The Harley Davidson scene is TRASH!

[@larryserna8834]

You "accessorized" you're bike, like 99.7% of us do. No shame.

[@Martha-r9w3i]

WHY be so nice to this arrogant hypocrite? Part of the pain. Don't let this guy off the fucking hook 🪝

[@geraldgoodiii6993]

No doubt. Big motor Suspension Bars Little things like mirrors and shit. I just did mine to look and feel how I wanted and have enough power where the bike doesn’t feel sluggish (my car is fast. So even when my bike was just a stage2 felt sloooooow The 124 feels quick .. like when a big turbo comes on in a car on wastegate .. but still I wouldn’t call it “fast” I think none of us will ever have what we feel is fast enough. Easy to adjust to the power of Great comment bro Well said

[@throttleblip9854]

No not at all. That’s all I was trying to say. Customize or accessorize. Very different thing than a build to me. Thanks for catching what I was putting down.

[@throttleblip9854]

Yeah let’s get him! 🤣

[@Mikey_556]

Perowitz is a bike builder 🤘🏼

[@floyd700]

Forget builds, does anyone actually ride their bikes anymore?

[@JP-ec9rl]

My 2018 chieftain is bone stock other than the seat and the aftermarket front rotors that were cheaper and better than the stock ones that I beat into submission. So yeah, I'm still just riding mine.

[@justin.gipson]

I have 80k miles on my softail. I'm only responsible for 20k of those, but that's 2 years worth of riding. I sold all my 4 wheeled vehicles and used my softail exclusively for a while.

[@MattKearns-zi4rc]

Just get the t shirt your cosplay will be a lot cooler

[@Donfleebie1]

I’ve called this out before. Bolting on aftermarket parts to your motorcycle, is not a build!

[@EpicKook]

I'm building my credit score back up from all the parts i bought for my bike. That's still a build

[@organicorgins576]

😂😂

[@hydropiate]

I'm so sorry. kzbin.info/www/bejne/eobVfnWGd86qlZosi=BUigztYvtgNmd2wV

[@tawaitai]

🎯

[@CODIAK13]

Who fucking cares? Build, assemble, put together… call it whatever. The way I see it is, unless you paid for it, the person spending their hard earned money can call it whatever the hell they want. The bigger issue is everyone now days think their opinion of how others do what they do is relevant or valid and needs to be shared. This all coming from a guy who doesn’t have a “build,” just a guy tired of influencers/content creators opinions of how the peons that watch are flawed…

[@tomoates8568]

Right?! Don't understand the gripe of using the term "build", it's a common way to describe things not just in the bike or car world. Hell, I play DnD and call the characters I create things like my Paladin "build" 😂. It's not a term that should be taken so literal. Calling it a Road Glide "build" (or any other bike "build") makes perfect sense to most people lol

[@dme92335]

This guy ain’t no Jesse James either

[@MichaelRCarlson]

Thing is, is that language matters. The way we use language matters. Are all sausages a hot dog? Can I randomly call each kind whatever I want? If I buy a house and paint it and add a porch, did I build the house? You want to tell people that " I built the house, I accessorized the house, I made an addition to the house, I renovated the house" are all the same and don't matter? So you asked "why cares". I do. I want to know if I'm dealing with a clown or not.

[@CODIAK13]

@@MichaelRCarlson Agree to disagree, people need to be less concerned with what others do. I don’t agree that you are a “clown” if your “build” consists of bolt on accessories and is what others would deem accessorized. Who cares, that is where I still am… Not everyone has endless resources for MC’s, and if they want to use their money on a pseudo build and call it a build, I’m for it.

[@harleyhawk7959]

I built my house, but I didn't cut down the trees, limb the trees, debark the trees, and cut the trees into dimensional lumber. forge the nails, hammers, or roofing. So I guess I'm not classified as building my home. Get off your ratings issues.

[@twocupstwodrams7535]

The tension between, "everyone wants to stand out, but fit in." Thanks for sharing, Ride Free

[@SmittyAZ]

But, those bikes from real builders were actually POSs that were not meant to ride past the bar. Most of the ones that I used to watch.

[@MarcChandler-m9v]

I knew a guy who had two actual custom bikes built at a total cost well into six figures 20 years ago and neither one was could actually be ridden. One had a 113" motor, but the battery box wouldn't hold a battery large enough to start it, so he took parts off that bike to build a new bike and he rode that one for less than 30 miles before it broke. Lol

[@Roaddawg68]

Every bike that was built like occ or thunder mountain choppers were all dog shit, not worth a damn , I agree , I said call it whatever you want it's no big deal .

[@blackbuttecruizr]

They are TT bikes... Only good for riding from Tavern to Tavern...

[@stuartbrown1961]

I see the new performance bagger style a breath of fresh air compared to the tired ridiculous big wheel stretched lowered look. It's kinda like when the hair bands were replaced by grunge bands. What will be the next big thing?

[@traeucity6087]

The late, Indian Larry, built bikes for daily riding.

