2024 Road Glide vs. Indian Challenger: Mind changed?
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 26 ก.ย. 2024
- In this video, I dive deep into the latest motorcycle showdown between the 2024 Harley-Davidson Road Glide and the Indian Challenger. If you've been following my journey, you'll remember I initially leaned towards the Indian Challenger. However, with the introduction of Harley's new 2024 models, I've had a possible change of heart. Join us as I explore the features, performance, and overall experience of these two iconic bikes, and discover why our preference might have shifted. Whether you're a Harley enthusiast or a die-hard Indian fan, this comparison will provide valuable insights into these impressive machines and possibly help you make an informed decision. Don't miss it!
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Let's call a spade a spade. If Indian had not come out with the Challenger/Pursuit - Frame, features, power train, ride modes etc. - the 2024 Road Glide would look just like it has been for the past decade but with a new paint job. Change my mind. 🤷♂️
Totally agreed. They MIGHT have tossed the LED’s in the bullet turn signals and an LED taillight and called it new. Indian undoubtedly pushed the need for HD to come out with significant changes IMHO.
and Indian completely ripped off HD with the challenger in the first place so what's your point?? Indian didn't make bikes for 40 years then came out with a bike with more featured than a HD. Big deal, like it's hard to see a product that's already in the market and then come out with something better that is literally a clone of the HD haha now HD will shit on them till they go on another 40 year hiatus.
@@ledfoot666 not hard at all. You just need incredibly talented engineers, manufacturing facilities, dealer networks, and thousands of hard working Americans to put it all together. Anyone can do it. These are both publicly traded companies making dope ass American V-Twin motorcycles. It’s not like Willie G. Is handcrafting your Harley in his basement, these comments are always incredibly tone deaf to the reality that both Harley and Indian (Polaris) are publicly traded companies with fiduciary responsibility to wall street first, value to consumer second. So the one that delivers the best value IS the better and cooler company. Not the one who gives less to the consumer for maximum dollar for the profit of investors.
@@GearsGadgets FACTS 💯💯💯
@@ledfoot666 BMW had the first fixed fairing, R100RS. So Harley ripped off BMW. Get bent loser.
I rode them both in the last week, the HD feels like a tank in the handling compared to the Indian. And both have more than enough power, but the HDs seems dated in the way it come-on . I have owned 3 HDs , I'm going Indian Challenger it just feels and handles so much lighter and better.
Agreed - A TEEN pulled out across my path in 2020.🚑🚓🚨
My lawsuit got me $64,000 #Clear.. after Med’s & his fee. Etc.
But totaling ($) out ..the only New Harley ..that I’d ever owned (aka)
⚓️Boat Anchor
..was the best part of the Accident 🙌🤑
NeverAgain
The Indian clearly outperforms the Harley in every category except aesthetics. In my opinion Harley absolutely nailed “the look” while Indian missed the mark in that category. Ahh hell,,, I’m gonna have to ride them both again.
I recently rode a friends 24 RG. It was heavy feeling and clumsy at low speeds. Once moving it was nice. I’m on my second Challenger and very happy!
Great content, last year at sturgis I rode cvo road glide and CHALLENGER back to back.
I bought the CHALLENGER !
Hands down way better suspension
And better value.
I own 2 harleys and 3 indians and they are all GREAT BIKES!
Tough choices, but have fun riding them whenever you can!
The Harley still falls short on its base models compared to the Indian. No aluminum frame, no Brembo brakes, no inverted front forks, no Fox mono shock, no power windshield, 1 1/2 inch less rear suspension travel, and not fully liquid cooled. Really no comparison IMO.
The Harley fairing is much better looking. And I don’t hate the Indian. Thank God for Indian pushing Harley to make improvements every year.
Totally agree.
Yep!
I think the headlight is ugly
I like both fairings, both look great. I’m not sure I’m loving the Harley headlight though. I have a challenger and FTR and a sport chief.
But I gotta be honest I think Harley hit it out of the park with the road glide inter fairing .
Don’t think you could go wrong with either bike ……….. Harley stepped up It’s game. Now it’s time for Indian to do the same.
I love the competition because it brings us better bikes
I think they both look great. Who cares though - it's completely subjective.
A touring bike is very much about the SUSPENSION and INDIAN wins that hands down.
I like the fairing on the road glide. However, I like the fully liquid motor in the Indian.
I think there is something out about Indian putting a 112 power+ motor out.
