Top 5 Harley-Davidson Misconceptions

[@geraldkeithrennier1995]

Matt, I am a Harleyholic and an educator. I subscribed to your channel because of the total quality that you provide. You are a cool dude with amazing artistry in videography. You have outstanding knowledge of Harley subject matter. You are an excellent communicator and teacher. Your analogies are very effective for understanding and you are entertaining and fun. In my opinion you are the best source for learning about Harley Davidson's on the Internet. You have addressed prejudice and ignorance with this video in a very professional, reasonable, and kinder gentler manner. Truth is haters are going to hate. I recommend your channel to every motorcycle enthusiast. I live in Arizona and ride my Sportster year around. I have 40 years of riding on my own and a few life shaping years of riding on the roomy old seat with my daddy on his 1951 Harley. I visited Laidlaws this past December but didn't see you. Thank you for the dedication that goes into your videos and representing Harley in your empowering way. Ride on, brother!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Keith Rennier thank you for the comment. I think that's probably the best comment I have ever received. Thank you. Ride on my friend. I'm surprised you didn't see me when you dropped by. I practically live there.

[@justinlash3814]

The fact that you know what you are talking about, have good video skills, knocking out great videos, thanks man. If I lived in southern CA, your dealership would be my go to. When I make a trip from Northern CA to your way, I will make sure your shop is the one I spend my money at. Keep up the great work, I love the videos

[@MattLaidlaw]

Justin Lash thanks man. Thanks for the compliment.

[@tryarunm]

Keith, You just said everything i intended to say and more and certainly much better! Thank you, Brother!

[@geraldkeithrennier1995]

Thanks tryarunm! It's an amazing vibe when we resonate with with those like us on the quality things in life. Expressing appreciation is lost in our society when we are all on this ride together. I appreciate you for appreciating Matt and myself. Thank you, Brother!

[@joetroutt7425]

I was a die-hard sport bike enthusiast and one day I went looking to trade my 06gsxr 600 for a litre bike and couldn't find one in my price range. As I was looking around I started looking at the Harleys and sat down on one. First of all I like how comfortable the seat was (not all are comfortable to me) so the sales guy asked me if I wanted to test ride it. I wasn't looking to do any test rides but I said what the hell. I took off down the highway and let me tell ya it was like hanging on for dear life. I got back to the dealer and asked how much and he said 6000$ they give me 3000 for my gsxr ( which is how much I paid for it) and I paid the rest in cash. What was that Harley ya ask? It was an 07 Sportster 1200 custom with 18" ape hangers and a screaming eagle stage 2 kit. That bike turned more heads than my bright orange 600 crotch rocket ever did just by the sound and look of the bike. I was hooked! sorry for such a long post but just had to tell about my conversion.

[@jackx4767]

I ride the same model and year. Bought mine brand new off the show room floor. The biggest thing I hate is when guys say that a sportster is strictly a chick bike. I later shut them up when I point out that historically sportsters were used as a starting point for bobbers and choppers. Good on you for not listening to the hype against Harley and as we say keep the chrome end up. Also welcome to the HD family.

[@nomansson4628]

That's because of the freaking handlebars.. the bike itself isnt powerful..

[@joetroutt7425]

@@nomansson4628 oh yeah! I have realized that since then but that bike was still fun as hell to ride.

[@franciscvarga1212]

Same here rode sport bikes for 15 years all GSXR’s the last one was a liter bike I traded in for a brand new Harley two months ago and tell you what I never look back and I get more compliments on my Harley than all my sport bikes combined.

[@travelinman482]

@@joetroutt7425 So, you’re a narcissist? Why would anyone want to have constant attention? Oh, look at me... I’m riding an outdated bike with dumb ass ape hangers.

[@battlebornhd3030]

I work hard for the money that I earn.... if I want to spend my money on an “overpriced Harley-Davidson”, that’s what I’m going to do. Matt said it right when he said people try and compare sport bikes to H-D. It is a COMPLETELY different class of motorcycle.

[@11bbasterd]

Shit I came from the sportbike world "overpriced harley" LMFAO have you ever checked out DUCATI? Makes most harley's affordable. I never get why people say they are so overpriced. Now I can't speak on the gear thought Dianese and Alpine star race jackets with armor made of kangaroo leather for some reason costs the same as a Harley jacket that doesn't come with shit. I'll say harley bikes aren't really overpriced.....The merch/gear might be.

[@rootytooty9808]

People seem to completely forget that Harley makes neo-classic motorcycles; very specific "legacy" type motorcycles. Why do you want a Harley? Because it is classic. Imagine if Chevy started making 1971 Camaros, or Ford 1969 Mustangs with updated but not over the top technology to keep the vintage style. Would we give them so much shit? Harley's are neo-classic bikes and should be treated as such.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Very Doge well said

[@mchristr]

Excellent analogy.

[@rootytooty9808]

Actually an even better analogy would be how brands like Moto Guzzi, Norton, Triumph and Royal Enfield's main sales come from neo-classic bikes and Yamaha and Honda still manufacture some neo-classic models. The only difference is that HD makes American neo-classic bikes (big, powerful, heavy bikes; like you said more raw materials) not 300 lbs Euro city bikes.

[@iwens1966]

Yeah, neo-classic. 1960s technology at 2017 prices. I'll pass. I'd like to think I have more brains than money.

[@rootytooty9808]

Raw performance is not everything. Motorcycles are more than the sum of their parts. If you ride for any reason that is not the way it makes you feel, you're not doing it right. By that token, in the very same way that an aerodynamically styled sportbike with a liquid cooled technologically advanced in-line 4 and racing suspension may appeal to person A, a classically styled bike with a simpler classic engine and comfortable suspension may appeal to person B.

[@andygabb1749]

Agree with Matt. I always dreamed of owning a HD, and when the time was right, I purchased my first HD. Have owned it for 6 years, and now just bought another new HD. Love them or hate them, it's your choice, but love them and would never change!

[@motolifehd9323]

I still feel like the misconception that says that Harley is overpriced is not a misconception at all. Yes, the comparison between sportbikes and cruisers sounds really weird. But comparison between Harley and Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki and Kawasaki cruisers can bring this "misconception" to the table. This doesn't mean I don't want to have a Harley rather then those Japanese cruisers. They are good and they are cheaper... but I want Harley... To be honest I would have all of them :) I like motorcycles in general.. but my practical part always win. That's why I own Kawasaki Versys instead of Harley. But one day I'll buy a Harley too. :)

[@FlyingTigersKMT]

Hey Matt, I'm one of your MVPs and I came from riding sportbikes all my life. I even raced at the club level and had some success. But I had a friend who rode Harley exclusively. One day he convinced me to try it just for kicks and one ride, and I instantly got it. The next day, I went and bought a Sportster. 3 Harleys later, now I am on an Electra Glide and can't imagine riding anything else. He was right... Nobody who rides a Harley says they wish they will one day own a Honda or Yamaha or Triumph, but those riders will invariably say they wish someday to own a Harley.

[@aytes44]

I just bought a 2017 Road King, and I didn't buy it to see how fast I could get to 60 mph. I wanted a sweet looking ride that I could ride for distance without feeling like I was in a car crash. Seriously, it makes me giggle when I hit the open road. It has plenty of power, and it's the only frame they make that really fits me. Maybe one day I'll upgrade the engine and components, but it won't be because I need it. (If my wife is reading this, it's because I "need it") I love this new engine.

[@THENUTSBIGDIRTYBASEMENT]

Congrats. That is a gorgeous bike my man.

[@SadaEKE]

You should upgrade the front fork right away. HD knew about the death wobble and chose not to fix it. So you may find yourself on the ground rolling out of nowhere.

[@robw7676]

Just did 1350 miles around California on a 2017 Road King. Riding 2 up with a 70 litre duffel bag on the parcel rack & the bags full. Nice bike. The only major complaints I have are that it's too hard to get to the rear preload adjuster, and the fact the side stand drags the floor much too early on left turns.

[@rogerburns8478]

SadaEKE harley fixed the death wobble with the frame change in 09 and yes im certain of that i have a 2017 flhr myself and i grew up on sportbikes

[@user-qv4rj3fo9b]

My first Harley is a 1980 (SuperGlide). Still have it and still love to ride it. Recently bought an '09 Ultra. They both have a unique ride but both are definitely Harley. There's nothing like them.

