Why I Don't Own a Harley Davidson Motorcycle

[@FrankieBag0donuts]

It doesn't matter what you ride, just ride and enjoy. I'm 62 years old, retired, and I could care less what people think of my bike (Versys 650). It works for me, and that's all that matters.

[@ArchdukeB]

The correct term is "couldn't care less" ...

[@vstromanqc]

I miss my previous bike, a Versys 650. I might go back to it for next one!

[@LongRider47]

Awesome bikes!

[@slowsteve3497]

Well the versys 650 is one of the best bikes made.

[@brandonwilkinson688]

Well said sir I’ve had Harley,Honda,Indian,and currently a Kawasaki and I have never cared what people ride or judged .ride what works for you

[@prodkey]

As an Ex HD owner I can only say Amen to your views. I just got tired of old guys thinking they are outlaws… Trying a BMW now!!! Love it…

[@MLeago]

Looking hard at the 1250 rt myself 👍

[@jimbroen]

My regular riding buddy is all in on Harley. He and his wife are never seen without branded attire. I ride a K1600GT with hi vis Klim. We're both retired and if the day looks good, one of us will call the other and suggest lunch. Soup, a sandwich and 300 km later, we're rolling back into town. So we're at a diner an hour out of town and there are three other groups of riders at the place. There's me and 12 or so Harleys. When a comment was made about my machine, I replied "well, someone has the be the rebel." Strangely that crowd failed to see the humour.

[@Lee-sk2ov]

You hit the nail on the head about everything. I ride a big Harley and a goldwing. Just do what you like and have fun and be safe.

[@clemc5457]

Me too 😊

[@jrforeman279]

Just be a good person. Just be kind to each other. Good times to follow.

[@clemc5457]

I love your outlook, Craig. I’ve ridden Honda Goldwings for decades. These days I ride a 2015 Goldwing and a 2020 Road Glide Limited (HD). I love them both and I love meeting everyone else who appreciates motorcycles, of any kind. I find most motorcyclists are friendly no matter what they ride, once I get to know them for a few minutes.

[@erikpatton3431]

I ride a Road King because I like the bike and it works well two up with the wife. I don’t fit in with the lifestyle though. No loud pipes, half helmets, or skulls for me. I’ve tried to get to know some of the other Harley riders but I just don’t have much in common with most of them.

[@robertrich4756]

Interesting. I also ride a Road King and love this motorcycle. The quintessential motorcycle, IMO. Although I confess to loving almost all motorcycles. I don't care about the HD "lifestyle" either, and find the typical dealership practices repulsive. Always full face helmet and proper riding gear for me. I have no interest in "fitting in" with the HOGs.

[@tomniland9519]

I have ridden Harley’s for years and I have loved all the Harley’s I have owned. I never fell for all the other hoopla. I’ve attended a few “Harley events”. I have always chuckled about who they think the “Posers” are, I believe they have it backwards.

[@jamesbonner5989]

I was a Harley rider until I tried a Goldwing, fell in love with the 1800 Goldwing and never looked back.

[@robertrich4756]

You should look back when changing lanes or passing. Could save your life.

[@jamesbonner5989]

@@robertrich4756 Never looked back at Harley motorcycles.

[@richardahola692]

@@jamesbonner5989 I talked to a guy that traded his Wing for a Harley. I asked why? He said the Wing was too hot in the summer. He had a point. You can't beat a Wing when it is cold and rainy but the heat of summer is terrible. My Wing is a 1987 and I'm planning on removing the fairing.

[@JohnTriggs-et3dg]

So right mate . I love the Wing.

[@Donfleebie1]

I have a Harley and have ridden them for 44 years. I enjoy the feeling I get when I ride my bike and don’t give a crap about the ‘mystique’ and all the rest.

[@ericboisclair9003]

Thanks for those great comments. Hope you will you ride for a long Time

[@LongRider47]

You get it, exactly! I’ve been around the block a few times since starting on two wheels in 1972. Had many brands over the years . Led and set up tours out west etc. Today it’s peaceful scenic solo rides on my 2022 klr650 . Does everything I need. No longer hitting the dirt trails, but love the dirt and gravel back roads. Can hit the highway if there isn’t an option. Soon to be lowered a couple inches. No need for all that ground clearance. Simple to work on and parts are easy to get. Basically find what works, then make it fit your needs, not someone else’s perspective. Great video!