[@roydied15]

This kind of applies to a LOT of “scenes” though. Car people are the same way. You hear about “jimmy’s built Camaro” all the time, yet all they did was put wheels and tires and an exhaust, maybe cams, coil overs, and a wrap. Or AR15s are the same way. I can’t tell you how many people talk about an “AR build” and they just assembled a lower and then dropped a $200 PSA upper on it along with a light, red dot, and trigger. I agree with you completely, but it also kinda comes across as a little “gatekeep-y” or like that “ackshually” meme. I think we all just need to let people live their lives and call their shit whatever they want. We all know inside that it’s not true, but live and let live man 🤘

[@Martha-r9w3i]

Don't let this guy off the fucking hook this guy's a fucking hypocrite and worse than that. He puts all this together and then turn just to sell his motorcycle that has all the junk on it that he's bitching about. Give me a fucking break

[@tanisraistlin4934]

I'm 57 years old . I have always called them mods . I have always been a bobber fan even though I'm 6 foot. I try to strip down. This is my third street bob . The first one I can't get forward pegs or highway pegs that attach to the frame. Mid controls with farward pegs gives great mobility in leg and behind movement while keeping a low profile. I'll have to actually fabricate these .

[@mrchopboogie]

I agree, I’ve pissed off several guys calling their bikes accessorized. But they were just a bike they payed someone to bolt on parts on they liked. I built two bikes in the early 2000’s. They both were a frame from a manufacturer and bolted in engine, trans, wheels, etc. I bought some parts, fabbed some, modified others to fit. I loved working on them. I got tired of cleaning them all the time. Since then I have bought bikes, bolted on parts I like, modified parts, and take off parts to make them lighter. They are accessorized the way I like.

[@dustinguriel620]

This is such a ridiculous concept. Most of the guys on biker build off didn’t build their motors. It’s impossible to draw a line between what’s “built” and what’s not. So if I cut and derake my frame and change virtually every part of my motorcycle, and even custom paint it myself, but I pay a guy with a machine shop to split my cases and fully build my engine then I didn’t “build my bike”!? When you build a racecar from a mustang you usually keep the factory frame, often use the same engine! This whole concept is preposterous! There’s bikes “built” from a factory base, there’s bikes built from nothing at all, some of the factory based projects are more elaborate!

[@throttleblip9854]

Man you wasted sooooo much time typing that.

[@dustinguriel620]

@@throttleblip9854 says the guy with a self proclaimed “accessorized motorcycle” lmfao 🤡🤡🤡🤡

[@rarebreed9208]

I've been riding for 51yrs this year, and back in the '70s and '80s we had to do our own improvising and fabricating, and fizz bomb paint jobs were standard, because our bikes got put through hell. The entire "biking" scene has gone to hell.

[@justin.gipson]

Bro, the 300lb segment had me rolling. Being 6'5" and 330lbs myself, I completely agree......Now I gonna go cancel my carbon fairing order real quick.

[@HDR20]

I am glad a KZbinr has said it. I have been saying this for years.

[@Bradharleyd]

I agree with you 100%. The bike scene is way over kill…. People are building too much , bike. Most of the new riders don’t even know who the old builders are. Thanks for bringing those names up…. I’m glad someone else knows about them, what I call the old real bike scene. There’s always someone bigger and badder than you. Just be humble and just roll on. Bikes are not a competition…. An enjoyment. Peace be with you , 2 wheels up. God bless…..

[@in.the.wind.sc72]

I agree with your viewpoint. Definitely not building anything from the ground up, rather it’s accessorizing for fit, taste or a look.

[@midlifemike4916]

Customized a look. Maybe the build is just a word. Lol, who cares. People complain to much.

[@carlbruhn1772]

I'm not quite sure what the point of the video actually is. Fabricators, true machinists, and innovators have always been and always will be the super minority. The secondary market for Harley grows every year and is only limited by an individuals ability to spend. Personally I see radical Harleys that in the 1980's weren't possible. Most of these are unridable and only trailered in so they can put 25 miles a day on them. I ride by the mantra keep it simple, keep it comfortable but if someone is dropping 100k on a trailer queen have at it. It keeps that secondary market healthy.

[@RiderTalkHQ]

The age old built versus bought argument.

[@carlbruhn1772]

@@RiderTalkHQ Absolutely!!!

[@JeffA2wheeladdiction]

Blair, I agree with you 100%, I have a few bikes that have parts like other people have on their bikes and I don’t call it a built bike, I call it, customize my way, and I don’t care what people think. Like you said in your video, Billy Lane, Jesse James, those guys built bikes.

[@throttleblip9854]

Glad you got what I was trying to say. A lot of people missed it or just took it way too personal. Nothing wrong with what guys like us do at all. I just don’t feel right calling what I’ve done and what guys fabricating one off custom parts for a bike.

[@Jim_Berry]

100% spot on and I’ve said the same thing for years. We bolt stuff on we like. Jesse James hand hammered his tanks and hand built the frame.

[@est.1970]

Thank you for saying what has needed to be said for a long time!! The only thing these guys are "building" is their ego. You didn't build $hit! All you did was open a box, read some instructions, and put an accessory on your bike; this includes myself. Blair, you got cajones! 👍

[@jameslatoff2037]

Agree 100. Build vs assembled. You are calling a strike a strike

[@hydropiate]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/eobVfnWGd86qlZosi=BUigztYvtgNmd2wV

[@BossMan302]

ACKSHUALLY “my build” is just a phrase. Calm down. We all know when people say my build there don’t mean they welded a frame from scratch. Also I say my build because I actually pulled my engine and built it back up. No man lets another man build their bike in my opinion.