I own challenger, traded in my SG on one and I love my challenger. Way more room for the misses I and HD still hasn’t matched the performance of Indian out the box, I love both brands tho not trying to dog on HD by any means
Both bikes are beautiful, but Id go for the Indian, comfort looks and reliability I think I’d lean more towards. Also, the HD is still not fully liquid cooled
But they have started going in the right direction. interesting times
Coming from owning two different Indian models (2019 FTR 1200 S and a 2020 Challenger), they are FAR from reliable. Had several issues with both bikes, the FTR would just shut off on its own while riding, checked all battery connections - not the issue, several others had same problem with early ecu firmware. Had a severe tank slapper on the interstate with cruse control on - not recommended. Challenger had a slew of electrical issues and threw codes almost every other ride. Wore out swing-arm pivot pin, neck bearings, and belt in just 30k miles.
@@UnrulyRider I have also owned Indians and Harleys Hondas Kawasaki‘s, so I also know the reliability on all the bikes that I have owned and in my opinion, the Harley was the worst. I don’t think anybody could deny that that owns a Harley. All bikes will have issues there’s just some manufactures that will have more than others. I’m not here to poop on Harley. I’m just saying for my personal experience.
@@mrdude3540 I've owned 5 Harley's before the Indians (4 Dyna's: Street Bobs, Low Rider S, and a Super Glide, and a Sportster Iron 883 before them), zero issues with any of them. I've also owned Kawasaki, Honda, and Yamaha... the easiest to do my own engine work, upgrades, and maintenance on was by far the Harley-Davidson motorcycles.
@@UnrulyRiderThat’s exactly why anyone who has ever owned a Harley, knows to carry a toolkit and spare parts!
@@denniswilliams2385 Was speaking of the issues with the Indians I've owed... no problems with my Harleys which I can easily work on myself.
I rode H-D from 1964 to 2018, tried or rode almost all the other brands but stuck with H-D primarily. Switched to Victory. The best motorcycle I've ever owned. Still mystifies me as to why Polaris dropped them
Until Harley does something to correct/change the lower end I would have to think long and hard to accept one as a gift.
Worked in several dealerships and independent shops over the years, the forked rod set up was never ever designed to stand up to the displacement and hp that is available now.
Witness the pinion runout problems they have had since 2003. Among a host of others, Transmissions, compensator sprocket,, primary chain adjustors etc.
Fly wheel spread is very common on them especially when modified.
If paint and cosmetics are that important then buy a Harley.
If you want thousands of mile of trouble free riding then buy an Indian.
Fair
Mystified that they dropped a brand that didn't sell???
Indian has more bang for your buck. It has better suspension, better seat, better handling, has more power and the weight distribution is better all the while looks better imo. You are spending a bunch of money on the name Harley Davidson while not getting the same benefits that Indian gives.
3:22 - 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 "The Speed Limit" 🤣🤣🤣🤣
yeah , that had me cracked up too!
I was leaning towards getting the challenger before the 2024 announcement. The 2024 launch swayed me, 117 motor, the liquid cooled heads (big plus being in a hot state), taller stock bars, suspension updates, comfortable stock seat, and the new infotainment layout made me look at the Harley. We all have our own preferences and I think the RG looks even better in person, it's just a super aesthetically looking motorcycle and is a big part of what sold me on it. I love looking at it and riding it!
Sounds like we have similar mindset.
I'm in the same boat guys. I was dead set on a Challenger, but now I'm looking at the RG.
Can you say 116 THUNDERSTROKE
Looks are subjective to personal taste. I would like to see more conversations on motor performance and reliability rider position comfort
@@sdacman I said it was my preference, so yes, my personal taste. You are also more then free to start those conversations yourself lol.
I went with the Indian Challenger, mainly because it just fit me. Every Harley I've ever sat on seemed cramped and designed for someone who was at most 5'8". I sat on the Indian Challenger and it was just perfect for me. Haven't regretted it.
I had the same experience.
Bro, thank you for the BEST unbiased video I have ever seen on a comparison.
Indian is the way to go imo . Either way, have fun out there 🤘🏻
I have owned 2 Polaris bikes. 1 Victory, 1 Indian. I have considered buying a Harley. The first Harley I considered buying was a sport glide . But they discontinued it and came out with the low rider ST and I thought that bike was pretty sweet with these new designs, I am truly digging the road glide & street glide. So with that being said, I probably would lean more towards the Harley.
I had a Victory Vegas Jackpot I would never touch another Polaris as long as I live. What an absolute piece of junk. Definitely get the Harley.
It isn't even a competition. NOTHING on the Harley is better than the total sum of yummy goodness that is the Indian Challenger. The HD is an antiquated design that's been dressed up and fettled and nipped and tucked but is still a large chunk of garbage when you get down to brass tacks.
