What You Should Know Before Buying A Harley Davidson Softail Model

[@PaulsMotoZen]

I like the style of the Harley-Davidson Road King and Heritage, but ended up with a 2009 Honda Shadow Aero do to funds. I made ONE payment, and it was mine! Yeah, I could have just kept saving to get what I wanted, but I actually ended up with what I needed. It was neglected, in a garage, and looked like it had ten years of dust on it. It barely ran, and it needed a lot of work, but the transformation of what it was, and what it is now, was a healing process for me and my PTSD. Restoring the bike into a safe running machine became a zen like process. Now when I ride, the bike just sings to me, and it is how the bike got it's name, "MotoZen". Okay, I can now see that I have already had to much coffee today. Take care, ride safe.

[@IronBornRider]

That’s awesome, love that story. Ride safe Paul

[@tippmannperson]

Obsessively researched Harleys before going to my demo event to ride them for the first time. Got the Road King Special first which little do people know but it has a Stage 2 installed. Made all the other models including 117s feel underwhelming. I liked the touring frames but wasn’t feeling it with the soft tails, wife also wasn’t impressed by the Heritage which I was hoping to like because we needed a bike for both of us to ride together on. Ended up with a Yamaha Stratoliner which is Road King sized but weight in between it and the soft tails with a 113ci motor.

[@robbyclark6915]

I was shocked at how much I liked the slim when I rode that bike. It was actually the very first M8 Harley I ever rode. Not my style, but I really enjoyed that bike! I went on to check out 3 street bobs (trying to force it on myself) a fat Bob and the last one was my ‘21 LRS which I still have and will always have (hopefully). I was trying to stay away from it because everyone on YT was trading in their iron 883s for one and I wanted to be different. Then I rode it and understood completely why everyone was getting that bike!

[@IronBornRider]

The softail slim is one that I hope Harley brings back. Really like that model. I thought I would like the streetbob a lot but just didn’t care for the ergonomics that much. Didn’t think I’d like the fatbob but liked it a lot more than I thought I would. Kind of crazy lol

[@GreatEgret]

The Heritage is definitely a comfy ride. You’re right about Harley lacking in tech and placing them at a high price point for their cruisers. Also the notion that it’s okay that they are expensive because they hold their value is no longer true. I sold two Harleys in the last three years and lost considerably on both.

[@IronBornRider]

I’ve seen the used Harley market fluctuate quite a bit. I think lately it’s gone down a bit since new bikes are starting to become more plentiful.

[@24james]

They are expensive because of the branding, the American Unions that build them and the large network of US dealerships that support the bikes. If you don’t want to pay a premium for an HD…you should not buy one💯✔️

[@Lectric_Blue]

@@24james .... or buy a second-hand one privately ;-)

[@joemann3536]

Less TECH, Less things to fix... love my 2023 FXST, NOT EVEN ABS. She is in the HD shop waiting to finish the stage 3 119 C.I. screamin eagle up grade. waiting for the dyno. this lower tech was what my cash could pay for when I bought her. had the dealer put dragbars and an aluminum intake manifold before leaving the dealership. I did the same in 2018 with my Kawasaki Zed 900 sport naked. the 2019 model had more tech... 14 pounds worth and 1/2 inch higher seat height so it worked out well. both bikes came with a black and red accent paint job so they look good in the stable. Less tech may mean longer battery life, too. Thanks for sharing. Stay in the wind.

[@IronBornRider]

Always a good option to go with a bare minimum bike and build it the way you want

[@BikesNThings]

The Road King is the final pill my brother. Congrats on the Scout, it's rad. 🤘

[@IronBornRider]

I was trying to get on a roadking but the last two demo days didn’t have em. Was salty about that lol

[@IronBornRider]

Oh and have you tried out a challenger? Would be curious to get your thoughts on that bike.