[@ozzie4306]

Remember bout 25 years ago when if you owned a Harley you were pretty much labeled as a Wildman or hell raiser. Nowadays it just means you have a little extra money and have a decent job. Thats it. Sad

[@csolivais1979]

When Jesse James got out of the bike building business back in the day, he said, paraphrasing, riding a Harley used to mean you were a biker, now it means you're a dentist.

[@jeffreywoodford1812]

Probably closer to forty years ago. It had already started to be bankers, doctors, lawyers etc in the early 90s.

[@TheOverisel]

Nowadays when one owns a Harley it means they're really old and usually fat.

[@hydropiate]

​@@csolivais1979holy shit.... looks what it really means according to HD corporate. 😢😢 kzbin.info/www/bejne/eobVfnWGd86qlZosi=BUigztYvtgNmd2wV

[@styneye867]

Nailed it! I've always called those "catalog builds." Nothing unique, different, or personalized if you can buy it out of a catalog.

[@Levixwelch]

You're talking about an industry where only 8% - 10% of Americans own motorcycles, I'll be generous and say 4% of those are Harley's and only half of that 4% is actually putting on after market parts besides maybe some apes and slip ons. Theres a reason why everyone is running the same parts and thats because there's only so many manufacturers making parts for Harley's because there really isn't a huge market for after market parts. I think the opinion in this video really discredits people that are tearing down and "building" their engines in their garage themselves instead of sending it their local harley dealershop to have them do it, or the dudes and that are buying parts and grinding and welding to make those parts fit the way they want and to those that are trying to bring this vision in their head to life peice by peice. Just because they didn't build the frame by hand doesn't mean there wasn't a lot of thought and time and money put into that bike. I think the reason the harley community is trash is because no one can appreciate anyone else's bike or work or because they don't ride as many miles as this person or that person. Everyone just bashs everyone else on the internet and everything has just turned into a pissing contest.

[@lozada1971]

I have a Lowrider ST with a HD 131. Almost everything I have on my bike is HD or parts we sell in the dealership I work at as a salesman. I use my bike to show it off to sell bikes and help the parts department. I don’t race and I don’t do stunts.

[@C_Marty9101]

Now that makes sense, but your not a “builder” saying they make custom bikes and all they do is shop from you and slap the parts on and say they are the baddest builder on the planet

[@KyleFunk21]

9 minutes and 51 seconds of yapping to say “if you didn’t hand weld your frame you’re playing legos”. Solid.

[@MoMo-ik8dv]

He obviously hit a nerve with you lol 🤡

[@shep68]

I’m with you. I think the real point of this video was to sell $25k worth of photos so he can buy a new bike and “lego” it. 😂

[@RayfordRaySiegel]

​@@shep68, I was wondering, if all that was only a lead-in to the giveaway. Maybe it wasn't, but, at the end it came across that way.

[@DeadRoman]

If you dont mine the ore to smelt and forge the parts, did you really build anything?

[@shep68]

What you’re talking about we used to call ‘modding’. Which virtually everyone does to one degree or another on all bike brands. But if someone wants to call it their “build”, I guess I just don’t care what semantics get used. Basically you want to make 25 grand selling pics of your bike is what I got out of this.

[@JaysonBucy]

I actually wouldn't mind seeing someone taking a standard and turn it into a cafe racer. I think it's a great platform for that, already stripped down pretty far and making enough power with a tune to have some fun.

[@lpd1snipe]

I am pushing 70, so I've been doing this a long time. I'm still riding the 1949 EL Panhead that from boxes and a frame many moons ago. I welded and fabbed a lot of stuff. My frame is actually a 47 Knucklehead frame that I modified to fit the Panhead engine in as I couldn't find a decent Wishbone frame. Panhead engines are taller than Knuckleheads. In the old days, late 1960s to early 70s, some scammers were building bikes built for shows that didn't even run. They were literally using Pan and Knuckle cases with nothing in them to win the trophies and the cash. They looked pretty. Eventually, shows caught on, and the bikes had to be rode in where you actually had to start the bik and see that it ran. Hardly anybody nowadays builds or modifies their own stuff. They don't have to they can buy it over the counter.

[@tjbummer200]

Fast life Jace has addressed this on his podcast and “Customized” is probably the best word for what most of us do.

[@throttleblip9854]

Yeah I think you’re right. And I know most people don’t mean anything by calling it a build. But there is clearly a difference in bolting on parts vs making custom 1 off parts for a bike. Any idea what episode that was? I’d like to check it out.

[@dustinguriel620]

@@throttleblip9854he says it every other episode lol

[@jimcockburn4652]

When I first started building bikes back in the 1970s just about every special and custom part had to be fabricated, today just about everything you can think of and don't think of is available at you local bikeshop and online.

[@lpd1snipe]

Yep you couldn't buy it you had to make it or modify it from something else and make it fit. When we wanted to build hot rod panheads we had to make stroker plates and we used ULH 80 inch Flathead flywheels in our pans.