Indian Challenger without a doubt.
The automatic windshield on the challenger is nice
Harley definitely took a step up with this model for sure. I still prefer the Indian challenger and pursuit, but it’s a much closer bake off now. I like how Polaris has really moved the market on these tour bikes overall the last few years and it’s making Harley play catch up. The feel of the challenger is amazing (but I haven’t ridden this new Road Glide). I also like the electronically adjustable suspension on the Indian. But man it’s close now.
Great step for Harley. This update for them is their acknowledgement that Indian exists and makes a great product. Thank you Indian.
I went to Indian from Harley two years ago and don't miss Harley one bit. My Challenger is the best bike I have owned by far. Would not go back
That 108 Indian still destroys that 117 motor no comparison. Why are you trying to make this a debate. Inverted forks, better rear suspension handle better due to better frame. Nothing on that Harley outperforms the Indian on the road.
Great video. I agree - I own an '18 RGS and have been frustrated with the lack of innovation and lots of nickel and diming from HD. My neighbor got a Challenger Elite last year and I was considering jumping brands because it is a beautiful machine at a very competitive price point. Now I'm back to HD - and I love the new Road Glide fairing. I'd have to upgrade a few things - speakers, wheels, etc. but at a starting MSRP of $26K now there's room AND a better motor, tech, standard equipment and design.
Well said!
I have a '21 Challenger and it's amazing. I rode sport bikes for years and the Indian damn near handles like one (to a point). HDs have always felt top heavy, dated, and cramped. This new lineup is beautiful, but the Indian is still the better looking better overall bike.
I have the 2024 Pursuit & 2018 CVO with upgraded Ohlins front & back.
Just rode the 2024 RG CVO ST & it is badass. If you're choosing between the 2024 RG with the 117 & the 2024 Indian Challenger 108........go with Indian. (and I am HUGE HD supporter)
The suspension, handling & performance are still better on the Indian.
Two caviots that may not be important to you: you will get more looks/compliments & more bro-love on the HD. (No biggie to me)
Love those American made Indian motorcycles❣️
They just keep getting better and better👍
I bought a 23 Challenger DH. Black Smoke. That windshield is life changing. Stock seat is great. Infotainment is great. 122 hp 128 tq. The indian lit up on femdet at night. Key fob. I love it. KST 14" Comanche bars Neighbor Hater exhaust. Speakers are loud easily heard at 80 mph. Rims amd tires are fire. I will admit i like the look of the new RG a little better. But i like lights better on Chal. Oh and frikkin Rain Mode when driving. Wow. And its liquid cooled btw
Also lifetime power train warranty no deductible
I can’t speak for the CVO’s but the “standard” new redesigned roadglide and street glide is really nothing more than a limited model. I happen to own the road glide limited. The new bike doesn’t have inverted front forks, like the limited. it has liquid cooled heads like the limited. It has one inch extra on the back like the limiteds. The radiators aren’t on the lowers ok i can see that. The new fairing on the roadglide yuck…new infotainment which is buggy so you’re messing with it (possibly dangerous)
I don’t think more technology is the answer per se. Plus the price is not really justifiable if it’s a Harley with the same Harley issues on quality and shit service at the dealership.
It’s about the same bike as the limited roadglide minus the tour pack just saying. Great video
I’ll tell you why I went with the pursuit and why I couldn’t be happier.
While HD is definitely being pushed by Indian to develop a better bike, I believe that Indian is still the better choice for several reasons.
When I was getting ready for a new bike in 2022 I test rode multiple times both the Harley’s and the Indians I am also an Eaglerider Member and rented the new Harley’s many times hers my reasoning.
#1 Ride. The Indian frame and suspension are still superior to what Harley offers out of the box. Indian uses as you mentioned a mono-shock setup but not just that. The suspension was developed by Fox and has at least two more inches of travel in the rear. The stock set up is much smother and handles harsh bumps far better than the Harley. If you go to the premium all of your suspension settings are adjusted in the infotainment center instead of with air or a dial behind a saddle bag. This added comfort make my passenger and I super happy after a long day on the bike.
#2 performance. Indian’s power plus motor has the performance of the 124 or close to a 131 stock of showroom floor the stiffer frame and suspension make the bike super stable and controlled during high speed (or any speed) Corning in the twisties.
#3 Setup adaptability. The Indian pursuit come with a detachable top case and all the hardware and wiring set up for it, so I go from performance bagger to 2-up tourer in a matter of minutes wait hour having had to spend a dime extra.