[@mikemichaels4315]

I ride a 2017 CVO Limited in full ATGATT - about 12,000 miles a year. (Not retired.Have a college degree and a thirty-plus year career. Read academic books across a range of topics in my spare time.) Never been to a rally. Never ridden with more than one other rider. Mostly tour solo. Don't have a single tattoo. Don't smoke or drink alcohol - never have. Before buying my first Harley, a 2017 Road King, a wise friend said, "If it is the motorcycle you enjoy riding, don't let others' perceptions and judgement change your decision." It was the best motorcycle advice I've ever received. To each their own.

[@thatchh1]

Well stated about peoples' points of view on life and their neighbors. As for Harleys: When someone asks me why I don't ride a Harley, I reply "I can't afford to go that slow."

[@schrecengost8]

I ride a Goldwing 1800 and my 3 riding buddies all ride HD. We have a ridden many miles and been in about 15 states together. There is no baggage between us because they arent in to all that as HD owners/riders. Love your content!!

[@richardrutel6806]

You say no one should care about your opinions, but, I find them to be well thought out, informative and entertaining. I do believe that we are about the same age, a time span that provides a plethora of experiences and knowledge that should be shared with others. I applaud the exceptional content of your videos and look forward to each new one. Thanks.

[@davidruggles996]

Bwahahaha. Yeah, the HD baggage. You summed it up nicely Craig.

[@richardfuller4125]

This is like listening to my friend go on about the sensibility of his Honda Accord while looking down his nose at my Chevy Corvette. I have a Ducati 1098 Streetfighter and Harley dyna 103 twin cam. I still like wearing my #69 Ducati jacket as much as I like putting on that black leather skull jacket. Sometimes riding is more than just riding, culture adds to that experience otherwise you wouldn't find so much joy in making this video. "Everyone Dies, Not Everyone Lives." Ride Everything!

[@paulreed3716]

Agreed! Corvette and 1980 bmw r100rt owner South Africa

[@richardfuller4125]

@@paulreed3716 that’s awesome 🎉 After 30yrs of riding only sport bikes and turning my nose up to Harley Davidson I just purchased the my first one and I’m kicking myself for waiting so long. AND…I live 30 miles from “that little place outside LaGrange…you know what talking about…” HD country.

[@49ProRatStreet]

I agree completely. Not for 1 millisecond did I consider HD when buying my motorcycles. I also like having something different.

[@frankwhiteiii613]

Superb! I own a 2023 Vespa GTS 300 and ride with a Harley group. Accepted and we all have fun. At 74 I beat to my own drum and have peace in my heart. Excellent video.

[@ANONYMOUSBIKERUSA]

Well thought out and delivered sir. Ride whatever you like and leave others be.

[@thudtheace]

Pirate bikes, and pirate wear is not my thing either. I own an RE Himalayan, a Honda NC700X (DCT model), and a BMW G310GS. I enjoy them all for different reasons. Cheers!

[@chrismartin500]

Every style of bike has its style of attire I don't care what anyone says. If you spend any time on the road it's glaringly obvious. That being said I just love motorcycles and I love the motorcycle community. Great people out there. Keep the shiny side up bud!

[@mheil00509]

I’ve worked at the HD plant in York for the last 6 1/2 years, in a professional capacity. I currently own a BMW K1600B, and when I began working there, I was riding a 2018 Suz M109R. I can completely relate to your opinion on this matter. Though HD does put out a decent product, and I understand the attraction, it’s never been my cup of tea. I’m asked constantly how it is that a 25% employee discount wouldn’t motivate me to buy a motorcycle that I am proud to say, is built with the utmost quality in mind. I ride because I enjoy it, and not to fit in to any type of click. I know what I like, and I know what bikes I would get the most enjoyment out of.

[@Robert-ts5ze]

Ride metric ....except for Triumph .I sold it for $75 and a ride home . I gave the driver $75 and the title when her dropped me off at home .

[@donflores5227]

I'm a 73 year old that has been riding since I was 15. I have owned various brands of bikes and always come back to Hondas, mostly because I tend to by bikes in need of a lot of attention and parts are available for a lot longer because of the number of bikes made. 750 seems to be the size I like the best. I don't like the attitude that SOME Harley riders have that buying a HD Should be the ultimate goal. I always marvel at the attitude of the newer riders that have HD's that think there bikes are better. Like I said I have been riding since I was 15.