[@dustinguriel620]

Exactly, so now people have to create parts that are already available on their own, otherwise it’s not a “build” lmfao! Ridiculous

[@stevewhitfield1635]

Thank you for the reality check. There’s a difference between being a builder and an “accessorizer.” The former takes skills and money. The latter just takes money. There’s no shame either way.

[@throttleblip9854]

That’s all I was trying to say! Glad a few people got it. No hate that’s why I pointed out, I’M ONE OF THEM that paid for most stuff. Just making sure people know there is a difference.

[@Anton_G_604]

100% agree, I've been feeling the same way for a long time. No shame is accessorizing your bike however you want, but stop calling it "performance" if it doesn't have tons of miles on it or has never been on the track racing other performance bikes. I just feel bad for the dudes out there who purpose build their bikes and ride the crap out of them, they get overshadowed by the shiny Instagram queens with the same parts list as everyone else.

[@tylernelson1993]

Honestly. Building and modifying a Harley to be a "race" or track bike is the definition of silly. Its so redundant it cant even be explained with logic. These things are boats. Tanks. Water buffalos. Whatever you want to call them.. they are not R1s or V4 powered Ducati's. They are low revving V Twins. 1800cc. 900lb. Fairing having. Chain driven primary having. Belt final drive having. Non-rider-forward riding motorcycles that are designed to cruise and to travel long distances. Now. To each their own. And i love dragging my pegs on my Dyna Bro styled Street Bob. Its a basic bitch. I love my TBR exhaust and Lucky 13 bars and my Step Up seat. I love BRL. But to think that this is what we should be doing with HDs is laughable. They're cruisers. But then again. Who gives a fuck. Let someone think theyre hot shit cause they bolted a pair of 65.5ci jugs on their 2024 Road Glide Special with a Dirty Bird exhaust and MX style bars on a 10" riser. Who cares if they cant name their exact specs on any of their parts. Are they Indian Larry now? No. But as long as they get enjoyment out of it.. Who gives a flying fuck? Thats the large majority of Harley riders anyways. Know it alls that know nothing. Theres a reason why i dont go to those shows. Its the want a bes and the poser class.

[@kevincrawford6864]

Been there done that, custom bobber build, chopped frame, custom seat/ bracket, lights, bars, cnc machine mounts, aftermarket levers / cables, peanut style tank, it def turns heads. But it's slower, trans is notchy compared to modern bike and half the power and not to mention the yearly carb clean/adjustment etc. I switched to indian scout bobber and ride it 95% of the time because its way less headache and I get alot more enjoyment out of it.

[@blakeadams8570]

As far as “bike shows” I did Rats Hole in the 90’s when C & L Hog Shop was the deal, then Born Free here in Southern California when it was a block party in Signal Hill. Saw performance baggers 15 years ago out here. Point is keep em all coming, the old junk, the parade floats, Clown Wagons and so on. Dyna Divas, chopper hipsters and wanna be tough guys welcome. The guys who know what is built vs bought know. It’s what keeps this all going. Thanks for sharing!

[@ChrisThomas-ne4zv]

I absolutely agree with you. We are not building bikes. We are bobbing bikes.

[@throttleblip9854]

Bingo. Nothing wrong with it. Just need to call it like it is.

[@teewhy2602]

People are using the word "build" when talking about making it their own. Don't get your britches twisted about words. .

[@nielsyoh]

People that build houses use prefabricated parts all the time. Floorboards, nails, screws, underlayment, paint, stairs, windows, glass, glue, etc. That’s building. We call that a build. Same for OC and Jesse. They use wheels, bearings, tires, controls, motors, brakes made by other companies. And we call that a build. No shame in that. And when my daughter builds something from Lego’s, I call that a build as well.

[@carlsitler9071]

My build is something I built, single handedly - my house. Framing, plumbing, electrical, insulation, cabinets, doors, windows, siding, roof, everything. My Screaming Eagle Sportster xl1200l, I bought.

[@GearHead-Moto]

About damn time somebody said it!!!!!!!!!!

[@DonGoldstein-b7q]

I think anyone putting over $10,000 of accessories on their newly purchased. Harley Davidson is entitled to call the Bike “my build”. Let’s be honest, Orange County choppers, Jesse James, choppers and many custom bike builders are long out of business. Most of those bikes, especially Orange County were not rideable bikes, and many downright dangerous in real world riding. Harley Davidson is making insanely gorgeous, reliable, powerful bikes, right off the showroom floor. In my opinion, minor tweaks to personalize or all that’s needed. But those who want to go all out can do so. Ride on 👍🇺🇸

[@throttleblip9854]

Yeah OCC made bikes as show pieces. There are plenty of guys still building custom bikes that ride amazing. Look at Roland Sands, his stuff is amazing and purpose built. I think what I was trying to say was if you aren't putting the parts on yourself it's your design, not your build? Appreciate the love.

[@RayfordRaySiegel]

The amount of years that people have been out of business, or how dangerous their bikes are to ride does not take away the fact that they still built them. And those same points and spending large amounts of money aren't arguments for people saying "This is my build.", when they didn't actually build anything, or they only built minor parts. There's no logic in your argument.