[@BikesNThings]

@@IronBornRider So the motor is there, but the build quality isn't, neither is the aftermarket. It's definitely not my speed but neither is the Road Glide right. What I like most about the Challenger, it forces Harley to produce a better bike. 🤠👍

[@IronBornRider]

@@BikesNThings yeah I thought the same exact things. Build quality seemed a little lacking, and the aftermarket only makes that point even more pronounced because you can’t really mod it out as much as a Harley. Thanks man!

[@d-money1909]

Great video and had to laugh at "THAT'S WHAT SHE SAID"! and i agree seeing abs riding the different bikes best way to see what fits you best and your riding style.

[@IronBornRider]

Thanks man! Appreciate you

[@TechNickRides]

I like to test ride one of the Heritage Classics, rode with a guy from a local group last year that had one with over 120k on it,had made several trips out to the west coast and back on it. Must of been hella comfortable lol

[@rovingnimbus]

Great reviews and points made as usual! Quick question though, I know you also have the LRS. Where would you honestly rank the LRST in the lineup of Softails?

[@IronBornRider]

I’m biased but I’d say it’s the best softail in general. I think it hits the best of the worlds in terms of performance, distance capabilities, comfort and of course looks. But some people may think otherwise but that’s just my opinion

[@rovingnimbus]

Much agreed. The heritage is as close to a bagger that softails get so it makes sense it’s really comfortable without the tech. The look is still too traditional for me. That ST looks phenomenal though and feels great too. I test rode one about a month back.

[@jorgemejias5960]

Nice and well put together video. I did had a couple softails, last one I had was a fatboy. I finally jumped into a bagger, bought a 2022 Streetglide ST and wow, what a difference. I am not going back to a softail brother.

[@IronBornRider]

Thanks! And I don’t blame ya, the streetglide st is awesome

[@Lectric_Blue]

What (for you) was the difference?

[@jorgemejias5960]

@@Lectric_Blue aside from having the advantage of saddle bags, my wife felt safer because I put a tour pack. I changed the seat, and tires made a huge difference when doing tight turns. I can go on and on but the biggest difference are those for me, also, I feel better with the boards.

[@Lectric_Blue]

@@jorgemejias5960 Thanks.

[@vmotobiker]

Great review!

[@IronBornRider]

Thanks!

[@thelost_woods]

Im still salty they discontinued the 107 Low Rider. It looks so much better than the S. Not everyone likes blacked out bikes. And also theres no reason at all that the street bob and standard have a 3 gal tank instead of 5, thats kinda bullshit if you ask me.

[@IronBornRider]

That’s a good point about the 3 vs 5 gallon tanks. Not sure why or how that was decided.

[@breedlofam]

I give it till 2025 models if not 2024 before all the softails will have a 5 gallon tanks. The brought back the Breakout with 5 gallon tanks. I think it was criminal for them to slap on 3.5's. My Street Bob has the 5 gallon conversion from a Heritage. Couldn't stand the 120 mile range.

[@thelost_woods]

@@breedlofam agreed. A 3.5 gal tank is criminal. I'm hoping the bob and standard have 5 gal tanks again in the future and hopefully they chrome out the low rider again.

[@RoadReality]

Breathalyzers? Wow... I agree, though - Harley demos are usually well-run. Great breakdown of the differences between different Softails... but I still prefer my bagger :D

[@IronBornRider]

Thanks John! Haha the bagger suits you

[@richpuller1348]

Here is my 2 cents. I own a 2021 RGL and a 2022 Street Bob. Opposite ends of the spectrum. Its what makes them the best two HD's to own. If your riding two up dont get a Softail. If your just riding around town dont get a touring bike unless your 300lbs. The Street Bob is easier to ride and is more fun than the RGL. The RGL dominates on the Interstate. I would not want to ride the Street Bob more than 50 miles on the interstate. I know you can mod the Street Bob, but it can never be what the RGL is and vice versa. The key to the 117 isn't 3 cubic inches. Its the tune. I thing what makes a HD fun is power and noise. The more power and louder the pipes makes for huge fun. My RGL is a big fat heavy bitch. IF your smaller in stature check out the Heritage. I think when your like my wife. A 60 yr old 5'4" female the differences are more pronounced. If your a 5'8" young buck you can handle any of them easily. The big problem with the competition is they are not HD. Fit and finish is not as good. Dealership network is not as good. Aftermarket parts not as good.