[@malikknows3510]

Certainly other brand loyalists exist and have similar views about their bikes. Not a purely Harley phenomenon.

[@ironcast]

I guess I am not your "typical Harley rider". I ride several bikes, one of which is a 2003 XLH883 Sportster. To me, the stock Sportster is as little a cruiser as is possible and that is how I like it. I love its virtually maintenance free design and great reliability and nearly standard bike layout. .

[@perrycalabrese3475]

Spot on! Since 1972 I've ridden metric while my riding buds are on HD. I can't tell you how many times I've been riding while their bikes are in the shop. My 83 wing is still young @ 164k miles!

[@Merc767]

I am 29, only been riding for about 4 years now but I've owned three HD motorcycles and recently my wife has acquired her first bike, a 2007 Honda VT750. I definitely feel your concerns on some of the "Harley Baggage" that comes with the brand, the gatekeeping and attitude behind the brand from the older generation of HD riders is pretty cringy to me. Also, I've never bought any of my HDs from a dealer, they've all been private sale purchases. I personally can't stand the HD dealers. My gear, at a minimum when I ride, is jeans, over the ankle boots, closed face helmet, gloves, and a long or short sleeve shirt. I learned to ride in Florida where helmet laws aren't a thing, and it frankly amazes me how many people out there would ride without a helmet at 80+ MPH. I wave at anyone on two wheels, and love anything with two wheels. When recommending a first motorcycle to anyone I know, I never suggest HD, simply for the high cost of entry. I always recommend any of the big Japanese companies. I've always loved Goldwings and will definitely own one someday. Great video!

[@SophisticatedBob]

I couldn't agree more. I've had somewhere in the neighborhood of 25 motorcycles over 40 years, and not one has ever been a Harley. I've had friends who did, and what I saw was they became better mechanics, while I was trying to become a better rider.

[@charlenegehrig8284]

Hey Craig, I agree!! You dance to your OWN beat and not someone elses!! Here is something I don't do-- keeping up with the Jones!! It is just me and mother nature!! It's not how many breath you take, but how many breath that take you away!! She takes my breath away!! I love mother nature beauty!! I'm in awe with mother nature!! We are all connected to EVERYONE and EVERYTHING!! Humans wants to think we are disconnected!! That so far from the truth!! Live with mother nature!! When we pass, we will be with mother nature for a longtime!! Lol!! Love everyone and everything!!! We were given 1 shot, experiences all that mother nature has!! Keep up the great work Craig!!

[@wingandhog]

Agree! These days most people are not content to keep up with the Joneses. They want be the Joneses😂

[@davegreenejr]

I'm an owner of a 07 HD Ultra Classic and I could not agree with you more. It's not about the motorcycle brand but about the love of riding in the open air. Thank you for your message. I'm now a new subscriber to your channel. God Bless.

[@jonS-42]

I’m 33 and have owned several motorcycles, yet no Harley. It’s always been a value problem for me. There are just so many bikes that offer better performance and better technology for less money. Also I’ve not owned anything air cooled since I had a mini bike when I was a kid and it feels weird having to worry about my bike over heating if it idles too long in traffic.

[@ronaldgregory6190]

Love your videos. In my 37th year of riding. Don’t care what others think. Nice to have choices of brands and styles of riding. We are all out there doing our thing and that’s what freedom is supposed to be. Got the same hiviz Darien jacket! Keep up the good work! I feel you, brother. ✌🏿

[@armadilllo]

I have a road king, It's all stock except for Ohlins, mustang seat and lower handlebars, I hate noise, I'm not a pirate., I'm not anyones brutha except the ones my mom and dad had, I mostly ride alone, I set the cruise control and ride, it's a dream on freeways, about 2600rpm at 70 mph. The weight of it is nice not being blown around. I have owned over 45 bikes in my life. The road King is my first Harley. Not adjusting valves, lubing a chain or blowing up up a pumpkin on a bmw is is nice. (happened twice). I don't know why I but every time I ride the big pig it makes me happy. Something soothing about it chugging along and it's extremely comfortable, take the windshield off around town and it feels like a different bike. One reason I bought it is that I can actually see a real live motor, not a bunch of plastic, tubes and hoses. Never once thought about "heritage" I just liked it because it looks like an old Buick with chrome. I don't care what anyone rides, they're all fun, I ride a monkey, ruckus, dr650, z650, gs1100, ct125, klr250........