Not all of this matter to everyone but these factors really helped sway me when considering the return of get on my money after purchase. I’ve put a good 10k on my first year and honestly could not be happier, there are more things I could mention as well but this is already too long winded to type on a phone. 😅
If I had the money for a second bike, Indian would be the one. Just superb, comfortable machine. Great detail and quality work and looks super. I own 2020 Goldwing DCT Tour and I refuse to sell it for an Indian. I just love this bike.
White and Black Road Glide is a great looking bike, I'd definitely go with the white. I actually think the Harley fairing looks a lot better.
I sold my Challenger last year after just not being able to get pass a few aesthetics on it, when I sold it I knew it was a matter of time before HD stepped it up…..that time has come and I’m waiting on my dealer get a CVO ST in to buy, can’t wait!
Good choice. You won't be disappointed
Where are you located? We have two, and are getting 3 more in the next couple months...
Considering the markup I’m seeing in AZ… I’m betting you won’t walk out the door under 55K for one, and that’s before taxes or fees.
Damn, AZ dealer sucks, they .. My dealer (in Jersey ) will discount it 1.5 K for me.
Head scratcher for sure!...I would probably go for the Road Glide still!...great to see these 2 awesome companies producing some great new products!...can't go wrong with either!...great video...stay safe out there!!😎👍🤙👍🤙🇨🇦
I prefer the Challenger design better.
Buy a Challenger, it rides better, it's faster and it's completely liquid cool
I'll have to disagree with ya. Harley is still behind Indian in many categories. Still no adjustable windshield, no inverted front end unless you are willing to spend $43,000 for the CVO, still running dual shock rear end instead of a mono shock which gives the bike better handling, still lacking on the performance side. Harley is bragging about their new CVO ST being the best performance bagger on the market yet they used a stock rear rotor and brake setup that comes on the standard models. If it wasn't for Indian, Harley would still be releasing the same thing over and over again. Harley is getting closer but the Indian is still the best bang for the buck touring motorcycle right now.
Does Indian have adaptive cruise control? Fairing wise, at least the Indian goes up and down, that is a big plus imo. Heated grips and seats on Indian? I think I prefer the look of the HD…. But Indian is very temping also…
Awhile back I was at the local Hog Farm picking up parts for my Wide Glide and a new Street Glide Special caught my attention. I had been thinking of a better way that my wife and I could do longer get away rides, but hadn't really considered a "geezer bike." Well, that bike stuck in my head, so the fall down the rabbit hole started. I did a lot of research and watch tons of videos (Including yours)(Repeatedly).I was sold on a 23 Challenger and almost bought it, but the numbers fell apart and the deal fell through. I loved the performance of that Indian, but I got a deal on a gently used 22 Street Glide in the exact combo that caught my eye when I started my bagger search. At the end of the day, I saved myself 10G buying used and I have the bike that I will always look back at as I walk away. I think it's great that the MoCo is taking on the competition and it shows that they are listening to their customers. I'm interested to see where this will lead in the next few years.
I'm thankful for the folks who purchase new Harleys, but in 40 years of riding I have always bought used. With the new 24 design I suspect my choices on used beauties is about to explode.
@@carlbruhn1772 It did, now is the best time to get a used low mile Harley. Probably not at the dealer, but yea.
I test rode them back-to-back on 5/3/24. Base challenger, base Roadglide. Challenger provided better wing protection, superior suspension, more comfortable ergonomics and a smoother engine. Harley has the edge on styling and power but it costs 8k more OTD bc of the extra charge from any other color/trim than grey/chrome.
Harleys base model engine is MUCH less powerful than that Indian as they all have 121hp 128tq
The Harley 131 just barely inches that out with pipes, filter and tuned.
I Love HD and am really digging the Indians, but your statement about power being given the edge to Harley shook me a bit. Lol.
Maybe you didn't realize that model options or the output numbers and it just seemed more powerful when riding it.
We're not constantly ringing our twins to 6500 rpm's before shifting up 5 times.
But you can ring that water cooled Injun engine to 6500 rpm's
Lol.
Sorry just a little last second knock on the power difference.
I do think that Harley uses a 10X better quality of paint, and I am not saying that there is anything wrong with the paint on the Indian, but I was looking at a stock pearl (ish) white/cream color on by buddies like 06 HD glide and it was crazy how great it still looked on a bike that has a shed in the back for special occasions, but is in the weather 75% of the time.
It looks like it's 1/4 in thick, in the best way that you can interpret my horrible paint finish describing skills.