[@thedude7730]

I've been riding since I was 8. I'm now 52. I have a 2017 Road King and a 2006 GSXR750(no car)....I love 'em both.

[@charlescheeseman3430]

Hey Matt, thanks for the great discussion on Harley misconceptions, they are spot on. Like I have said for years most Harley haters have never owned or ridden a Harley. I have the 2 of the most hated bikes on the Internet, a Harley Roadglide and a BMW GSA, both put a giant smile on my face when I ride them, they are totally different bikes, so haters can be jealous all day long as they secretly wish they had one!

[@JackTulsen77]

As of October 9th 2019... I'm looking at the HD and indian websites right now. 2020 Electra Glide Standard: $18,999. 2020 Indian Chieftan: $21,999. Both very similar models that are direct competitors to each other. How are Harleys over priced or expensive?

[@robertherrick6703]

It should also be taken into consideration that there are no real alternatives to some of the HDs out there. That's why I got a 2019 Low Rider. I couldn't find anything else with those specs and looks. The whole Softail range has no real competition from Indian, BMW, Suzuki, Honda, or Yamaha.

[@vanguy9780]

2020 Road Glide Limited $28,299.00 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan Voyager ABS $17,499.00 That's how they're overpriced.

[@explaindis1]

So you put a standard electra glide with a chieftain 🤔 they are not the same you get more for your buck on the chieftain than the the standard.

[@jamesjonathanbrowne9528]

Hey, I LOVE outdated bikes! Hehe. I have owned a Japanese Race bike, I have owned a BMW cruiser. I have riden dirt bikes and I will say that there is NOTHING like a HARLEY. NOTHING! The last 5 bikes I have owned have been Harleys. Anyone owes it to themselves to go take a test ride on a Harley before talking trash about them. I love how the Harleys feel when I am riding down the road. Riding the Harleys mak have to really hand it to you for all you do to promote Harleys. Not all dealership owners are as hands on as you are and work to really connect to your customers. When I see your reviews, I don't ever feel like you are just trying to sell something. You give really honest, objective evaluations on the videos of the bikes you ride and make videos on. I like that. You are good people, Matt.

[@FLHTPGlide]

Hi Matt. I am a teacher living in Germany and I really enjoy your high quality videos. Cheers Thilo

[@pcofranc]

You forgot depreciation - Japanese cruisers depreciate like Krazy and are rearlly really hard to sell used. Used HD Sportster is a good way to go on a budget.

[@nobodysreview6137]

Thise bikes nobody respects because its a Harley look a like, they should of made there own style of cruisers like the Goldwing, Goldwing is its own looking bike and people respect that.

[@i2ambler2002]

@@nobodysreview6137 If you are buying a bike to gain respect, perhaps you are not buying a bike for the right reason.

[@nobodysreview6137]

@@i2ambler2002 Could of been wrong choice of words, but it is a Harley copy an looks stupid.

[@djmysticalone321]

Harleys are awesome nothing feels like a Harley and the looks are awesome

[@GerryRem700]

I love all kinds of bikes. Harley Davidson, Triumph, Honda and so on. What you get with a Harley Davidson is what you get with a 60's muscle car. No it's not the fastest car on the planet and yes it's old school technology but you take pride in them. It's a feeling that you cannot get with anything else.

[@droptine5520]

I disagree, I take pride in my r1200RT. I demoed a 2015 Road Glide a couple years ago. And though I liked it's comfort, and generally liked the bike, I just didn't like riding it nearly as much as I love riding my 2005 R1200RT. The HD lacks the performance, agility and responsiveness that I love in a bike, which is what gives me the exact feeling that you're talking about. I don't care about engine or exhaust sound, I don't care about the look of the bike either(that's obvious riding an R1200rt).

[@tysonvilleneuve931]

A yuppy wine cork sniffing attitude? Pop up GPS? Which "rockets" have pop up GPS and how does that make them yuppy bikes? What the hell are you on about? People defend Harleys despite having less performance for more money, telling others "you just wouldn't understand. It's a Harley thing." So explain to me how those who ride "high rev rockets" are the snobs?

[@firefighter1c57]

and just like that outdated tech, a 69 Yenko Camero will get it's doors blown off by a 17 Hennesy Camero.... While I agree, the 69 looks better parked in the garage, or leaned on at the local drive, it's not practical. The Harley mirrors that. The 90th anniversary wide glide looks good shinny in the garage, but if I ride, I ride the Vic.

[@johhnyo]

to each their own, glad you like your bike. what he is trying to say is if we can make a comparion with cars.. some like new honda civic ..with the smooth ride, quiet power, and advancements and some love a 69 camaro..with a rumble, shake, exhaust sound and a raw feel. to each their own..neither is better..just in the mind of the owner

[@firefighter1c57]

That's the problem Jeff, it's not in the mind of the owner. Sure what one likes is indeed in the mind of the owner. My wife would love a 70 Chevelle, I'd prefer a 2016 BMW M3. Both performance cars, and both with their own character, and both, depending on condition, around the same price... however, her and I both know the BMW will spank the Heavy Chevy in any catagory. The problem with most HD owners isn't that the ride what they want, it's that they are constantly trying to tell me how much better there bike is... it honestly isn't and the numbers are plan as day on the stat sheets. It's not fast, it's not nimble, it runs hot, and it's over weight compared to the competition. The competition in this case being a Suzuki Boulevard, a Honda Goldwing, a Victory Hammer, an Indian Scout... when you realistically compare the cost of ownership and the performance of a Honda Fury to a Dyna, you quickly realize the HD is only more expensive and that's it. It's part of the reason HD owners like to compare them to sport bikes, because obviously, comparing apples to oranges gives you way more comfort, carrying capacity, fuel mileage range, etc etc etc. Or to BMWs which are expensive themselves. Truth is, a Kawasaki Concourse is probably about an ideal touring bike, but it's dismissed because Murica

[@spkuse]

Rode my first HD Street Glide, 2018, yesterday. Not a Vtwin fan, but was super impressed with the Milwaukee 8 engine. This bike is not slow! Super impressed with how quickly I got up to the speed limit and more. Torque and pulling power got you up to speed very quickly. I have changed my mindset with these modern HD bikes. More model options, color, and just a beautiful bike to behold. Quality. Not a hater or naysayer anymore. Thanks for getting me into a dealer to test ride these bikes. Your vids do make a difference!

[@pilgrim7779]

I still ride my old 1996 Fatboy and it just hit 125,000 miles with no major engine work whatsoever! It is becoming one cold-blooded SOB, but once she gets warmed up it runs like it always has. All my friends have long moved on to the twin cams, but I can't think of one good reason to give up on the old EVO (probably the most reliable engine ever made).

[@karamlevi]

Pilgrim777 only Harley & BMW have owners pour on the mileage and hold onto the bike... and Beemers are your orientated over all, says much for these two old brands.

[@christopherrizzo9958]

I've got over 100,000 miles on my 94 geezer glide. With a little xtra 135hp with 135fp

[@Afonso2001br]

For many years I believed firmly in all these misconceptions. But when I visited Motorcycle meetings I just couldn't keep my eyes out of the Harleys. I always loved the chromes, the old style design, the fat tires, the beautiful paintings. When I talked to some friends that I would like to own a Harley, some of them always told me not to do it. It would be crazy and I would regret this decision, and than they repeated to me all these misconceptions. And so, finnaly I decided recently to purchase a beautiful Street Glide. I love it and I am proud of myself to have the courage to spend a lot of money to try and see with my own eyes. Now I regret not to have done this before. Thanks for your contribution to help many viewers to get rid of these prejudice.

[@WHOSKOW1]

Great video. You blew it on the leaky oil section, though. Early Harleys had an inner primary cover with a hole in the bottom to let oil out. The breather from the engine had a tube that went to the primary to puff out oil mist to lubricate the primary chain. This mist was adjustable at the oil pump. After a good ride the built up oil in the primary covers from the oil mist would then leak out of the hole in the bottom of the unpressurized cover. The earlier Harleys where actually designed to leak oil. Going back even farther, Some of the real early designs where a total loss system. In other words they had no oil return. Once the oil went through the engines it all came out on the ground. I believe that you had to add oil about every 750 miles or so. This is why Harleys got the bad rap about oil leaks. Cheers

[@stephenfoster582]

As a previous owner of fxdx. Night train. Sportster 1200 custom I believe that people who ridiculeHD like you mentioned have never ridden one have o conception and are just envious

[@joeysixtysix]

Great video! I think most of the negative things you hear about HD comes from people who have never experienced one.