[@Adamsp413]

I agree with you a 100% and I’m in my mid forties riding a Harley. Just be you out there!

[@moizgroup]

I have not owned a HD primarily for the reasons you have listed, but as I age, brands and baggage don’t matter as much as comfort and safety do. I wish more manufacturers would offer a Silver Package of options for us in our 60s. I mean a power assisted center stand, blind spot monitors in rear view mirrors, reverse gear, and well engineered crash guards, and cushy seats. Of course, a loud horn that inattentive drivers in their SUVs can hear can also be a lifesaver.

[@oscartamez5209]

Great video Craig. I appreciate having the courage to express your mind. You are transmitting a positive message, but oh boy you picked a sensitive topic. I leave with your message of: “change your outlook, change the world”. Can’t agree more. You keep squeezing your lemon. Keep going.

[@srdorseyauctioneering328]

I’ve never owned a HD, the newest bike I’d ever ridden until this year was my ‘83 GPZ. I bought ‘21 Yamaha FJR, what a bike.

[@ridingwithrusso7790]

If I had space for 3-4 bikes I’d probably have a HD, but I’m limited to 2 and I just haven’t been able to justify one yet. I rode a Pan America and I loved it! And the CVO Road Glide ST looks sweet, buts that’s $43k, ouch.

[@sydpetersen467]

Finally someone who makes sense on utube. Good to hear. Thanks

[@michaeldevoe9235]

Great commentary in these most “interesting” of times, and also on the brand discussion…your thoughts and adventures are a good mental escape from the day to day for me and entertaining due to your realism in the approach to each topic. Plus motivational to get my arse on the bike for a ride! Keep ‘em coming!

[@MLeago]

I bought my very first bike (21 softail) in my mid 50s. Before I knew what kind of a rider I am. After several cross state trips I found my bikes limitations. I realize no matter how much upgrading I do it will never be comfortable enough to make it over to Lolo or Beartooth pass from Washington state. Looking real hard at Sport touring life! It was a lifetime dream to own a Harley tho. I’m glad I did it. But I definitely see the downfalls now.

[@tbthomp2]

Great job... I don't think you missed a single cliché regarding Harley Davidson and those who own/ride them. Congratulations.

[@garyrobbins5505]

I’m 70 and ride a 2010 Road King. I am impressed with the cruise control being set it and forget it. Uphill or downhill,2up or alone, it rocks! It runs like a good machine should. But I think you should ride what you like, or what you can afford to like, or what you can afford! It’s all good!

[@SergS-o7e]

i hated high school for the same reason, i never wanted to fit in with the in crowd, not about to go through that again.

[@honestlion17]

I feel the exact way you do. Thank you for sharing.

[@f86sabjf]

We came off a Kawasaki street bike moved over to the adventure bike craze. We bought a bmw gs adventure and that took about a year before the wife said enough is enough of being uncomfortable . A weird twist of fate brought us to a HD dealership where I test rode a roadglide . The wife was with me and said I relaxed and became one with the bike on the test ride . She had never said anything like that before . So now we ride a Harley in a helmet optional state with all our safety gear. Fish out of water but I’m a motorcyclist not a biker. At a least I have comfort in knowing HD dealerships are everywhere if I need them.

[@gordonborsboom7460]

A business customer I met with a passion for bikes when from a GoldWing to a Harley Touring bike, and he thought it was the better bike for him and his wife. Can't say they don't make good bikes. I cannot see myself ever considering one, mostly from an image and technology point. Plenty of others to take my interest and money.

[@MrHasie]

I’m on my third Harley, fifth motorcycle, and I wholeheartedly agree with the baggage - love the bikes though.

[@jamesbastiaanse6877]

Fair points. IMO Harleys are akin to old muscle cars, and they evoke the same feelings in me. A 1967 Camaro excites me more than a new model. I also find that most people who dislike Harleys have never ridden them. I went to a Harley demo day with a 24 year old who is a big fan of Honda. He was surprised how much he liked riding the Harleys, and was shocked at how nimble the touring models were.