[@vazquezga2023]

You’re definitely wrong on why we built these bikes, it wasn’t to ride them on the track. That came after guys started taking them on curvy street roads and then on the track. I use to ride a sport bike and wanted something with saddle bags. I’m 42, back in 2016 I saw the Race Glide on IG. His was probably the first guy on the east coast with a performance bagger. Definitely with an inverted front end from big bear and a Kendall Johnson 124 twin cam. The way he road his bike is the reason I bought my 2017RG. I bought the Ohlins because that’s what he ran and when I call BBC and Kevin picked up and answered all my questions. Kevin, Steve Chamberlain, Jace Hudson and unknown industries helped pushed this industry and showed us what can be done to make these bikes handle better. I will say, Steve is definitely a bike builder, so is my machinist.

[@jackhammer0101]

Most of those bike "builders" did not build the frame.. They often altered the frame.. And occasionally built one.. But often started with a stock frame and cut it.

[@throttleblip9854]

Ok.. how many of the people I was referring to cut their frame and modify it on these new "builds"?

[@ericprovow1731]

I do not have a big issue with the people that are doing actual doing the work on upgrading/ modifying their engines. I really hate when someone says I am doing a big bore build and the person never does any of the work.

[@throttleblip9854]

You get it. If you don’t know how and don’t care to learn that’s fine just say, “I’m having a big bore built”.

[@dustinguriel620]

@@throttleblip9854most of the guys on biker build off didn’t build their own engines…

[@bernardlesperance742]

So when are you starting your welding and metal works training ?

[@throttleblip9854]

On the next one. If you can do either I’d love to learn.

[@bernardlesperance742]

@@throttleblip9854 Sure thing. When can you visit your northern neighbour? ... Canada.

[@SantiSpeed1]

One of the deciding factors for me buying my Victory Octane was the fact that it wasn’t a Harley and it was easy to make something different

[@KennyQuestShow]

Fabricator is the term used for a person that creates a bike from scratch. Heman Fab is an example of a modern fabricator

[@throttleblip9854]

Good call. What would be a better term to differentiate between a bike that’s had parts bolted on vs one with true custom one off parts made specifically for that bike?

[@KennyQuestShow]

@@throttleblip9854bolt on = modified, modded, personalized. Custom = custom, fabricated, custom built, bespoke if your British.

[@BobSmith-eq9vs]

I have a 2016 FatBoy that I bought new in 2016. Since then I haven’t really seen anything in the showroom that just wowed me. Interestingly the softail standard caught my eye because it is so plain, fairly inexpensive and would make a great starting platform for some great accessories.

[@mariosenestraro4161]

I can’t remember exactly who said it, it might have been Cole Foster, but idk for sure…” if you aren’t making your own parts, you aren’t ‘building’ anything”. If everything came from a catalog, Anyone can order from the same catalog and have the same thing you have. Doesn’t matter if it’s motorcycles, cars, or even bicycles. People just love to use that word…build. Sounds cooler than check out what I assembled I guess.

[@RoadRushNation]

Refreshing to hear someone be honest about "builds" they have turned into a pick a part and put it on!!! Ride safe my friend!

[@thaney423]

I dont think saying unless you bend a frame from scratch, you did not build a bike! I do agree with the fact that people look for clout based on how much money they spend on "flair." At the end of the day, if you put your bike together in your vision and love it, its "your" build, built to your standard.

[@ORflycaster]

If my ego needed any stroking (it doesn't), it would come from working on my bikes rather than dropping it off at a shop. I'm not a fabricator or "builder", but I'm also not a soft hands white collar rider who waits for the phone call that their bike is finished.

[@brucem8129]

"Make it yours" and "Old School" are both WAY over used. Most of us added modifications or bolt ons.

[@whitewalls4409]

I have a 10 year old Vrod and Sportster both bone stock and 0 problems for the last 10 years on both bikes. There is something to be said for not "building" up your bike. I repeat not a single issue on either.

[@JA-zh5xi]

Most of these people with “builds” are just bolting stuff on or having someone else bolting stuff on.

[@waltswild]

so what

[@Mikey_556]

Fab & finish work is different than bolt on but yea i bet 1/2 of people say build without really thinking about it. I built a killer corned beef sangy today

[@throttleblip9854]

Hahahaha 🤣 you right. Build me one too next time, I’ll pay you to do it.

[@trafficon2wheels]

Hey Blair, hope all is well…I love Harleys but I really never spend more than 1k in upgrades, on my third and don’t plan on opening engine unnecessarily.

[@Roadglide117]

100% correct👍

[@rupertbollywood1190]

People are free to call it a build if they like. You don't get any input in that. Your way just puts metalworkers on a pedestal, for no good reason. They make a bike less useful, in order to achieve a particular look. Nothing wrong with that but it's not above what the factory did. You just end up with a worse bike than before, for aesthetic reasons. Metalworkers are just people who took a different career path. Respect dentists, lawyers, software pros, etc. because they put in YEARS of their life to achieve what they wanted. It's harder to do that than be a metalworker, pipe bender, welder, etc. So be careful with what you're saying here because you are just another dude with an opinion and there's nothing special about yours either.