I'm not really a fan of white paint on any vehicle, if given the choice, it's going to be my last choice,
but man, when the sun hits a curve on the paint at just the right angle, you can see the whispering dances of every color that was ever created by the good lord, and just as they were meant to be observed.
Ya know; before eve got the munchies and just had to share.
WHOA....
I just took my paint describing skills from a 1 to an 11 on a scale from 1 to 5
@@Thesaurcery4U2C STEP AWAY FROM THE SPEC SHEET! 😂 But for real, get in the saddle! I should have used the term "perceived" power when describing the difference in how the two accelerate.
Indian: Electronic adjustable wind screen, Electronically adjustable suspension, Electronic locking bags and trunk, Inverted front forks and monoshock rear design, Modern design and execution of the Engine 122hp from a 108cid. HD made upgrades from their older models but fall short of Indian.
Beauty is in the eye of beholder. Beside that and new fully digital dash on the RG, Challenger has still more power, better suspension ( upside down front fork, monoshock at teh rear - by the way still better even than CVOs ( not ST ) - said those who rode them ), adjustable wind shield, fully colored dash - which was always and issue when talking about fit and finish - now with new HD standard tourers models which dashes are not colored at all , it is not a problem anymore ( interesting ), probably still more powerfull audio, you could even have for 32,999 bike loaded with new Power Band audio package with iluminated speakers and 400 Watts etc. Technically Challenger ( suspension, power, features ) is more on par with CVO RG ( not ST off course ) HD have better paint as usual. No offence, it is what it is. When compared to T116 models, that is a different story.
Liquid cooled heads is not the same as an entirely liquid cooled engine. An entirely liquid cooled engine means there are jackets in the jugs that help keep the entire engine cool.
There also is a drastic difference in a Fox rear mono shock and the dual rear shocks of the Harley. You hit hard bumps and potholes on the interstate on an Indian and the bike feels like it floats over them. You’re going to feel every bump on a Harley.
You can adjust the rear suspension on an Indian from the infotainment/Ride Command system. On a Harley you still have to get on your knees and adjust the rear suspension with a knob.
The Indian fairing hands down is better mainly because Indian has an electric windshield. Completely eliminates the need to change up windshields. With the Harley you’re stuck with that stubby windshield. Indian just makes a better bike all around.
Challenger for the electric windshield alone.👌
I still think the Challenger with the inverted forks, dual Brembos, and a mono Fox rear shock is a better buy vs the regular RG. Plus, the 108 PP will still whip the 117. I feel like you have to get the CVO ST….and that bike is $43k vs the DH Challenger, which is $32k.
Look at the Limited if you don’t mind Chrome. They have the White Smoke Metallic.
Ultimately I hope neither company completely takes the market again like Harley has food the last 50 years. I love the way these companies are competing. It only gives us better bikes, can't wait to see what the future will bring. Currently on Indians side as I feel like they are currently better.
I will say that I 100% plan to buy the Indian as my next bike.
My buddy bought one last summer and I road it for about an hour one day and I am 100% sold on that bike!
It rides so much better than nay HD I have ever owned or ridden that it wins hands down to me.
The HD while nice that they did update it a little is still a dated bike, heavy, and they are not well known for being quality built bikes anymore.
I rode the 22 CVO RG and 22 Challenger back to back at the IMS...and the Indians engine and suspension was better. The "fit and finish" of the Indian was the low point, but if I was buying that day....I'd have bought the Indian. I own 92 Softail, 12 CVO Road Glide, 18 Goldwing, etc....and the new bike is the first time I've been intrigued by a new Road Glide since 2012....the HD suspensions are not great and IDK if the new suspension is going to beat the stock Indian..and I've ended up changing out the suspensions regardless. The Challenger was the only touring bike I rode that didn't feel like it needed upgraded suspension to make it "livable".
I just bought a twenty four roadwide and it really is night in day difference from the old ones. It's amazing. I would recommend it.
Indian is my pic, more hp and torque, full liquid cooled, and something different that all your buddies don’t have!!! But kootos to Harley , the new bikes they did a great job on!
One thing that is glaring is HD left the tired old suspension on the new bikes. Only the CVO gets the upgraded suspension. 3” of travel on the rear. Front suspension isn’t much better. Overall I’m happy HD is doing something new.
The suspension on the new HD RG and SG has been upgraded in '24 at least in the rear. You can now set preload similarly like you would on a Legends or Ohlin's suspension (right shock). Left side still give you hydraulic control for easy adjuncts on the fly for luggage or passengers. But it handles WAY better then my '17 RG did. No Bagger wobble in sweeping turns at speed it feels way more grounded.