[@richardahola692]

I have always liked Harleys and hoped some day to buy one. Always expensive so I keep riding mostly old Hondas. I do like my Harley T-shirts. My main ride now is a GL1200 with 100,000 miles on it.

[@raybrensike42]

You can ride the bike and not buy the baggage. The two don't have to go together. That's the thing about Harleys. They are easily customizable.

[@gopopgo4709]

Very diplomatically put. I have had a similar experience with brands and endorse your perspective on this. That said after having been a Honda, Victory, BMW fan for years I did try a couple of Harley CVO products. You are correct that Harley seems a bit stubborn regarding change and technological innovations, certain tends to lag several years behind brands such as BMW. I have enjoyed what ever two wheeled product I have owned at various times during my journey. Now as an older retired rider I even tried modification of a Goldwing into a California Sidecar Trike. I just prefer the two wheeled mode far above any other. After sampling most I have settled into a confirmed BMW GS family proponent as its superb handling qualities most fit my riding style. Everyone seems to find enjoyment in what ever they ride and that is definitely the most important goal!!!! (with safety being a close second)

[@kyleturner6829]

Yes, yes & yes! Thank you! I agree with all of your points!

[@ronaldcrigger2289]

I agree just be yourself and enjoy the ride

[@HARLEYMAN5521AGAIN]

I did two vlogs in recent days, one about five things I dislike about Harley Davidsons and the one about five things I like. I get people not liking Harley’s but I do. Ride safe…

[@khrome13]

I have owned a lot of bikes in my lifetime. (40+) I had never owned HD till 2012 when I bought a new RG Ultra, rode it for 6 years. I then sold it and went back to the others. Too much baggage as you said…

[@uncletom1971]

Thanks for sharing. You're not alone. Haha.. I'm not alone! And yes, life is good!

[@adventuremulemoto]

100% 🤘 Your best work Craig...Love it. I'm 62 now and facing a crossroads. Since April '22 the injuries have piled up. Just a new challenge. Thanks for sharing.😁

[@Leonard-kd7uj]

Hi from Uk great vid I have a harley which i love dearly but also have a T7 both are not that young but nor am i love them both as they are at opposite ends of the biker spectrum in the end just enjoy what you ride and ride often enjoy your choice of bike and please niver criticise a rider for enjoying there choice everybike is special in its own because it brings freedon in its own way ride free guys

[@richardadams6853]

I agree with everything you said Craig. I've had 4 Goldwings and never a Harley and I have survived fine. I used to ride a Harley at work for 6 years. The bike spent more time in the repair shop than under my ass. It shook so bad my hands went numb on longer rides. I think they're over rated but some models do look beautiful.

[@randymcconville582]

I agree with 99% of your points (I still like shorts and jeans). However you hit the nail on the head, “live and let live”. I also ride a Vision because it’s the right bike for me and there’s no culture attached to it. Great video!

[@jsowers21]

Motorcycling is awesome - to your point - it's playtime. I have ridden sport bikes (younger me), a 1250 GSA (when we had dinner in Duluth, MN on your 60-60 ride), and now I'm back on a Harley. I do like the rumble, the weight of the bike, all the things. But I loved the GSA, too and could certainly see having an adventure bike again. It's the closest thing to flying without leaving the ground (someone said) and I will always love the viceral feeling. Hope to ride with you someday, Craig!

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

It was great to meet you in Duluth and I too hope we get to ride together some day. Of course what each of rides is not important. This video is not about what anyone rides, it is about how we treat each other, when we disagree.

[@dsavage5773]

Loved my 95 Sportster, wish still had. Loving my 96 Fatboy and 99 Roadking. Fun factor is huge for me. Have had excellent dependability and reliability. Have enjoyed numerous 1200 mile trips over years. Some tours much longer. See ya on road.

[@Sgtyork488]

I understand and agree. I have a couple of older Harleys and yes it's something that you need to like and have the nesseray skills to maintain them, as Harley won't work on older models. And yes it's part of why I like em. They shake and are loud and have the carberrators, which I like these older models have a distinctive sound and ride so much different from newer models and in a why we are exactly polar opposites when I watched you're video it's everything you like but in my world it's a different bike...and you are definitely spot on at all Harley Davidson culture

[@feloniousmonk3049]

I was a M8 softail SportGlide owner. A test ride on a BMW R1250 RT changed me. So much comfort and enjoyment, seems they've thought of most everything.