[@throttleblip9854]

So what exhaust and suspension you running on your Road Glide, Rupert?

[@rupertbollywood1190]

@@throttleblip9854 What exhaust and suspension are you planning to get with that 25k from photo sales, grifter?

[@throttleblip9854]

I’m trying to be careful what I say here as you’ve instructed me to do but I have to ask, where can I see what you ride? Send a link to your IG if possible.

[@rupertbollywood1190]

@@throttleblip9854 When you send me a link to the "winner" of your bike, I'll consider it. I must warn you - I know the hustle. You have already picked the winner of the "giveaway". This is how you hoodwink people to give you 100 bucks. This person is your accomplice. You then make a short video saying this guy is the lucky winner. The 2 of you then sell the bike around the back. And keep everyone's 100 bucks. It's not your lucky day, is it? You can fool some of the people some of the time but you can't fool all the people all of the time. Nothing anyone like you says can be taken at face value. I warned you for your own good not mine. You never know - prison could be in your future.

[@rupertbollywood1190]

@@throttleblip9854 Why don't you first send me information about who's going to "win" your "giveaway"? Because you've already decided that, haven't you? You can fool some of the people some of the time but you can't fool all of the people all of the time. You have to stop thinking everyone is stupid, because it isn't true. You're going to pretend it's a random giveaway, make a show of presenting the bike to your friend, and then the 2 of you will sell it through the back door. And keep the proceeds from the lottery tickets ("digital photos"). It's very predictable. The reason I gave you the warning is because you're likely to overestimate your competence and in your American hustle may fall foul of the American legal system. Enjoy sleeping tight with that risk.

[@artvertex4152]

I'll take a plain stock bike over a custom built bike form Orange County Chopper any day. 😆

[@beardoallin657]

Nothing was said that wasn't true without being offensive or insulting,it's still alot of work building a bike from the frame up with parts that don't fit because you wanna be cool and have a chopper,that's what I did,lol and I still feel like I made something unique even if I didn't make the frame and tins etc...but that's a different level,they build everything like he said in the video,anywho I'll stop rambling now,if I didn't make sense blame it on the Mary Jane .

[@1190Shellback]

Definitely ruffled some feathers with this one, but sometimes the truth hurts. I will say “accessorized” makes me think of non functional parts people slap on while I consider what you and most of us have done is “customized” or at least “personalized” our bikes. That said I enjoy your videos and I hope you keep making them- rubber side down.👍

[@narule2695]

The performance bagger scene is a joke bunch of mid life crisis dudes and on another note if you paid 16K for extras bro you should sit down

[@brianpare9768]

SC should be considered legend! He makes them, fixes them and then races them!! “Tbars on everything” he says! Great video! Everything is true!

[@amerigo88]

Farkles get expensive. I shop for used bikes that already have the upgrades I want and then get them for 20 cents on the dollar. Works for me.

[@midlifemike4916]

Customize, build,accessorize, its all the same. I walked into Hofman designs here in Monticello MN. from the carbon fiber to the CNC work he does is top notch. His fender looks a hell of a lot better than what Harley came out with. I think one should stop at a few of these shops and take a look. There is definitely more than meets the eye going on there.✌️

[@charlesrocks]

Hofman is the shit. That shop is amazing.

[@midlifemike4916]

@@charlesrocks that shop is awesome!

[@guyconnell2250]

If you like to ride aggressively in the mountains or on other curvy roads, upgraded suspension makes a lot of sense. I agree with you on the power thing though. Personally, I think 125-130 squared hp/torque is plenty. Beyond that, unless someone really is racing, it becomes male member measuring in my opinion.

[@vgullotta]

You could have made this video 3 seconds long if you just said "Don't be a poser, be real" XD I completely agree with what you said pretty much the entire video. I even have the quad lock on my Harley and in my Jeep lol. If I talk to anyone about my bike, I never refer to it as "my build", but I will say, "check out my bike, I made all these sweet changes to make it how I like it". I think the "my build" stuff comes from people watching too much youtube and IG and what not. They hear it a lot and it just gets spit back out again eventually, but I totally agree that if you're not making parts for it or starting with a blank frame and building it all out, it's not really "a build", it's "a modification"

[@SCBiker58]

Never seen a all amber headlight. It’s s that ok by the law. Looks great just never seen it done

[@BikerJim74]

easier to see in the rain and dusty stuff, about it

[@seanpenny4580]

ya, it isn't legal in a lot of places

[@heathwest3718]

It's not about knowledge or skill or style anymore. It's all money. A flex of bank accounts. Another thing that's trash is that the customers of these brands pay for them to give free stuff to "influencers" and these garages turning into 4 walls of plugs. This winter had taught me alot about moto vloggers its that if it's not riding season there is nothing to talk about, and that Matt Laidlaw is going road glide

[@ernestoluzan]

@Throttleblip Dude, you hit a sore spot with me. I spent half my life as a legit truck technician. I’ve taken truck apart in several ways, engines, transmissions, cabs, axles…. Etc. I was a good tech. Yet never in my career did I ever call myself a truck builder. I now have installed over a dozen parts on my 22 SGS. Including bars, lights, audio, a big bore engine, clutch, etc… I don’t call myself a bike builder or refer to my bike as a “build”. Out of respect for actual bike fabricators who can build a motorcycle with nothing but raw metal and tube. Harley’s are a wonderful hobby, and nothing else feels quite like an awesome ride alone or with buddies. Unfortunately Harley’s have a culture of what you addressed in this video. Good topic, no doubt you’re going to piss a bunch of people off too. lol

[@throttleblip9854]

In my opinion, if you go into the engine, you're legit! haha. Yeah comments went a little crazy on this one. Everyone needs to feel special these days.