You get a new adjustable suspension and pre load on the new bikes, its one inch higher in the rear. Including non CVO models. Obviously the CVO is a better suspension. Its not horrible, its not the best either, I plan on changing it out anyway. Seems worthy of the money for comfort.
Tough choice... I have a 2019 Street Glide Special and i'm considering trading in on a 2024 Road Glide, but that inidian challenger dark horse makes a compelling argument!
The best part about this is now Indian will have to step up again. That's how it should work.
Love my 2021 road glide special. I feel Harley is catching up and thought they would have incorporated the adjustable windshield and increased the wattage on the stereo. Indian includes that adjustable windshield and higher wattage stereo factory. Not to mention the power locking saddlebags . With Harley you’d have to spend way more on a CVO for that. Love the new infotainment on Harley. They are catching up but have a ways to go.
It’s great I love it! Except it’s a first gen and it already needs a reflash recall - I’ll wait a couple of years and let them iron out the kinks on the HD - I’d buy the Indian challenger because of the electric windshield
Rode the new Rg and Rg CVO yesterday. Power was great in comparison to earlier models, even my challenger. But the suspension still needs attention. Good to see hd moving forward.
If you were buying today, would you still go Challenger?
Fit, finish & paint, Indian still looks cheap next to a Harley. Great bikes, and they have some features that Harley doesn't. And I'm glad they are here because they caused Harley to innovate & update quicker.
the only drawback for the indian option is the lack of dealerships if your on a road trip it might be hard to find a dealership I have a friend that lives in a major metropolitan area and the nearest dealership to him is 400+ miles away
It does depend on where you are for sure. Here in SoCal there are 6 Indian dealers. I have had 2 Indians over the last 6 years with 80k of riding and never had a need for a dealer while on the road. The only 2 issues I have had while touring were a clutch cable (had a kit and fixed myself) and a rear tire (changed at a tire shop). More dealers nationwide would certainly be better for routine service in some areas and there seem to be more all the time.
told ya so…Harley.
that being said…..….i think the 2024 non-CVO Road Glide is a better buy overall than the CVO version.
I’ve liked CVOs in the past but the 2024 version doesn’t cut it.
I know you’re looking at a Challenger but …. the New Indian Roadmaster may well be the best overall touring bike for the money.
Good Review. Like both bikes but would go for the Road Glide.
The Indian challenger is my dream bike.
It’s a shame that Harley still has manual adjustment rear suspension on their touring models. On the Pan America models, some are fully auto adjustable so why can’t that be crossed over? It’s the one reason I’m not pulling the trigger and upgrading.
Challenger. Hands down. Indian made Harley finally make some improvements. Indian fit and finish are still better.
The only thing for me that is better on the new HD is the ability to turn some wind at you from the side of the fairing. I was talking with a buddy when Klock Werks brought out a wind deflector for the challenger/pursuit fairing, that it would be nice to have that ability, to turn some more air at me on warmer days, rather than just stuck with more deflection.
I own victory s. I think the road glide looks better. The challenger faring looks like a big box. Polaris made the x country because of the modern look. I think if the changed the box it would be a game changer.
My take: Come out with an Ultra Classic with a V-twin water cooled engine for the touring crowd. More power and longer lasting. And it will maybe shut up some of the Indian tribe. Leave the RG and SG alone.
The Challenger looks chunkier, the RG looks more sleek. To me it isn't a good comparison, the Challenger is liquid cooled. That is were the Ultra Classic LC would settle the argument. Just my thoughts of the day.
There is no doubt HD felt the heat from Indian….and that’s a good thing. When companies start competing……we the consumers win.
The 117 heads are also higher flowing and can support .550 lift. It’s an updated 117.
.550 lift as in a cam ?
@@anthonyhughes8888 Yes, the new heads can support up to .550 lift (from a cam), from what I’ve seen discussed.
thanks for the info
Yes, manifold redesign, larger throttle body & airbox also🤠✌️
I would never push stock springs to .550. Even redesigned, quality springs are quite expensive and I don't see the motor company putting anything like that in a stock bike. Hopefully we can see how close to coil bind these new springs are at .550.
Competition between similar models will force innovation and bring forth new goodies for the customer.
That power whatever 400w stereo on some challenger models sounds amazing for a stock stereo.
Went and checked them out today and my cousin is picking up his new mare red challenger on Friday to give them the time to install the taller bars on.
The mate red draws your eyes immediately as soon as you enter the showroom.