[@stephenfoster582]

Or are envious

[@narutofanar]

Not going to lie and say I remotely watched a majority of your video but for the most part you seem like a pretty honest guy in this aspect. One question I would like to ask, being a sportbike rider myself..is why do so many Harley riders mock or just plain out ignore us? Like I wave to all bike riders and everytime I wave to a Harley, they just completely ignore me. You may have answered this already in the video but perhaps a time stamp would be helpful. Thank you

[@retaliaterguitar2]

Bit late on an answer but the people who usually don't wave are either weekend warriors that think of themselves as too badass to wave. Anybody who rides more than once a week will usually wave.

[@jacobmoll2878]

Odd, in my locality I have found the opposite, when I road my suzy most Harley riders waved, Now I am on a Harley and less than half non-harleys wave back(I miss a few do to clutching or traffic but I try to wave at all). For some reason when I had Suzy it bothered me more if a Harley didn't wave than if an other didn't.

[@aaronmachado13]

That's more so the guys who got into it cause they think they're Peter Fonda or Steve McQueen too cool for everyone. Honestly you'll find a lot of harley riders don't like them either as they bring bad name to our hobby. Ride safe man

[@edendriga23]

K... I understand the HP and torque is plenty for cruisers... However, why can't HD put better brakes on the bikes??

[@lloydmaynard9582]

My Road Glide came with Brembo Brakes it's 2017. Thought I would let you know they have put better brakes on them

[@philliplynn3938]

@Ticky Tocky I'm not sure which models you're speaking of, I have a 09 StreetGlide, braking is phenominal.

[@philliplynn3938]

@Ticky Tocky I have, rode Honda's for most of my life I'm 54, owned CX 500, CB900 and CB1000. I have nothing against any bike. My streetglide with the tour pack on is approaching 900#s, the braking is more than sufficient, I do use front and rear combined generally.

[@philliplynn3938]

Obviously you're not a Harley fan, they are heavy.

[@LimitedSpectrum]

This was a good video, Matt! You explained everything, and without getting angry or bashing anyone! I got my first bike in 2005, 1200XLC. Pretty rare for a 23-year-old to get a Harley at the time, so i took a lot of flak from others my age on their supersport bikes. I always just told them "You might go faster, but I look cooler", and they always shrug and say "can't argue with that!". Hey, I just moved to L.A. a couple years ago, and I have passed Laidlaw's HD a handful of times! I saw your name once I started watching the video. I guess i *HAVE* to stop in, now!

[@justcn09]

It doesn't exactly fall into the "Big V-twin" category, but I bought an '06 Sportster 1200 in 2014. It had 28k and I hit 55k this summer. It's easily as reliable as my Honda CB750 was. I can jump on it and ride across country without mechanical concerns. And if it does break, I can usually fix it. (I tell my mother in-law that yes, I have rode-side assistance. It's a tool kit.) As for cost, I feel like I did pay about a 2k premium for this Harley over other similar age/mileage used bikes, but walk into your local Honda dealer and ask them to finance your 3rd party purchase, and see the blank stare you get back. Harley Finance gave me a better rate than another finance company and I was on a bike with just 10% down.

[@RedCrowhop]

HD's hold their resale at least as well as ANY Japanese Bike ,most of the time far better. the financing issue is also a factor as you noted. Honda isnt going to give you one thin dime Honda or not if you aren't buying a new or used bike from the nearest honda dealer, period. I even had a Honda Dealer tell me they wouldn't /couldn't finance a used Honda that was in their Shop for sale, by them. ,told me to go see some pirate assed hi rate loan company, i told them F you I aint crazy or stupid either one.

[@MOTOPILOT6]

Hey MATT....spot on, bud. Coming from a guy that owns 2 SportBikes, one SuperBike, and a 1997 Harley Fat Boy. 1997 and no oil leaks and very very reliable in 10 years of ownership and tons of miles. Bike is butter smooth. Tons of torgue/pulling power. And let's not forget Harleys history in Pre-WWII flat track and post WWII road racing. Dominating flat track for decades and ruling the drag strip to the day even over Suzuki. Plus going over 265 MPH at Bonneville salt flats. Don't get me wrong...I love SportBikes too, but both style bikes have their purpose. Neither being better than the other. Safe riding, fellow riders. MOTO PILOT

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thanks for the comment. I watch your channel. Good stuff man. I love all different kinds of bikes as well. There is a different type of bike for every application speed, cruise, dirt, dual sport, etc. Yea, no one wants to talk about Flat track though.

[@MOTOPILOT6]

Funny that I saw this video again today. I'm releasing a Harley Davidson Brand video I shot in Laughlin tomorrow morning, touching bases on some things you discussed (as a brand). Check it out and please Like/Comment. Thanks for watching. MP

[@MattLaidlaw]

MOTO PILOT I'll be sure to check it out.

[@mattbrown1277]

Mr. Laidlaw, I am a MMI trained tech. However, I have never owned H-D. That being said, I have owned 4 Japanese v-twin motorcycles that had very but the quality of build as any H-D I have ever laid hands on. Every one was around half the c.c. displacement of a big twin. Even giving up that level of engine, they easily kept pace with Harleys, were just as comfortable and (in my humble opinion) just as reliable. Even now, given the financial capability I would likely but a H-D. Remebering an old adage that says the worst thing about a Harley is the owner says a lot about a the image of Harley Davidson motorcycles. No on can argue about most, not all, H-D owners are elitist.

[@davidfalgout7304]

Matt's facts where only partially true. 2018 Indians ride better, look great, have far better designed engines that give less trouble, Hold their value the same as H-D etc. OTOH all top manufacturers kinda come off as elitist . From my owner ship experience of both, HD does nothing better than Indian as of the 2018 model year save tons and tons of bling and variations.

[@getpower1]

I’m 31, I’ve ridden motorcycles and dirt bikes since 12. I’ve owned Harleys for the past nine years. Eight of which has been spent with a ‘13 Road Glide Ultra. It’s what I wanted when I was looking at buying. Comfort and long distance riding. I like all motorcycles, but if I get another street bike it’ll be another Harley touring bike. I wouldn’t believe it if you told me you’re not pushing people over the edge to buying from Harley. Even at 21 I wanted to ride a long way at a pretty good speed. Not really really fast for a short distance. There’s nothing like coming to a stop light sitting there vibrating and idling like they do. Plus, I’ve never seen another Midnight Pearl bike anywhere. Lights up like a Bass Boat in the sun!

[@MattLaidlaw]

That’s a great color.

[@PAULY-P]

You use your thighs, not your wrists on a sportbike. Im a Harley guy myself. But im loving the 2019 Chieftain DarkHorse. The Chieftain is between a StreetGlide and a Goldwing. I own a Harley and a Busa at the moment. And can ride all day on the Busa. The suspension doesnt pick up the bumps like my Harleys do. Plus it cuts through the wind. 👍 As long as your on 2 wheels, thats all that matters.

[@herbwag6456]

Matt, one correction. H-D did not develop it's first 8-valve V-twin "in the 1930-40s" as I believe you said, but way back in 1915 when Bill Harley and the boys became determined to whip Indian on the racetrack which they subsequently did. PS: as an aging baby boomer I'm reverting to the smaller type/size MC's of my youth in the 300-400cc range.

[@SmokeRingsPipeDreams]

I personally have pretty much NEVER heard a harley owner cutting down non harleys the way non harley owners do. That says a lot.

[@7quicksilver77]

Then u have not been a motorcyclist for as long I have (53 years) PS I own a cruiser and a gen 4 BMW S1000 RR M pack right now, and love them both.

[@loyalhearted6101]

Damn you must be living under a rock because most Harley riders don’t respect other cruiser riders.I have seen it first hand in my 42 years of life and 15 of those years of riding.