[@Anhnoles]

Honestly after having sat on the Road King Special, I think that will be my next upgrade from the Low Rider S

[@roadkingrider6532]

I’m bias..haha..but the RK is the best model Harley has.

[@IronBornRider]

That’s the one model I have yet to demo

[@Anhnoles]

@@IronBornRider hopefully we can see a video from you on one soon. *hint hint* 😬

[@IronBornRider]

@@Anhnoles I’ll do my best

[@roadkingrider6532]

@@IronBornRider honestly can’t imagine you not liking it. Although since your not a fan of the more classic look, you would probably like the special more. I like the standard more, which you know they stopped making. I prefer the classic look and it comes with a windshield which I only use in the winter. However it’s nice to have one.

[@nixxas1]

How do you think wich One IT will be MORE comfortable for tall guy (195cm) Fat Boy or Breakout? I like both of them, unfortunately in my city HD store have none of them yet, so I can’t try but really want one of them :)

[@IronBornRider]

I think the breakout will give you more leg room

[@roadking.118]

I 100% agree about the heritage. Its surprisingly a great bike that is underrated for sure. Nobody talks about it and its a crime. Give the bike some love lol I road kawasaki and yamaha for years and recently got into harley. I always heard all the bad things about HD. I gotta say...thats what got me intrested. I was like "do they all really always leak oil? Are all harleys really that unreliable?" Boy were they are wrong. I love HD now for too many reasons to list. That doesnt mean i dont love all the other bike brands. (Kawsaki left a bad taste in my mouth tho ngl) At the end of the day ignore the haters who deep down want a harley and inhale massive amounts of copium. Go try it out for yourself and dont give a Fuk about what others think. Idc if you ride 2 or 3 wheels idc what type of bike you ride or who makes it. I respect the fact you ride. Ride on!

[@IronBornRider]

Well said 🤘

[@jarthur1369]

from a purely engineering standpoint, a frame mounted engine with a mono shock is far superior to a rubber mounted engine with dual shocks. the touring chassis is still behind.

[@IronBornRider]

My thoughts as well!

[@jarthur1369]

I think you will see it soon. since 2014, the slammed tourer thing has been the fad. Harley gave us the street glide and road glide. but that has kinda played out, and now the new fad is more the sport tourer. this is why the lowrider st is so popular.

[@martincvitkovich724]

your microphone needs a haircut

[@jamessiegrist1810]

No thoughts on the Standard?

[@IronBornRider]

They didn’t have the standard available to demo. Mentioned that at the very end but I would say softail standard presents the best bang for the buck esp if you’re into modding

[@jamessiegrist1810]

Ah my bad, watching while working and completely tuned that part out 😂

[@IronBornRider]

@@jamessiegrist1810 all good. I should’ve mentioned it early on

[@lordion33]

My 17 slim s has cruise control…

[@willcasp]

I like my 2022 Fat Boy specificically because it lacks technology. It is a nice get away. When I want tech, I ride my BMW K1600 GT, which is loaded to the gills with tech.

[@IronBornRider]

Sure I totally get wanting to minimize tech/distractions. But I just wish the price reflected that lol

[@willcasp]

@@IronBornRider, they seem to have little trouble selling every motorcycle they make at their current prices. They also have found a customer base willing to pay a premium for less complicated bikes! Until that changes, I do not expect HD to drop prices.

[@IronBornRider]

@@willcasp lol yeah I don’t expect Harley to drop prices either. They’ll just hike prices if anything

[@dry509]

Thought they were too heavy?

[@IronBornRider]

I’m used to the weight at this point. The weight does have an advantage at times in dealing with wind

[@dry509]

@@IronBornRider Understood. It had been a while since I rode a Harley. Probably would get used to the extra weight.