My mind is now conjuring up ideas because he is my younger cousin (they all are) and it's not okay that his ride is now cooler than mine, especially since I have always had a bike for the most part, and he is just 3 years in.
(my favorite cuz, so I love that he is finally riding)
What to do? What to do?
Be grateful that this is the biggest issue in my life right now, would be a good place to start,
and then research successful turbo installations on newer bagger models, I guess? HE...He..he.
L8er - AliG8ers
There's a reason even the previous Gen Harley beats the Indian in most professional comparison tests. It's fit, finish, and feel. The Challenger has a lot of plastic parts with visible molding seams, the switches feel cheap, and right when the engine is starting to wake up and make power it also starts getting buzzy. That makes it feel less willing. I really did want to love the Challenger and wanted to buy one but went to a demo day and after riding one I was unimpressed. I know petite are going to see my name on here and assume I'm shilling, but these are my honest personal thoughts on the bikes. The dealer I work at also owns a Triumph and an Indian dealership right across the parking lot. I love ALL bikes, hell even scooters are fun lol... I'll tell you the bike people are sleeping on... The Rocket 3.
I can't believe HD still hasn't adopted the adjustable windscreen.
There was something said about it by Harley I believe. What they found was most people get it set where they want it and leave it... no need to add motors and moving parts (weight) if 90% of people are not going to take advantage of it. One less thing to break and/or maintain.
For me its an easy choice having owned 5 different Harley's. The Indian has great features but when Ive ridden them they seem kinda cheap feeling..There is always going to be a new bike that makes current ones seem old though....I will be getting the new cvo road glide later this year. Will probably be the last one I buy. Good luck with your decision.I just turned 70k miles on my 21 powerboost BTW. What a great truck its been
I was ready to pull the trigger on an Indian Pursuit Dark Horse with Premium Package in Stryker Red because at $35,000 MSRP, it had most of the features that an HD Road Glide CVO for substantially less.
The new updated fairings on the HD and Indian's price hikes are making me think again.
It doesn't really matter, because I won't buy new in any case. Ill let someone else take that first year depreciation.
My issue with HD, is everything is blacked out. I like my chrome. Yes the chrome versions are available, but all the dealers only bring in the blacked out models.
Yeah, I never got the appeal of the blacked out bikes... the chrome looks so great!
The big stealership in my area brought in a bunch of new RD’s only one was chrome finish. The new blue over chrome, and it looked freaking amazing. No chrome SG’s or even Heritage Classics.
Chrome is actually cheaper. Blacked out is $1,350 more on these bikes. I used to love chrome but the maintenance of it was horrible. Now I got my 24 Road Glide all blacked out
Partial bias as I do own a Harley roadglide, I test rode a challenger at an Indian event and personally little things like the fit and finish feel of the hand controls were far above on the Harley in comparison, the power and light feeling were better on the challenger but to me little things mean more. I also had a better experience at Harley than Indian when I did purchase but that all depends on where you’re at I guess.
I was on the same boat, Challenger was winning until I went to the Harley dealership and saw the Shark Skin Blue. I bought it before it hit the showroom. Also the price ended up being cheaper than the Indian with black trims
I like the new design on the Harley Road Glide, but it does look like the joker's smile when you look at it. I think the Street Glide looks better, but the Infotainment Center looks big, but the Analog gages take up most of the screen, so it's actually. Smaller than all the other brands Infotainment screens, in my opinion. Harley is going in the right direction, but not there yet. And on the price point, you still get more on the Indians than the Harleys.
I have a 2023 Challenger and a 2023 RG Fast Johnnie ST, the Indian is a bigger bike and super well balanced. The Harley feels like a sport bike but not as roomy as the Challenger.
No inverted front forks on the harley still using Barrel keys you have to pay over 300 for 3 years to use navigation
I prefer the Rushmore road glide fairing over the both the challenger and the new road glide fairing. But would pick the new road glide over the challenger.
harley, i have the 2024 its a nice ride
Absolutely love the look and ride of the new HD, just bought a new road glide shark skin blue last week
I love my challenger limited miles of smiles with lots more power than I expected and way more sound coming from the speakers than I ever thought possible. Bought with 4,500 miles may last year and at 18,000 now
I like that Indian feature where the speedo reads "Speed Limit" when you reach it.
