?

[@MattLaidlaw]

+neovirusII The 2016 models have been released already. It's been a little over a month now. The Fatboy S was just slightly delayed on the shipping for some reason.

[@NikolausLamb]

+zeallistic You guys are still lucky though. They don't release the 2016 models until the 2nd Quarter of 2017 over here.

[@monnemann]

What do you think of a 187cm guy on a sportster?

[@oldsoldier8139]

Harley must increase their 103ci at a minimum to a standard 110ci. The Indian 111 Power Plant is impressive and has incredible torque.

[@MattLaidlaw]

+Old Soldier I think they are going that way. We will see. It seems that they are paving the way with "S" series this year.

[@oldsoldier8139]

Cross your fingers

[@ARegularGuy24]

I'm 6'1 240 is this bike not a good fit for me? I really love the look of it and would be first harley. Sold my R1 4 years ago.

[@MattLaidlaw]

It would fit you fine. The bigger question I would ask is what kind of riding do you plan on doing? Lots of distance highway riding - there are better options. Around town local stuff - you'll love it.

[@ARegularGuy24]

thank you for replying..just one more question if I could. could I replace or move the floorboards to eliminate the scraping? sorry I'm a new harley guy.

[@ARegularGuy24]

a second question..would it be a suitable for the wife unit to ride on around town and maybe a hour or so on the highway. thanks again. love your channel

[@MattLaidlaw]

ARegularGuy24 the wife unit. Lol 😂. You'd have to buy a passenger seat or a two-up seat. The passenger pillion isn't comfortable. The two up seat is a lot better. That will get you around town for an hour or so. It also depends on her size etc.

[@MattLaidlaw]

ARegularGuy24 Not really. You can replace the floor boards but it isn't going to help increase the lean angle much either way. It's a low bike period.

[@robertweeks7993]

do the baggers have more lean angle then softails?

[@adamclark94]

What is the clearance of this bike? I have a big bump at the end of my driveway and would be so pissed bringing this home and getting it stuck on my driveway haha. currently have a honda aero it clears it easily looking for a bigger ride. loved the roadking but want a bike more for rides closer to home. also liked the sportster 1200 but I'm only 5'8 and couldn't touch flat on it so didn't like that. honestly want something bigger than the 1200 too so I want a midsized like this bike. it's got all the power of a touring bike but feel of a cruiser

[@MattLaidlaw]

+Adam Clark Based on the criteria you're looking for I think this would be a perfect fit. I'm not sure of the clearance but I honestly don't think It would be a problem.

[@adamclark94]

+zeallistic ok thanks much appreciated

[@electricritual4197]

I completely disagree with this guy about a Softail not being comfortable. I have progressive shocks front and rear on mine. It rides smoother than any Streetglide, I've ever road on. It's like riding on a cloud. The Street glide and Road Glide only have one inch of travel on the rear shocks.

[@MattLaidlaw]

+Angel D So what you're saying is if you change the suspension on a Softail it's more comfortable? I don't disagree with that.

[@electricritual4197]

+zeallistic Yes, because it has more travel. However a Road King handles a lot better.

[@MattLaidlaw]

+Angel D A Road King handles a lot better than a Softail Slim? Street Glides and Road Glides have one inch of travel in the suspension? You have a lot of bad information man. Check your sources.

[@electricritual4197]

+zeallistic According to MotoUSA it has 2 inches of travel that still sucks! Yes Road King does handle better than a Softail because it has a better frame, you cannot deny that. So I was off by an inch on the travel. 2 inches of travel on a bike this expensive is nothing to brag about.

[@latinthug27]

I bought the 2016 Soft Tail Slim S and a day out from the dealership i started having issues with the ABS and Alarm light to be staying on after it starts to heat up. It has also turned off on me on a stop light as well. So have any of you been having any similar problems?

[@MrBabyrang]

no problems here.

[@MrBrianWiddison]

Really not keen on the foot boards - would forward controls help with the clearance? Is the standard exhaust system on the "S" good in terms of performance/sound? how about LEGEND air Suspension with variable ride height, could have a slammed look for when stationery and raised for riding - should help with clearance issues. Great review, first I've seen with someone actually on the bike ! very cool.

[@MattLaidlaw]

+MrBrianWiddison Thanks for watching. Yes, if you switched the foot controls to something other than the floor boards (Harley makes a forward control kit) you'll get a little better lean angle. Air ride would lift the suspension too but you do compromise the ride and performance ( mostly in turns) of the suspension when you go air ride. The Slim comes with the factory lowered softail shocks. If it were my bike, I might just put the full travel softail shocks in there like what come on the Heritage or Fatboy.

[@MrBrianWiddison]

I really like the slammed look though.......Im forever grinding out my 48. seems a pity to have all the power available but not being able to carve it up in the twists ! Thanks for getting back to me though !

[@OEFveteran2010]

Does it ride better than iron 883?

[@IAmWoody]

I love the bike, but the reason I will not buy it is what happened at 0:35. Too many Harley's have that problem with scraping at shallow lean angles. I never had that issue on my 98 Dyna Wide Glide.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Yea lowered softails don't have much of a lean angle. If you like to get it sideways in the turns then this isn't the bike.

[@dianascott6147]

great slim s

[@jefferystephen216]

If we replace the stock rear suspension with a longer suspension will it increase the lean angle?

[@MattLaidlaw]

yea, a little bit.

[@ajvass96]

Is it a good beginner bike?

[@austinberkshire9493]

Is this bike not ideal for long rides because of the seat or is it the handle bars?

[@MattLaidlaw]

You can do long rides on it - don't get me wrong. There are just better options for long rides but basically it boils down to the suspension is just okay (touring bikes are better), no storage space, lack of front wind deflection (no windshield - although you can add one).