[@weldermike7017]

Totally agree on everything. And I can't stand looking at piggy back shocks. Its so trendy that they're even putting them on electric scooters and bikes, and they are dummies!!!! The resevoir is just for show, I saw a video where they cut it off and it was solid on the inside. Unreal

[@throttleblip9854]

Haha I’ve seen some of those too! Wild.

[@urbanadventurer5]

Honestly, I agree with a lot of what you said, but I also just turned 50 and could just be another grumpy old man at his point lol. What I will say in addition though is people should buy and customize bikes they enjoy. If that’s to look at, fine. If that’s to ride cross country, fine. If that’s to just cruise around for a couple of hours on or take to bike nights and show off, fine too. What I don’t appreciate though is this whole idea that there’s one right way to do things, one true Harley culture and the idea that we are somehow off or not true to the game if we’re not into the same things everyone else is. The primary example that comes to mind is the high end performance bagger craze. People act like everyone needs $100,000 bagger or a souped up dyna or why are you riding at all??? Guess what? I honestly don’t really enjoy riding super heavy big bikes or keeping really old ones operating. I have spent the last year or more trying to get myself to because that’s what’s hot, but I love speed and a nimble ride, so I am done. I am giving myself permission to enjoy what I enjoy at the price range that works for me. That’s my Sportster S or maybe something like the LRST. While I love the cool baggers and all of the slick tech on the new ones, I am now more looking forward to seeing what creative things people do with their soft tails, Sportster S, Pan Americas, etc. Isn’t that what Harleys are really about? Doing you and expressing yourself with whatever you can get your grubby little hands on instead being a bunch of cliqueish copycats??? It’s way old and exhausting at this point. I am trying to focus on the actual riding more and people and companies talking about the riding less. It’s time. Thanks for the post.

[@langhamp8912]

Harley has gone from providing a bike at every price point to being shockingly elitist to the affluent. And back again. Remember the v-rod? Practical, reliable, affordable, and even comfortable. And, dare I even say it, quieter than any other Harley while being faster than any other Harley. I went into a Harley dealership last year and there wasn't a single bike in there to appealed to me. Previously there was always at least a few bikes in Harley's lineup that was a middleweight commuter bike that you could ride "sorta" briskly on curvy roads. Indian has several, and even snobby Ducati will get you on a new Monster for under $10,000 (with a bit of 2023 finagling). Currently I'm riding a stock 2022 Yamaha XSR900. $9300 out the door including taxes. $350 / year full coverage. 117 HP, 420 pounds wet weight. And it has cruise control! I'll end up putting a lot of miles on this bike because it's reliable and cheap enough, and fun enough, to be a commuter.

[@urbanadventurer5]

@@langhamp8912 I absolutely hear you and couldn’t agree more.

[@tawaitai]

Call it whatever you want, a build, add-ons, don’t matter. I think people get too worked up over stupid shit!

[@MichaelH416]

A bike build these days is sending your stock bike to a shop to do make it “custom” (cough cough). The owner sits down with a shop representative who uses a check list to add up the dollars the shop is gonna make off the owner. Now all these “custom bikes” look so similar it’s nauseating. I own a Road Glide like everyone else and their brother. I have accessorized my bike to meet my needs. The only engine work done is a Stage 1 kit, a new oil pump and cam plate (I have a 2017 which had the shitty pump) and oil cooling fan. This engine gets 60 mpg on the hwy. yes, I’ve gone 300 plus miles on a tank. I don’t need more torque or horsepower. I just need reliable. Everyone is entitled to do what they want with their own bike, but a huge part of the culture is not being understood. A built bike used to be ground up construction by the owner. A customized bike was bought stock and upgraded either by the owner or a shop. A custom bike (not customized) was a shop built bike, built ground up, to a customer’s specifications. Think West Coast Choppers. Great video.

[@larrymirabal6291]

Agreed….these are accessories on an H-D, or for us Bimmer guys, Farkles. Stuff that just makes you smile when you ride.😃👍🏍️🏍️

[@charlesd6459]

Terminology? Who cares

[@Losangelesmotorcycles]

I agree , but the give away is a bit ….. um …. 100 bucks 250. I dunno . You’re one of the few guys who does this the right way no click bait , videos to the point , great content , don’t start wiht the give aways man . Just sell the bike on cycle trader for what you want and put the link in the description and keep the good content coming . Stay the course man

[@westernjeep4015]

Like to use "configured".

[@throttleblip9854]

I like that one too.

[@628customs]

I agree you customized / assembled a bike, didn't build it.

[@throttleblip9854]

That’s the best term for it for sure.