If I were in the market, I’d consider who pushed who in the innovation compartment. Just saying, it took Harley almost 4 years to respond to the challenger. #justsaying
I owned and liked a 2019 HD Ultra Limited. Rode it all over the lower 48 and up to Alaska. Never an issue. I wanted to trade it on another bike last year so I rode the current HD model and the Indian liquid cooled touring bike. Then I bought a Goldwing DCT which was a far better value for the price because it included an electric windshield, electric suspension adjustability, superb handling, reverse gear, 120 hp/120 tq factory stock, liquid cooled engine, etc. The Indian was my second choice, then the Harley.
I’ll be honest I’m in the market for a new bike. I like the 2023 RG I went to see it and test drive it, then I went to a local Indian dealer and checked out the challenger. I did not like their faring and the seat to handle feel. It felt too much like an European bike not a touring American “made” badass, I did feel the badassness on the HD RG. Now in 2024 redesign even more so, I sat on one yesterday and I want it now.
Just let go of my 2020 Indian Challenger with 42k miles... developed an few electrical issues that none of the local dealerships were able to resolve. This left the bike unreliable and dangerous to ride in heavy traffic. After 3 months of fighting with the issues and several calls to specialist and techs, 4 weeks in a local dealers service garage. They replaced the VCM, the handlebar harness, the twist-grip sensor, battery, and metered all of the pinout from main ECU. Still the electrical issues were there. I removed all of my aftermarket parts and traded her in on Dec 30th 2023. And went back to Harley-Davidson... I will never own another Indian/Polaris motorcycle again.
I got the new rogue glide ST and it rides great
Saw that on IG. Looks awesome!!
It's about heat for me. I feel like the Harley doesn't cook my legs like the Indian. Also I think the Road Glide is the best looking motorcycle that's out there. The Indian will have better suspension probably, but I'd probably go Harley.
I've got the RG ST '23 model year 117 motor and it doesn't have the liquid cooled heads and even in 90-100 degree weather it never felt that hot. I'd Imagine the liquid cooled heads would make that even better. I wasn't sold on the new body styling when the '23 CVOs came out but I almost considered trading in my '23 RG ST for a '24 because I really like what they've done this year. Never owned an Indian so I am for sure biased. Maybe next year I'll upgrade.
They’re all too much money and the true cost is in the repairs and maintenance. For instance, your headlight burns out or fails. New bulb on my 1994 Fat Boy, $12.00. New headlight on my 2021 Road Glide, $794.00. New headlight on a 2024 Road Glide, $1724.00. They do fail. My Road Glide headlight failed at 22,000 miles.
I love my harleys !!! I have a soft tail and street glide but my opinion Indian wins it for me .
Harley did really improved but the Challenger still offer more but good job on your video
The Harley is fraught with issues, I bought the 23 RG CVO last September and it’s been in the shop since October with another stint in the Shop in September, I thought I was just unlucky but I joined a few FB groups and it seems like the rule not the exception.
Had almost 0 problems with my Indians
Funny thing is that I have a 2023 roadglide special and the Indian challenger dark horse was cheaper and held its value better than the Harley. After 20 years of buying Harleys it is looking like it is time to change up.
Also, it’s funny that all it takes is some LED lights and a shorter bag and everyone is like oh it’s so innovative. Really? No.
2024 Indian Challenge , heated grips and seat 💺 electric windshield electric ride control 100 watt sp, lighted backswithch handle bars 🍻 122 HP/torque come on hd we're the same feature
I would go with the Harley as I believe the fit and finish is way better, Indian has too much plastic in my opinion, an Indian to me is just a more expensive Japanese cruiser..
My 2017 M8 had blowby exiting through the air cleaner which gunked it up and negatively affected compression, horsepower, and life of the motor. It was more than just a leak down the side of the motor. Oil transferred from the engine to the clutch. Oil is filtered after the cooler. I reference Kevin Baxter. Have they fixed these issues? It's a liquid cooled head push rod motor vs. a double overhead cam liquid cooled engine. Challenger has inverted forks. RG shark nose and taillights are better looking. Tank is semi-squared mimicking Indian, maybe.
Kevin Baxter is the man.
Yes sir, and I forgot to also reference Doc Harley (blowby) and John Maxwell (oil transfer to clutch)@@GearsGadgets
😅Nice to see you back on track. Understand your quandary when you are looking for a new ride, greener grass on the other side and so on. Other considerations might be that you are not exactly walking now, the ‘18 heritage has a lot of modernizations going for it. 1st yr for the M8 in a softail, monoshock suspension in rear. You have the 114ci , a CVO motor for 1yr before. One year only color “red iron denim”, when’s the last time you have seen one in person? Paraphrasing your own thoughts in a world full of specialty motorcycles, the softail is more utilitarian. Not many models from any manufacturer can do everything pretty well. Weigh your options.