[@frankmarkovcijr5459]

Dude I don't know where you're coming from Harley Riders I know of they put down everything that isn't a Harley weather to BMW Ducati a brake bike what are the traffic like they always have a quick comment to say like rice burner Jack crap or something similar because they paid an overpriced piece of crap they have to make themselves feel better by putting down other people's motorcycles they think everything begins and ends with Harley-Davidson and Harley nothing in the scheme of things they are one step away from becoming a chinese-owned company your fights are made to pass federal regulations and not customers needs that's why you have to put 10 grand into a $20,000 motorcycle and it still is a piece of crap Harley build quality is an oxymoron if they made good bikes they wouldn't have the problems they are having and they wouldn't be shoving warranties down everybody's throats and they can keep their $60 t-shirts as well along with their hundred-dollar oil changes I could change the oil in my Sportster in my driveway in 20 minutes for about $30 the one time I let a dealer touch my bike they f*** it up never again thank God I never had the money to buy one of those I would not take one for free just like the British manufacturers Harley is Pennywise and pound-foolish did shave a few pennies putting cheap s*** their engines and then pay out the Wazoo for warranty claims they just never learn maybe chapter 11 will teach them a lesson but with 8 million twin cams on the used Market you're a Harley enough for the next 20 years without a factory and a boutique dealership and crafts that's made in China or Vietnam they don't want it to service they don't want to do repairs especially if you have a 10 year old bike bartender service pay is all full of brand new motorcycles with exploded engine Harley's last good motor was the Evo and that was designed by AMF best motor by far twin cams and mhr nothing but cheap disposable engines at ridiculous prices I mean really brand new motorcycle engine exploding at 15000 miles or less they have so many problems should we give me a sore throat listing them all here but they are all already wide known can't keep anything Secret in this day and age Executives at Harley got paid on their job performance they would get a zero paycheck at the end of the week except for the guy who figures out more ways to screw the Harley-Davidson customer out of money he got a raise and a bonus

[@frankmarkovcijr5459]

Harley-Davidson whose motto is by the rich for the rich only the rich and and if you are not an old fart with more monies and God you're not welcome in our dealership go buy a Honda Sonny they are going to put themselves out of business the same way BS a Triumph did in the 70s a competent management expensive products crappy warranties horrible quality control no parts but we happy aftermarket which puts out better stuff at lower prices than anything you can get from a Harley dealership

[@tonyzee9931]

Spot on video Matt! I crossed over to Harley-Davidson due to the quality and fun to ride. The bikes are classic, comfortable, fast, and beautiful. The paint is amazing and really durable and the resale value is amazing versus so many other brands. Just love my bike and look forward to many fun miles ahead!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Enjoy the ride my friend.

[@roddyhankins2668]

Love your videos matt really informative. Now on my 7th harley ridden them over here in the uk for 40years nothing else like them.really hope harley survives these difficult days the world is facing. Thanks matt

[@NorfolkSouthern-xt3xx]

You DEFINITELY cleared up a lot of the misconceptions for me! I'm ready to sll my 2017 Ninja 300 already and get an 883 Superlow! At 54 years old,..I'm asking myself why in the hell I started with a sport bike! How many 54 year old men ride sport bikes?

[@franciscvarga1212]

i rode sport bikes all my life i needed comfort with speed so i bought a 2019 fat bob 114, i never look back ...most fun bike i ever rode even my friend is impressed who rides a busa and he thinks to buy one.

[@roommatesusa2322]

I am a Busa rider thinking of making the jump to a street glide.

[@pelosishammer]

You’re right about H-Ds holding their value. After owning my last bike (2014 Street Glide) for four years and putting 25,000 kms on it, when I traded it in for a brand new tractor, they still gave me $24k for the bike which paid for half the tractor. It was like I had ridden the bike for free for the time I had it. I don’t ever plan on selling any bikes I buy from this point forward. I currently own a 2021 Low Rider S and I love it. 114 CI is far more power than I need, but it’s not about the speed. It’s the quality of the ride.

[@Talkitout0]

Just came across this video. I admit, I was a Harley hater up until a few months ago. Now I’m hoping to pick up my first Harley sooner rather than later. That being said, I think a lot of people do what I did - Overlook the experience for stats. For me, riding motorcycles is about experiences. I thought having the best brakes/suspension/whatever made the experience which is totally wrong. Having state of the art equipment is great to add to the experience, but if you can only enjoy the experience based on how ‘big’ your stat sheet is, I’m sorry. I think you’re missing out on a lot of great riding and personal experiences.

[@johnnymossville]

I think you hit the nail on the head Ed. It's about the experiences. For example, I can't tell you how many times I've stopped to fill up and have heard Harley Stories from older gentleman, who either have one, had one, or have friends who have them and they just want to communicate those great experiences with a like-minded person. I enjoy those chats because it's what connects us as humans. Personally, I don't care what people ride. Just enjoy what you have and enjoy the experience. Life is short.

[@justcruisingalong7112]

I have owned a Harley, several sports bike, an adventure bike, cruiser etc. most styles of motorcycles. The Harley does not have the technology of the modern sports bikes nor the power but if you are looking for a lifestyle and image, Harley is the way to go. Most of the different types work you just have to decide what style of riding you prefer. Each to their own.

[@scotthausam6445]

thanks for the video Mr.Laidlaw. very informative, and easy to understand. I wish all metric riders would watch this video to erase a lottery of prejudices.

[@shadefive]

I love that you're on a low rider s. I just picked up my 2016 and couldn't be happier with it. torque is 100% there. only complaint is finding a good set of pipes for it that aren't 2 into 1. I'm fine with 2 into 1 into 2 through a collector, but not just one pipe out the rear...

[@plaguesofwrath]

On the price thing, I've been trying to tell people this for years.

[@JA-zh5xi]

I rode sport bikes throughout my teens and into my 30s. You’re 100% correct - racing them was fun. Riding them was not.

[@SmokeRingsPipeDreams]

Judging a motorcycle by it's "specs" is like judging a woman's total value by her measurements.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Agreed. Great analogy.

[@zackboughter8101]

Where can I watch the Discovery special on the Livewire that you mentioned at 9:00?

[@aaronmachado13]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/faHWeKqQjNuAnJI

[@jcfrmcali]

Some people watched this video determined not to learn anything.

[@rodneybarcus2233]

Matt the old twin cams were being rebuilt around 85000 miles for the top end and 120000 for the bottom end. With the new engine design do you feel this engine will have a longer life. Your best guess is all I'm asking. I ride about 18000 miles a year. I'm about to retire and am concerned about engine life. Thanks

[@turtle19dad]

And they are worried because "Harley riders dont wave at them." I was literally told not to buy H-D because their riders dont wave.

[@turtle19dad]

@ bad thing is it was someone I served/deployed with. And I've wanted HD as long as I can remember. Now when I close on the house, it's between the RGS/SGS/FXLR/FXBB, as well as Midnight Blue SG Standard. Tough choice.

[@dewaynemartin6649]

Great!!!!, you highlight the specialty of HD. As a new rider with Harley SR as my first bike I wonder why there is a fuss about HD. I love it, it's simple and solid.

[@edtuller2537]

Matt I Live In South Georgia and I watch your Video's all the time. Keep up the Great work. But there is a guy that just traded in his Ultra with over 100,000 miles on it. I ride a 09 Heritage Love my Harley. I have had Honda's, Kawasaki's there all good bike's. But there is Nothing like an American made Motorcycle.

[@moulis05]

Nice work Matt. I purchased my first Harley Davidson last year for my 50th birthday present to myself. I live in Australia and my choice of motorcycle was based on the positive side of all 5 of your misconceptions about Harleys. I didn't see heaps of marketing, I based my choice on word of mouth. Having owned different motorcycles through my life I had always wanted one and as it turned out, 2018 was the right time to buy one. So I bought a Breakout 114 with a stage 1 kit. The price was good, the finance was super competitive, the bike is a tough AF looking beast and is exactly what I like in a H-D with a brand new M8. I like sports bikes as well but for a 50 year old man, getting off it I can walk away after a long ride without walking like a half shut pocket knife. Keep up the great content mate!