[@armadilllo]

except how to keep them running or how to fix them, had an rt, they bought it back under 1000 miles, 8 months in the shop out of the 9 months I owned it. your mileage may vary, I loved it, they just couldn't fix it.

[@MattyIce83]

Love this! Couldn’t agree more! To me, riding a motorcycle is just that, riding a motorcycle! Who gives a shit about all the baggage that some riders want. The world needs more people like you! There’s too much fear and negativity being promoted in the world lately! We need more positivity and inspiration like you’re promoting! Appreciate you sharing this!

[@trey631]

Great message Craig. Going to look at a KLR650 tomorrow. Been on a Concours 14 for about 6 years and a Suzuki Boulevard before that. I'm looking to hit some dirt and the Concours just isn't meant for that!

[@jimstevens1404]

So well said Craig. I ride an HD, and that's my choice. If you ride another brand, I don't care. We are in the wind and enjoying "life on the slab" It's a great way to do something for yourself and clear your head of all the crap we have to deal with. Keep your knees in the breeze.

[@ronmoropito2200]

Agree with you. Ride what works for YOU. Ridden Harleys, but found them too big and heavy for my size. Found the 500--750 sizes work best for ME.

[@mickleblance8805]

Well said Craig, I started on my dirt bike at 10 years old, been street riding from 16-61, and never was into Harley’s (cruisers) or the lifestyle “non-gear”. I have ridden Plenty of Harley’s and I get the cruiser thing, just chilling out, enjoying a leisurely ride, but that’s just not me, I want to be engaged in the corners, I want to come into the twisties, and ride, hitting that apex, hammering out of the apex…. to feel that perfect corner exit….corner entry, downshifting, setting up the entrance…..braking, etc. I love riding in that 75% zone on the street. Everyone should do a track day, (they are awesome). If I want to sit back and relax all day (cruiser) I would at home in my easy chair. Hoping to do my first Alaska ride in 2025. Ride on.

[@scottschwen7558]

Amen - brilliant ! Thank you ! 🎉🎉🎉

[@Rickmac22]

Great video and content! Everyone is allowed to have their own opinions… But, the FACT is: Kawasaki is the greatest motorcycle manufacturer in the world! Full stop! And the cool thing is, I’m not being opinionated at all. Oh yeah, and my Honda Africa Twin may be proving me wrong… Keep riding, keep sharing!

[@SonofNun123]

Right on, Thanks.

[@mikewilliams8311]

I’ve owned motorcycles from nearly every manufacturer. I recently purchased a 2024 Harley Davidson Road Glide. The bike it replaced was a 2023 Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer. I bought the Triumph in no small part to your video series on the same bike. The Triumph replaced a 2019 Honda Goldwing. The Goldwing, while arguably the best touring platform I’ve ever owned (just ahead of my 2013 HD Ultra Limited), didn’t stir my soul. I didn’t feel connected to the bike and in many ways it was more of a mode of transportation than motorcycle. The Tiger gave me back a lot of that passion for riding, but unfortunately it was never comfortable to me as a touring platform. My return to Harley Davidson on this 2024 Road Glide feels like coming home in a sense. It fulfills the passion that I had missed with the Goldwing, but maintained the touring prowess of that machine. The technology surpasses that of the Tiger and the comfort in touring is leaps and bounds beyond that bike. I don’t subscribe to the group think when it comes to branding and heritage of a manufacturer. As for gear, the majority of everything I own is made by Klim. While there are many HD owners still out there that subscribe to the mindset you described, I think that group is aging out and being replaced with owners like me. I enjoy your videos and always look forward to new releases. I tend to watch even when the subject matter doesn’t interest me as I feel a kinship with you and the way you look at life. Keep up the good work and enjoy the ride… oh, and keep squeezing your lemon. 😉

[@joeygullickll8655]

I’ve owned the Harley. My dad had Harleys. Hell I think my son-in-law has 12. We all took a ride back in May. I have a CF Moto 800 ibex T Chinese oh no lol. I really enjoy your content brother. Enjoy the ride. God bless you !!!

[@satudave]

Absolutely agree with your life attitude😎🤘🤘.