[@1323MEDINA]

Question do you have bad farmers tan on your hands? From wearing gloves

[@MattLaidlaw]

Currently - No. Have I in the past? - Absolutely.

[@chikken_soup]

5% off the sticker price for every scrape sound fair?

[@MattLaidlaw]

+Chicken Soup That's very fair. This bike, however, belongs to the Harley-Davidson Demo Fleet. I would never scrape the boards on a new bike sold to a customer NEW.

[@scottdickerson9574]

Is this bike good for people who have never ridden a bike before?

[@MattLaidlaw]

+Scott Dickerson It's not a beginner's bike. It is low to the ground with a low center of gravity which is nice for newer riders. I'm not saying that it's impossible to learn on it but there are definitely better "learner" bikes out there.

[@tonynew2972]

Allow me to rephrase it- amateurs do things like splitting lanes, giving responsible riders a bad rap. It sends the wrong message to those that you are passing, and no matter your level of experience is dangerous because most drivers are not expecting someone to slide between them and the vehicle next to them. If you are on a motorcycle and struck by another vehicle, no matter the size, the motorcycle loses every time. So, I would contend, doing something that places unnecessary risk on you and others is an amateur move, no matter how long you have ridden or your perceived level of experience.

[@MattLaidlaw]

+Tony New It's legal in CA. Law enforcement personnel do it on a daily basis. People could argue that riding motorcycles in general is dangerous and shouldn't be done. I bet you would argue against that. Everyone has their risk/reward threshold.

[@reptileadventures3504]

does this have a key ignition to start the bikr

[@octanefreeride]

reptile life remote key fob. No key. Just have it on you, turn the knob on the tank console and start button on bars.

[@nastyforyou7342]

I have a 2016 slim 103 and a 2017 slim s 110. NO.....significant difference in speed or torque....nuf 110 from 103 = 7 nuf said. Both bikes are nevertheless fun to ride, hell yea!

[@robertmorgan9242]

Nasty forYou I have one too and I think they are quick butt slow on top end

[@drewbehr]

nice gloves... you've never crashed have you?

[@MattLaidlaw]

Countless times on a dirt bike. Once on a Harley.

[@drewbehr]

I can't believe anyone who has ever crashed a heavy bike on pavement would ride with gloves like that. Fingers and toes get ground right off first. Been riding street motorcycles for 19 years and dirt bikes before that. Been down 3 times on the street. The last one I lost all the skin on both palms. I'm just sayin some real gloves are beneficial... and sometimes not even that helps.

[@drewbehr]

And before you rip me for crashing too much... human error is unavoidable. Everyone will crash eventually. I'm a good rider, and a good driver. I drive my tractor trailer at work 140,000+ miles a year. I've gone 185mph+ on the street when I was young and dumb. My crash last year @45mph on my 250 almost lost my hands. 3 blocks away from my shop just riding up the street. Shit happens. dress for it.

[@MattLaidlaw]

+drewbehr I would never rip on someone for crashing. That just means you ride a lot and you ride hard. Thanks for commenting and watching.

[@ba5ty334]

Slim S or Fat Boy for a 6.1 tall guy?

[@david_DMP]

Reto Lehner I have the Slim S and at 5'7" I believe you would be a bit crowded.

[@robertmorgan9242]

Neither

[@strix2035]

Never owned one, I buy the motorcycle not the HOG group that comes with it ! I have ridden / rented soft tails, fatbob and the 48 and they are beautiful looking not the best bag for the buck. "Fact" and your new soft tail is looking a bit like the gunner with the blacked out engine and mat paint if I may say. I'm not trying to bash Harley just making a point there are better options for less money. Buy the HOG net don't come with it. "Fact"

[@MattLaidlaw]

+strix2035 Did you really just say the Softail is looking like the Gunner? You don't really believe H-D is taking style points from Victory do you? H-D was doing the backed out engine and matte paint Loooong before Victory. Ever heard of the Nightrain? Ever heard of Dark Custom? Nightster, Iron, etc etc. Victory is also very open about the fact they are directly trying to target some of H-D's market share by making a similar product. And I'm not trying to bash Victory either. Their motorcycles are good, just not as good as a Harley-Davidson in overall value. Sales tell the story really. All I can say is it's a good thing that Polaris makes a lot of good vehicles and they are diversified broader than their victory line. Quite frankly, I think Victory has taken a back seat in Polaris lately in Lieu of Indian. I don't understand your HOG comment.

[@strix2035]

Your just a Harley fan boy lol and it is a fact there are tones of test and articles you can read up on. Go do it before you talk.

[@MattLaidlaw]

+strix2035 I am a Haley Fan Boy, thank you. I do read the articles but what I prefer to do is ride all the bikes and listen to thousands of riders who own and ride different models and makes and listen to their feedback. After riding Victorys and taking many on trade over the years and listening to people tell me about their experiences on the bike I formulate my opinion. Let me guess, you have never actually owned a Harley-Davidson before. Have you even ridden one before? Or do you just "read up". Don't believe everything you read in magazines or on the internet.

[@liamstandish878]

air ride will fix that

[@strix2035]

Lmao!

[@davidsholem]

nothing more despicable then a rice burner Rider on a Harley! How do we know? Harley riders don't go up the alleys!!!

[@MattLaidlaw]

You're really calling me a rice burner rider?

[@strix2035]

Your cool ! And you still didn't learn anything lol

[@MattLaidlaw]

+strix2035 YOU'RE cool too. I mean a guy who chops logs in his back yard with a samurai sword. Look out!

[@wooddawg4868]

spliting lanes is stupid

[@tonynew2972]

Amateurs split lanes. Great way to give bikers s bad name.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Actually amateurs don't splits lanes. I would strongly recommend against it until you're a very seasoned rider.

[@ericheinz6087]

Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.......