[@oeggoneeyedgimpyguy2232]

I have ridden numerous different types of bikes. My favorite is Honda. Why? Because I believe they are the most reliable. My parents have become the definition of fair weather riders... Maybe 150 miles a year tops. Their Hondas from the 90's only ever suffer from dead batteries from sitting... THAT SAID! I think a lot of people are listening to your words while simultaneously trying to prove you wrong. Saying a Harley is "not out dated it just still uses old tech to keep nostalgia" is contradicting. The tech in most of the Harley's power plants is old. But its because its the style and type of bike they build. They do add tweaks there and smooth things out here. But a point you did make, is if they brought in all this new age tech, it simply wouldn't be a Harley. I do all the repairs on my friends and families bikes. They have all types. One bike is a newer Fat Bob. I hit the starter and it has that Harley delay when starting. Then it has that Harley shake while at idle. At cruise speeds its sings its sweet music. on decel it sounds like its going to eat children walking by. Why? Old technology mixed with new. Now I sit on my Dads '97 Honda American Classic (Honda Shadow that was built in America so they could stamp "Made in U.S.A." on the seat for all to see.) It starts smoother, it barely shakes at idle, its revs up, it humms down and is overall a fun bike to ride. But it doesnt have the soul of a Harley. Its not a bad thing to say you use old tech, especially when most riders do own a Harley whether it be due to nostalgia, they want the look, or maybe they just are pro American products. I will say though, Harley has been kicking ass in the electronic department. They came a long way in that regard. Final thought before I close. I currently do not own a Harley. Mostly because I Love my 3rd gen Magna and CBR. Thus making my garage.... Full.... ;-( The Magna has the Asian styling of a Harley with the efficient V4 engine. This offers a smooth ride at all speeds. Acceleration like crazy, and can cruise on a sunday with the rest of them. It beats most Harleys in races, and was discontinued in 2004... Why? Honda took the look of a Harley and put a 4 cylinder in it! People would see the bike and expect one thing, then the motor makes it something else. This turned a lot of people off to it. That combined with the more expensive cost to build a V4 vs a V-twin, and its fate was sealed... Point is that Harley sells because people want whats in the feelings they get while riding, not what adds up on paper...

[@EazyDuz18]

150 miles a year may as well hand in your bike licence

[@Embargoman]

Chinese knockoffs are like an up to date Harleys is that Harley-Davidson with a Honda reliability.

[@jeffhickman10]

Your comprehension skills are nonexistent.

[@chriscisneros155]

I have a question for you Matt. I have ridden for years and noticed something strange about the Harley Davidson crowd. Ever since a friend of mine mentioned the similarity of the Harley crowd to pirates, I now see pirates. It’s the clothing they wear. Sport bike riders typically wear protective clothing and riding gear. Conversely, Many of the Harley crowd wear fingerless gloves, assess chaps, tasseled vests and drink coaster sized “helmets “ full faced helmets are rare. Protective riding gear has a purpose, a certain crowd seems to choose fashion over function. Why do they dress like Pirates?

[@kevinpolito7727]

Granted, H-D has made continuing upgrades in technology over the years. However, I have a number of friends who ride Harleys, and they have had disappointing experiences. Because they have previously owned Honda and other brand bikes, they tend to be more outspoken about the problems they have had than Harley owners who have never owned any other brand. Issues friends with late model Harleys include overheating, engine failure, and high maintenance costs. I have had to spend far less on maintenance on my Kawasaki than a riding buddy who had a similar vintage Wide Glide. Primary drive maintenance was a big expense on his bike and is not an issue on a Japanese cruiser. At 100,000 miles, his engine was toast, even with by-the-book maintenance. He bought a new Harley to replace the Wide Glide several years ago. He and I took a trip together in 2001 when our bikes were new. My Nomad has 150,000 miles on the clock and shows no sign of needing a rebuild.

[@recklessrt]

Matt: This is my favorite out of all your videos. The reason is because this video explains why Harley does what Harley does. And the riding video, is 1st class and so commplements the story line!

[@SmokeRingsPipeDreams]

When I hear harley haters bitching about harleys I also smell something and that smell is the smell of extreme envy.

[@Ithboltar666]

Speaking about my own experience riding motorcycles 15 years. I rode Japanese bikes about 14 years and i got Harley-Davidson Nightster last summer because i felt that for me it`s the only way continuing motorcycling and at the same time retirement from riding sport bikes for the rest of my life. And i am very happy that i did it because i am really looking forward to getting on my bike this season. I knew what i was getting in to and i have no regrets for the choice i made for my self.

[@nelsoncasamalhuapa1554]

Matt I appreciate your enthusiasm about Harley but, for a few years now I've been very disappointed with how they treat their customers. Let me give you a couple of examples why I feel this way. 1. They have become a clothing company I will not pay $32.00 for a tank top, really for a tank top you pay that much money, that is ridiculous. 2. I purchase the 2014 Street Glide Special and why, I'm asking you why with all this new technology on the market why do you have to have wire connection just to that you can use your voice command in your infotainment system? I could have purchase an Indian and it works wirelessly why not Harley? and even if you buy a 2017 you still are connected with a wire why????? At this point and time I've been so disappointed that I am ready to move into Indian, there system does work wirelessly!

[@SmileIGotYou]

Soooooo why did you buy it? Do you buy other articles of clothing that are over priced like Nike for instance? Everything has a set price that's how this all works. It all depends on if you want it not.

[@nelsoncasamalhuapa1554]

Why did you buy what? What are you referring to? The clothing or the motorcycle?

[@nelsoncasamalhuapa1554]

I never buy things that are overpriced that how that works!

[@SmileIGotYou]

The HD. Isn't it over priced? That's what everyone is saying. Really anything other than free is overpriced isn't it? Do you really think anyone who is trying to make money is going to give it to you for at the very least anything less than what it cost to make or build?

[@nelsoncasamalhuapa1554]

Your an idiot, to print a t-shirt doesn't cost that much, who the fuck are you anyway a Harley stock holder?

[@challengerbrant]

Hey Matt, I thought the ‘single pin' deal was only on pre-twin cam engines? Isn't that why the engines post evo's sound lost? please correct me cause that is what I thought. thanks.

[@defundprosports6407]

it's all about the rider. you enjoy going slow on a Harley. I ride a bike for nothing but adrenaline. thus a ninja is suffice. It's Harley riders who usually have issues with supersport riders.

[@RedCrowhop]

Where do you do this "adrenaline riding", it it's public roads, thanks for nothing.

[@TCGRandom-x5m]

Well said, that is why I just bought a 2017 Roadster, and I am getting rid of my KTM RC390. I don't do track days, sportbikes are just not fun for commuting. I am also in my early 20's. Most people my age don't understand.

[@Streetbob_Nomad]

Great video. Really appreciate you defending Harley's 👌🏻 🤙🏻 keep your face in the wind brother

[@kennethwise7108]

True that Matt, i love my 20 year old Harley and wouldn't get rid of it for NOTHING! 134,000 miles and still going strong!

[@jasonbluestein4287]

I have only owned Harleys for the past 12 years or so and I have one now. I had (2) Ultra Limited and (1) ultra Classic and I didn't like any of them. Mainly the handling was terrible in my opinion. I know they had made a few changes since 2008 and I hear they are much better. I am torn between the Honda Goldwing and the new Ultra Limited but I have been doing some extensive research. I started with comparing those bikes not just any Harley against sport bikes. I wanted a more apple to apple comparison if you will. I looked at both bikes and the first thing is the Harley is approx. 1K more and it offers less. I could get the same amenities on the Harley but that would increase the price to approx. 3K more. Also, the Honda offers a 3yr warranty whereas the Harley offers a 2 year warranty. Please don't get me wrong I love Harley and again I've owned many of them but when it comes down to price and what you're getting for your money, I have to say the Honda Goldwing is the better way to go. They are also proven themselves over the years to be very reliable, lower cost of ownership etc... The Harley has a better resale value but that has taken a drop since more bikes have been produced and the amount of riders increased. The only thing I really disagreed with in the video is that I do believe people buy Harleys for the name. When you buy a Harley you do buy into the image and I do believe you pay for that. The technology or lack of in comparison is because Harley owners like the shaking, the sound etc.. if Harley changes that, then they would be changing not only their bikes but the image and since I believe that image is part of the reason bikes are sold, they won't do that. The point I'm trying to make is they are expensive and you don't get everything for your money that would you on another brand and you are buying into the image. I think you either love them or you don't and if you do you will buy them

[@tysonvilleneuve931]

But Jason, what about brand recognition? By that I mean some random girl in Vegas with ankle tattoos named Destini is more likely to know what a Harley is. "Why you dint jus' buy a real Harley instead a this chinese bike?" Think about it.