[@townings9185]

I've been riding close to 50 years. Ride what you want and have fun. I just got a 24 Pan America HD for adventure riding and camping. The younger sales person said to me, most riders your age don't buy a sports bike. Well I'm not going to be doing wheelies or going a 140 mph anytime soon. I want it for adventure and camping. Taking my time and enjoying the ride. So far I have really enjoyed the Pan America.

[@alancarpenter4904]

I totally agree with everything you mentioned. I never understood why if you didn't ride a HD you weren't SH_T. I do ride my ride and have loved every minute of it. Still touring at 74 yo on my 2006 Suzuki V-strom 650 and loving it. I started out on a Honda 175 back in college (1970's) and progressed into a couple of BMW's (R75/5 & K75RT). To be frank, they were just too expensive to keep on the road for this guy. Found out that the V-Strom works great for me. pushing 71,000 miles and not a hic cup. Craig, thanks for saying what a lot of us were thinking !

[@87toyhighlux]

great video, at 66 years old, you make me want to get back into riding. sad thing is that this same culture is also in the Jeep community and part of why I dont really hang with old Jeep friends

[@Warerdog24]

You are right on . I have tried and just cannot get excited about a Harvey . I sound really puts off sounds like Tractor. I really like my BMW GS .

[@Dirk1961-l7y]

In fact, a redundant message, I understand. I myself have driven many Italian sport V2s, including on EU circuits. Many KTM and BMW adventure models allroad tours with them through EU. Ridden a number of BMW 1150/1200 RTs and even a GW1800!!! Now since 6 years I ride Harley Davidson and with a lot of pleasure. The racing on public roads is a bit off although I get a lot of surprised comments from others with Japanese 900cc's. I rode my Road King Spec 114 for 18,000km last year since purchase in jan. Just traded it in for a new YELLOW/Black Road Glide Special. That color represents my character. Colorful, quirky and proud! Am also a member of a young HOG Chapter in our capital city, which is a lot of fun and entertaining. I travel most solo but talk and wave to ALL other bikes !!! 63Years and just keep going !!! Tent is ready for trip Spain+ Portugal in May….jihaaaaa

[@justflooreit4me1]

What an amazing perspective.

[@namvet6971]

To each his own. I've owned several different brands over my 55+ riding career and as long as as your on two wheels, ya always get a wave from me.....👋🏻

[@frankowens8502]

I like different motorcycles for different reasons. I have a Harley now I've had Triumph Honda Suzuki. All have been great bikes

[@johnasbury9915]

62yo, riding 50 years.I currently have an ‘05 RoadKing and a ‘18 BMW R1200GSA… I’ve had some of everything. I’d still like to few more for the stable before I retire

[@rogerledlow4970]

After 30 years and 11 Harleys, I just bought my first Goldwing DCT non-tour. Wow. What a dream bike. It just got to the point where riding my Harley made me miserable after a couple hours. I had to change.

[@PeeOrbital]

Fantastic scenery! I've ridden a Yammy SR250, a 1200 Sportster, a 150cc SYM scooter and a Triumph street twin. All good fun in their own way.

[@steve2515]

Former longtime Harley rider here . Until I got on a BMW this Spring, I just didn't know any better :-)) I think the same holds true for a great many Harley riders. . . they were taught, or always felt, that Harley was the way to go . . so when they were in market to buy - here wasn't any reason or need to even look into other brands - - they went straight to the Harley dealtership. And the Harley subculture is a powerful draw - - be a rebel, a renegade, an 'outlaw' (small 'o') wear some leather. . . get a tat or 2 . . . etc. And as we know, helmets are frowned upon in the Harley subculture . . . espececially full helmets. Some Harley riders wear full helmets (and the number is increasing) , but it's still a small minority. With my BMW 1250RT I wear a modular Shoei everytme I get on the bike, long sleeve jacket, etc . . . The BMW is smoother, quieter, more comfortable, nimbler, as well as faster, than any Harley I previously owned. Those Harley days were fun - - but then again, I didn't know any better.