[@628customs]

Great job on the video, I did a similar one on my channel last week.@@throttleblip9854

[@628customs]

@@throttleblip9854 I just did a similar video on my channel last week.

[@GearHeadMoto]

IDK I agree/disagree with you on this. The main difference between lets say a OCC or West Coast Choppers motorcycles and a Harley Davidson is that OCC and WCC made their own frames. They custom machined some of their parts but they still used a lot of over the counter parts. They didn't really design their own engines, transmissions, or primarys. They had a contract with those companies and used their parts. Purchasing parts through a 3rd party and then installing them onto your HD or any other bike manufacture doesn't make it any less "built" just because you didn't design the original concept of the bike or the parts you are installing. Now if you purchase a bike and have someone else do all the work then the saying built not bought would no longer apply here. You are also correct with how many bikes out there aren't built around the rider or they are a bunch of misc. parts thrown together that don't work with one another. There are probably more of those bikes out there than true purpose built bikes. Just my two cents on it.

[@johnnydangerously7186]

Never been much of a customized I guess, slip ons for sound and that’s it. When I buy a bike it needs to be exactly what I’m looking for and I sure as hell don’t want to have to spend $$$$ to make it comfortable. My RM fits the bill for me but I don’t begrudge anyone for customizing their ride.

[@EzlivnMaine]

Those “ builds” are all bought and paid for by “sponsors “. Same as HD… they have bought and paid for all the top “ influencers “. It’s getting harder to watch as these people are sounding more like Billy Mays selling the Shamwow. I just stop watching.

[@cornfieldcrawlers9907]

I like to stand out in a sea of cookie cutter bolt on custom Harleys by riding a Buell XB12XT. It makes it super easy to point out your bike at a charity ride when it is the only one of its kind there.

[@C_Marty9101]

I’ve been saying that for years. All these “builds” are slapped together with the same parts from the same catalog, the only thing different is the paint, and even those are starting to look the same. $50k in accessories and you pull up to bike night and see 5 other bikes that look just like yours 🤣 I miss real builders

[@throttleblip9854]

I'm glad someone got what I was trying to say. Again I love most of those bikes but we have lost originality along the way.

[@Chancho66]

Love how Everyone's 'Build" is their own thought/Design, yet walk thru a parking lot@ an event and these folks need pagers on their bikes cause they All look the Same!!! Like those wandering around a Walmart parking lot forgetting where they parked, pushing the tamper button on their key fobs. I'm sure the MC will add that feature to their product in years to come since they do listen to customer input. I ride a '91 FLHTC Beast. I sure hope that doesn't become the New fad...

[@JP-ec9rl]

Doing something new is so overdone these days.

[@Mr450pro]

Who cares, it’s just a Harley..

[@nevillegreg1]

Yeah, we talk about how 'clean' a bike looks, oh, those 'clean lines' and then the same folks have those rear shock reservoirs sticking out the back that actually go against and IMO spoil the 'clean' looks of the bike. The reality is that those reservoirs stick out for only 1 reason - and that's to show off. Each to their own, but I'm over the BS as well, don't BS me about doing mods on your bike that give it clean lines but then you put canasters sticking out the back when they can easily be mounted out of the way.

[@gregrose6915]

personalized

[@KrispyCrem3]

Still has that gumby factory gas tank. Drag an old Evo out a barn and do a nut and bolt custom build.

[@1966impala100]

Just think how boring these bike weeks would be if the crazies didnt bring their stuff out to be seen. I try to find one good thing I like in a custom motorcycle, paint, wheels ect.. I wouldnt want it for me, but to each his own.

[@frictionzone7191]

Complains about people calling their bike a “build,” then continues on to use “build” the same way. It all may be getting played out now, but it’s better than slapping on a live to ride derby cover and thinking your bike is custom.

[@jordanjoestar8839]

I love all bikes and have ridden almost everything in the world. Most adult motorcycle riders are similar to me. Especially those on sportbikes of old (VFR, Busa, Vmax etc). If I talk about racing or superbikes to normal people, they are happy to share stories. If I talk about racing or motorcycles to some Harley riders, I dont have a real bike. I also live in the home of Sturgis and work at a bike dealership, there is nobody more insufferable than certain cocky HD riders. I have bikes ranging from the 70s to modern day but if i say i rode my GSXR750 to work they wont even give me a second. They scoff or insult as if a 180mph machine still is a kids toy, while they wobble off on their 70hp 700lb leaking vibrators. Its a shame, really. My friend and I buy crashed superbikes and re-do them. Frames, motors, swing arms, forks etc. We do whatever it takes to get it road worthy. Yet, I get told im not a real biker. Funny, isnt it?

[@waltswild]

lol let people live my guy. the motorcycle community cracks me up, the most judgmental people I know.. which is ironic, isnt riding a motorcycle about freedom and rebellion LOL

[@murrelldooms7982]

Do what you want to your bike . It's your money and your bike. I have had and rod Harley Davidson's for almost thirty years. Everyone modifies their rides. And the so called builders have a problem with it to bad. What the hell. Without the general riding people the people who own and customize their bikes are where the majority of builders come. We are all riders together and stop the arguments it makes us all look like children.

[@RonInNapa]

In my day, they called it "bolt-on" builds.