[@jasonbluestein4287]

Hey Tyson, I agree there is "brand recognition" of course and Harley like other brands do draw a specific client. That was sort of what I was saying, that part of buying a Harley, you are buying into a certain image and the "random girl" you used as an example, you described her as someone that would be attracted to the Harley as oppose to Honda or any other metric bike. Don't get me wrong I love Harleys I've owned them for many years. I was trying to point out that if your going to compare what you would get for a certain price and Harley and the same price for another brand, you're going to get more amenities with another brand. What you do lose is, the history, image and the all around feel of the old school riding. The shaking, the cool factor. I also will tell you that by far Harleys are the best looking bike in my opinion and what Matt says in this video is true. They have gotten more reliable etc... but they are higher maint costs. I know as I have 2 of them I maintain. The running costs are slightly higher because of the gas. Harley has to use 91 and above which typically costs more than regular gas. Again, I agree with you bud, and I love my Harley..but matt is right when he says there is a reason why there are many options of bikes because not everyone is the same. :)

[@tysonvilleneuve931]

Yep. Brand recognition basically translates into "people who don't know anything about this type of product recognize this brand". Which is fine, really. A bike, especially a cruiser, is about how you feel when you look at it, and when you're riding. Part of that feeling is how you feel like you're perceived. I had a Vulcan 1500 Nomad that I bought for dirt cheap just to take touring around the states. I sold it a couple months later as I had intended to do. It was a damn good machine, especially considering what I paid for it, but it didn't have any badge prestige, but for what I needed it for, it wasn't worth paying 2-3 times as much for a Harley that likely wouldn't even have the same performance.

[@jasonbluestein4287]

Exactly! They are nice machines, I actually owned a Vulcan Classic and my brother had the Nomad. Now he owns a Goldwing. People should ride whatever they are comfortable with and it doesn't matter what it is as long as they are enjoying themselves. Really, it's a toy and if you're going to spend money on a toy, you should love it and it doesn't matter what others think. :) Keeping riding buddy!!

[@robertp457]

Why did you buy a motorcycle you didn't like to ride? Take a look at BMW tourers.

[@manosmilonakis6056]

Fast forward to 2022. Harley has come up with a modern type engine the Revolution Max that doesn't look or sound like a Harley. They've came up with an adventure bike and as you said a completely electric one too and they've killed the Evolution engine in Europe and pretty soon everywhere esle too. It won't be long until the very essence of what Harley Davidson is for all these decades dies too unfortunately. Everything folds in the way of profit and greed.

[@206-HoneyBadger]

As a young female, I bought my first HD in 2003. It was an '03 Fatboy Anniversary two-tone off the showroom floor. I sold it in 2011 for what I paid for it because of the condition I kept it in - became a bidding war. My next bike became the 48 and I can't imagine ever selling it even when I buy my next HD. The thing about HD's is that people love hearing them roar and I get lots of thumbs up for my bobber. I've had countless people wanting to take pics of themselves sitting on the American iconic motorcycle, and I have no problem with allowing them to do so. With a Harley, you never feel alone and lots of drivers respect HD riders on the road. This isn't always be said about the lawn-mower sounding bikes (sport bikes).

[@gypsyfirefly8009]

Valerie Quince... 🌺Hi Val, loved your post! It help me stick to my resolution to get my first at 54 yrs old. I hope I find some cool gal pals to ride with like you seem to be😎

[@206-HoneyBadger]

@@gypsyfirefly8009 You will. Ride safe. There are plenty of moto riders out there always looking for fellowship.

[@juans3728]

Mr. Laidlaw, i agree with your statement on Harleys, what do you prefer? a belt driven or chain and which one has longer quality life and performance for the bike?Do you think is preferable to buy a used Harley being it's the first bike.

[@westleywalsh8188]

Belt drive all the way!

[@flipperdeluxe108]

Horsepower is how fast you hit the wall. Torque is how much of the wall you take with you.

[@erikjensen6503]

Matt, I really appreciate your videos, they are well done and you bring up relative points. I recently (2 years ago) bought a 15 street glide after riding BMW and lots of other brands. Rushmore bikes are awesome! Everyone always asks me to compare the Harley too the BMW, they are apples and oranges. I really like both but enjoy riding the Harley because it fits my riding style right now at this point in my life. Thanks for your great videos!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thank you sir

[@512ethan]

Heat kills horsepower. So why take hot air right next to a blazing hot cylinder into the carb and cycle it back through engine? That is the old tech nology people are talking about. I have a 2007 roadster. no oil cooler. Hot oil breaks down faster than cooler oil. Why no factory oil cooler? My 2004 Bonneville has a factory oil cooler. What about the internal chain? I ride a lot of miles a year. Not bagging on Harley. I really want to like them. Factory seat sucks. Factory suspension sucks. Yes, you can make them better but why they don't roll off the line with better engine cooling, better seats and suspension, ect? Add a sight glass on the side of that pontiac sized crankcase? They can make bikes better and they should.

[@adityabeatz]

These harley guys WANT to be uncomfortable and pathetic! It's the only thing that makes them feel more "american"

[@pwntwtf]

Anything above 2 mph is going to be fresh air. Your point is only valid at a red light. lol

[@512ethan]

Brigman Or on the Highyway in a traffic jam in 105 degrees. Yea, it should come with an oil cooler.

[@pwntwtf]

Never had that problem before. Fortunately most states I travel in don't have any anti-lane splitting laws, so I can always stay moving when I need to.

[@robertp457]

Only one state allows lane splitting.

[@blueberry2846]

Good vid and pretty informative Matt, Ive been riding now some 48 years owned quite a few different brands but never a Harley , i probably never will but i have learned to respect the bike for what it is and why people ride them. I think its time for riders to all come together no matter what they ride and share the reason why we ride to others that do not , maybe then the world will be just a little better place for that.

[@shenandoahhills7263]

Well, Matt. You have started a firestorm with your videos. The one thing that can be said is that owners bring a lot of passion to their riding. Many folks, who can afford it, have more than one bike. In my case after many years of riding, I now have a sport-tourer, an adventure duel sport, and the Harley. I enjoy each of them, but for different reasons. When riding, Harleys don't really mix with BMWs, KTMs, Italian or Japanese bikes. Most Harley riders tend to cruise along at moderate speeds and don't really press the corners. The guys on the sport-tourers generally travel at a more vigorous pace, and will charge the corners. The duel sport guys do their own thing on and off roads and also tend to scoot, while the pure sport bikes are in another realm as are the dirt bikes. When i was a kid we sure had fun on 50cc mopeds. Nice that we have choices.

[@tombyrne1142]

I agree. I have a BMW, two Honda and a Suzuki, in addition to my Ultra Classic. Different tools for different jobs. However, my Ultra corners better than most people think it can. I can keep up with most people on sportier tourers.

[@Frostytravels]

Absolutely great video. I have been riding Harley Davidson and some other brands for over 50 years. I have to say Harley has always been there for me. I remember having to carry tools and such to ride one, years ago, and now you can just ride. Working on one is still somewhat simple but still requires maintenance. I have had several of my Harley Davidsons checked and with over 110k miles on my FLHTCU(1998) no rebuild was required. I now have a FLHTK 2015 and have to say the technology is beyond compare. They keep it simple. Put what you need to ride and enjoy the ride. Keep on riding man.....loved the video

[@BoutTime73]

Solid video, when people compare sport bikes with Harley's to me I always say well a Corvette and a Cadillac both have V 8's, why cant the caddy outrun the vette? Stupid comparison. At the end of the day though it's all about riding your ride, if you want a ninja then ride a ninja, if you want a BMW then ride it, just like I'll ride my Road King. And, for those who haven't kept up, Victory is going farewell.

[@sokodad]

Subie Driver what? What's this about victory?