[@michaelm6009]

As with most of the comments I agree with your comments and love the second line “and why you shouldn’t care “ 😂 I also had a tiger 1200 XRT but traded it for A Pan America. Also called the Dirt Glide or a “Hardly” Davidson. I also have zero brand loyalty. Best fit for me wins. 😄

[@fifthgearfoodie5272]

Liked and subscribed. Notice how the people who say they don’t care also made it a point to tell you they own a Harley and inadvertently told you off. You are 100% spot on across the board from Harley Davidson and politics to cross country riding and being on the road as long as humanly possible. My wife would lose her mind if I stayed on the road for 60 days. For now she can tolerate at the most a couple weeks. I’ll spoon feed her longer trips in the coming years.

[@tigercoward]

Well said, Craig. I do give a shit about what you have to say. It's probably because I generally agree with you! Thank you for consistently creating thoughtful and interesting content. Stay well. Dave.

[@petekeller1424]

Great analogy. I too don't give a shit what other people think. I ride a 2021 Can Am Spyder RT Limited. My feeling is that it feels more secure. Had 2 BMWs 1 Honda 1 Suzuki Intruder before this Spyder. No matter what you ride, it's wind therapy.

[@charlessuankaew7574]

Very well said. Life is so short, live and let live.

[@ernolli]

You speak the words of wisdom always, I do share your views on the bikes and the brand names meaning totally. It does not mean a thing if they have some brand value when the actual product is less than adequate in too many aspects. So when we concentrate on the true quality of the product we are able to choose a product that really serves the purpose. I have had motorcycles of 8 different brands during the years I have ridden, including one Harley as well. All the choices have been due to the quality of the bike, either the riding qualities or the quality of the bike in general, also the purpose of the riding I was concentrating on really did matter quite a lot. Currently riding my second Honda Africa twin which seems to suit with the ergonomics in mind the best for me in the adventure bike segment. Plus the Honda quality in general is quite convincing and appealing as well. Plus the latter parts on how things work in the world, yes, I think the issues you mentioned apply also in the European continent in so many ways as well.

[@badkarma-f3l]

It doesn't matter what you ride as long as you ride. I own a Harley now and love it but I owned many metrics and loved them all I just wish they would keep making parts for the older bikes.

[@donhamm8740]

My chief concern is if I do need service there is a dealer within reasonable distance to take care of me without going miles and miles to find a franchised dealer that can provide needed service.

[@stanleymccall1]

THANK YOU GREAT VIDEO ✋️✋️✋️

[@markwhitney9175]

I watched a few of your videos and found them very uplifting so I’m really surprised to hear your hatred for H-D. I have been riding for 49 years and prefer Harley’s but that doesn’t make me a bad guy like haters make us sound like. I don’t care for all the modern tech and don’t need it. I just like to crush miles and my road king does it. Ride safe my friend.

[@theodavies8754]

I have an FXDL TC88 from 10/98. It's right for me but I wouldn't recommend it to anyone. Love the one you're with, if it makes you happy it's right for you. Along the way I've considered a 1995 thunderbird and a 1988 vfr750 but I'm on my third Harley since 1988. I'd like a Vincent silver shadow but those ducks haven't lined up. A Ducati 999 would look better than my dining table. Happy days from sunny Devon. Good luck with your channel and please keep bringing us views from wherever you find yourself.

[@JoeFurtado-xv5no]

I’ve owed Hondas in the past but I do love my Harley street glide. I ride with a group of friends that all ride different brand bikes. I really don’t care what someone rides just get out and ride. It’s about what feels good to you who cares what you ride.

[@markboudette8380]

I rode a '93 electra glide up for years and long before "baggers" were a thing. It was a very practical bike for touring. Never let me down and could easily work on it myself. Never quite fit in with Harley crowd though and as time went on the misfit became more noticeable. I'd sure get interesting looks when I'd show for a ride in a red Darien Aerostich and a hi-vis full faced helmet. Eventually, the draw to ride dirt and gravel pushed me towards a different bike and brand. Anyways, couldn't agree more; do your own thing and enjoy the gift of motorcycling. Thanks for the vid. - Mark

[@herbpyle712]

Like this guy's attitude

[@Darryl-bb5jt]

This is a good vlog,my first ever Harley that i brought and still have is a 1942 harley U model its a money pit and not very reliable but i just cant bring myself to sell it.I also have a kawasaki w650 thats the total opposite extremely reliable,has a kick starter and does 90 percent of the heavy lifting when it comes to riding between the two bikes