[@charlesharper7292]

Never cared for soft tails till the changed to the new frame. Love my 2022 FXBBS

[@IronBornRider]

New frame is great. Haven’t ridden a softail that I haven’t enjoyed so far

[@charlesharper7292]

@@IronBornRider I went from riding hard tails to a 94 FXDL. Then to this new bike.

[@robbyclark6915]

I too never liked the old school look of the heritage and fat boy and such, but after riding the slim I totally get why people ride those old school bikes. Comfortable and easy going. Sorry to see it go. I test rode the slim, several street bobs, fat bob, standard, and finally my ‘21 FXLRS, which I immediately bought. But yes, they all are completely different bikes. Which seems strange given they share the same frame, but each one is its own feel and ride. It’s not just the looks that change. As far as the tech? Yes Harley is way behind and it’s just a bad look for them. Indian has so many more features for the money, but the style and the prestige just isn’t there with an Indian. IMO. (And their paint jobs are terrible! All those matte finishes 🤢) not on a $20k+ motorcycle! I would rather have the beauty and feel of being on a Harley than the tech of the Indian. Obviously.

[@IronBornRider]

I’m right there with you. Do me a favor though, try a challenger if you can get to a demo ride. That Indian blew my mind lol

[@robbyclark6915]

@@IronBornRider I don’t do baggers, and the Indian dealership here in Tulsa is a complete joke. They might have 4 bikes in stock on a good day and I had a really, REALLY, bad experience with the owner. Called my wife a liar to her face. He will never get any of my business and I take every opportunity I can to tell people about it.

[@breedlofam]

The 114-117 isn't much of a difference and it's certainly not as huge as you suggested. It's the placebo effect and EVERYONE seems to feel this way until they see real world numbers, myself included. Real dyno numbers show the 117 at around 94.2 hp at 4,790 rpm and 118 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 3,250 rpm. Compare that to the around 83.03 hp at 4,890 rpm and 113.32 pound-feet of torque at 2,500 rpm of the 114's. We're talking 10 hp and 5 lb.-ft of torque. That's the difference between a new rider and one with a few months of experience in the 1/4 mile or simply a bad shift. The 117 is a waste and it should have been the 122 with 55mm intake and 5.5 injectors for the difference in price they're asking. Heck, my 107 Street Bob Stage 2 with Wood 22xe cam, Sawicki Mid Length 2-1 and high flow air cleaner is pushing 111.5 hp at 5800 rpm and 120 lb.-ft of peak torque at 3000 and holding till nearly 4,ooo rpm on an every day riding tune. I get that HD is handcuffed by the EPA, so it can't make huge power on manufactured bikes, but the 122 would have been a more worthy upgrade over the 117. 100% agree with lack of tech. What I would have liked to see was the Sportster S gauge as an option. Navigation, music control, etc would have been excellent. As it is, I bought a pretty awesome Wireless Android Auto/CarPlay unit for motorcycles that sits on my bike full time, right under my PV-2b that I use as my gauge. I have my digital stock gauge low and out of the way while the PV and android auto unit sit up high on my T-bars. I ride in all weather and the navigation, music control for my earbud or Cardo have been a godsend. Riding modes are understated if done correctly. Anyone that says a bike doesn't need riding modes never rides in bad weather or they're stuck in the past and that's just the truth of it. Look at the 114 hitting peak torque at 2500 or less RPM. It's a PITA to manage that sometimes in the rain and the ability to tweak the torque band on the fly is beneficial. Cruise control should be on every bike from the factory. It's just plain ridiculous that it isn't for what they ask.

[@IronBornRider]

On paper maybe the difference between the 117 vs 114 isn’t that much (although I think 10% increase in hp is a big difference) the feel is noticeable imo. But yeah a 122 would’ve been bad ass for sure

[@vmotobiker]

More tech more problems, especially if it's not Japanese tech. I've owned Ducati (Multistrada) and the tech is up there and very unreliable.