[@BoutTime73]

Victory going out, Polaris gonna focus on Indian and shut down Victory

[@sokodad]

Subie Driver that's sad. I feel it's slap in the Victory owners face.

[@BoutTime73]

I think it's terrible move on their part, they said they'll provide parts and such for ten years though

[@BFD15i]

My guess: There will be some new Indian models in the near future, using Victory engines and chassis. It's just not very smart to run 2 companies aiming for (nearly) the same customers. It's better to focus the efforts on 2 company and make that really succesfull.

[@assassin3223]

Hi, Matt. I do have a question to ask you, but before that, I'd like to say a big thank you. I'm from India, and even though there are tons of Harley showrooms here, I haven't been able to have informed discussions with experienced people here. Maybe because the market is still at its infancy. So I have relied on your reviews and your information-laden videos to gain a lot of information. You're not just the owner of a dealership, your love for these machines shows, and you have been more than able to communicate so many nuances to us newbies in a language that we all can easily understand. So.. thank you very much! Now, the question. I know that the Milwaukee 8 has options of partially air and partially oil cooled, or partially air and partially liquid cooled. The reason cooling is so important from an Indian perspective is that the roads are much narrower and the traffic is through the roof. I currently ride a 2015 Iron 883, and there have been times when it has shut off due to overheating (during extended periods of stop and go traffic). Wouldn't fully liquid cooling (as was in the case of the V Rod and Night Rod, and the new Street family of bikes) be a big help in such situations? Other manufacturers do offer that, and it improves the ride quality overall and reduces the tension of us riders. Honestly, I haven't upgraded to a Softail only because of this heating trepidation. Your thoughts? Thanks in advance!

[@OnPointFirearms]

Great video, Matt. You bring calmness and civility to motovlogs. I enjoy what you do. Thanks!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thank you.

[@-RockStar_]

I was serious about buying either a Fat Bob, Fat Boy or Breakout, all around 20 to 25 thousand dollar bikes. Went to a dealer and they would not let me test drive one. A few weeks later called one of the larger dealers 3 hours away and talked and they said yes, come on you can test them here. Made the long drive and salesman even sent me map on how to get there. Guess what, they would never let me test drive one!!! Put me thru this long drawn out sales pitch and sent me to Apparel, Parts, Service then finance. It was crazy. I kept telling them that "I'm here to test drive" and store manager comes and says "You are here to joy ride!" and threw me out of the store. The whole ordeal changed my mind on Harley-Davidson bikes and I will never buy one!

[@tcalof]

Harley's use modern technology: You show the Milwaukee-8 engine. HD just adopted that last summer. The reason they were forced to do that was from the complaining of owners regarding the wicked heat coming off the exhaust pipes and cylinder heads. Why didn't HD use the four valve/dual spark plug design before model year 2017? Your guess is as good as mine. Harley's are expensive: You say weight costs money. Steel is far cheaper than aluminum. They should be cheaper to manufacture. Why are they so expensive? Dealer markup and manufacturer greed. They charge more than the market will bear. HD sales have been dropping every year. Harley's are reliable: You didn't mention that the first run of Milwaukee 8's have been plagued with oil pump failures causing seized crankshaft bearings. Milwaukee 8 114's in the CVO are running hotter than the previous generation twin cam engines. Harley survives because it is a quality product: Who are you kidding? HD is sold as a lifestyle. If you want the bad boy, brotherhood, loud pipe image, you have to ride an HD. HD marketing iOS the best in the world. I'm not an HD hater by any means. I subscribe to the mantra that who cares what make you ride. As long as you ride, that's all that matters. I've ridden many models of HD. Not my cup of tea, for many reasons. The point of my reply is to tell viewers of your video that there are contradictions and inaccuracies to all 5 of the HD misconceptions you've rebutted. Caveat Emptor.

[@biaggiwins]

tcalof you saved me from a lot of typing, thank you. seems like a nice guy and i would ride with him any day, but these are opinions more than misconceptions.

[@biaggiwins]

Jrock420blam are you high? you have absolutely no idea what youre talking about.

[@Jrock420blam]

Says the guy riding kids bikes.....

[@biaggiwins]

Jrock420blam lol dont drown in the kool-aid...

[@spiritofthewolf15x]

To be fair, the steel comes from China and Japan.

[@legion7875]

ok so I need help. I'm almost 40. I'm not looking for massive speed. just enough to hit 80 on the highway. I'm a first time rider. I really like the dyna street bob. my question is will that be a good starter bike to keep for a long time and also a good bike to learn on and work on my riding skills? I'm 5ft 8in 200lbs. I also know I need to test ride it first to see if it fits me. but I just wanted some guidance from all the veteran harley riders. thanks

[@MattLaidlaw]

Jermey Allbright I would go Dyna. You're on the right track. With something like a street bob or a low rider you'll be able to keep it for a long time as well without growing out of it.

[@legion7875]

thanks for the advice. I'm looking forward to being part of a brotherhood again

[@JohnDoe-jb7cr]

Get yourself a supermoto. Problem solved, you just win

[@MattLaidlaw]

Just rode one at a track 3 days ago. It was a blast.

[@johnlentz1798]

I just bought a 2019 Harley Street Bob, and I wanted to put on a Vance-Hines short shot muffler, along with air breather and tuner. I was told that it Would void my warranty! I haven’t found any pipes that look and sound as good. Does Harley have anything as good. That isn’t ugly strait pipes? Thank you.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Just don’t use the Vance and Hines tuner.

[@CbusLowRider]

One other point that should be made: Most people that constantly hate on Harley Davidsons have never even actually ridden one. They draw their opinions off of internet garbage comments or stereotypical misconceptions about the brand and it's riders. Or the only one they have ridden, was some haggard ass 80's sportster or something. I encourage anyone to go to a Harley demo day that is interested in a cruiser style motorcycle. See for yourself. No, they aren't for everyone. Just don't form opinions based off stupid comparisons or a spec sheet alone. I can tell you that I absolutely love mine (2016 Low Rider S and 2004 Buell Lightning XB12S). Safe riding out there, everyone.

[@dtales77]

Cbus Low Rider yess you are right people are very negative whit everything nowadays HD is HD just ride the bike and enjoy life !!simple

[@SirLoinofBeef235]

Just posing on status symbols. Admit it

[@darryll1142]

Hey Matt, I really like your videos and love the HD Road King. I almost bought one in 2014 but here was my dilema. I live in Canada and bikes are much more expensive here then in the USA. I wanted an Old school looking cruiser for touring 2 up. I narrowed it down to the Road King and the Kawasaki Nomad 1700 ABS. The Nomad came with 1700cc motor with Hydraulic lifters so no Valve maintenance, electronic cruise, Linked ABS standard, 2 tone paint standard, Passenger backrest standard, Luggage rack standard, Passenger floorboards standard, 4 year unlimited KM Warranty standard, and it was $13,000 out the door price. In comparison with the Road King with 2 tone paint was $24,199 + $915 for ABS + $700 for passenger backrest + $500 for the luggage rack + $2000 for a 4 year unlimited KM warranty + $1800 freight/PDI + 5% Tax = On sale it was $30,000 out the door price. Hence my dilema. $13,000 vs $30,000. In Canada I can only ride for 6 months of the year as well. Very hard to justify 30K for a bike when my new SUV cost me 30K and I can drive it all year round. I ride 35,000KM a season so the warranty was a big seller for me. Both bikes drove amazing, however I do like the look of the Road King better, but not for $17,000 more. In the end I bought the Nomad 1700 for $13,000. In 3 years I have ridden 105,000KM and not had one problem with the bike. My question to you is, how can Harley justify selling bikes that are double to triple the cost of anyone elses comparabile bike? Some people will say but a Harley is far superior to the Kawasaki, it has better resale and is made of more metal then plastic, which may be well and true. But at the end of the day Im riding 105,000KM right beside you on your Harley on trips, having the same great time, experiencing the same amazing memories, except I have $17,000 in my pocket for beer and gas. Just something to ponder. Keep up the great videos.

[@iantman6664]

That all may be true but after all that said it’s still not a Harley. Cheers!

[@ibtm]

Matt-Great video--I call that firing sequence of the Harley "The Heartbeat Of America!!!!!!!" Looking to buy a new silver CVO Ultra Limited in the spring!

[@andrewdreyer7765]

My hd street bob vs a sports bike? My buddy had his Yamaha 600. I could take him off the line, but once he had it at speed he'd jet by me. Even so, i could still keep up. What's the problem?

[@joecat1973]

Harley uses enough foreign manufactured parts on the bikes now to be called an American owned motorcycle company instead of an American made motorcycle that's what's driving me away

[@bojay2229]

how many miles on a bat boy soft tail would you consider a lot of miles? Thinking of buying a used 2007 with 30,000 miles

[@MattLaidlaw]

Bo Jay 75,000 or more I would consider a lot of miles.

[@bojay2229]

Thanks, so, 30,000 is about 100,000 car/truck miles... just out of warranty but not out of comission... ish?

[@MattLaidlaw]

Bo Jay No, the warranties on HD are all unlimited mileage.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Bo Jay You can't really go just by mileage. How well was it taken care of? What's the condition? Servicing etc. I know a dude that has 320,000 miles on his nightrain.

[@roybatty-]

Harley should offer the heritage line for sure, but they really need to expand their lineup. Buell was a step in the right direction, they should have never torched them.

[@firefighter1c57]

Harley dumped Buell because they saw it as a threat. During the crunch in 09 Harley sales plummeted, and Buell sales inched up in 09 and 10... that's hard to do in a recession... but shutting Buell, and doing it with a bailout from tax payer dollars via "stimulus" money, they could redouble efforts into bike loud bikes that aren't selling. And don't believe me, compare Harley sales volume through all of the 2000s

[@NoWay23548]

Every time I think that this channel must run out of great videos filled with either stunning photo or in depth information, I stumble over another video worth seeing. This channel was a big inspiration for me when I got my first Harley a few months ago. So thank you Matt for all your hard work and for sharing your wealth of knowledge. /Fredrik from Gothenburg Sweden

[@steventhomas4543]

i wouldn't use the Vrod as my argument since HD had to go to the Germans to build their engine.

[@cmustard599]

I always rode metric bikes and believed many of these 'misconceptions' (and still do, to an extent) until I spent some time on Harleys. I say, 'different strokes for different folks.' The Harley is its own experience, and will always have an army of defenders and true believers. There's always a place for their old-school American design philosophy. Why not? The more the merrier, I say. I enjoyed my time on them, though not enough to trade in my Kawasaki. Just a different mentality toward riding.

[@deepwood4]

I would love to debate you on this video. It does nothing to support your claim in the title. Very misleading and unintelligent points made.

[@battlebornhd3030]

Not misleading at all.... this video was very factual and straight forward. Why debate what he’s saying? If you don’t like the brand, don’t buy it. Pretty simple.

[@dennism103]

I use to be a sportbike guy too. Then I got older went to BMW then to hd, I'm very pleased won't go anywhere else...

[@mrkapusta9935]

you could also just enjoy a nice glass of stfu .

[@jholbrook75]

I have a 2010 FXDWG with over 70k on it. it's never leaked oil and has never broke down. I do keep up on the maintenance with it, in fact I just replaced the primary and cam chains, but it is been extremely reliable compared to other vehicles I've owned in the past.

[@davetfft]

bullshit that harley 'keeps up' with technology! good greif they JUST put in 4 valve heads! OOOO.... harley is still building a fat, slow, sluggish, lumbering and overpriced bike... $25-30 for a bagger? really? and THEN you have to stick $3-5k in the engine just to make it run right, and another grand in exhaust to make it sound decent.. harley davidson OWNS buell patents for the xl, why don't they make a 100hp sportster?? because it'd be way faster than the big fat girl twin cams and corporate can't allow that... Buell cranked out thousands of reliable bikes using that drivetrain, 103hp, 45mpg, solid, reliable... so what's your $14k sportster have today? 57hp? harley OWNS the patents and the tooling to give customers that bike AND beat emissions.. do they? no... harley is lazy... period... :).

[@Denis-bo8ms]

I agree, definitely need more valves

[@andymotl]

I own one of the pos twin cams and you're partially right... Try closer to $15,000 to make it reliable and perform worth a shit! That's because you have to replace everything stock from the factory with aftermarket parts! That is pretty sad on H-D's part!

[@Denis-bo8ms]

1. I dont follow this channel. 2. This video is about comparing HD to other makes of motorcycles as it says in the description.

[@obfuscated3090]

The aftermarket offered four valve heads many years ago for HDs, but the MoCo are cheap fuckers and always have been.

[@randyhutchinson9910]

davetfft you really are a butter little man, aren't you ?

[@TheDFM007]

I have a 2007 HD Sportster XL 1200 Hardtail Bobber. I noticed a sucking sound a few months ago, faint and slightly noticeable until the other day when I was opening her up in 5th gear @ 6,500RPM's (Screaming Eagle ECU 7,000Redline) when I noticed it became suddenly obnoxiously noticeable & distinguishable even at 55+MPH. I found a video on here which said it had a Push-Rod O-Ring which was "pinched", the sound from the video and which my HD is making are identical. I saw some other videos on Evo Dissambly and Re-Assembly, My question is can the O-Ring for Push Rod's be changed without removing the actual push-rod from the sleeve? If Yes, P-Rod must be removed to perform above mechanical repair, does the motor cover (head cover) require removal, placement of piston to TDC, opening of sight hole, etc... Im just curious if anyone knew the answer to this to save me hours worth of work which I would rather not perform if I can avoid it. Thanks.

[@ruger-hi2tg]

Harley will not outlast a Goldwing.......because goldwings are built better

[@bicymanru4eel]

how much stuff do u have to remove to change the air cleaner on a goldwing

[@2004sadmanco]

bicymanru4eel I worked at a Honda dealership. Many Goldwings would come in with OVER 100k miles with no repairs or changes. Just oil and filter changes. I will gladly pay for the labor for an air filter change and save tons money

[@barackblows1942]

Goldwings are not cheap but they are ugly as sin.💩

[@tryarunm]

Matt, i am very glad you addressed this. I couldn't say it any better than Keith Rennier has; he seems to have reached into the heart of every Harley lover and expressed it as plainly and as prettily as we would all like to. I rode scooters for 25 years in Hyderabad and Madras, India, and since 2014 only my Street 750. I have thanked my lucky stars every single day for the privilege. Ride safe, Brother.

[@lewisbrazil5485]

You did not talk about why are HD's so fricken Loud? Loud pipes say lives but annoy the hell out of most non HD riders. I just want to express that my opinion is that HD riders believe that 90% of people really like the loud exhaust. I am here tell you all that your loud exhaust is ruining your reputation. Even the buffalo in SD can't stand you, the rangers say that buffalo will leave the quite bikes, cars alone but attach the HD's on a regular basis during the Sturgis rally.

[@arthurmchugh5184]

themaxrider you got that right! and I'm not that old 😀

[@bobj5357]

If a rider believes loud pipes save lives, you have NO business being out in traffic in the first place.

[@arthurmchugh5184]

Bob J great friggin point! I proudly wear my t-shirt that says LOUD PIPES POOR SUBSTITUTE FOR NO SKILLS

[@phoenixskeptic7698]

Many towns are implementing noise limits, so if the few who continue to annoy many don't take heed, loud aftermarket pipes will soon be illegal.

[@gmg921]

all bikes can be loud i can tell you i hear loud sport bikes 2 to 1 over loud harleys. Nor pointing any fingers but all bikes can be loud not just a HD feature

[@MrButtons252]

I just bought my first harley davidson, a 2016 1200cx. Possibly the slowest motorcycle I have ever owned. The dealership told me everyone pays the "harley tax" where you end up buying intake, exhaust, and a tune just to get it to run decent. I disagree with you on #2. I traded in a 2007 BMW K1200R sport with hard bags, abs, heated grips, double windshield. It was more comfortable, made 151whp to the rear wheel (intake, exhaust, tuned), more torque, more smooth, less wind blowing me around, more luggage capacity. with all that said, i lusted for a vtwin and wanted a classic air cooled roadster and so i am happier. However, 62hp from a 1200cc vtwin is a bit absurd these days from a bike called a "sportster" after i pay $700 for 2-1 exhaust, $150 intake, $400 on a tuner, $325 on cams -- i might get to my 85whp goal